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Archive for the ‘Dog Collars’ Category

The Body Language of Dogs – Anxiety

Friday, August 13, 2010 @ 12:08 PM

The anxious dog may act somewhat submissive, but often holds his ears partially back and his neck stretched out. He stands in a very tense posture and sometimes shudders. Often, an anxious dog slightly whimpers or moans. His tail is low and may be tucked. An anxious dog may overreact to stimulus and can become fearful or even aggressive. If you are familiar with the dog, you may try to divert his attention to something more pleasant. However, be cautious – do not provoke him or try to soothe him.

If  you have a need for a bark collar or dog training collar, be sure to visit my website at http://smartdogcollars.com.

Tips for Senior Dog Owners

Friday, July 30, 2010 @ 12:07 PM

1.  See a Vet. Make sure your dog gets yearly check-ups, including a physical and blood work. If there are any problems, it is better to confront them early.  Dogs can get all of the things that people can as they age – cancer, eyesight loss, senility.  Advances in veterinary science are helping dogs live longer and healtheir lives.

2. Exercise in moderation. Running and jumping may not be appropriate for older dogs, but walking and swimming are excellent exercises for senior dogs.

3.  Watch what he eats. Obesity is a common ailment for dogs, especially older ones.  Adjust his diet accordingly and do not let him get overweight which will put additional strain on his heart, joints, etc.

If your dog has barking or other behavior problems, be sure to visit my site at http://smartdogcollars.com, and select a collar that is right for you.

This is a core vaccination!

Cause: Virus-Contacted with bodily secretions of infected animals.  It is sometimes airborne.

Symptoms: Red eyes, nasal discharge, and cold-like symptoms, followed by vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and neurological complications, such as convulsions

Prognosis: More than half of affected dogs and 3/4 of affected puppies will die.  Survivors may develop chronic or fatal nervous system problems.

Schedule Guidelines: Revaccinate at one year of age, then every three years.

If you need help with problem barking or other behavior problems, please visit my website at http://smartdogcollars.com.

Dog aggression is exhibited by growling, snarling, showing teeth, lunging and biting. It is important to know that any dog has the potential to become aggressive, regardless of breed or history. However, dogs with violent or abusive histories and those bred from dogs with aggressive tendencies are much more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs. Reasons for aggression are basically the same as the reasons a dog will bite or snap, but overall canine aggression is a much more serious problem. If your dog has aggressive tendencies, consult your vet first – it may stem from a health problem. Then, seek the help of an experienced dog trainer. Serious measures should be taken to keep others safe from aggressive dogs! In some cases, remote dog training collars can help to curb his aggression.

Dogs bite for reasons that can be traced back to instinct and pack mentality. Puppies bite and nip on other dogs and people as a means for exploring their environment and learning their place in the pack. Owners MUST teach their puppies that mouthing and biting are not acceptable. Beyond puppy behavior, the motivation to bite or snap typically comes from the following:

  • Fear or Defensiveness
  • Protection of Property
  • Pain or Sickness
  • Dominance Assertion
  • Predatory Instinct

Though some breeds are thought to be dangerous, I am not convinced that breed specific legislation is the answer. Owners and breeders are the ones who can help decrease the tendency for any type of dog to bite through proper training, socialization and breeding practices. If all else fails, try a remote dog training collar to correct your dog.

Puppies jump up to reach and greet their mothers. Later, they may jump up when greeting people. Dogs may also jump up to exert dominance. A jumping dog can be annoying and even dangerous. There are many methods to stop a dog’s jumping, but not all will be successful. Lifting a knee, grabbing the paws, or pushing the dog away might work for some, but for most dogs this sends the wrong message. Jumping up is often attention-seeking behavior, so any acknowledgment of your dog’s actions provide a reward! The best method: simply turn away and ignore your dog. Do not make eye contact, speak, or touch your dog. Go about your business. When he relaxes and remains still, calmly reward him. It won’t take long before your dog gets the message. If this does not work, put on his remote dog training collar!

A dog’s desire to chase moving things is simply a display of predatory instinct. Many dogs will chase other animals, people and cars. All of these can lead to dangerous and devastating outcomes! While you may not be able to stop your dog from trying to chase, you can take steps to prevent disaster.

  • Keep your dog on a leash at all times (unless directly supervised indoors).
  • Train your dog to come when called
  • Have a dog whistle or noisemaker on hand to get your dog’s attention.
  • Use a remote dog training collar
  • Stay aware and watch for potential triggers, like joggers.

Your best chance at success is to keep the chase from getting out of control. Dedicated training over the course of your dog’s life will teach him to focus his attention on you first – before running off.

Begging is a bad habit, but many dog owners unfortunately encourage it. This can lead to digestive problems and obesity. Dogs beg because they love food – but table scraps are not treats, and food is not love! Yes, it is hard to resist that longing look, but giving in “just this once” creates a problem in the long run. In a pack setting, a subordinate would never beg from alpha dogs without reprimand. When you teach your dog that begging is permitted, you jeopardize your role as pack leader. Before you sit down to eat, tell your dog to stay, preferably where he will not be able to stare at you. If necessary, confine him to another room. If he behaves, give him a special treat only after you and your family are completely finished eating. If this does not work, try using a remote dog training collar.

Prepping for Dog Training

Thursday, July 1, 2010 @ 01:07 PM
TrainingMyDo

It’s common knowledge that dogs are easiest to train when they’re still in the puppy stage. If they are taught to correct their mistakes early on, they won’t even think about making them again later in life. A rambunctious young pup is incredibly endearing, but the little troublemaker can also wreak havoc in a home until he’s trained. Even with the aid of Petsafe dog training collars, it can take some time before your pooch is in line.

You can protect antiques and other breakables in your house by carefully applying dog repellent. Dogs will be deterred from entering the area for 24 hours, and the repellent can be reapplied as needed until your pooch is adequately trained. This technique is especially helpful if you have all of your most precious items in one room. If you catch him early enough, you can train a dog to never even consider disrupting the valuables.

Inappropriate urination and defecation are among the most frustrating dog behaviors. They can damage areas of your home and make your dog unwelcome in public places or at the homes of others. It is most important that you discuss this behavior with your veterinarian first to rule out health problems. Next, determine the reason for the behavior, which can come down to one of the following:

  • Submissive/Excitement Urination 
  • Territorial Marking
  • Anxiety
  • Attention-seeking
  • Lack of proper housebreaking

Inappropriate elimination is unavoidable in puppies, especially before 12 weeks of age. Older dogs are another story – many require serious behavior modification to rid them of the habit because you must often alter their perception of themselves. The use of a remote dog training collar might be very useful with this problem.