Friday, January 8, 2010

How To Deal With A Leash Pulling Walking Dog

One of the most common questions asked is "How to get my dog to stop pulling on the leash when I walk?" If you haven't yet realized walking a dog can be quite a power struggle literally. Especially when the four legged canine at the end of the leash is a Great Dane. If you are like many pet owners then you have probably found yourself being pulled in all directions only to leave you wondering who's walking who.

Dogs are always excited for their daily exploration and sniffing walk . Even the most perfect pup has been know to pull the reigns and their handler just to fulfill that quenching squirrel chasing desire. But squirrel chasing days can be cut short when your dog is corrected in love. If your dog is not retrained and corrected in love he will continue to pull and take the lead, which does not boast well for that sore arm of yours. But don't get discouraged you can teach an old dog (big or small) new tricks. Here are a few tricks to help reign in your overzealous walking buddy and make your daily stroll a pleasant one.

Well, it time for you to take back your role as pack leader, the Dog Whisperer would be so proud. No longer does walking have to be a drag, pun intended. One trick taught in obedience training to curb pulling is being a tree that cannot be moved, its all about standing firm. As your dog runs out the leash put your foot down and refuse to walk forward if he continues to pull. This will train him that pulling gets no where fast. Moving forward only when the leash is slack and your dog is not walking you. Using words like "heel" and "stop" will make him aware of his behavior, choose a command and stick to it.

Another tip is constantly walking in different directions. If your dog starts to get ahead of you, turn and walk the other way quickly. Dogs learn best when praised and rewarded so give him a training treat or "Good boy" when you get slack in the leash again.
Speaking in a soothing manner when praising him, patting him or slipping him a treat will let him know he should continue this behavior.

Sometimes the best thing to do with a pulling dog is to start over from scratch. No we are not talking about getting rid of the dog, although that can sometimes be tempting thought when your pup has chewed through your shoe closest. The truth still remains "you can't live with them sometimes, but you can't live without them". But just keep in mind walking your dog should be enjoyable for the both of you. If this continues consider enrolling in some obedience classes which will help retrain your dog to follow the leader.


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Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Child Pet Safety Tips

One can't deny the emotional bond between a dog and their owner. Pets are such a wonderful & fun addition to any family, but with this comes much responsibility. Kids love pets and aren't afraid to show it so as the responsible parent & pet owner it is up to you to take extra safety precautions. Here are some pet safety tips to make the bonding experience a safe and healthy one for youngsters.

1. Before deciding on the breed of dog make sure it is a perfect family fit by doing your research first. If you have smaller kids choose a kid friendly breed. It is important that your dog has proper training & socialization so enroll your pet in obedience classes.

2. Make sure to take in consideration other family members pet allergies from salvia, coat & dander. You may have to select a dog or cat that is less allergenic.

3. Prior to taking out the welcome mat and bringing your new pet home make sure he or she has a proper vet checkup. If there is another pet already in the house make sure their vaccinations are up to date and have had their routine checkups. Its important to keep your pet healthy because certain diseases & infections can be transmitted to humans.

4. Always supervise play interaction between kids and your pet. Set down rules & boundaries so that your child knows how to properly handle your pet. Some pets can't tolerate excessive hugging & petting and can become aggressive. Never promote rough housing with your pet because a child could easily be injured.

5. Pets love to eat in peace so make sure children know not to grab or crowd your pet during dinner time. Even the kindest pet can become aggressive, territorial & possessive and nip at the hand that feeds eat when they feel their dish is being threatened.

6. Proper hygiene is important if you are caring for a pet. Make sure you inform kids to wash their hands after playing with the pet. Also, kids are curious so make sure you pick up after your pet & teach kids not to touch pet's waste.

7. Train your kid on the proper way to greet & meet a fellow furry citizen & a new pet. It is important you teach your kid to not approach or pat an animal without you or the owners permission.

8. First Aid 1o1. If your child is bitten by a pet make sure to treat the wound quickly. In the instance that your child is bitten by a neighborhood or stray dog with no proof of vaccinations seek medical attention immediately.



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Monday, January 4, 2010

How To Introduce Dog to a New Baby

With the New Year comes the arrival of new babies. Are you one of the lucky few celebrating the birth of a new baby or girl? Perhaps you just found out the good news that you are expecting.

If you are playing the role of expectant mom or dad and pet owner, then its important to prepare your entire household, including your dog for baby's arrival. Here are some safety tips to ease your mind and make the baby's homecoming easy for everyone, including Fido.

1. Obedience Training 101. Consider a enrolling your dog in obedience classes prior to the baby's arrival. It is important that your dog understand basic commands like sit, down, come & stay. Also, if your dog has a bad habits of jumping up this should also be dealt with.

2. Clean bill of health. It important that you bring your new born child into a clean & healthy environment. Make sure your dog gets his preventive annual vet checkup before the baby arrives home from the hospital. Routine vet checkups will ensure your dog is free of parasites & other health problems that may pose a risk to you, Fido & your child's.

3. Let your dog explore your baby's toy box & nursery. Under your supervision let your dog get use to the sights, smells and sounds of a baby in advance. Allow your dog to sniff baby blankets and hear the sounds of rattles and other baby toys.

4. Let your dog sniff your baby's binky. Before bringing your baby home from the hospital, send home a blanket or gown that the baby has been wrapped in. This will get your dog used to the baby's scent.

5. Welcome home mom! Let dad carry the baby inside at your homecoming, so your hands are free to happily greet your overexcited dog. To avoid a jealous pup make sure you give your dog some attention upon arrival.

8. PRAISE, PRAISE, PRAISE! It important that your dog associates positive praise & encouragement with being around the baby. Your dog will be on his or her best behavior when he realizes that praises & treats comes with being around baby.

9. Cry Baby! Train your dog not to bark every time the baby cries. Reassure your dog that crying is a normal part of being a baby. Use positive reinforcement in the form of encouraging words, treats, or hug as a reward for good behavior.

10. Make time for bonding. Although life may get busy & overwhelming with a new baby in the home it is still important to spend time with Fido. A quick game of fetch or cuddle time with your dog while the baby is napping will help to keep the peace in the home & keep a jealous pup at bay. You can also take your dog for a daily walk with baby in sling or stroller.



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