My Dumb Dog

April 12, 2009

Choosing a Shelter to Adopt a Dog From

Filed under: Basic Information — admin @ 3:54 am

There are many reasons why people drop or abandon their puppies and dogs at animal shelters. Sometimes its because they didn’t do their research on the breed and the dog was too much for them. Too many times, puppies are given as gifts such as at Christmas and as soon as the new wears out and the kids tire of taking care of the puppy, off to the shelter the little guy goes!

Other reasons include trouble with house training, messy grooming needs, noisiness, not getting along with other pets or children, hyperactivity, biting, or destructiveness. Should any of these behaviors befall your newly adopted friend, please do find a professional trainer that specializes in shelter dogs to help you to stop these behaviors and don’t take them back to the shelter! They can be helped! It just takes patience and time and love! You will also need to pick up some dog accessories such as some bulk dog treats for your new doggy so he can have plenty of treats.

Do Not Be One of These Owners

After the choice has been made and you and your new forever friend have already started the bonding process,and you’ve filled out the paperwork for the adoption, you should have already had tons of questions answered by yourself how you will care for your new beloved 4 legged canine friend! Will he be an indoor dog or an outdoor dog? Do you have the necessary sleeping equipment for the outside? Do you intend on tying him down or putting up a fence in the yard? Is he fixed already? If not, then do you plan on having him taken care of? Will he be living with other children? How about other animals? Also if you have an older or injured dog you may want to pick up a orthopedic dog beds, its great for your new dog.

You definitely do not want to be one of these owners that are ill equipped and are ill equipped for a dog. Knowing these things and having the right equipment from the start are the best and only way to insure that you are a responsible pet owner! I cannot stress how important it is to have your dog or cat spay/neutered! There are literally millions of dogs and cats that are homeless and are having unwanted litters. To help end the plight of homeless animals in shelters, make sure you have your cat or dog spayed or neutered!

Why should you look more towards animal shelters with strict policies? There are a few good reasons for seeking these places out such as: animal shelters can be extremely selective about the homes in which the dogs will be going to, animal shelters make occasional visits to the homes in which dogs were brought to after being adopted. Some organizations require certificates from a veterinarian that validate vaccinations administered and proof that neutering surgery was performed, and any dog or other pet that is adopted under these agreements are generally sent to good homes. These shelters want the very best home possible for the animals in their care and while one particular dog may not be a good fit for you, they will work to find you one that is!

April 10, 2009

Choose The Right Type Of Dog Crate For Your Dog

Filed under: Basic Information — Tags: , , — admin @ 4:04 pm

Whether you’re planning to use a dog crate to move your dog from place to place or you’re planning to use the crate at home to keep your dog in one place when you’re away there are many different options are they a little to you.

Aluminum Dog crates

When it comes to aluminum dog crates, the name, Kalispel, comes to mind. These aluminum dog crates are very solid and durable, and will last for a long time. The best part is that there is no assembly required; it comes ready-to-use. In addition, it is fairly lightweight while still offering a strong material to safely house your dog.

The Kalispel aluminum crate also has the benefit of drain holes for easy clean-up. They are offered in many sizes, from small to extra large, and will provide a safe and comfortable place for your pet. These crates can be used both inside and outside, you can assured that your dog will be protected from the elements, like wind or rain. The Kalispel aluminum crate has a great reputation and will hold up very well.

Metal Dog Crates

A great alternative to the aluminum dog crate is the metal dog crate. They are less expensive than the aluminum crates, and you can frequently find metal dog crates at pet kennels. The bottom of metal crates may be constructed of either metal or fiberglass, and please note that these crates are typically not assembled so you’ll have to put it together yourself. This is good for small spaces because it can be collapsed and stowed away when not in use, which makes it a snap for owners who will be using metal dog crates indoors. It is metal, however, so if you need a crate for outdoor use, make sure you get one that can stand against the weather and elements.

Dog Crate Supplies

While it seems that a dog crate is basically self-contained, there are supplies that should go with them. These include covers for insulation, option rooftop additions, and carrying handles or cases. Keeping your dog healthy, comfortable, and dry are important and these accessories can do that for you. Other supplies might also include tie-downs for use in truck beds or cargo areas, feeding containers that attach to the crate, and more. Every crate will have different options available. Check with your Hunting Dog Supplies store for available options.

April 9, 2009

Good Dog Parks In The Usa

Filed under: Basic Information — admin @ 1:15 am

If you are traveling with your canine companion, Dog Parks are a great stop so that you and your beloved 4 legged friend can take a break from the road or motel room and enjoy some physical activity. Perhaps you are not at that juncture in your travel plans and you are looking for places that would be of interest to you and your dog, then consider stopping at a local dog park in a city that you are visiting or may be driving through. Some of the most wonderful dog parks are found across the United States and perhaps you may live close to one of the few that will be mentioned in this article about Dog Parks in the USA! You will also want to be sure to check out these cool dog dresses for your dog right now! You will not be able to go to the park without one.

The first dog park is the Robert L.Nelson Dog Park that focuses not just on your dog but you as well. This unique dog park is located in Goshen, Indiana. Located in the northern part of Indiana, you will find at Robert L.Nelson Dog Park a huge pavilion with an A Line roof that offers shelter from the heat as well as rain and other weather elements. You will also find a very comfortable setting with plenty of comfy chairs and tables for you to relax while your dog plays safely outside in a fenced in area. The Robert L.Nelson Dog park is a must for the weary traveler and their dog! The address for the Robert L. Nelson Dog Park is: 60376 C.R. 13, Goshen, Ind. Be sure to take a look at these pj’s for dogs they are great for your dog and they will appreciate it!

Friends Forever Dog Park is well known for it’s agility exercised themed dog park. This special dog park is going to provide your canine athlete a comprehensive amenities to stimulate their physical and mental abilities. The Friends Forever Dog Park stretches over 9 acres of beautiful landscape in northern Illinois that provides dog pools for hot summer weather as well as agility equipment and exercise platforms. These platforms and exercise equipment is for the dog who thrives on challenging and vigorous play. We are talking state of the art dog platforms, dog walks, dog jumps, weave poles, and A Frame. What you and your canine sportster are going to find at Friends Forever Dog Park is the ultimate in Agility and fun that is sure to make the rest of your trip enjoyable! This fabulous dog park is located at: 966 Rudy Road, Freeport, ILL. Be sure that you pick up some of these dog shirts for your dog right now! Your dog will truly love it.

Found in the BlueGrass State of Kentucky, is Kenton Paw Park. Kenton is a step above the rest when it comes to an awesome dog park! Not only is it located in some of God’s most beautiful territory but it is a learning mecca of all things a good owner should know about the care of their canine! Kenton Paw Park provides lots of workshops and activities for you as well as your dog. When visiting Kenton Paw Park, be prepared to leave not only with a happy exercised dog but with more knowledge than you might of had before! The workshops and training classes are centered around the socialization of your pet. In addition to all the wealth of knowledge at Kenton Paw Park there are dinners and pool parties that the park hosts by local veterinarians and qualified trainers as well as calendar year round training workshops and activities. Kenton Paw Park is a great way to spend a day or afternoon. You can find Kenton Paw Park at 3950 Madison Pike, Covington, Ky.

April 8, 2009

Outdoor Products For My Dog

Filed under: Basic Information — admin @ 1:14 pm

Having a dog as part of your family is an awesome experience! You have a forever friend that your family will grow with and the bond you will share with your dog will stand the test of time. One of the not so wonderful things about dog ownership is what happens in the yard! Have you ever seen or lived next door to someone who may have a large breed dog or small dogs that deficate everywhere or dig holes yet the yard looks immaculate? You might assume that the owner is meticulous in lawn care but I assure you that he or she probably isn’t. The answer to having a dog-friendly yard that is both healthy and appealing and safe is really simple…outdoor dog supplies!

ENCAP is a company that has prided and dedicated itself to environmentally-friendly products that are advanced in soil technology. The Dog Repair Kit by ENCAP is a great product that has a special formulation to enhance the treatment of excess nitrogen. This technology works with your grass to become more beautiful and stronger because it’s free from damage. The Dog Repair Kit will come in a 1.25lb bag and includes seed, mulch, and soil conditioner. It is so very simple to use all it takes is for you to loosen up some edges of soil and sprinkle some of the granules and rake followed by a good watering and that is it! What is also great is that ENCAP has included an easy to view tutorial that will give you all the information plus will show you how to tell when your repaired patch has had enough water! ENCAP’s The Dog Repair Kit is a must have for a great yard! You will also want to pick up some dog beds for your dog right away. Your dog needs you.

ProGreen Synthetic Grass by ProGreen is a wonderful product for dogs that love to dig but have owners that don’t like the holes! This synthetic grass looks exactly like the real thing and is mess free! When your dog relieves himself, the waste can be removed using your current process, only it tends to be less messy with the synthetic grass.There are tiny holes within the turf that makes it easy for rain and wastes that sink through to a drainage layer that exits to the ground. So if you have a yard that is patchy or you want to install a dog run, then ProGreen Synthetic Grass by ProGreen may be the right choice for you and your dog! You will definitely want to check out these dog crates for your canine friend right now.

Nothing is more troubling or unattractive than a yard that has been discolored from your dog’s urination. Have no fear, Lawn Rescue For Dogs by Pet Naturals will come to your rescue! Lawn Rescue for Dogs by Pet Naturals isa supplement that is delicious, chewy, and tasty treat that you give your pet and it actually lowers the pH in your dog’s urine. The end result is a beutiful lawn that does not have unsightly yellow or bare patches from your dog relieving themselves. The ingredients for the Lawn Rescue For Dogs by Pet Naturals are safe and natural! The Lawn Rescue For Dogs by Pet Naturals contain yucca, cranberry, brewer’s yeast, and DL-methionine.

April 7, 2009

Labrador Training: The Best Way

Filed under: Basic Information — admin @ 10:05 am

Labrador training involves every aspect of your life with your dog. This means that you must discourage behavior that is cute now that your dog is a puppy, but will be unacceptable when they grow older. We often reinforce bad behavior unknowingly and think that our dogs are at fault. Just like children dogs learn what is right and wrong from its surroundings.

This means you must establish the rules early on in the game and stick to them. If your dog is not allowed on the furniture then it should never be allowed on the furniture ever. If you feel like a cuddle and let the dog up on the sofa it will get onto the sofa the next time you are sitting on it. Consistency is key to having a well-behaved dog. A dog with erratic behavior mirrors your behavior. Remember an old dog can’t learn new tricks so start early.
Take your Labrador puppy out to meet new people and other dogs. You don’t want an aggressive dog. Exposing your dog to other people and dogs is a part of Labrador training that will allow your dog to be well socialized. Also start to bring your dog in the car or short rides even at this age. Drive to a grassy area that is not too far from home and let your dog out to explore and play. This way your puppy connects cars with something fun and will have no problem getting into the car.

Teaching your dogs to come when you call is an important aspect of Labrador training. One way is to keep whistling while your dog is eating this will make it associate whistling with food. Another way is to keep calling your dog’s name and whistling and when it comes over to you praise it, scratch it’s belly, and generally make a big deal of your dog. It will slowly begin to associate you calling it with a reward.
How do you feel about a full-grown Labrador sharing your bed? Remember that Labradors shed quite a bit. If this is not an inviting prospect then don’t let your puppy sleep with you. This will only encourage your dog to sleep on your bed and cause all sorts of problems once it’s too old to be doing that. Avoiding Labrador problem behaviors means anticipating what your dog will be like, as it grows older. Keep this in mind as you decide what your dog can and cannot do in your home.

If you would not be pleased with your dog breaking the rules then don’t break the rules yourself. Allowing one thing one day and then not allowing it another will confuse your dog. It will not know how to behave or what it should do. Dogs love routine and you can provide that by being consistent and doing the same things at the same time. Remember these basics when you start Labrador training.

Labrador training is easy with consistency and patience. You will be able to find the same quality advice in this article as that of popular dog training books.

April 6, 2009

Choosing A Dog

Filed under: Basic Information — admin @ 7:13 am

If you are thinking about buying a small dog as a pet, remember that for the most part, they aren’t much different to a larger version. Having said that, there are certain points they need to be made aware of when looking after a small dog. Illustrated below are some points you will need to consider for the daily requirements for a tiny breed of dog.

Picking a Dog

Feeding:

Naturally you’re going to feed your dog daily, but the standard-size kibble at the grocery store may be too large for your dog to eat comfortably. Make sure that your dog gets a kibble which suits his tiny mouth and you could get these along with the premium brand of dog foods. Although if you feed you dog with canned food this should not present a problem.

Good Dogs as Pets

Methods of containing them:

Every dog needs the following: regular exercise, an outdoor place for his potty needs, and an enclosed area which provides the animal with security. You need to be careful here as the large fencing used to protect a larger dog may just be too big for a small dog, since there are convenient gaps below and in between making it easy for the smaller dog to kneel down and escape through it. It may seem bizarre but it has been know for very large birds to actually take tiny dogs from their gardens. A simple answer to this problem is to construct an enclosed play area which should stop this from happening.

Small Dog Care Tips

How to train the dog:

While tiny dogs aren’t any harder to train than large dogs, the consensus of many pet experts is that many of them end up spoiled. Be it a pocket or purse-fitting dog, remember that the small dog still belong to that species of animals which follow pack behavior, and incidentally the dog and not the owner leads the pack. It’s a wise idea to make sure your pet is thoroughly house trained, no matter how small and inconsequential the mess might seem when he misses. Dog experts also suggest you make your dog work for you, to keep him responsive to your rules. Never reward a dog with goodies or a meal till he has perfected your command for doing tricks or even simple jobs like sitting or fetching.

Grooming:

Keep in mind that grooming a small dog is slightly different to larger ones and cater for this. Firstly, as they do not get the same type of outdoor exercise that a larger dog does whereby their nails are trimmed automatically, tiny dogs require their nails trimmed on a more regular basTiny canines do not get the same sort of regular outdoor exercise on rough surfaces that controls their nail growth like a larger dog so they will need to be trimmed more often. As they are eating more canned food, their teeth will need to be brushed more regularly (at least twice per week) to eliminate unwanted and harmful deposits. The above makes it clear that it does not matter whether you are taking care of a small dog or a large dog the methods are pretty much the same. These may seem like inconsequential points but they can and will make a big difference to your pets health and happiness.

April 4, 2009

Types Of Electronic Collars

Filed under: Basic Information — Tags: , , — admin @ 3:58 am

Some believe that an electronic collar is not safe for their dogs and in fact, believe they are inhumane. Before you make that decision you should do your homework and you’ll quickly discover that they are not only effective, but they are safe and a perfectly humane tool for training your dog. One of the most important considerations is choosing the electronic collar that works best for you and for your dog. We are putting together some brief reviews that we hope will help you make a decision on which of these popular models is the best choice for you and for your dog.

Containment Systems (“Invisible Fence”)
You might have heard of these electric systems before, but did you know that there are two types? One type is wireless, while the other is electric. The electric system requires you to dig into the ground and bury an electric wire in desired boundaries of your yard. You can avoid this by going wireless. Which ever you choose, these perimeter sensor collars are great for teaching your dog to stay in your yard. PetSafe is a good option that is suitable for standard sized yards. If you have a larger yard, try the Innotek system instead.

The Innotek system has several advantages that might be right for you, including expandability up to 25 acres and the ability to use multiple collars with the same fence, so if you have more than one dog, you’re covered. Both the PetSafe and the Innotek are great system for hidden wire fencing.

If you’re interested in a wireless system, we encourage you to investigate the PetSafe model which offers an innovative technology with no wires. This unit works by placing a transmitter in the middle of the area that you’re dog will be allowed to be free in. This central transmitter allows you to set the total radius of freedom and offers not just an easy set up but has the added benefit of being portable (i.e. you can take it to others homes when you travel with your dog!).

BARK COLLARS
If you own a dog who barks frequently this might be the right tool for you to help with that urge. The Innotek collar is not only reasonably priced, but it’s probably one of the top brands in term of being popular and being respected in the marketplace. This unit has sensors that easily identify the barking location (i.e. is it your dog or someone else’s dog?) meaning no unnecessary correction for your dog. If your dog is a constant barker, the intensity of the charge gradually increases to prevent barking and when the dog stops, then it will reset to the original setting. These collars are suitable for most dogs and offer the added benefits of being both lightweight and waterproof.

BEEPER COLLARS
These are not so much training tools as they are safety devices. These allow the owner to “beep” the collar, letting of an easily-heard beep so that the dog can be located easily. Dogtra has a great design that can be set to beep continually or intermittently, so you can easily find your pet quickly and safely. They work up to a mile away and there are systems available for multiple dogs with a lot of features. There are even setups for hunting that allow you to track when your dog is stopped (pointing), moving quickly (flushing) and about how far away from you the dog is.

SHOCK COLLARS
If your dog goes with you out onto the field, goes hunting, or enjoys large areas, the electronic training collar can help you train your dog within the area. TriTronics offer the greatest system, with options for providing optimum training for dogs who spend time outdoors. There is about a one mile range in most models, and up to twenty settings within stimulation levels. They are versatile, offering waterproof protection and lightweight feel, as well as long-life batteries which maximizes each use. Accessories available include transmitter holsters, field chargers for collars, battery packs, and “dummy” collars so that your dog learns to respond without the actual collar. If you’re looking to save a little money, try the SportDog collar, which is comparable and still gets you long ranges of use.

There are many options and considerations when it comes to electronic training collars. Hopefully, this guide will help you purchase the right electronic training collar for your dog. Talk to your vet about these options and gain his suggestions since he knows your dog’s needs and behaviors.

April 3, 2009

Stop Your Dog From Barking

Filed under: Basic Information — Tags: , , — admin @ 8:58 am

If you’re a hunter, a barking dog at home is more than just a mild annoyance because if he’s barking while you’re hunting, it can ruin your hunting trip. It can be very inconvenient for the hunter when his dog is unable to control is barking.

Although there are a few ways of training your dog not to bark, a good choice is to get a dog bark collar. It’s a negative reinforcement method that can teach your dog that it is not okay to bark.

You have a choice of two types of dog bark collars to teach your dog not to bark, or not to bark when it is not appropriate. They are safe to use and are effective for dogs, whether it is for your hunting dog or a pet at home.

One thing to keep in mind however not every collar is going to work on every dog – you’ll have to do some of your own homework to make sure that your dog will react well to the training collar (bark collar) that you’re going to invest in.

Electronic Bark Collars

The electronic bark collars will send a jolt to your dog if he is barking. Although you may think this is cruel, be assured that the jolt is actually very gentle and will not cause injury to your dog in any way, shape or form. work by emitting a jolt into your dog when he barks.

The idea behind these collars is that the “jolt” when he barks surprises him out of the behavior. Repeated enforcement of this pattern (bark, then jolt) ties the activity (barking) in with the result (jolt) and the dog soon learns not to do the activity that causes the result.

Most electronic bark collars come with a range of jolts from extremely mild (for smaller dogs) to higher velocity jolts for much larger dogs. When you first put the collar on your dog you should always start out with the very lowest setting until you determine which level works best to control your dog.

Citronella Bark Collar

These collars are the choice for those who just can’t get over the idea of “electric shock” to teach their dog not to bark. While electronic collars are extremely safe and effective, those who can’t get past the initial idea of “jolting” their dog usually prefer the spray collar. These collars usually contain citronella, which controls the dogs behavior and barking.

Like the electronic dog collar, the spray collar will produce unpleasant sensations to the barking dog. Because it is not a good feeling for the dog to be sprayed in the face, the unpleasantness of the experience will train your dog not to bark when inappropriate, at the risk of being sprayed again. The spray collar will work on small and big dogs, up to 160 pounds.

Summary

As a hunter, you probably enjoy taking your dog when you go hunting, and your dog probably enjoys it as well. However, it’s very hard when your dog barks at every small movement or sound when you’re hunting. A dog bark collar may be helpful to you when you’re out hunting. When you invest in a bark collar, you don’t have to be concerned about incessant or untimely barking and actually have a good time out with your dog. Dog bark collars, whether citronella or electric, are great hunting dog supplies that are humane and effective so be assured that you’re doing the right thing.

April 2, 2009

Where Can I Take My Dog To The Park

Filed under: Basic Information — admin @ 9:43 pm

Dog Parks have been around for quite some time and are wonderful places of beauty and enjoyment for you and your dog. These places are equipped with large areas and even come with some ammenities for both relaxation and physical activity that appeals for all breeds and sizes of dogs. There are atleast one Dog Park in most major cities across the nation. However, this trend is branching out to even smaller communities to acommidate local dog lovers. Below are listed the very best Dog Parks voted for their excellent layouts and wonderful advantages for all dogs! Before you go to the dog park you will want to check out some bargain dog clothes that you can pick up before you go to the park, so your styling. You can view a nice sweater dog polo and maybe even some dog long johns for a great nights sleep.

For your small dog, The Bear Dog Park located in Roseville,California was voted the best Dog Park for small breed dogs. This unique Dog Park has a special enclosed area that is just for small dogs. The entire space measures almost 1 acre of land that has a walking trail around the perimeter. There is even lighting fixtures and doggie showers for nighttime fun. The address for Bear Dog Park is 1575 Pleasant Grove Blvd., Roseville, CA. This dog park definately caters to your small little guy or gal!

From just outside Columbus, Ohio, Alum Creek Dog Park has the best man made beach for dogs! You and your dog do not have to get in the car and travel to the seaside to enjoy the beach at Alum Creek Dog Park! This beach covers 4 acres of land that is adjacent to Alum Creek State Park’s resevoir. The beach was designed for dogs who love the water but is great for any dog with it’s calm, relaxing, and serene atmosphere. Alum Creek Dog Park features rolling hills and a beautiful forest that is going to provide many activities for your dog! The real attraction is the beach with it’s rock bed edge and cool inviting water that is a hit with dogs everywhere! The address for Alum Creek Dog Park is 3615 S. Old State Road, Lewis Center, Ohio.

Alongside the beautiful waters of Lake Washington lies the Warren G. Magnuson Dog Park. Located in Seattle,Washington this dog park is really a specially thought out place. Seattle is known for it’s rainy and wet weather and the Warren G.Magnuson Dog Park was designed to accomidate Seattle’s wet weather! Plenty of free open areas dot the landscape but what makes it adaptable for the weather is the winding trails and awesome footpaths that are constructed with highly compact gravel that keeps trails from becoming muddy in rainy weather.An added bonus is that all the trails are wheelchair accessible! The Warren G.Magnuson Dog Park is absolutely a wonderful day trip for your canine and offers a natural setting for them to exercise and to further bond with your pet! The Warren G.Magnuson Dog Park is located at 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA.

These are just a few of the great places to enjoy with your beloved 4 legged friend and hopefully will inspire you to visit either of these or visit the one nearest to you!

March 23, 2009

Wondering What To Feed Your Pooch Or Feline?

Filed under: Basic Information — admin @ 2:08 pm

Your dogs nutrition is critical for leading a long, healthy and happy life. There are so many different types of dog foods available to you that it is sometimes difficult to determine which one is the right one for your dog. Just because a dog food is expensive, does not always mean it is the best food for your dog.

IMPORTANT One thing that is critical to the health of your dog is to know what NEVER to feed him. Some foods that humans can eat can be hazardous or even fatal to dogs. So, you better go for dog food products Some of these foods you need to avoid are: alcohol, baby food that contains onion powder, bones from fish, cat food (too high in protein), chocolate, coffee or tea, grapes or raisons, citrus oil extracts, onions, garlic, table scraps, mushrooms and more. Some of these are toxic and could cause death, whereas some will cause less severe health issues, such as diarrhea and vomiting.

The guide not only contains healthy dog food recipes but also other aspects of keeping your dog healthy such as:

1. Healthy dog food recipes for both younger and older dogs

2. Natural recipe to keep fleas away

3. Gourmet Biscuit recipes

4. Dozens of recipes for delicious, economical, healthful dog food

5. Various other treats

Im sure most of you who care greatly for your dogs have probably spent hours talking to dog experts,as well as reading many books on dogs in order to get the sort of information available in this guide. So before you go and spend more money on expensive vets and other dog experts, do yourself a favour and try this ebook, because by the time you have finished reading this guide, you will probably know more than the pro’s do.

Simply put, switch your dog’s diet, natural balance dog food from harmful, commercial dog foods to healthy, all-natural dog foods is the not only less expensive; but, also, will improve your dog’s overall health and prolong its life! So with that, choosing all-natural foods for your dogs is a right and safe choice for keeping it healthy and active for years to come!

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