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Category: Dog Care Tips

  • Why Dogs Need Exercise

    Dogs have a built-in need to exercise.  It is a way for dogs to release energy.  If this need is unmet on a regular basis, then dogs find alternative ways to expend vigor that is not in a constructive manner.

    Lack of Exercise Equals Destruction

    Do you ever wonder why your dog chews up the house or why your pup scratches and digs all day long?  Does your dog engage in excessive barking?  Does your dog frequently raid the garbage?  You need to examine how often you play with your dog or provide your pup with exercise.  If your dog is lacking in participation of activities, then the dog will substitute the physical actions with negative behaviors.  These are bad habits for your dog to adapt.  To prevent this from happening enroll your pup in agility classes or dog obedience training classes.  These classes allow your pup the opportunity to socialize with other dogs, bond with you, and provide a positive atmosphere to let loose.  Thus, when you come home your dog is relaxed, happy and peaceful.

    Ample Exercise Exemplifies Happy Home

    When you ensure that your dog is engaging in exercise on a daily basis, you are improving the quality of life for your dog, and you.  You decrease your dog’s need to chew, bite and bark.  It eliminates a significant number of bad behaviors from continuing to develop.  The dog also will be able to sleep and rest quietly at night.  It also prolongs your dog’s life by keeping your dog in shape.

    For more information on why dogs need exercise talk to a Florida dog obedience training class today.

  • Prevent Your Dog from Chasing Runners

    It is hard to think about spring when the weather is still frigid outside, but it will happen before you know it.   And with warm weather, additional joggers and runners are noticeably active outside.  So how do you prevent your dog from running after these people when they go by?  There are different techniques you may utilize and here are just a few tips to help you and your dog.

    Bring Special Treats

    When you take your dog out for a walk, bring a stash of dog treats, small pieces of chicken, cheese or a hot dog with you.  You shall use this only when you see a runner pass by.  Let me explain.  When a runner goes by, you need something to distract your dog.  A regular dog treat may not be sufficient.  However, a tiny piece of chicken would be enough to keep your dog’s attention on you.  Furthermore, this will have the dog associate a runner going by as a positive thing.  For the dog sees runner, and thinks treat.  Thus, your dog will adapt to sitting or staying near you whenever someone jogs alongside.

    Encourage Safety

    The reason why it is vital to teach your dog not to run after people is for several reasons, but mainly for the runner and your dog’s safety.   If your dog chases after a person, then it may lead the dog into traffic and cause permanent injury to your dog and to the runner.  In addition, not everyone is comfortable with dogs.  Therefore, if a runner sees a dog chasing after him/her, then the runner may not respond in a friendly manner causing further aggression from both parties.

    Teach your dog not to chase after joggers.  Make sure you expend your dog’s energy by engaging your dog in daily exercise and agility classes.  Florida dog obedience training and dog agility classes will prevent your dog from chasing a person out of excitement or the need to release nervous energy.   By the time a runner passes by, and agility classes are over, your dog will be too tired to care if someone is coming the pup’s way or not.

  • What to Do When a Puppy Bites

    When dogs are just little puppies, they show signs of personality traits.  If the pup is forming aggressive or frightened behavior then the pup may bite.  Thus, you need to modify this behavior from the beginning ensuring your dog lives a joyous life.

    Enroll in Puppy Kindergarten

    The first key is to enroll your dog into a puppy kindergarten class or k9 obedience training classes.  This class will teach your pup not to bite using a positive reinforcement technique.  Just make sure your pup is current with vaccinations.  Furthermore, the classes are an opportunity for you and your pup to learn how to effectively communicate with one another making the years to come easy on the two of you.

    Let the Puppy Mingle

    The more your puppy socializes with other puppies, dogs, people, and kids the less frightened the pup will be when he/she grows up.  As a result, the less scared the dog is the decreased odds are that biting shall ensue.  Fearful dogs instinctively turn towards biting.  It is what they know.  It is how they fight with others.  Thus, do not isolate the pup.  When socialization happens appropriately, the pup develops into a well-mannered, friendly, comfortable dog.

    If you still have problems with your dog biting, then do not wait to take action.  Find a Sarasota dog training facility that implements positive reinforcement.  Make sure the staff is experienced and knowledgeable in what they do.  Enjoy the time you share with your pup during the close.  It will bring you and your pup closer together.

  • Stop Your Dog from Begging at the Table

    When you sit down to eat with company, it is not pleasant to have your dog continuously pestering everyone seated.  Generally, if your dog has not modified this behavior, then your puppy is instinctively moving back and forth between the table members until the dog finally gets something to eat from someone’s plate.  It is a good idea to stop this behavior from the start.

    Choose a Spot and Distract

    The first step is to decide where your dog’s spot will be during your mealtimes.  For instance, if you are getting ready to eat lunch, show your pup a designated spot where it can lie down and rest while you eat your meal.  Normally, this is an area where you have a doggy bed or mat.  Then, to make certain your dog does not get up from the chosen area; give your pup something to play with or a bone to chew on.  Anything to distract the dog ensuring you, and your guests, will be able to eat in peace.  You will have to teach your dog the “stay” command before achieving positive results.  It will take lots of repetition, treats and reward methods.  Florida dog training classes may help you achieve this goal.

    Remove the Puppy from the Room

    If you do not want your dog to be in the same room as you during meals, then choose a spot to move the dog and teach your dog how to settle in and relax in that chosen area.  This is a great option for people who like to entertain but do not want the dog roaming around inside the exact area as the party guests.  Select a room the dog is comfortable in or a portion of the house or yard; provide the dog with plenty of toys and other objects to remain occupied.  Thus, your dog will be happy and relaxed while you get a chance to enjoy time with your houseguests.

    Sarasota dog training is available to help you with the “stay” and “settle in” commands.  They also are able to teach you pet care tips to keep your dog living a healthy and happy life.

  • Ways to Change Excessive Barking

    It is commonsense that dogs bark to communicate ideas to others.  Dogs bark to greet, alarm, and to establish territorial area.  But what happens if your dog barks excessively for attention-seeking purposes?  This can become a huge headache, literally, for the entire household.  So why not teach your loving pup other behaviors to notify you of the same needs.  It is possible with K9 private lessons and here are a few tips to start you off in the right direction.

    Teach Your Dog to Ring a Bell

    When a dog needs to go outside, it instinctively barks.  It is a way of notification that works.  However, why not teach your dog to ring a bell instead.  It is possible with patience, repetition and body language.  For instance, if your dog barks to go outside, but you do not wish to encourage this behavior then do not yell or physically touch the dog in any manner.  Instead, use body language.  Stand and do not make eye contact.  Stare at the wall or ignore the dog completely.  This will teach your dog to stop barking quickly.  Encourage the dog to nudge a bell hanging by the door or install a doggy door.  After repetitive practice, and proper training, the dog will be able to do this in no time and the house will return to its peaceful state.

    Distract with Toys

    If your dog has a habit of barking while you are on the phone, computer and/or trying to complete work then distract your dog with treats, toys, or a bone.  For example, if your dog barks while you are trying to talk on the phone, then give your dog a chewing toy.  Your dog will become distracted and will not bother to make noise.  It is a good way to show your dog another method of keeping busy while you complete your work.

    For more tips on how to teach your dog positive techniques to replace excessive barking check out Sarasota dog training and K9 private lessons today.

  • Hiking with Your Dog

    This time of year is when people are trying to stick to New Year’s resolutions of staying in shape.  And there is no better way to enjoy accomplishing your goals than partaking in hikes with your dog outdoors.  However, you need to keep your dog‘s safety in mind while experiencing such activities.  Here are a few guidelines ensuring you and your dog will have a pleasant adventure while exercising together.

    First Things First, Update Vet Records

    This is more of a precautionary step, but you never know what you shall encounter along the walk.  Therefore, check to make sure your dog’s vet records are up to date.  There are wild plants, shrubs other animals that may scratch your dog or injure it in some way.  If the vaccinations are up to date then you do not have to worry about it.

    To Leash or Not to Leash

    If your dog is speedy in response to your calling commands then it is okay to allow your dog to wonder around during a hike.  However, be careful and considerate when doing so.  Some people are not comfortable when seeing a dog off a leash, and it makes them uneasy.  Thus, if it is a crowded hiking location, do not allow your dog to go without a leash.  In addition, if there are other dogs on the trail, then be prepared.  Bring treats to distract your dog for whenever other dogs cross the same path.  By preventing a negative encounter from occurring, you enhance the level of enjoyment you both share.

    Hydrate

    Just as you would with yourself, make sure you bring plenty of water for your pup too.  You both need to stay hydrated.  It is a good rule of thumb to avert your dog from drinking from natural lakes, ponds, and streams.  For you do not know what may be contained in those natural bodies of water.  There may be parasites or toxins putting your four-legged companion’s health at-risk.

    Remember, if you have a dog, and wish to stick to your fitness goals, bring your pup along.  Dogs need the exercise too.  For more information check out Sarasota dog training classes and Florida k9 private lessons today.

  • Training a Puppy to Walk on a Leash

    Teaching a puppy to walk on a leash is not that difficult.  It just takes patience and lots or persistence.  If you teach your puppy how to walk properly on a leash from a young age, then it will keep your dog safe while on walks and makes it an enjoyable experience for the both of you to share.

    Familiarize Your Puppy to Wearing a Collar

    A puppy has no clue regarding the correct way to respond to a collar.  Thus, introduce the idea of wearing a collar from the very beginning.  A good way to do this is while the puppy is eating, slide a collar on.  The puppy will be distracted making this an ideal time.  Once the puppy does realize what you have done, it will probably try to rub it off by sliding itself against the floor or scratch it off.  It is important not to take it off.  It needs to get used to the idea of a collar on so it becomes second nature.

    Introduce the Leash

    Once your puppy is comfortable and happy wearing a collar, then it is time to clip on a leash.  It is not necessary to use a heavy-duty leash on your puppy at this time.  Choose a lightweight, thin leash.  And once the leash is clipped on allow the puppy to walk around with it.  As a result, the puppy will be accommodating when it is time to put on the leash later.

    These are only the first steps to teaching a puppy to walk on a leash.  To find out how to implement the rest just check out a puppy preschool or a puppy kindergarten near you.

  • Brush Your Dog’s Teeth

    There are dog owners who still wonder why in the world they need to brush their dog’s teeth.  Pet owners do not realize this is an important care tip to implement for it is not solely designed to make your dog’s breath smell good.  It is essential to your dog’s overall health.  Gum disease is a familiar, grim problem in dogs and the best way to prevent it is through brushing.

    Oral Care Issues in Dogs are Serious

    Just as in humans, if you do not brush your dog’s teeth, food particles and bacteria along the gum line build and form into plaque, which when left untreated turns into tartar.  Tartar is the number one problem causing severe mouth pain, teeth falling out, and bacterial infections.  The reason it is serious if left untreated, the bacterial infections seep into the bloodstream affecting the rest of the body.  Therefore, brushing the teeth is vital to your dog’s overall health.

    How Often Should You Brush

    It is recommended to brush your dog’s teeth on a daily basis.  If your dog is of a small breed, where teeth are generally crowded together, brush frequently.  For the plaque collects more often on teeth set closely together than on a widely spread mouth.  You need to keep an eye on your dog’s teeth.

    What to Use

    To carry out pet care tips properly, many stores carry products to make these jobs easier.  Check out the oral hygiene products section at pet stores.  There is normally an area  dedicated to doggy toothbrushes.  There will be different types available and the best way to discover what works is to try it out at home.  Some dogs may prefer dental sponges to doggy toothbrushes, but you will not know without testing.

    Regarding toothpaste, there is one main rule to follow; do not use human toothpaste.  Pet stores and your veterinarian have pet toothpaste created specifically for dogs.  The flavors may range from chicken, peanut butter, liver and mint making it appealing to your dog.  And, if your dog likes it, then brushing your dog’s teeth will be less of a chore than it initially sounds.

  • You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks

    Your dog needs to respect, love and bond with you in a positive environment.  You should set aside a regular amount of time each day to play, teach, and interact with your dog and what better atmosphere to do so than in a dog obedience class.  For what if you have a dog that you adore, but the dog suffers from separation anxiety.  Alternatively, what if you have been communicating with a dog incorrectly and your message is not getting through.  Perhaps there is a better way to handle things.

    Positive Dog Obedience Classes are the Way to Go

    Your dog needs to continue learning throughout its entire life.  A dog obedience training class is the way to accomplish this in an encouraging setting.  For when a dog ages, the dog’s traits, negative and positive, slowly become transparent.  Therefore, you need to be prepared for such changes to happen.  In addition, if your dog originated from a line of breeds known to be aggressors, then the obedience training would teach you how to calm and redirect the aggressive characteristics.  As a result, your dog transforms into a wonderful companion for the entire family to enjoy.

    Florida dog training will show you the proper way to correct behavioral problems preventing them from reoccurring.  A trained and experienced professional will show you how to set boundaries, promote wanted behavior and change unwanted habits.  For it is never too late for you and your dog to learn.

  • What to Expect in Puppy Kindergarten

    Puppies are adorable, loving, and fun.  Nevertheless, puppies need guidance just as people do and puppy kindergarten is created to teach basics allowing you, and your puppy to live a happy and healthy life.

    Introducing Play Time

    During puppy kindergarten, one of the lessons is to socialize your puppy with others.  The pup gets a chance to interact with other pups, play with them, and learn what is accepted and what is not.  It is to ensure your puppy is comfortable in different situations with other animals around and it does not become a concern when the puppy grows into a dog.  For if the puppy is not accustom to other dogs, then the personality may evolve into an aggressive, or timid, dog causing problems down the road.

    Learn the Basics

    A puppy’s attention span is limited.  A reputable, experienced puppy kindergarten keeps this natural development in mind when designing the class.  Look for a class that is a mix of socialization, bonding and instruction.  Within the lesson, your puppy shall learn the basics.  Some of the basics include, yet, not limited to, sit, stay, and walk on a leash.  The puppy learns how to control enthusiasm during appropriate times.  For instance, if you have company over, the puppy may have the instinct to jump on your company’s lap to engage in play or bite on the person’s shoelaces.  The puppy learns how to curb the excitement and release it at proper times through positive reinforcement.

    Be Reasonable

    Do not put too many expectations during your puppy’s beginning growth phase.  Your puppy will need lots of love, attention and amusement.  Just keep in mind, a puppy needs to revisit these lessons throughout its entire lifespan.  So continue with these lessons with Florida dog training courses.