Dog Training Archives - Page 2 of 29

Troubles With Dog Behavior And How To Fix It Through Training

May 19, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

If you have a dog, you know how frustrating it can be when they do not listen. People with dogs usually have problems communicating as they do not know how to do it. Simply learn how to communicate in a way that your dog will understand. If you do, your commands will be understood. As you continue to read, we will present simple solutions for correcting dog behavior problems.

A dog who barks incessantly can be very irritating and make you unpopular in your neighborhood. Some dogs bark when they’re left outside by themselves. Barking dogs are often the source of contention between neighbors, and may cause complaints. Of course, there are also dogs who will bark even while you’re home, perhaps every time there’s a distraction. A bark collar is a tool that can help control barking; this will make a noise or deliver a mild shock when the dog barks. This is a simple way to stop constant barking, and it will work even when you’re not around.

If you have a yard or a garden, digging can become a hindrance, as it is one thing that dogs have a lot of fun doing. Occasionally, excessive digging by a dog means that they are not getting adequate exercise. Set some time aside for letting your dog exercise and run around. Be sure that when you leave your dog alone in a yard that they have some toys and bones to chew on. Digging is a natural feeling for some dogs, though and in this situation, the greatest answer is to look for an area where digging will be alright. Then, you can instruct the dog to dig in the specific area by putting toys and barriers in the area where you no longer want them to dig. Spraying the area with something such as cayenne pepper can also prevent digging.

Whether or not you will have your dog trained or not you should usually be extremely cautious of their well being. Sick pets deserve great care, and you can give them great care by utilizing a Petmeds coupons and getting them the medication they need. Getting a sick pet is like getting a sick child. It’s not fun. Get educated by reading about this link as well as other sickness in pets. One of the most basic dog behavior issues is separation anxiety. A dog left alone all day may exhibit various types of behavior that shows his discontent. Some symptoms of separation anxiety include urinating or defecation, chewing and constant barking. A further indicator is that your dog acts sad, either when you are about to leave or even when you arrive home. This is a hard thing to fix and it might take a lot of training and behavior modification. Be sure that you leave some toys out for them to play with or chew on, plus keeping the radio on may be helpful. Another possibility, which isn’t always practical, is to get another animal as a companion for your dog. Dogs may display all sorts of ill favored issues and we have just mentioned some of the most pronounced. Usually, if you dogs are acting out in some unusual way; it can be curtailed if you follow the correct procedure. Dogs already have the tendency to do what we want, and if they do not, we are probably not getting the correct message across to them. Whether you learn how to train your dog or get outside help, most behavior problems can be corrected with the right approach and a little patience.

The Simple, Step-by-step Technique for Leash Training A Dog

January 21, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Dogs have probably been pulling on the leash since the first time someone thought it might be a good idea to loop a rope around one. They don’t like being restrained. So when you pull them back they instinctively pull the other way.

In most cases, the dog isn’t being dominant, or trying to make you mad. It’s just that there are so many interesting sights, sounds and smells to explore. He can’t wait to see what’s up ahead, so he pulls to get there faster.

And therein lies the secret to stopping your dog pulling. Start to teach your dog that, until he calms down and stops his pulling, he’s going nowhere. Here’s how;

Laying the Ground Rules

Dogs are creatures of habit so they are very observant when it comes to routines. You’ve probably noticed that, even before you pick up his lead, your dog is already getting himself worked up. I’m sure you’ve wondered how he knows what’s coming.

Most likely you have some pre-walk routine that you’re not even aware of, but that your dog has picked up on.

If you want to improve your dog’s behavior on the walk you should start right here. Don’t put up with any misbehavior. Specifically, don’t allow any boisterous behavior – barking, running, jumping up. Get him to calm down before attaching the lead. If he get’s out of hand, stop, get him to sit, then start over.

At first this can be very frustrating, but you need to be firm and consistent. It gets easier.

When the dog is calm, and you’ve attached the leash, leave the house right away. If the dog gets over-excited again, make him sit, and wait for him to calm, before proceeding.

The dog will likely want to relieve himself as soon as he’s outdoors. Allow him to do so. Once he’s done, control and limit the amount you allow him to sniff around and mark territory. Ideally you do not want to allow this at all for large sections of the walk. Allow him to explore only when you say so.

The Best Way to Stop Your Dog Pulling

If you want to stop your dog pulling, you need to stop pulling back. The way to control this behavior is to teach the dog that pulling has a negative rather than positive result. When he pulls, stop the walk and get him to sit. Only carry on with walking when he has calmed down.

At first, this will be incredibly trying. But dogs are quick learners and he’ll soon make the connection. In a short while he will understand that his walk gets interrupted every time he pulls.

Once he breaks the pulling habit start getting him to walk beside, instead of in front of you. This will also help to curb the inclination to pull, especially if a cat suddenly darts across his path!

It is also a good idea to take some of his favorite treats along while he is in training. Give a treat whenever he is walking calmly beside you and you’ll further re-enforce his good behavior.

To read more about dog training, dog care, dog health and other useful dog info drop in at dogsanddogtraining.com

What All Dog Owners Must Know Regarding Dog Travel

January 8, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

A holiday with your dog can be a really fun time for both of you. But it requires foresight and a bit of planning to make it so.

To begin with you’ll have to research the requirements for taking a pet to the destinations you’re interesting in visiting. With some countries, like the UK, these make traveling with your dog a virtual impossibility unless you’re on the PETS scheme.

But all countries, even pet-friendly ones, have importation laws you’ll have to comply with.

Then there’s the accommodation issue. If you are planning on staying at a hotel or resort, you’ll want to find a pet-friendly one at your destination and book early.

The good news is that more and more hotels are accepting pets these days.

And then there are the travel arrangements. Traveling with a pet by air or rail can be quite a challenge, so use a specialized pet travel company to make the arrangements for you. This will ensure that you avoid costly, and possibly even tragic mistakes.

If however, you are going to be traveling by car you can make the arrangements yourself, and there are quite a few things you’ll have to take care of.

For starters, you’ll need a way of restraining your dog in the car, either a dog carrier, or a specialized doggy seat belt. This not only makes sense, but is a legal requirement in some countries.

Also remember that dogs dehydrate very easily. Have plenty of fresh water, and his water bowl at hand. And never leave your dog locked in a car in warm weather.

Also, remember to pack leashes, harnesses, collars, toys, dog bed and anything else your dog will need.You will also have to plan where you will overnight on your trip, and check out local accommodation that allows dogs. And while we’re on the subject of breaks, remember to make regular bathroom and leg stretching stops.

And there’s even more to be taken care of. When you are at your holiday destination, ensure that your dog wears an id tag with your local contact details, at all times. For international travel you will have to have your dog micro-chipped, but extra precautions are never a bad thing.

It’s also a good idea to have a photograph of your dog with you, just in case your dog becomes lost.

Find out where the local vet and animal emergency center are. In case of emergency you’ll need this information close at hand.

Obey all local animal regulations and laws. This will normally mean that you have to pick up after your dog, as well as keeping on a leash in public places. It is just good manners to do this anyway, even if the law doesn’t require it.

By now you’re probably wondering if all of this is worth the trouble. Well, ask yourself how much a trouble free, unforgettable trip with your dog is worth. The likely answer is, priceless!

To learn more about dog travel, dog care, dog training tips and other interesting dog information go to dogsanddogtraining.com

Dog Language Info That Will Astound You

January 5, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Dogs communicate using a rather unique language. Learning to understanding this “language” will greatly improve the relationship you have with your dog. Not only that, but when it comes to training you will seriously turbo-charge your results by communicating to your dog on his level.

Unfortunately, no-one has yet written a handy reference guide, but by following the guidelines set out below you’ll quickly be up to speed on what your dog is trying to tell you.

Here are some of the most common dog language cues you’ll need to know.

Standing Rigid – When a dog adopts a very rigid stance, he could be telling you to back off and leave him alone. He may also adopt this stance when he is protecting some possession. Give your dog a bone or a biscuit when there are other dogs around and you’ll see what I mean.

Showing the Teeth – Dogs don’t just attack out of the blue, they normally give a warning first. Flashing the teeth may be first warning that a dog is about to attack. Your best bet when this happens is to stand down.

Growling – Showing the teeth will often be accompanied by a low, rumbling growl. If that doesn’t work the dog make well bite.Many people scold or punish the dog for growling or showing its teeth. This is dangerous because if the dog is not allowed to give a warning he may escalate straight to an attack.

Raising the Hackles – When a dog raises the hair on his back, he is trying to look bigger in order to scare off a threat. It is often a sign of heightened fear, and means to dog may attack.

Tail between the legs – Typically, this indicates, timidity, fear or anxiety. There may be a number of causes for the behavior, such as separation anxiety, or being introduced to an unfamiliar person or dog. Often the behavior will be accompanied by submissive urination.

Putting the head down – Depending on the context this could be a attempt by a submissive dog to avoid eye contact. Or it could be a playful gesture.

Raised Paw -A raised paw is a playful gesture, which means, “ let’s be friends”.

Wagging the tail – The tail is one of the dog’s most important communication devices, and the one that is most often misinterpreted. A common belief is that a wagging tail suggests happiness, but this is only true if the tail is being wagged loosely.A tail that is flicked side to side in short rigid movements suggests agitation. And if the tail is tucked between the legs and wagging slightly, the dog is insecure and fearful.

Dogs rely greatly on body language and gestures for communication. A dog may learn to obey voice commands, but in their world body language will always mean more.

Learn to interpret their language and you’ll understand your dog that much better.

Want to discover more about dog training tips, dog care, dog breeds a-z and other interesting dog info? Stop by at www.dogsanddogtraining.com

Picking The Coolest Dog Toys For Your Dog

January 4, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Dogs just love to play and some high-energy dogs will keep you busy all day if you’ll let them. But there will be times when you’re not around, or you’re just too busy and you need something to keep your dog amused.

This is where dog toys come to the rescue, and these days we’re not talking about a stick or a piece of rope. These days their are some pretty cool toys that will satisfy even the most demanding pooch.

Pick a few from the list below and you’ll be able to keep your dog happy, and out of mischief, when you’re not around.

Kong Toys – Chewing is a favorite pastime of many dogs and if you want to keep your dog away from your new shoes or TV remote, you’d better give him something to chew on! Kong makes a virtually indestructible range of rubberized chew toys that will keep even the most avid chewer occupied for hours.

They also have a hollow center, so you can stuff it with treats and challenge the dog to get them out, which is great for brain training.

Tug-a-War Rope – Many dogs enjoy pulling games, but you need a pull toy that won’t fray or break after a couple of rounds.

Once again Kong comes to the rescue. Their pulling toy is basically a pair of rubber balls wrapped in canvas with a canvas cord at the end. Like all Kong toys they’re tough, and nigh on impossible to break. Plus, the balls also squeak, which most dogs love.

Frisbees – Many dogs love this game, but the plastic disc many people use can actually be dangerous, as they can shatter when bitten, and cause serious cuts.

Frost Bite Frisbees on the other hand are designed specifically for dogs. They are soft, pliable, and punture when bitten rather than shattering.

Puzzles – No, I don’t mean jigsaws, or crosswords. Puzzles for dogs come in all shapes and sizes and challenge your dog to work something out in order to get a treat.

One rather clever contraption is the Squirrel Plushy. This is a soft toy, with other toys hidden inside it. The dog has to figure out how to get the small toys out.

Nylabones – Another good toy for the dog that loves to chew. These rubber, bone-shaped chewing toys are incredible strong, so your dog can gnaw away to his hearts content.

Tuffies – These are stuffed toys made specifically with dogs in mind. They are strong and durable, and even come with “toughness” ratings. So you can get one to suit your Pomeranian or even one that your Bull Terrier will have a hard time breaking.

Squirrel Dude – A clever little rubber toy with a timer that dispenses treats at regular intervals – sort of like a vending machine for dogs!

Some thing for every dog on this list, I’m sure you’ll agree. And even if you can’t find something here that your dog fancies, shop around there are tons of choices these days.

If you want to discover more about dog toys, dog care, facts about dogs and other interesting dog information visit www.dogsanddogtraining.com

Amazing Dog Behavior Snippets

January 3, 2012 by admin Leave a Comment

Any study of dog behavior has to start with an analysis of the behavior of the wolf, ancestor of all domestic dogs.

Wolves are exceptional predators with a complex set of behaviors, signals and communication methods guiding their behavior. Their bodies and brains are the result of millions of years of evolution that has resulted in perhaps the ultimate co-operative hunter.

Dogs are directly descended from wolves and have been domesticated for only 15 000 years or so, a mere blip on the evolutionary scale. So it makes sense that many of the wolf’s instincts and drives are still present in dogs.

Understand this, and many of your dog’s strange behaviors will suddenly make sense.

Here are some of the behaviors common to dogs and wolves.

Pack Mentality: As pack animals wolves naturally submit to a leader. Wolf packs usually consist of a mating pair and their offspring, with the alpha male as the leader.

Dogs also look for leadership in their human “pack”. Where none is present, they will feel compelled to take up the role themselves, leading to dominance issues.

Body Language: In the world of the wolf (and the dog), body language trumps vocal cues every time. This is a complex “language” with body posture, movement, facial expression and eye contact all playing a part.

These signals are often misunderstood by humans. For example, many asume that a dog who wags his tail is happy when he may in fact be highly aggitated and ready to bite.

Territorial Aggression: In the wild, wolves will stake out a territory, then patrol and defend it against intruders. The same behavior can be seen in dogs. They will naturally protect what they perceive as their territory, whether it’s their home, a favorite toy, or even a person they regard as “theirs”.

Socialization: Social interaction is very important in a wolf pack as it helps to develop the strong bonds that are vital to the survival of the pack.

You can simulate this with your dog through play, walks and obedience training. But you need to go further, socializing your dog with a broad spectrum of people and other animals, so that he doesn’t start to see everyone outside his immediate circle as a threat.

Pursuit: A wolf pack hunts by pursuing a prey animal until it is exhausted and easily subdued. Their instinct is to chase anything that moves away from them.

Dogs have this same instinct which is why they love to chase cats, cars, and cyclists.

Fleeing: Even powerful, apex predators like lions, would rather back off than get involved in a fight where they could be seriously injured. A wolf or a dog will rather flee than fight if the odds are stacked against him.

Vocalization: Contrary to popular belief, wolves can bark, they are just less inclined to use vocalization as a form of communication. This is perfectly logical, as a hunter that makes a lot of noise is unlikely to be very successful.

Dogs, on the other hand have spent thousands of years in the company of humans and have learned that we communicate mainly by voice. They therefore have no problem expressing themselves with a bark, a while or even a howl if the mood takes them.

If you want to discover more about dog obedience training, dog care, puppy care and other useful dog information visit www.dogsanddogtraining.com

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