Socializing pets and children — creating lifelong friendships
April 23, 2009
Even if you don't have children in your home, it's a good idea for your pet to get used to being around kids, because typically it will happen at some point. While it's generally easier to socialize a puppy, dogs and cats of any age can be trained to behave properly when children are around. The most important thing to remember …Read more »
Love the Leash
April 23, 2009
Many people are actually "walked" by their dog - their dog pulls in the direction he wants to go, and you give in or try to resist. Loose leash walking is about teaching your dog to walk where you want to walk - without force. There are two parts to this process.
Understanding the Juvenile Dog
April 23, 2009
Dogs in this stage are said to be testing the rules and seeing what they can get away with. The juvenile period in dogs has not been well studied scientifically, but it's known that dogs are becoming more self-reliant and independent at this age. Puppies are born very dependent on their mother, but as they grow, they begin learning to …Read more »
Help for an Excessive Barker
April 23, 2009
Too much barking can become a nuisance. To control excessive barking, it's first important to understand what is prompting your dog to bark, that is, what he is trying to communicate. Dogs bark to communicate they are bored, to express fear or alarm, to get attention or just for fun. If your dog is whining between barks, he may be …Read more »
Stop Your Dog from Begging at the Table
April 23, 2009
If you're the type who continually gives in and doles out treats on demand, you may be doing more harm than good to your dog. After all, being overweight is just as unhealthy for animals as it is for humans.
Here's some ways to stop a begging problem:
Curbing a Tendency to Bite
April 23, 2009
Any pet is liable to bite if he feels threatened or cornered. So if you've just adopted a new dog, you need to gain his trust. Always approach him in a calm, measured way. Talk quietly and reassuringly to him, and never grab or lunge for him. Place a treat in your hand and let your dog come to you …Read more »
Taking the Anxiety Out of Separation
April 23, 2009
As social animals, it's normal for puppies to form attachments to their pet parent. Attachment implies a trusting relationship and is the foundation of a good, healthy bond between pet and Pet Parent. However, when a dog becomes overly dependent on its pet parent, problem behaviors may result.
Causes of separation anxiety in dogs include early separation from the mom, …Read more »
Controlling Unwanted Jumping
April 23, 2009
When dogs greet each other, they usually sniff muzzles; dogs that jump up on people to greet them wish to make contact with the person's face. Dogs may also jump up on people and grab their clothes or limbs in an effort to play. When teaching a dog not to jump, it's important to teach him an acceptable alternative behavior …Read more »
Saving Your Yard from a Digger
April 23, 2009
Dogs dig for a lot of reasons, some breeds are naturally inclined to dig, some dig because they're hot and like to lay in the cool dirt, others dig because they're bored. If you have a digging problem, here are some helpful ways to have your dog and a beautiful yard coexist.
Divide the Yard in Two
If you …Read more »
Soothing Your Dog's Fears
April 23, 2009
Dogs express their fear in different ways. They may bite or scratch, run and hide, tremble or even urinate when afraid. Your job is to figure out what's scaring your dog and help ease and overcome his fears.
