Here are some interesting statistics that I thought I would pass on... –Kim
Here's a great video that I thought I would pass on...it makes sense! –Kim
Here's some great advice that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim
Words to remember! –Kim
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope it helps! –Kim
Dogs have four basic needs: food, safety, shelter and entertainment. Of these, food plays the most vital role in ensuring a dog's survival.
Strays or poorly kept dogs that end up in shelters or rescues may have experienced a period of living with limited food resources. Wandering on the streets for a long time, dogs often learn to scavenge for food and perhaps fight with other strays for a meal. He may see others in the pack – including humans – as competition for food, so he learns to guard the food available. While we humans know we will not take the dog's food, a hungry dog nonetheless may perceive your presence as a threat and act aggressively with regard to food.
Managing Food Aggressive Behavior
Here are a couple of really cute videos that I thought I would pass on... –Kim
Puppy Fakes Her Own Death while Playing
Wow, what an actress!
Which is the Guilty Dog?
This is just too cute!
Paco to the Rescue!!!
By David Edwards
July 18, 2011
A small neighborhood dog proved to be too tough for a couple of armed robbers in Altadena, California.
When the gun-toting men burst into Erik Knight's tobacco store, the normally laid back 'Paco the Chihuahua' sprang to his defense, nipping at the robbers' legs and eventually chasing them across the street.
"He was rescued, so I suggest everybody rescue a dog from the pound," Knight told KABC. "You never know when you're going to need him."
Watch this video from ABC's Good Morning America, broadcast July 18, 2011.
Source: http://www.rawstory.com/rawreplay/2011/07/paco-the-chihuahua-chases-away-armed-robbers/
Copyright 2011 Raw Story Media, Inc.
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it helpful! –Kim
How to Greet Dogs
by Debbie Jacobs
Unfortunately for fearful and aggressive dogs, the manner in which most people introduce themselves to dogs can be threatening to them. While a well socialized dog may tolerate and even enjoy a hand reaching out to them, a face looming over them or eye-to-eye contact, the scared dog often cannot.
The Dog Gone Safe Web site has great information for helping anyone learn more about how to greet and interact with dogs.
It is best not to assume that any dog you encounter is a dog that is comfortable greeting a stranger. Even the most stable dog can be stressed in some situations and prefer to be left alone. Unless you consider yourself an expert on dog body language it's best to let a dog initiate an interaction with you, rather than you moving toward them.
Even a dog that approaches you for a sniff may not be saying, 'Hi! Pet me!' My own scared dog will frequently move toward people to get a sniff, but will bolt away should they move or look at him. He is trying to see what he's dealing with, not trying to deal with it.
Children are often taught to put their hand out for a dog to sniff. Again, not a problem for a 'happy to see you' kind of dog, but for a fearful dog that hand can be scary and for a dog that is aggressive, biting that hand may seem like the thing they need to do to protect themselves from it.
I'm sorry to say that the people who consider themselves to 'good with dogs' or people who would say that 'dogs like them' are often the worst when it comes to dealing with fearful dogs. They just cannot accept or believe that a dog would not warm up to them or enjoy their company. A fearful dog's behavior should not be taken personally. My dog Sunny is an equal opportunity fearful dog, as are many dogs like him.
Below are a few guidelines to follow when meeting new dogs.
Do not approach a dog, especially if it is tied up or on leash.Source: http://fearfuldogs.com/how-to-greet-dogs
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim
Top 10 Reasons Dogs are Dumped at Shelters
MovingWhy Do Shelters Kill?
The connundrum of doing society's dirty work while trying to remain mentally and spiritually intact. Nobody who works at an animal shelter wants to kill the animals that are brought in for shelter. They do it because they see no alternative. They indeed see it as a necessary evil preventing the suffering of millions of animals that would otherwise be abused, neglected or abandoned to starve on the streets.
Shelters across the country accept 6-8 million dogs each year. The inflow of animals is far greater than shelter space, and the shelter resources to find new homes. Shelters that euthanize dogs do so because they believe that warehousing the dogs is not in the best interest of the animals. Every animal deserves a decent quality of life, and living in prison cages over the long term does not support this principle.
People who work in shelters want to help animals – they should not be required to take on the job of killing the creatures they love most. This terrible burden is unfair to shelter workers everywhere who care deeply for the animals and desire to nurture life not destroy it.
No Kill Ethics
No kill ethics embodies a consortium of philosophies that espouse killing of animals is unnecessary.
Relevant Articles
"Killing Ourselves Over the Euthanasia Debate" (PDF)
From the September – October 1997 issue of Animal Sheltering Magazine
Toward A No-Kill Nation (PDF)
As long as people believe that killing homeless animals is "just one of those necessary evils," it will continue.
Sheltering Is Pointless...Until the Need Is Reduced (PDF)
This editorial from the newspaper Animal People explains why building more shelters shouldn't be the first step to solving the pet overpopulation problem. First, a community needs to focus on effective spay/neuter, adoption, foster and humane education programs.
Recommended Book
Redemption is the story of animal sheltering in the United States, a movement that was born of compassion and then lost its way. It is the story of the "No Kill" movement, which says we can and must stop the killing. It is about heroes and villains, betrayal and redemption. And it is about a social movement as noble and just as those that have come before. But most of all, it is a story about believing in the community and trusting in the power of compassion.
Declaration of the No Kill Movement in the United States
Dog Adoption
Read these articles BEFORE you adopt!
What to Consider Before Adopting
Open Paw's Guide to the First Two Weeks With Your New Dog (PDF)
How to Make Your New Dog's Adoption Work For Life (PDF)
Dog Behavior
Read articles about common dog behavior issues by leaders in the field.
The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) is a professional organization of individual dog trainers who are committed to becoming better trainers through education. They promote professional trainers to the veterinary profession and increase public awareness of dog friendly training techniques. The APDT site includes a searchable database of dog trainers.
Dr. Ian Dunbar is the Director of the Center for Applied Animal Behavior in Berkeley, California. He was a founder of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, an organization with thousands of members. His work extends to every aspect of dog training. He's created many dog training books and videos. He has given hundreds of workshops, hosted TV shows, and won numerous awards. Ian Dunbar's emphasis on kind, positive approaches – based on what dogs are really like – has revolutionized the field.
Dog Star Daily is a dynamic, web-based, multi-media dog-training learning center.
Questions & Answers from Turid Rugaas. The questions span from any problem a dog owner may experience to curiousity about dog behavior, and Turid brilliantly shares with us her wisdom and life-long experience.
Founded in 1910, the Dumb Friends League is a national leader in providing humane care to lost and abandoned animals, rescuing sick, injured and abused animals, adopting pets to new homes, helping pets stay in homes, and educating pet owners and the public about the needs of companion animals. They offer pet behavior information and advice.
The Animal Behavior Center is a division of ASPCA National Programs, located in Urbana, IL. They offer a variety of educational services, including graduate and post-graduate programs for aspiring companion animal behaviorists; continuing education for animal trainers, veterinarians and other professionals; pet behavior research for the scientific community, and sound, practical advice for local area pet owners.
Puppy Mills
Learn more about the "for profit" industry contributing to the homeless dog problem
How Much is that Doggie in the Window SUFFERING? (PDF)
Animal Sheltering Magazine, September-October 2006
Stop Puppy Mills
When we buy a pet or even shop at a store that sells puppies, we contribute to a heartless underground industry that forces dogs to spend their entire lives in cages constantly breeding to support consumer demand for puppies.
Spay Neuter
Spay/Neuter is the cornerstone of a successful lifesaving effort. Low-cost, high volume spay neuter will lead to fewer animals entering the shelter system.
Why You Should Spay or Neuter Your Pet
By making sure that your pet can't have puppies or kittens, you'll have peace of mind that his or her offspring won't be euthanized in an animal shelter.
What You Should Know About Spaying and Neutering
Every year, millions of unwanted dogs and cats, including puppies and kittens, are needlessly destroyed. The good news is that every pet owner can make a difference. By having your dog or cat surgically sterilized, you will do your part to prevent the birth of unwanted puppies and kittens and enhance your pet's health and quality of life.
Are mandatory spaying and neutering laws an enforceable or practical idea?
The Dark Side of Mandatory Laws: Why Punitive Legislation Fails (PDF)
Fostering
Thinking about fostering a dog?
Read Fostering 101 (PDF)
Animal Sheltering Magazine, September-October 2006
Source: http://www.dogsindanger.com/education.jsp
Here's a great collection of facts that I thought I would pass on...hope you find them interesting! –Kim
Interesting Dog Facts - Part 1
A puppy's eyes do not open until it is 10 to 15 days old. Its vision is usually not complete until it is about four weeks old.
At birth, puppies are deaf, blind and have almost no sense of smell. They stay near their mother and siblings because of the warmth.
Puppies should remain with their mother until they are at least eight weeks old. During this time, she will teach them not to bite and how to get along with other dogs.
Dogs are submissive to those they feel have higher pack status.
Train your dog from day one, so she will think of you as the leader of the pack. Dogs instinctively want to earn the pack leader's approval.
The most confident puppy in a litter often makes the worst pet because he sees himself as the pack leader.
A dog can suffer from a poor self-image, just like humans. Bolster self-esteem with praise, affection and rewards.
To a young dog, exercise and play are the day's most important events. As a dog gets older, he lives for dinner time.
Even after your dog is old enough to be fed only once a day, he should be given a morning snack just to calm his rumbling tummy.
Family dogs who growl when family members are roughhousing aren't upset, they're just asking to become part of the game.
Give your new puppy its own sleeping den, even a simple cardboard box will do; this will make her feel more secure.
Ignore your new puppy's whining when you first isolate it for sleeping. If you don't you will only encourage it to whine more.
Sign up your dog for obedience school.
The most important thing you can teach your dog is to sit and stay on command. Anytime you are having behavioral problems with your dog, begin your training by reteaching him to sit and stay.
The time to start teaching your dog to sit and stay is the day you bring her home.
Don't attempt to teach your dog anything else until he will sit and stay on command for at least one minute.
When teaching a puppy to come, begin by getting down to his level so he will not be encouraged to jump up on you.
A dog needs to work off excess energy every day.
Mixed-breed dogs usually have behavioral traits similar to the breed they most resemble in appearance.
When a small dog is aggressive toward people, don't pick him up. This only reinforces the behavior since he will see it as a reward.
Teach your dog to play catch.
Anyone can buy a dog, but it takes a kind owner to set its tail wagging.
Although a dog might be jealous of a new puppy in the beginning, this usually passes quickly since dogs are social animals.
Dogs become loyal, not because you feed them, but because of the companionship you give them.
Give your small or short-haired dog a sweater for winter walks.
Most dogs don't like to be left alone, so they howl. Leave the radio or television on to keep your dog company when you are away.
Dogs have twice as many muscles for moving their ears as people.
Housebreaking a puppy is just like toilet-training a child. First, you learn to recognize the signs; then, you react every time you see them.
Man could learn much from his dog: to be a true friend, to be faithful and to appreciate those who love him.
When a puppy is removed from its mother, don't make it spend the first night alone. Its loss of family is enough for one night.
As soon as your new pet is comfortable with its new home, move it to the location where you will want it to sleep for its lifetime.
A dog's nose is not just used for smelling, but also to keep him cool. That's why a dog pants. The longer the dog's nose, the better his cooling system works.
Dogs that chase cars have learned that cars run away. This behavior is reinforced each time he chases one away.
Teach your dog to fetch.
Never wake a sleeping dog by poking or shaking it.
Dogs are perfect companions. They never quarrel, fuss or fight with you, and they listen with great interest any time you speak in their direction.
A dog's smile runs from the depth of his eyes to the tip of his tail.
If you're finding it difficult to teach your dog to catch a ball, try tossing something soft like a knotted piece of fabric instead. Some dogs find softer items easier to catch.
Dogs love rituals and routines.
Anyone who says he works like a dog obviously doesn't own one.
Staring directly into the eyes of a strange dog may be interpreted as a challenge and may actually encourage the dog to bite you.
Dogs and cats turn in circles before lying down, because in the wild, this instinctive action turns long grass into a bed.
When walking your dog, put a few plastic bags in your pocket; they make great "scoopers." Slip one over your hand, pick up the pile, flip it inside out, tie and discard.
The average dog's mouth exerts 150 to 200 pounds of pressure per square inch. Some dogs can apply up to 450 pounds.
Puppies can't control their bladders overnight until they are at least four months old. Until then, cover the floor around the puppy's bed with newspapers.
Dogs are omnivorous. They need more than just meat to flourish.
People with more than one dog shouldn't try to treat them all as equals. Because pack position is important to a dog, this only encourages jealousy games.
All dog owners should buy a long-handled pooper-scooper. It makes keeping the yard clean a breeze.
Dogs chew up your underwear because it smells like you.
You don't have to put up with your dog destroying flower beds or digging up the yard; simply fence off a separate section just for him.
Always say your dog's name before you give a command.
One in every three US families owns one or more dogs.
Choke chains can be dangerous.
A one-year-old dog is physically as mature as a 15 year-old human.
Dogs' internal clocks are really magnificent. They know when it's time for you to arrive home, feed them, or go to bed if you are normally on a schedule.
Brush your dog 3 times a week in the spring, and you'll have a summer free from shedding.
If someone in your household is allergic to dogs, bathe your dog every week. He will shed less dry skin. You can also add a teaspoon of cooking oil to your dog's dinner.
The only problem with loving a dog is that they live for only a short time.
If your dog reacts anti-socially toward visitors, put her in another room until she calms down. When you let her out, ignore her. This forces your dog to go to the visitors to get their social activity.
When a dog bays at the moon, it is following a basic urge to call the pack together.
Rituals are a basic part of canine behavior. Greeting, feeding, hunting and sleeping all include social performances.
The burying of bones is part of a dog's instinctive feeding ritual; shaking things viciously is part of the hunting ritual.
Source: http://www.dogquotes.com/dogfacts.htm
Copyright © 2001-2008 Australian Media Pty LTD
Here's a great collection of facts that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim
Interesting Dog Facts - Part 2
World's largest dog..... The worlds heaviest as well as longest dog ever recorded was an Old English Mastiff named Zorba. In 1989, Zorba weighed 343 lbs and was 8 feet 3 inches long from nose to tail! The Irish Wolfhound ranks as the largest dog, and the Chihuahua as the smallest dog. The St. Bernard is normally the heaviest dog and other breeds range in size between these extremes.
World's tallest dog..... The tallest dog on record was named Shamgret Danzas. He was 42 inches tall (at the shoulder!) and weighed 238 lbs. Normally, the tallest dogs are the Great Dane and the Irish Wolfhound. The largest Great Dane stood at 103cm and an Irish Wolfhound 100cm.
World's smallest dog..... The smallest dog in history was a tiny Yorkie from Blackburn, England. At two years of age and fully grown this little dude was an incredible 2.5 inches tall by 3.75 inches long! He weighed only 4 ounces! HE was approximately the size of a matchbox.
World's oldest dog..... The oldest reliable age recorded for a dog is 29 years, 5 months for an Australian cattle-dog (Queensland 'heeler') named Bluey in Victoria, Australia. The average dog lives 8 to 15 years of age.
World's Best Drug Sniffing Dogs..... A US Customs Labrador named "Snag" has made 118 drug seizures worth a canine record $810 million. The greatest number of drug seizures by dogs is 969 in 1988. IN ONE YEAR! The team of "Rocky" and "Barco" patrolled the Texas and Mexico border, alias "Cocaine Alley." They were so good that Mexican drug lords put a price of $30,000 dollars on their heads.
All dogs, from the German Shepherd to the tiny Poodle, are thought to be direct descendants of wolves. They can all breed together and produce fertile offspring. Technically they are of the same species.
The basenji, an African wolf dog, is the only dog that cannot bark.
Dogs can very easily regurgitate. In fact, after eating, wolves can travel significant distances back to their dens and regurgitate the food at will to feed their pups!
Dogs cannot normally see as well as humans and are considered somewhat color blind. Dogs can see color, but it is not as vivid a color scheme as we see. It is much like our vision at twilight. A dog sees objects first by their movement, second by their brightness and third by their shape.
Dogs are able to see much better in dim light than humans can. This is due to the tapetum lucidum, a light-reflecting layer behind the retina. Because it functions like a mirror, it also accounts for the strange shine or glow in a dog's eyes at night.
Dogs naturally have a wonderful sense of smell. Some authorities estimate that some dogs sense of olfaction (smelling) is as high as 1 million times greater than ours. They have many more sensory 'smelling' cells than a man's 5,000,000. A Dachshund has 125,000,000, a Fox Terrier 147,000,000 and an Alsatian (often used as a 'sniffer' dog) has 220,000,000. Truffle hounds can find the fungus delicacy even when it's a foot underground.
A dog can hear sounds 250 yards away that most people cannot hear beyond 25 yards. The human ear can detect sound waves vibrating at frequencies up to 20,000 times a second. But dogs can hear sound waves that vibrate at frequencies of more than 30,000 times a second.
Laika became the world's first space traveler. Russian scientists sent the small animal aloft in an artificial earth satellite in 1957.
A dog's heart beats between 70 and 120 times a minute, compared with a human heart that beats 70 to 80 times a minute.
A female carries her young about 60 days before the puppies are born.
Dogs have been used as guards, hunters, drought animals, eyes for the blind, drug and explosive detectors, rodent controllers, and even weapons! In Roman times and the Middle Ages, mastiffs wearing light armor, carrying spikes and pots of flaming sulfur and resin ran into battle against mounted knights. In World War II, the Russians trained dogs to run suicide missions between the tracks of German tanks with mines strapped on their backs.
The dingo is not native to Australia, but was introduced thousands of years ago by the first immigrants.
More than five million puppies are born every year in the United States.
Sadly, statistics indicate that eight million pets (all kinds) lose their lives in animal shelters each year due to overpopulation.
In America, about one family in three owns a dog.
The normal body temperature for a dog is 101.2 degrees Fahrenheit.
Though neutering has no effect on the overall personality, male dogs tend to display less aggression, and territorial behavior when they are neutered. They are also less likely to contract urogenital diseases.
Many foot disorders in dogs are related to long toenails. Check your dog's nails once a month and trim when necessary, avoiding the vein.
If your dog has bad breath, he may need his teeth cleaned.
Cerberus, the three-headed dog of Greek mythology, guarded the gates to the underworld.
Canis Major or The Great Dog: The Great Dog follows his master, Orion, as he makes his annual journey through the sky. Sirius, also known as the Dog Star, is located on the shoulder of Canis Major. It is the brightest in the heavens, and its name means sparkling and scorching, as it is nearest to the sun during the height of summer.
The hot, summer days – Dog Days – which Sirius was thought to cause, run from July 3 to August 11th. The three stars of Orion's Belt point at the Dog Star, Sirius, in Canus ajor at Orion's heels. It is best seen in the northern hemisphere during winter, between December and March. – First published in the May/June 1994 issue of ZuZu
Argos or Argus, Ulysses' hunting dog, was the only creature to recognize the Greek hero when he returned home disguised as a beggar after 20 years of adventure.
The Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts and the 4-H Club all offer merit badges in dog care.
NEVER punish a puppy for chewing.... Just be sure to provide the appropriate objects. Puppies need to chew to stimulate the loss of their baby teeth and to help place their permanent teeth.
Dogs are pack animals by nature. They need closeness, touching, and petting to be content and happy.
A dog is a true friend, and one you can be certain will never talk about you, no matter what you do.
Never assume that a barking dog won't bite, unless you're absolutely certain the dog believes it too.
A dog who destroys your home when you're away is frustrated. His frustration has been displaced onto household objects.
Put your kitchen garbage can in a cupboard. It's the only way to be certain your dog will stay out of it.
To keep your dog off the couch, nail empty tuna cans to a board and put it there before leaving. Your dog will find it uncomfortable, and it's easy to store under the couch.
Source: http://www.dogquotes.com/dogfacts.htm
Copyright © 2001-2008 Australian Media Pty LTD
Here's a great post that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim
Get to know your beloved dog better with these insightful quotations about your best four-legged friend....
1. "A wise man associating with the vicious becomes an idiot; a dog traveling with good men becomes a rational being." – Arabian Proverb
2. "You can say any fool thing to a dog, and the dog will give you this look that says, 'My God, you're RIGHT! I NEVER would've thought of that!'" – Dave Barry
3. "A boy can learn a lot from a dog: obedience, loyalty, and the importance of turning around three times before lying down." – Robert Benchley
4. "Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he sticks his head out the window." – Steve Bluestone
5. "A dog barks when his master is attacked. I would be a coward if I saw that God's truth is attacked and yet would remain silent." – John Calvin
6. "I think we are drawn to dogs because they are the uninhibited creatures we might be if we weren't certain we knew better." – George Bird Evans
7. "Old age means realizing you will never own all the dogs you wanted to." – Joe Gores
8. "To his dog, every man is Napoleon. Hence the constant popularity of dogs." – Aldous Huxley
9. "When the old dog barks, it is time to watch." – Latin Proverb
10. "If you are a dog and your owner suggests that you wear a sweater. . . suggest that he wear a tail." – Fran Lebowitz
11. "Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside a dog, it's too dark to read." – Groucho Marx
12. "Did you ever walk into a room and forget why you walked in? I think that's how dogs spend their lives." – Sue Murphy
13. "It's funny how dogs and cats know the inside of folks better than other folks do, isn't it?" – Eleanor H. Porter
14. "I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive." – Gilda Radner
15. "It's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog." – Mark Twain
16. "The more I know about people, the better I like my dog." – Mark Twain
17. "If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and a man." – Mark Twain
18. "Dogs believe they are human. Cats believe they are God." – Unknown
19. "The dog is the only being that loves you more than you love yourself." – Fritz von Unruh
20. "If a dog jumps in your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because your lap is warmer." – Alfred North Whitehead
Source: http://www.epetarticles.com/top-20-dog-quotations-23.html
©2009 profession articles site about pet
Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it helpful! –Kim
Chaining Dogs Unleashes Bad Behavior
By Victoria Stilwell, Special for USA TODAY
8/12/2009
I am constantly surprised at the number of my clients who regularly chain or tie their dog in the backyard for long periods of time and then wonder why the dog is misbehaving on and off the leash.
Unfortunately, such tethering is common practice in the U.S. because of the less structured design of American real estate and common lack of fencing between properties. The well-meaning but misguided rationale I usually hear is that tethering is the only way for the dog to be under control outside without owner supervision.
Further, many clients have the incorrect belief that if the dog is outside most of the time, it doesn't need to be walked and won't suffer as much from lack of human contact.
Don't make the mistake of thinking that keeping your dog in your backyard most of the day will replace his natural need for stimulation and get you off the hook for not walking him. In fact, it almost always does more harm than good, since the backyard becomes just another "room" in which he can quickly get bored.
At the mercy of kids and other animals
A study by the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2000 showed that 17% of fatal dog attacks on humans between 1979 and 1998 were from dogs that were restrained on their property by tethers at the time of the attack, and many of the victims were children.
So why are chained dogs more likely to bite, and why are the incidences of these attacks becoming so common?
Tethered dogs have a greater tendency to respond aggressively to an approaching person (even if it's someone the dog knows), yet owners often seem unaware that continual confinement can cause immense frustration, which leads to increased reactivity or desire to chase and bite a person. Certain dogs are particularly territorial, becoming protective over space or property and putting anything approaching their territory at risk.
Dogs tethered in yards with no fences are much more accessible to the public, including children who often can't resist touching or sometimes teasing a dog. Unable to increase the distance between itself and an approaching stranger, the dog has no option but to fight. Tethered dogs are also at the mercy of other animals that may wander onto their territory and are at risk of getting tangled in their tethers and being injured.
A dog is a social animal, so lack of social interaction can seriously damage its psychological well-being, causing a buildup of frustration and anger that can explode at the slightest trigger.
Other commonplace scenarios besides tethering can create what dog behaviorist Jean Donaldson describes as "barrier frustration." Crate training is a popular and sometimes effective method of house training a puppy, but some dogs can't cope in such a confinement. Lack of space can cause excessive anxiety, which manifests itself in whining, barking or chewing on the crate. Dogs that suffer separation anxiety often become more anxious in crates.
Owner and pet in a dangerous cycle
A dog can experience similar frustration on the leash. In normal circumstances, an unleashed dog would be able to put sufficient distance between itself and a fear source, but if the same dog is leashed and unable to increase distance, he will react or behave aggressively, hoping the fear source will go away. If his behavior is validated by success, he is likely to react in the same manner again. In response, the owner often becomes tense when walking and keeps the leash tight, transmitting the nervousness down the leash to the dog, effectively making the behavior worse. Dog and owner are then locked into a cycle of tension and leash-lunging that's hard to change.
Many common behavioral problems could be avoided if owners understood how severely confinement can compromise natural behavior. Some local governments are becoming aware of the potential problems that chaining can cause for dogs and humans, and many cities and counties are making tethering illegal.
The key is to see the world from the dog's point of view if we want to understand why dogs behave as they do. Only then can we truly identify the root cause of the behavior and humanely solve the problem using positive reinforcement.
Source: http://www.usatoday.com/life/lifestyle/pets/2009-08-12-stilwell-dog-chains_N.htm
Copyright 2009 USA Today
Victoria Stilwell is the host of Animal Planet's "It's Me or the Dog." Her no nonsense, common sense approach to dog training is both practical and effective. It's about educating owners on how to see things from a dog's perspective and use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. With a little patience and effort, anyone can live happily with their canine companions. Visit Victoria Stilwell on the Web, get her training tips and watch full episodes of "It's Me or the Dog" by clicking http://animal.discovery.com/tv/its-me-or-dog/index.html or http://www.victoriastilwell.com
Here's a great series that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim
Basic Breed Information – Part 2
Chinese Crested
There are two distinct varieties of the Chinese Crested dog: one is hairless except for its feet, head and tail (and called, not surprisingly, the Hairless; see dog on right side of picture); the other is called the Powder Puff (it has a coat of long soft hair; see dog on left side of picture). Both come in numerous colors, either solid, mixed or spotted all over. They have a broad skull and a long muzzle. Eyes are dark, and ears are erect. Strangely, the two types often come in the same litter.
The most popular of the hairless breeds, the Chinese Crested, is still very rare. These dogs are sweet, lively, playful and cuddly. They are exceptionally loving and affectionate with children. Children should be taught not to be rough with this breed, as it is friendly, but it does not have the protective hair that other breeds have and can get injured easily.
They are an entertaining companion, intelligent and very alert. Puppies should be well-socialized and exposed to loud noises when young to avoid potential timidity. If its owners do not baby them, these dogs can grow up to be a very well-adjusted dog. They have an ability to perform tricks and are generally good with other pets. They are generally not barkers.
Chinese Crested Dogs like to climb and dig holes. They tend to become very attached to their owners. These dogs enjoy constant companionship, and need constant human leadership. Do not let this wonderful breed fall into the "Small Dog Syndrome," where they lack a human pack leader. It is easy to baby a small dog, however doing this can cause many unwanted behaviors. If your dog growls, guards objects, snaps or bites, the dog has been allowed to take over and be pack leader to the humans. These behaviors can be corrected as soon as the human starts displaying proper leadership.
Exposed skin needs special care to prevent skin problems and irritations. The breed should be protected with sunscreen. The hairless dogs do get sunburn and a good sunscreen should be used if the dog is going to be out in the sun. Good for apartment life. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. They should wear a sweater in cold weather. Many Chinese Crested are allergic to lanolin and wool. Their teeth should be well cared for to prevent decay. Hairless dogs often lose many teeth as young adults. They should not be given bones to chew as they often have an incomplete set of teeth. The Hairless variety has the ancient forward-pointing canine teeth or "tusks" as they are called, but usually these are the first teeth to go.
Powder Puffs (the long-haired variety of the hairless) generally have normal teeth and breeders are hoping to improve the dentition of the hairless variety by interbreeding with Powder Puffs. Each hairless dog carries one gene for hairless and one gene for hair, as a combination of the two hairless genes is fatal. Therefore, Powder Puff and Hairless dogs often appear in the same litter. Do not overfeed this breed, as it will become obese if given the chance.
Although it is tempting to carry these dainty creatures about, these are active little dogs, who need a daily walk. Play will take care of a lot of their exercise needs; however, as with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe open area off lead, such as a large fenced in yard. Don't think that just because he is small he should be confined to a small space.
Chinese Crested are very clean, with no doggie odor, and are not prone to fleas or ticks. Power Puffs need a lot more grooming. Daily brushing of the Powder Puff's long, fine double coat is recommended, taking extra care when the dog is shedding. The wooly undercoat becomes matted, if neglected. Bathe the Hairless frequently and massage a little oil or cream into the skin to keep it supple. These dogs shed little to no hair and are great for allergy sufferers.
The Chinese Crested originated in Africa where they were called "African Hairless Terriers." The ancient Aztecs kept them as bedwarmers, and believe it or not, did eat them. The Chinese trading ships stopped along Africa on their routes, and it was there that they picked up these dogs because they were excellent ratters for aboard their ships. They renamed the dogs "Chinese Crested" and the name stuck.
This unusual breed was first exhibited in the West in 1885, but the first American breed club was not established until 1979. Full AKC recognition was granted in 1991. The similar Mexican Hairless was formerly recognized by the AKC, but is no longer recognized. The Chinese Crested Dog has been gaining popularity as a cheerful companion dog in both the United Stated and England. The breed is a frequent competitor in rare breed dog shows.
For more in-depth Chinese Crested training info, check out: Secrets to Dog Training.
This article was brought to you by Dog Breed Info Center (©2009 Dog Breed Info Center®). For more information on Chinese Crested Obedience Training, visit the Dog Training Zone!
Chow Chow
The two most distinctive features of the Chow Chow are its blue-black tongue and its almost straight hind legs that make it walk rather stilted. Its dense furry coat is profuse and comes in two varieties, smooth coat and rough coat. The most common colors are solid red, black, blue, cinnamon and cream, but it can also come in tan, gray, or (rarely) white.
The coat sometimes has lighter or darker shades, but is never parti-colored. The ears are small and rounded and there is a huge ruff behind the head, which gives it a lion like appearance. Its head is broad and its skull is flat. The muzzle is broad near the eyes and narrows toward a black nose without becoming pointed. The chest is broad and deep and the kidney area is short and strong. The tail is thickly covered with hair and is carried over its back.
The Chow is usually well-mannered. Quite good with children. If they get to know cats and other household animals when they are young, they will get along with them when they are adults. They must be extensively socialized preferably when they are young. They need firm authority and training right from the start. Whether you are adopting a puppy or an adult dog, owners need to set the rules in which the dog must follow and stick to them. This very dominant breed requires a dominant owner. The owner of this breed of dog should be a calm person who is naturally firm, confident, and consistent. With such a handler, the Chow can develop well. The problems arise when the dog lives with owners who do not understand how to be, and stay in the alpha position.
If you allow this dog to believe he is the boss of your house he can be willful, protective, bossy, serious and will independently work at keeping his alpha position in your human pack. He is not being mean, he is instinctively telling you in the way dogs communicate with one another that he gets to decide when and how things are done.
He will be self-willed to the point of obstinacy and may be over-protective. When you have a Chow Chow who believes he is the ruler of humans, and strangers push themselves on this dog, he may become aggressive, telling the humans he would like to have his space. Space means a lot to a dog. It is respect in the dog world. Alpha Chow Chows will often be a one-person dog, very loyal to his family, though he may act reserved, even with them. Alpha Chows like to dominate other dogs. A Chow who is not 100% convinced humans are the boss, will be harder to obedience train.
The Chow will feel HE needs to be deciding what and when, to do things, not the human, as humans must listen to him. These are NOT Chow traits, they are instinctual behaviors, resulting in meek human authority over the dog. If you would like to own a dog, make sure you, and the rest of your family know how to be alpha. All family members, and other humans around the dog must be higher in the pecking order, than the dog. This breed can be quite a handful with passive owners, but take the very same dog and put him with an owner who has natural authority and he will be polite, patient and well rounded, making an excellent family dog.
One owner told me that their Chow can do tricks, and learns them quite easily at that. Here is a quote from the owner who has three children and three cats: "My 8 year old white Chow performs a variety of 'tricks,' ranging from dancing on her hind legs on command to rolling over, and jumping from her hind legs into the air on command. She even knows the difference between 'shake hands' and 'shake,' as in shake her mane to dry or fluff after a bath/brushing.
"After the first 'trick' was learned at a very early age, she usually learns new activities through a process of three examples from her human friends, then she readily attempts the feats until successful. Her eagerness to learn from and please her two masters comes from her love of people. She loves being around people, even strangers. When threatened, or unsure of the circumstances she is facing, she quickly becomes protective of her family and home."
Chow Chows can be lazy, but need to be taken for a daily walk. Dogs who do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display a wide array of behavior problems.
Beware of hip dysplasia. They are prone to suffer eye irritation called entropion, caused by eyelid abnormality; this can be corrected with surgery. Also prone to stomach cancer. The Chow Chow will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is relatively inactive indoors and a small yard is sufficient. Sensitive to heat, but can live in or outdoors. Regular brushings of the long coat is important to maintain the lifted, standing-out look. This breed is a seasonal heavy shedder and extra care is needed when the dog is shedding its dense undercoat. Dry shampoo when necessary.
The Chow's structure is very similar to that of the oldest known fossilized dog remains, dated to several million years ago. The Chow has been known for thousands of years in China, where the breed was put to work as a hunter, cart puller, temple guard and boat guard. One Emperor is said to have kept 2500 Chow pairs. One was given to the Prince of Wales, the future Edward Val. Over history, the Chow has been used to hunt wolves, sable and pheasant, and to pull sleds.
Their fur has been used to trim coats. The flesh of these dogs was considered a delicacy in China. Dog is still eaten in China today. This beautiful dog was first brought to England by merchants in the late 1800's. The name probably originated from the pidgin English word "chow-chow," a term used to describe all sorts of miscellaneous stuff brought back from the Far East. The Chow has become very popular in the United States as a companion dog. Some of the Chow Chow's talents still remain as watchdog and guarding.
For more in-depth Chow Chow training info, check out: Secrets to Dog Training.
This article was brought to you by Best Show Puppies. For more information on Chow Chow Obedience Training, visit the Dog Training Zone!
Greyhound
The Greyhound is a sleek, contoured dog built for speed with a very deep chest and an extraordinarily flexible, curved spine. The head is long with almost no stop and the muzzle tapers. The skull is wide between the ears. The small rose ears are folded back. The eyes are dark and the neck is long and graceful.
The front legs are absolutely straight. The hindquarters are very powerful and muscular with an arched loin. The long tail is carried low and has a slight upward curve at the end. The short, smooth coat comes in all dog colors.
Sensitive, sweet and elegant. Brave and loyal. With meek owneres it can become willful. The Greyhound is very intelligent, but its character is often undervalued because of its reserved behavior toward its master and toward strangers. Socialize them at an early age to prevent timidity. As a rule, they are gentle and even-tempered – both racing lines and show lines.
Most Greyhounds have a definite prey instinct. It is instinctive for these dogs to chase anything that moves quickly. They are extremely fast and some will kill cats and other domestic animals, although this is not the majority (only about 20% of ex-racers are too "keen" on chasing prey to ever be safe with small animals). About 10% are immediately okay, due to low prey instinct, and the rest can be trained to leave cats and other small pets in the home alone.
They seldom present difficulties with other dogs and are normally good with children, though they do not usually like rough-house play, and would not be a good choice for young children who are looking for a play mate. Indoors, these dogs are calm and sociable to a point where they can even be considered lazy. They bond strongly with their own people, have tremendous stamina, and do not bark much. Show lines tend to be of a different body style than racing lines, and are often more angulated. Racing lines are bred for performance, but often a good by-product are friendly, outgoing dogs, who make wonderful pets when their racing days are over.
Greyhounds are not particularly vigilant. Show lines tend to be a bit heavier and bred more for temperament than racing lines, who are bred for speed. However racing lines also make wonderful pets. There are hundreds of adoption groups all over North America, Europe and Australia to place these gentle, loving dogs when they retire. Retired racing Greyhounds are not usually difficult to housebreak. They are already crate trained from the track, so it doesn't take them long to learn that they are not to "go" in the house. The Greyhound needs an even tempered, gentle but firm loving owner who knows how to consistently communicate the rules of the home. A Greyhound who knows his place in his pack and what is expected of him is a happy Greyhound.
May be prone to bloat. It is better to feed them two or three small meals rather than one large one. They are sensitive to drugs, including insecticides. The Greyhound will do okay in an apartment if they get enough exercise. They are relatively inactive indoors and a small yard will do. Greyhounds are sensitive to the cold but do well in cold climates as long as they wear a coat outside. The smooth, short-haired coat is very easy to groom. Simply comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and dry shampoo only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.
Greyhounds that are kept as pets should have regular opportunities to run free on open ground in a safe area, as well as daily long, brisk walks, where the dog is made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead. In a dog's mind the leader leads the way and that leader needs to be the human. Greyhounds love a regular routine.
This very ancient breed is the fastest dog in the world and can reach speeds of over 40 miles per hour (65 km/h). Its greatest gift is its speed. They are thought to have originally descended from the Arabian Sloughi and brought to England by traders before 900 A.D. Centuries ago it was used in the hunting of deer and wild boar. It could catch them and pull them down without stopping. It is also an incorrigible enemy of domestic animals, especially cats and geese.
Today Greyhounds are used primarily in dog racing (where they chase mechanical rabbits). This sport is especially popular in Anglo-Saxon countries. After retiring from a racing career, these dogs are often destroyed. Greyhound Rescue groups select the most even-tempered, gentle racers for placement into homes, with excellent success. Their talents include hunting, sighting, watchdog, racing, agility and lure coursing.
For more in-depth Greyhound training info, check out: Secrets to Dog Training.
This article was brought to you by Dog Breed Info Center (©2009 Dog Breed Info Center®). For more information on Greyhound Obedience Training, visit the Dog Training Zone!
Schnauzer
The Standard Schnauzer is a medium-sized, rugged, robust dog with bushy eyebrows, whiskers and a beard. The head is long and rectangular, with a strong muzzle and a pronounced stop. The nose is black and the eyes are oval and dark brown. The teeth should form a scissors bite. The feet are small and cat-like, with arched toes.
The tail is generally docked at the fourth vertebra, but cropping the ears is optional. The forelegs are very straight. Any dewclaws should be removed. The topline slopes slightly downward from the withers to the rump. The front legs must appear straight from every angle, while its rear legs and thighs are oblique and very muscular. He has a harsh, wiry outer coat and dense, soft undercoat. The coat comes in salt & pepper or solid black.
The Standard Schnauzer makes a great watch and guard dog. It is lively, but not restless. High-spirited and affectionate, it has a personality of a terrier. Clever, intelligent, and playful, Standard Schnauzers need companionship and are good dogs to travel with. This breed has a high learning rate. If the owner does not display a confident demeanor, with firm and consistent rules the dog must follow and limits to what the dog can and cannot do, he can be quite willful, demanding and may begin to act fearless.
The Schnauzer may become untrustworthy with children. He may become very protective and dominant, guarding objects, places and people from other people. Along with being this breeds pack leader, socialize and train him well, and be sure to take him for a daily pack walk to release mental and physical energy. These energetic dogs need energetic and dominant owners, one who has the ability clearly demonstrate that they are the boss and not the dog.
The Standard Schnauzer is generally a very healthy breed, and is a good dog for apartment life. It is very active indoors and will do okay without a yard. These energetic dogs will take as much exercise as they can get and they just love play sessions during which they can run free. At very least, they need to be given a daily, long, brisk walk. Do not overdo it with very young pups, though, until their body frames are strong and mature. Pups still need to walk, just a shorter distance.
The wiry coat is reasonably easy to look after, but the undercoat is dense and it will become matted unless it is combed or brushed daily with a short wire brush. Clip out knots and brush first with the grain, then against the grain to lift the coat. The animal should be clipped all over to an even length twice a year - in spring and fall. A person can easily learn how to do it. Trim around the eyes and ears with blunt-nosed scissors and clean the whiskers after meals. They have no doggie odor and shed little to no hair.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small, squarely-proportioned dog with a long head, bushy beard, mustache and eyebrows. The thick, prominent eyebrows and long mustache are often trimmed to accentuate the dog's square cut shape. The front legs are very straight. The tail is usually docked. The oval eyes are dark colored, and the v-shaped ears fold forward when left natural or are cropped to a point and stand erect.
It has a long head, strong muzzle, a well-developed black nose and a scissors bite. Coat colors include salt and pepper, black, white or a harsh black & silver outer coat with a soft undercoat. The wiry coat is reasonably easy to look after, but unless it is combed or brushed daily with a short wire brush, it will become matted. Clip out any knots.
The animal should be clipped all over to an even length twice a year, in spring and fall, but this is a job best left to an expert. Trim around the eyes and ears with blunt-nosed scissors and clean the whiskers after meals. On pet dogs the coat is usually clipped short on the upper body and left somewhat longer on the under-parts, legs and head. Show dogs require trimming and hand stripping instead of clipping. This breed sheds little to no hair and is a good dog for allergy sufferers.
This is usually a healthy breed. Although some are prone to suffer from kidney stones, liver disease, skin disorders, von Willebrand's disease, diabetes, liver ailments and cysts. Also, watch for hereditary eye problems. Eyes of breeding stock should be checked for this. Do not overfeed the Schnauzer, for he tends to gain weight easily.
The Standard Schnauzer is probably the oldest of the three Schnauzer breeds. They are originally a German breed, named after the German word for muzzle, "Schnauze." They were used to accompany coaches, as messengers in World War I, and as vermin hunters and guards in stables and on farms. The breed was used to watch children, and even given the name "kinder watcher." Schnauzers have also been successfully trained as livestock guardians and as retrievers.
The breed has been portrayed in paintings and tapestries of several European artists, including Rembrandt and Durer, who owned one. Today, it is esteemed as a watchdog and body guard, but above all, as a very lovable, spirited, loyal, intelligent companion. Some of the Standard Schnauzer's talents include: hunting, tracking, retrieving, watchdog, guarding, military work, agility, competitive obedience and performing tricks.
Very perky and bright-eyed. Loving and intelligent. Energetic, affectionate, and obedient. Playful, happy and alert, they like children. The Miniature Schnauzer enjoys time and companionship from its owner. Without the proper leadership, it can be feisty and fairly dog-aggressive - putting on a show of superiority without necessarily intending to fight. This can be fairly dangerous for the Miniature Schnauzer, who will challenge even large dogs, sometimes bringing more trouble on himself than he really wanted. Socialize this breed well with other dogs when it is still a puppy. If properly introduced, and if the dog does not see himself as pack leader, the Miniature Schnauzer will get along with another dog. They make good companions and family pets.
The Miniature Schnauzer is a good dog for apartment life. It is fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard. These energetic little dogs need daily, long, brisk, walks and love play sessions off the leash.
The Miniature Schnauzer is reportedly a result of crosses between the Standard Schnauzer, the Affenpinscher and perhaps the Poodle. He is originally a German breed, named after the German word for muzzle, "Schnauze." The Miniature Schnauzer excels at killing rats, but today it is mostly a popular and esteemed companion. Some of the Schnauzer's talents include: hunting, tracking, watchdog, competitive obedience and performing tricks.
Schnauzers tend to bark a lot, but it does not have a yappy bark it sounds like a low carried-out voice, howl of a voice. They make good guard dogs and mouse catchers. They are excellent watchdogs and are great to travel with. Some can be reserved with strangers, but most love everyone. Socialize well. Do not allow this little dog to developed Small Dog Syndrome, a human induced behavior where the dog feels he is pack leader to humans. This can cause a varying degree of behavior problems, including, but not limited to separation anxiety, willful, nervous, barky, guarding, bold and sometimes temperamental, not hesitating to attack much bigger dogs.
A mentally stable dog, who gets enough mental and physical exercise will have a totally different personality. These are not Miniature Schnauzer traits, but rather behaviors brought on by the way the dog is treated by the people around him. It is all up to the humans. As soon as the humans start being true pack leaders, the dogs behavior will change for the better.
For more in-depth Schnauzer training info, check out: Secrets to Dog Training.
This article was brought to you by Dog Breed Info Center (Standard) and by Dog Breed Info Center (Miniature) (©2009 Dog Breed Info Center®). For more information on Schnauzer Obedience Training, visit Miniature Schnauzer Training or the Dog Training Zone!
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