The West Highland White Terrier Change of Fate, from Below to the Top

By Jack Richardson

Full of spunk and dauntlessly courageous; these and more are what makes the West Highland White Terrier an absolute charmer and enthusiastic little gamer. This dog is widely recognized for having a short, brilliant white hair, compact little body and fearless spirit. Tagged as well as "Westie", this little diminutive charmer has a wide base of admirers and the number continue to rise by the day.

It's a out of the question how Westies are being hailed as one of the top favorite breeds today but looking back almost hundreds of years ago, they were surprisingly not so pampered and not so favored like today. In Scotland before, the place of origin of the Westie, believe it or not they were treated as despicable and meaningless pets of the peasants and of the poor. In the hands of sadistic humans, they were abandoned, left to fend for themselves, and even killed.

With the good spirits of the Malcolm family, however, the pet was saved, flourished, and in time gained recognition for its unique and favorable usefulness as vermin catcher. The Malcolms are an influential family and through this rank they managed to catch the interest of other people to look at Westies in a different and most loving way. Col. Edward Donald Malcolm, the main instigator of the change, formerly developed several colored terriers but it is the white colored one that made the most importance for it is utterly recognizable among other animals being hunted, the bushes, mountains, and rocks.

Having been breed from other Scottish terriers such as the Skye, Cairn, and Dandie Dinmont, the Westie of today is nothing but pure blooded terrier. In 1905, the first Highland terrier club was formed in the overseeing of Col. Malcolm. A year later, The Kennel Club cited the club as an official member and gave it the name The West Highland White Terrier Club; in 1908, the American version of the club was included in the AKC.

The Westie indicates a typical terrier temperament as it is fearlessly game, hardy despite its size, trusting of new people and children, active, confident, and adores companionship. They also love playing and chasing around and has the tendency to run after cats and other smaller animals but this is just a form of entertainment for them. The Westie has no problem getting along with other dogs for it doesn't typically pick a fight, isn't pugnacious and is inherently self-assured.

In appearance, the West Highland White terrier looks adorably hairy in 2 inches long of thick, soft, and sparkling fur. The hair on top of its head is typically trimmed to show its well- rounded head; daily brushing and regular trimming are necessary to bring out its best feature. They typically stand robust in 10- 12 inches of height and have a fur that is soft and dense under and rough at the outer.

Adding to its already cute appearance, this dog is quite the showman, too, for it is tractable in training and obedience which makes him a winner at every dog show competition. In terms of health, this dog needs a dose of regular walks so as to avoid the development of negative behaviors. Aside from that, this dog also needs a regular chance at playing, running around, and frolicking in order to keep his physical and mental health in check.

The Westie has come very far from its underdog days and is actually enjoying quite a handful of recognitions and a steady flow of admiring owners today. West Highland White Terriers clubs exists in almost every country now and this furthermore proves the Westie's change of fate. Thanks to the effort and faith of some people for this breed, we experience the companionship or the very least, the sight of a sinewy, luminous, and lively West Highland White terrier today.

About the Author:

Jack Richardson has years of experience in West Highland White Terrier breeding, grooming, and training. Get more helpful tips and information from him by visiting his website about West Highland White Terriers.

The Dangers of Poor Parrot Diet

By Matt Carver

The main cause of any number of parrot problems stems from poor nutrition. A poor diet can drastically reduce a parrot's life span. Some of these birds can live to be over 60 years old. But a bad diet can force to live of pain and misery with health problems including liver disease, respiratory problems, feather and skin disorders and other issues.

Tap water is not all that great either. It can contain all kinds of harmful chemicals depending on where you live. It might not be all that good for you either. Use bottled or filtered water. Make sure your parrot's water dish is clean. Refresh the water at least twice a day - in the morning and afternoon are good times. Clean it any time you see it getting cloudy or otherwise dirty.

For food, remember that a diet exclusively made up of seed is not the best for your parrot. In the wild, parrots eat whatever is available during any given season. This results in them getting a natural variety of foods in their diet. Parrots need a mixture of fresh leafy greens and fruits as well as seed.

Neither seed nor widely available pellet food has enough vitamin A for your bird. As a result, vitamin A deficiency has become quite common. To combat this you need to feed them plenty of leafy greens, green vegetables and fruits.

Pellet food has become very popular over the years. Undoubtedly that's because of the claims made by the manufacturers about how easy it is to give your parrot a balanced diet. Just give them these nutritional pellets. Well, be a little skeptical. It just isn't that easy. In fact there is some evidence that suggests a long term diet of only pellet food can cause other problems.

The best way to go is a cooked food base diet that is supplemented with seed or pellet food. Most owners would agree this is more work but, the benefits in terms of your bird's health outweigh the extra effort required. This diet is comprised of cooked beans, brown or whole-grain rice, quinoa, amaranth, couscous and other grains. As always check with your veterinarian for the specific needs of your bird.

About the Author:

Matt Carver is an author and parrot enthusiast. Learn more about what makes up a good parrot diet and many other parrot care tips by downloading a copy of his latest book on Parrot Care.

Offer Your Dog An Active Lifestyle

By Daniel Waser

Of all the creatures which man can rely upon, dogs are the ones deemed as his best friend. Still, eating the remote controlling or chewing your sofa is one of those nasty things that they're just fond of doing. It is because they have that characteristic of being dynamic, but they are at home with a TV addicted couch potato. A dog is more likely to feel depressed if he is matched with an keeper who has a different lifestyle and this can sometimes create a tense in a human relationship.

If you bring a dog into your home, the activity level that the dog requires to remain physically and emotionally healthy should be one of your priorities. Getting the kind of exercise that they've always been avoiding to deal with is the mere thought that some lazy adults would think of if they tend to have a dog that needs a frequent walking twice a day.

Lazy individuals are not likely to change their habits enough to make a good fit between them and active dogs. Since lazy owners are more likely to slack off during walking sessions, the dog is not likely to get the essential benefits of having a frequent outdoor time thus the dog will be the one to suffer.

Giving your dog enough physical exercise is not equivalent to giving him the amount of daily activity that he needs. You should give your dog his required time to walk, run, jump and relax for each day. You might as well go to the park for a walk with your dog on a leash or even just around your block. You don't have to put your dog on a leash to let him enjoy the freedom of running and playing if you have a home with a fenced yard.

If you are one of those older adults who are concerned about having limited mobility, then you might as well go for a dog that won't demand you of too much activity everyday. Active dogs may find individuals who are fond of going outside to have fun or relax after a day's work to be ideal owners that are suitable for them. It is more likely that the end of each day's actions make both the keeper and the dog excited, since they will both relish the fun and freedom of running together or chasing each other around the park.

Bigger dogs tend to be more physically active. Those dogs with the heritage of being working or hunting dogs can be sited as examples of these dogs. They have an innate desire to be busy and work off energy. Dogs such as Irish Setter, Doberman, Beagle, German Shepherd and Greyhound are built for movement and agility, so they naturally want daily exercise.

Size can fool you as the exceedingly large dogs like the St. Bernard and Bull Mastiff, who can easily outweigh their keepers, are low physical activity dogs. Rescuing a missing skier or other things related to that might have been the main activity that a St. Bernard does according to the movies, what you don't know is that to sleep in front of the fireplace is the physical activity that ordinarily takes up most of the dog's time.

Small dogs like Poodles, Pekinese and Chihuahuas can live in small places and forgo the daily long walk in the park, however, getting active around your house is not something that you can avoid from these dogs since they have those nervous temperaments. It is already taken that some of their natural actions may appear to be pointless such as running to and fro around your house, meddling with your guests or bouncing either at them or at you, but as soon as the energy burst is all used up, they just tend to calm down. When those little dogs go find their way to your lap or on their sumptuous pillow, that's the time for them to recharge by getting that hard-earned nap.

There are a lot of things that you need to think about just before you decide on buying a dog. By taking time to make a profile of the dog that best fits your living space, character, and individual physical activity level, you'll have a better match for a lasting relationship.

About the Author:

If you'd like to discover more about dog training and how to train your dog to be well behaved, play safe and respect your every command, then get our site about the best dog training book today and see how anybody, including you and your dog, can learn to live in perfect harmony. And don't forget to get our free dog training tips.

Ailments that Are Common in Dogs

By Lin Arunee

As a pet, dogs are very important. To some people their dog is part of the family and dogs are generally considered to be our best friend. When it comes to ourselves and family members, our health is vital to us and so we visit the doctor regularly.Your family pet is no different and should be treated as such. If he is to avoid the ailments that are common in dogs then regular trips to the vet is necessary. If it comes down to emergency visits to the vet, that will end up costing quite a lot more than regular checkups.

Dogs require regular shots in order to remain in good health. These shots prevent diseases and also lengthen the life span of your pet. If a dog is not vaccinated for the many canine ailments out there, they are at a high risk to contract them.

Dogs are always prone to picking up certain infestations. One such is ear mites. They can be annoying and unpleasant for the dog. The treatment is easy to administer and if you go to the vets he can prescribe the medication necessary and within a few days the problem will be dealt with.

Fleas and Ticks are also very common. They should be treated right away and again, your vet will be able to tell you how bad the situation is and then provide the necessary treatment.

One illness that is common to dogs is worms. By themselves they are not really an illness, but if left untreated your dog can become very ill and possibly even die from certain types of worm. Regular treatment is a must for this. Your vet can advise on the best medication.

The dental health of your pet is also very important. Vets will often clean your dogs teeth for you and show you how to do it properly. Have your vet check your dogs teeth regularly to avoid bacteria from spreading.

As we said at the beginning because there are numerous ailments common to dogs, you must take the responsibility and take care of him. He cannot do this without you. Try to prevent a problem before it occurs. Look after your pet and give him the regular medical check ups that he needs. He can then look forward to a happy and healthy life.

Illnesses that are common in dogs may seem only minor, but sometimes they can lead to more serious things if they are not treated in time. Vets are the exact same as doctors, their job is to try and diagnose these problems before they can become serious.

About the Author:

Lin Arunee has been an avid dog owner and dog admirer for numerous years. For some excellent information read her article on best dog food for dogs. There are some interesting revelations. Before you shop for pet items checkout her online store for some great bargains.

The Smartest Dog in the World, Border Collie

By James Howard

Your question as to which breed is the smartest of all, ends with the existence of the Border Collie. This dog may not be famous for being diminutively adorable and lusciously furred but it still manages to be one of the most favored pets of many homes and farms around the world. Additionally, it doesn't only bests the intellect section but the herding ability section as well for this dog is being considered as the best sheep herding dog in the world.

This breed originated in the borders of Scotland-England and Wales-England from the dog herding breeds. It is said that the first Border Collie or Collie first appeared during the late 1900's and that the modern Collies today root back to a dog named Old Hemp. Old Hemp was born in September 1893 and possesses an extraordinary strength and ability in working and it is where the present day Collies got their working ethics.

The coat of this breed appears as either solid or single-colored and a combination of different kinds of colors. The most common combination is black and white but there are also the: black tricolor which are a combination of black, tan, white or sable white; red tricolor- a combination of red, tan and white; and red/chocolate and white. There are Collies who appear to be mottled, patterned or simply single- colored with blue, lilac, red merle, blue merle, brindle or "Australian red"/gold.

This breed is recognized as the best sheep herder for the fact that it works in farms excellently and intelligently. It has a natural ability to guide, stir and control over sheep or other livestock herds. When it works, the Collie is dedicated, intent and works closely with its owner.

Although known for being the best sheep dog in the world for centuries, the Border Collie today is being popularly adopted as a family pet. This household companion is protective of its master and his family and tends to be affectionate towards people they are familiar with. This creature strives best and does great with a family that are active and who has lots of time to share with this him; without proper attention and enough activities, this dog tends to acquire a negative behavior.

The energy, agility and endurance of the Collie is obviously endless and so it needs exercises comprised of running, chasing or frolicking. At times they can be well-behaved but sometimes they are overly hyper but this is their normal state. Because a Collie is a natural herder, it needs to expel the same amount of energy in order for it to be happy and not fidgety or moody.

Because it is naturally hyper, it is right only to have them placed in a family who are active as well. In an inactive environment, the Collie tends to develop a negative and disturbing behavior that affects him mentally and physically. Without proper exercise, this dog will dig and chew obsessively, become agitated, and even slam itself against the wall.

If a Collie starts to act like this, it is obvious that they are not as safe to children anymore. They also tend to be overly sensitive to motion and will likely desire to control it; people walking, other animals and cars passing by are likely to be obsessed at. Border Collies are superb pets but only those who understand intimately the needs and characteristics of this breed will see and enjoy the benefits of the world's most intelligent dog.

About the Author:

Border Collies are without a doubt the most intelligent breed in the world. Know the right way to train, groom, and breed a Border Collie from expert breeder and author James Howard. Go to his website today and get the best Border Collie information.

Review: Dove Cresswell's Online Dog Training

By Craig Clemins

Dove Cresswell is a highly experienced dog trainer who has trained dogs for roles in numerous big budget movies. She knows exactly how to get fast results and shows you how to as well in her self titled "Dove Cresswell's Online Dog Training" program. One of the things that sets Dove Cresswell's guide apart from the rest is that you can watch the training procedures, straight from your PC screen.

Online Dog Training is delivered in high quality audio and video meaning that you get to see and hear exactly how Dove trains dogs. Subjects such as house training, crate training, obedience training, dog tricks, walking with a leash and much more are all covered in this course. Information is specifically designed for both small dogs and large dogs.

This course doesn't take you through ridiculous amount of useless technical information; it gets straight to the point and lets you know what needs to be done to make your dog's training go smoothly. The thing about having these lessons in the video and audio formats is that you can visually and audibly learn how to use commands and see how the interaction between you and your dog should be. This gives you a big advantage over simply using books to train your dog.

Dove Cresswell's Online Dog Training also comes with additional information to help you with your dog. With these bonuses you will learn how to teach the dog to fetch, play soccer, and play hide and seek. You will also get information about dog toys, treats, food and playing dog sports. All of this additional information will teach you how to not only train your dog for behavioral reasons but will help you give your dog advanced skills.

This course is interesting and informative as well as being effective for the training of your dog. You will be able to go through the courses at your own pace. The Online Dog Training course gives you everything you need to housetrain your pet, and shows you step by step how it should be done.

For those who are too busy to read books, this online video course will give you great information quickly. If you just want to try out the course before you buy it, you will find that the Dove Cresswell course offers one free sample course you can try before actually buying the program.

About the Author:

To find out more about Dove Cresswell, read this more in depth, more comprehensive Online Dog Training review today.

The African Grey Parrot: An Introduction

By Dee LeClerc

The African grey parrot offers intelligence and bonding habits that many other parrot species don't. The African grey will form a bond with you, talk to you, be playful with you, get angry with you, and love you to pieces! What else could you want from a family pet?

This bird is known by scientists as the Psittacus erithacus--genus and species. It has that one species only; but there are two subspecies. The first of these is named after the species, so it's known as Psittacus erithacus erithacus, more commonly called the Congo African grey. The second is the Psittacus erithacus timneh, or the Timneh African grey. The Congo greys come from the central and western sections of Africa, and they are the larger of the two going at from 14 to 21 ounces. The Timneh grays are indigenous to Sierra Leone and the Ivory Coast area, and they weigh a few ounces less. Avian experts are debating whether the greys found on Principe Island constitute a third subspecies, tentatively called P.e. Princeps, but many believe the Princeps is a variation of the Congo greys.

The greys all have in common a white or gray patch of skin around their eyes and black feet. They all have the wonderfully smooth and soft-looking grey plumage. The Congos are a lighter shade, their beaks are solid black, and their tail feathers are dark red at maturity. The Timnehs have a two-toned beak, and their darker grey feathers contain hints of taupe and maroon.

In their natural habitat, the rainforest areas, these birds live in flocks, and they usually bond in a monogamous fashion with their mate until death or separation ends their relationship. They mostly eat fruit and nuts, which they find at the tops of trees. They are very watchful in their native setting--to avoid being some predator's lunch!--and they are successful at keeping themselves pretty safe because they are among the most intelligent of all birds.

So what can be expected when you decide to make one of these marvelous birds a part of your family? You can expect the African grey to be just like a child. As a rule they will act like a two year old child, but will have the intelligence of a child who is five. It is a native instinct for the parent to bond with a mate, and so, they will become particularly attached to their human owner as a result.

It will be your job to introduce your bird into your family and prove to him that he can trust you. Your strong bonding relationship with him will determine how he interacts with everyone else in the family. You will discover that your African grey is very sensitive to your feelings, probably because of the observation skills necessary to these birds in their native habitat. Your feathered friend will even be able to discern when you are feeling down and blue and will want to communicate with you.

If there is a lot of anger and unhappiness in your home, or if there is a lot of shouting and noise, your African grey will not respond to you. He will not like having his beak tapped on. Greys like to live in flocks; therefore, they are accustomed to being treated as equals. Nonetheless, your bird may truly enjoy being in the spotlight!

Bringing one of these birds into your family is akin to bringing home a child to raise. Actually, African greys remain as youngsters for about five years, and they take another five years after that to reach full maturity, so you really are bringing home a child! The life span of a grey is about 40-50 years.

Knowing the proper technique to use on how to get your bird to play with you is important. Convincing the parrot to rock or bob along with you is one way to interact with him in a playful way. Remember to initially move slowly around him because he must build up his trust in you. Some people report that when they purchase a new toy for their bird, they play with it for awhile initially, showing lots of enthusiasm so that the bird will want to play with it as well. Many experts recommend that you keep them close to you throughout the time you spend at home. If you are in the family room, kitchen, or even the bathroom, move his cage or perch close to you so that he can watch what you're doing. He will get enjoyment watching what you are doing, and he enjoys it if you praise him.

Perhaps the most enjoyable activity is teaching them to speak or imitate other sounds. These feathered creatures are famous for imitating everything they hear. They can mimic the human voice, and enjoy imitating other animals, as well as sound effects in its surroundings.

The African grey parrot makes a wonderful addition to any family. You are going to love having this bird!

About the Author:

Author Dee LeClerc makes her home with a lovable African Grey parrot named Perky and Smeagol the Quaker Parrot. Head over to http://www.anafricangrey.ca to learn more.

Choosing The Right Type Of Dog Cage

By Donald Mihajlov

Many dog owners choose to let their animals romp freely through the house while others choose to place their pets in a cage during certain times. This is done as a training or control measurement instead of tying or putting the dog outside for hours, leaving them to bark uncontrollably and annoying everyone. There are many different types of dog cages, in a wide array materials, colors and prices.

Dog cages come in a wide array of colors, shapes, sizes and budgets to suit almost anyone's needs. For the larger dogs, a steel cage is recommended due to its strength and long life. There are many places where you can get a dog cage at great savings. Check the largest retail pet store outlet in your area as you will find many great bargains.

Training schools for dogs can be quite costly and if you choose to enroll your pet in one, perhaps do so only for a short time. Cages are an excellent way to place rules and restrictions on your pet. If your pet becomes unruly and disobedient, simply place it in the cage for a time out.

Transporting a pet becomes a much easier task when placed in a cage, especially if you are going to a place where there will be lots of animals. If your pet is a little leery of new surroundings or does not like to go to the vet and shows signs of anguish then placing it inside a cage will help it to feel more secure and unobtainable from other animals.

Depending on what type of cage you choose, make sure to toss in some toys, blankets, and bones as a way to make the animal relax and feel comfort within the cage. Dog cages can also be purchased online through various sites, so do a Google search for them and check for one that suits you both in taste and budget.

About the Author:

Donald C. Mihajlov is the author of 'How to Train Your Dog Or Puppy' and Owner of Dog Cages Usa. For other free resources training your dog, go to Dog Training Resources.

Keeping Your Beloved Dog Healthy

By Brett Graham

Learning how to take care of a new pet can often seem overwhelming. As a new dog owner, you're suddenly responsible for ensuring that your pet stays healthy. Here are a some important dog care tips to help you take care of your pet.

" The Veterinarian Is Your Friend

Part of your responsibility as a pet owner is to understand when you should call the vet. When your dog's health is at stake, don't take a "wait and see" approach. This can sometimes work out fine, but chances are you'll require professional help if your dog is seriously ill. Depending on your dog's ailment, there are a variety of ways that a vet can help.

There are a number of situations when you must call your vet:

a) Make sure to call the vet if your dog has been in an accident. Get him to the closet emergency animal hospital if you can't reach your vet.

b) Call your vet right away if you think your dog might have ingested something poisonous or inedible.

c) If your pet appears to be in distress, call your vet right away.

d) Take your dog to the vet if you notice sudden weight loss or gain.

e) Coughing, seizures, and vomiting are signs that you need to call the vet immediately.

" Learn to Prevent Health Problems

Taking your dog to the vet should be your last resort. Instead, prevent major illnesses and injuries through good pet care.

Keep in mind that healthy food and physical activity are the key to your pet's long life. Make sure your dog eats a healthy diet, receives dog vitamins and gets plenty of exercise to stay strong and healthy. Keep an eye on what your dog eats, and clean the crate or dog house frequently to reduce the risk of bacterial illness. Make sure your dog has a constant supply of clean water.

Make sure to keep your dog on a leash or tether (or in a fenced yard). Playing in traffic is most certainly harmful to his health. He'll be exposed to the risk of accidents and injuries if he is left to wander loose.

Wash your dog often. Fleas and ticks can make your dog very uncomfortable, and they often harbor disease.

Keeping your dog healthy involves more than the few tips provided here. While this is an excellent start, it's always a good idea to ask your vet for specific tips and pointers for your dog. As your pet grows, you'll learn the best strategies for keeping your pooch safe and healthy. Above all, remember that it's always better to be safe than sorry.

About the Author:

An excellent source in the field of dog vitamins and health, DogVitaminFacts.com provides free information to help dog owners keep their dog healthy and happy. Visit the site, at DogVitaminFacts.com, to learn more about enhancing your dogs health.

Dog Training School: Ideas for Selecting Effective Pet Training in Your Community

By Ed Perry

Virtually every dog owner wants a pet that obediently follows all your commands and instructions. Finding a successful dog training school where he can be trained to be obedient by a professional trainer is one of the best ways of reaching that terribly evasive goal.

Although with some coaching and patience you might train your dog yourself, for many dog owners, just sending your dog to a dog training school can be the best option.

By sending your pet to a professional, you can be free from the time and effort of learning ways to train and then spending the hours, days and months required to see great results.

Pet training exists to help dog owners with problem pets who may assume they run the household rather than you. Though this training can be pricey sometimes, having a well-behaved pet is all a frustrated owner wishes to hear to gladly open up their wallet.

One of the great ways to pick a good training school is to ask for recommendations from others who have used various schools|a training school|training facility with successful results.

By finding a co-worker at work, a neighbor or a friend who's had a good experience will undoubtedly make your decision a lot easier to make.

It would be a brilliant idea to take a look at the facilities and talk to the trainer to better grasp their training philosophy. You should usually ask the trainer about their experience and how long they have been successful at training dogs.

If you're going to pay good money for getting your pet trained, you must confirm your cash is going to the most experienced and successful trainer possible. Look to see that the trainer uses a training style and philosophy that coincides with your own ideology and expectancies. Be clear as to precisely what training you would like your dog to learn.

Don't forget that younger dogs sometimes are easier to train, so the younger you get them trained the better. You should take your time to get a dog training school. Find a place where your pet will be handled with care and gentleness and where behavior correction is done reasonably with lots of patience. By finding the best trainer, you will ensure that your pet will come back from training well-behaved and responsive to your instructions.

About the Author:

For online instruction on topics like canine leash training or dog digging tips, go to DiscountDogTrainingCollars.com

Little Known Secrets to Crate Training Dogs

By Craig Clemins

Behavior problems can sometimes cause dog owners to mistreat their dogs, and even abandon them altogether. Crate training has helped change this. Crate training now lets you train your dog in a safe and secure place and has proven to be a very successful way to house train dogs.

Crates can be of great use when you are traveling and also for when you are house training your dog. They have many benefits, some of which I will outline below.

Debate over whether crates should be used for cog training is evident, most commonly between veterinarians and dog trainers. Many vets disapprove of crate training dogs while many professional dog trainers swear by it.

Veterinarians question whether or not a dog is being inhumanely treated when it is enclosed in a crate. The fact is that crates have numerous benefits that lead to you having a better bond with your dog. Furthermore, when dogs are trained properly they have a sense of safety and security when they are inside their crates.

Some more advantages to using crates include being able to relax when you're not at home knowing that your furniture and household items are safe from destruction, knowing you won't return home to a new accident on the carpet, and knowing that you dog feels safe when you are not there. Additionally, crates are very practical for trips in the car with family.

One thing worth mentioning about crates is that they are not designed to keep your dogs in all day. In cases where this is unavoidable, such as during long travel trips, it's a good idea to exercise your dog every few hours. You should also give them a chance to go to the toilet every few hours.

Crate training works fantastically for some dogs, but it's not right for others. No two dogs are the same and as such you should see what works best for your dog.

The best time for a dog to actually be trained to the crate would be as puppies. And if it seems that no amount of firmness or conditioning will help you to train your dog, then it is better to discontinue the use of this product as continuing in this manner will be worse for your dog.

About the Author:

Craig Clemins is an expert dog trainer who has owned dogs over 20 years. Learn more about How to House Train a Dog today by visiting http://www.dog-solutions.com.

Finding Other Dog Lovers is Just a Twitter Away

By Anya Dee

The best thing about Twitter is you can find people with similar interests. Life coaches, photographers, artists and media wizards are all on Twitter and searching for connections. On Twitter you "follow" and can be "followed", sharing updates. It's fun to see what everyone else is up to in 140-characters or less.

I did a search for dog-lovers and found a long list of people who care about all things dog. Twitter is a great networking tool to find free advice on breeding, caring for, and training your dog. Here are some of the most helpful Twitterers:

@ EcoPup: Boasts Eco-friendly clothing and accessories for your pawsitively posh pets!

@ Dogfessions: Its Nikki Moustaki, author, TV/Radio personality, dog trainer, pet industry expert. She also runs www.dogfessions.com and www.dogvice.com.

@Petigreeworld: On Twitter to educate, inspire and create a world of entertainment for you, your lifestyle and your trusted pet. Can be found at www.petigreeworld.com

@Bluebeagle2: Just a cute beagle who checks in.

@TheHusky: The life and times of Misty The Siberian Husky.

@TheDogExpert: Sheryl Matthys, The Dog Expert, Dog Trainer, CEO of www.leashesandlovers.com. Lots of fun tips on behavior.

@dogdiaries: Its a social community for dog lovers. Check them out at www.dogdiaries.com/au.

@sylviedog: Chicagoan Sylvie whose hobbies include sleeping, eating cookies and yelling at Mugsy. www.sylviedog.blogspot.com.

@iPuppyCam: all about puppies!! Gotta love it! www.ipuppycam.com.

@Woofcp. Pet gifts. www.bigpawdesigns.com.

This list are some of my favorites, but there are many more who contribute great information. If you get a chance, do your own search and find out what's going on in the world of dogs on Twitter.

About the Author:

For some of the best dog enthusiasts on Twitter, check out this list.

Separation Anxiety in Dogs - How to Deal With It

By Craig Clemins

Separation Anxiety is a problem many dogs suffer from. Separation Anxiety is when a dog's owner leaves home, perhaps to go to work or some other appointment, and the dogs thinks that their owner will not return.

In nature, dogs live in packs. When dogs live with humans, they see their family as their pack. This can at times be a positive thing (when the dog see you as the master), or a negative thing when your dog believe he is the chief.

Dogs are very affectionate animals and in many cases they tend to worry when you are not around. They very commonly question if you will return at all when you leave - when they start to think in this way they get frantic, they might get angry and sometimes start getting destructive.

Separation anxiety can come about for a number of different reasons. Perhaps you have recently changed your schedule, or a family member has passed away. It can also happen when you shift houses. Dogs that have at some stage lived in shelters or on the streets are most likely to suffer from separation anxiety. These types of dogs have lived tough which has made them quite highly strung, and at times this can make them unpredictable and even dangerous.

A dog that suffers from separation anxiety may at times become very destructive, angry and even aggressive. Dog owners can sometimes return home to find here furniture and possession have been ripped to shreds. It's also very common for dogs to use the entire house as a bathroom. These behaviors usually only get worse if nothing is done to fix the problem.

One of the most important things you can do for you dog when it is suffering from separation anxiety is to be patient and understanding of the condition. Never punish a dog if it has destroyed your belongings as this will only make the situation worse. Your dog will start to believe even more deeply that you don't love him and that next time you leave you'll be gone for good.

Patience is very important to the training of your dog when he is experiencing separation anxiety, you must learn commands that you can use to calm him, you must also change your routine so that he learns that the activities you normally do does not mean you are actually leaving for good. Such as when you jingle your keys, go out the door and then five minutes later come back.

Through practicing the techniques mentioned above, you will slowly be able to teach your dog that when you leave, it doesn't mean that you're leaving for good. Using a crate as a place of comfort and protection may also help your dog to feel safe. Lastly, its always a good idea to praise your dog and reward it for good behavior.

About the Author:

Craig Clemins is a dog enthusiast and experienced dog trainer. Craig rates Secrets to Dog Training as the number one guide to overcoming separation anxiety. To find out more about Secrets to Dog Training and to get more information on a whole range of dog related issues, visit http://www.dog-solutions.com.

Book Review: Daniel Steven's - Secrets to Dog Training

By Craig Clemins

If you're looking for a thorough and detailed dog training guide that actually gets good results, look no further than Secrets to Dog Training by Daniel Stevens. This guide (previously known as "Sit, Stay, Fetch") is a top selling dog training guide that provides comprehensive explanation of how to train and care for your dog. Secrets to Dog Training also goes into great detail explaining what you can do to combat the most common dog behavior problems such as digging, barking, biting, jumping up and many more.

"Secrets to Dog Training" is equally effective for both puppies and older dogs - it has specifically designed sections for both. In addition to setting right a raft of behavior problems, you will also build a stronger understanding of your dog which will allow you to have a much more satisfying relationship with your dog.

This guide covers such a broad spectrum of topics that you have a solution for every imaginable situation. Basic dog training is covered, as is dog whispering - and advanced form of dog training. Because this guide is laid out in such a step by step way, you can effectively train your dog in the exact same way a professional trainer would (this usually costs around $4000 or more) for a fraction of the price (this guide sells for $37.00)

In addition to getting a top quality dog training guide, by purchasing Secrets to Dog Training you also receive a number of high quality bonuses. Some of those include: A dog foods recipe book (with over 180 recipes), a report answers the top 20 consultations, a book titled Secrets to becoming the Alpha Dog, a dog grooming guide, a tricks guide and much more.

In addition to mountains of outstanding training techniques, you will also have unlimited information and support provided to you by Daniel Stevens support team. They can help you to develop plans, and strategies to ensure that your dog not only receives the best training money can buy, but also that they provide human resources that can help you with immediate answers to questions about your dog and this program.

If you are trying to train your dog, and you actually want to go it on your own, then the best thing you can do is get a copy of the Daniel Stevens book.

About the Author:

To find our more about Secrets to Dog Training or to get more suggestions around how to effectively train your dog, visit http://www.dog-solutions.com today.

5 Things to Avoid During Dog Training

By Craig Clemins

You may encounter a number of major challenges during dog training. Knowing what they are allows you to avoid them and make better progress. The number one danger new dog trainers face, is expecting too much from their dogs too soon.

Dogs are intelligent animals and it's easy to expect too much of them from day one. Don't expect your dog to behave as well as the others in the park if you haven't taken the time it takes to train it properly. Results like this just won't happen. This expectation sets you and your dog up for failure.

The second mistake that is very common amongst dog owners is to lose control and yell or even hit the dog. Physical abuse of dogs is extremely detrimental (not to mention illegal) and hampers training big time. Yelling is also counter productive to getting good results. Make a mental note never to yell or abuse your dog and you will get good training results much more quickly.

Mistake number 3 is that many dog owners allow their dogs (knowingly or unknowingly) to become the leader of the house. This is not only a danger to others but also to themselves. Assert yourself as the clear leader from day 1.

The fourth big mistake dog owners make is giving up. Dogs are intelligent animals and are capable of learning so much. Dogs love being challenged and love to learn. Furthermore, challenging dogs mentally is actually very healthy for them. Don't give up on your dog just because it can't perform your command to perfection after a couple of days.

The 5th and final common mistake that many dog owners tend to make is to become too inconsistent. Consistency in training is very important so make sure you always use the same commands and are as repetitive as possible.

Hopefully now that you know the top 5 dog training mistakes, you will be able to avoid them.

About the Author:

Get more Dog Training Advice today, and read an eye opening review to discover why "Secrets to Dog Training" is the top rated dog training guide.

3 Dog Training Myths That You Must Know.

By Rachel Kears

Number 1 - When a dog chews somethings it is because he is really bored or just trying to be spiteful.

Not true. Although it's not straightforward. Chewing is definitely one of the most common undesirable behaviors. However, dogs chew is part of their nature but they also need to chew on things to maintain healthy teeth and gums and good jaw strength.

This is especially important when puppies are teething. What you need to do is redirect any chewing away from things you dont want your dog to chew, to things that are safe for him to chew.

Myth 2. Your Dog will only understand you if you talk to and communicate with him in 'doggy' language.

Not True again, it's a funny one for me to understand, but it does seem a lot of people believe in it. Dogs are not stupid, they realize you are not a dog and there is no reason to try and make them believe that you are. You do however, need to understand and be able to read their body language, so you know if a yelp is because of pain or whether they are acting up.

Although you do need to be 'alpha' over your dog. In the wild dogs went around in packs with a clear leader who kept everyone else in line. You have to be that dog or otherwise your dog will keep playing up.

Number 3 - Dog Training only happens when you are actually training your dog.

Not true. Your dogs life is a training ground and he is picking up cues all of the time whether they be verbal or non verbal.

When your phone rings and you rush up to answer it, your dog will feel that and subsequently understand that it's OK to do the same.

If you feel nervous when somebody passes you on the street walking a big dog you are training your dog to be nervous when big dogs around. Be sure to spend good quality time with your dog and be consistent in your behavior.

About the Author:

Want To Know More Vital Tips On How To Train A Dog Or Training Puppies? Whether your most urgent training need is crate training puppies or something else, read the reviews of the best dog training systems at dogtrainingrevolution.com. You owe it to yourself and your dog. Visit www.dogtrainingrevolution now.

The Celebrity of the Dog World, Chihuahua

By Eve Howard

From the pages of glossy magazines to the arms of true-blooded fashionistas, from lucrative advertisements to million dollar films; these and more are the spectacular little spots for the trendy and socialite of a dog, Chihuahua. Whether in Hollywood, mansions, or trendy little apartments, this dog has dominated the social scene. If you have this breed then you're in!

Needless it may be to introduce a Chihuahua but this dog is an ever present tiny creature that possesses among its many titles the term "purse dog"; clearly, this term must be directed toward its portable size and fashion symbolism. A Chihuahua, innately, has a big, round, and sparkly eyes, a small fragile body, and two classifications of coats, the long coat and the smooth coat. Outwardly, this dog is never without an expensive or designer's bling bling and clothing; and these favors are just additional evidence to the pampering and wealth that this breed enjoys.

The long coated Chihuahua is the one which possesses a longer, curly or flat, and soft hair while the smooth coated Chihuahua falls on the side of smooth, shiny, soft, and snuggly fitting pelt. These coats come in varying colors like black and brown and the style and distribution of these colors come as solid, marked, and splashed. Grooming a Chihuahua is heavenly as well for, with its small body and limited fur, it only requires minimal cleaning, occasional maintenance, and for the long coated Chihuahua, once in a while coat brushing.

The name Chihuahua came from Chihuahua, Mexico- a region of Mexico where this breed was said to have been first sighted. Tracing back its origin, it is unclear really but conclusions have it as, the breed coming from the Fennec Fox, a small dog that has big eyes and big ears as well, just like the present day Chihuahuas, only bigger in body size. However, what's clear is the fact that even during the reign of the Aztecs, the Chihuahuas have been the favored pets of the royalties and of the upper class people of this kingdom and had been used in religious rituals.

There are many diminutive breeds in the world as we know of today but the Chihuahua owns the recognition as the smallest breed there is. In the US, it is cited as the oldest breed in the country. More over, this breed does not only own the oldest and smallest titles, it is also endowed to have the longest life span for all sizes of dogs; the Chihuahua, we can therefore say, definitely lives up to the saying "small but terrible".

Each Chihuahua is different from each other and truth is, each one has a unique personality and this disables generalization for the breed. Although small in size, this dog is deeply and devotedly protective and loyal to its master. It can be a great watch dog for it is fearless in suspecting and warding off possible intruders.

The smallest breed, which stands 6 to 9 inches in height, is also very capable of possessing a hyper energy, prim manners, a fearless disposition, and human-like expressions. They might not be the brightest of all the dog breeds, too, but they are in their own way intelligent and devoted. Training them requires patience, unconditional love, firmness, and positive encouragements so they can learn and be trained properly.

A Chihuahua is also conducive for city dwelling for it strives in small spaces; it performs indoor activities such as playing with toys and gentle frolics with the master. If your neighborhood has a limited space for daily walks, this dog will survive just fine; however, for every breed of dog, it is always best if they can get a dose of strolls once in a while. The Chihuahua is clearly suited for a classy and fabulous living and with its handy size and homebody demeanor; you can unarguably bring them in an urban type of lifestyle.

About the Author:

Be an awesome Chihuahua breeder like Eve Howard. Learn how to take care, train, breed, and groom your incredible Chihuahua. Just go to her website and get countless of Chihuahua information.

3 Secrets to Dog Training

By Craig Clemins

It seems that every week there's a new and amazing dog training method being taught. It's sometimes mind boggling to know where to begin. Over the years I have discovered what I believe are the Secrets to Dog Training, find out more about these in this brief article.

You might be surprised to learn that the underlying features of almost all dog training methods are the same. One thing that they all have in common is the effective use of positive reinforcement.

Secret number 1:

Dogs are at the peak of their learning potential when they are young, so train them as much as possible while they are still puppies! It's the easiest way to get quick results. Older dogs can learn new tricks but it will just take a little bit more time and practice.

Secret Number 2:

The best way to train your dog is to be firm but fair. Get to know your dog and build up a bonding relationship with him. Treat your dog with love and affection and your results will most likely be more effective than ever.

Secret Number 3:

Don't wait for a problem to arise. Teach your dog from a young age what is good behaviour so that you never need to correct bad behaviour! This is a great way to avoid unneeded behaviour problems.

If you want to get best results when training your dog, stick to the basics. Follow these three rules and be persistent, consistent and understanding. No dog can learn something perfectly the first time, in most cases, after a little persistence, dogs can learn a wide array of tricks and general obedience lessons.

About the Author:

Get more Dog Training Advice and read a tell all review of the number one dog training guide, Secrets to Dog Training.

Choosing The Perfect Dog Food Bowl And Water Dish

By Leo Stanley

Believe it or not, the dog bowls and dishes you consider for your dog are highly important. There are enormous differences between, say, ceramic dog bowls and stainless steel dog bowls. Depending on your pup's individual personality, he may respond differently to different styles of bowls. You always need to consider your dog's personality as well as its breed and preferences when thinking about just what kind of food and water bowls to buy it.

Of course, the preferences of the owner factor in as well, for safety reasons. For example, ceramic dog food bowls are easier to chip. Those chips can attract and hold germs. That can be bad for your dog. It could lead to any number of infections, and you definitely do not want that to happen. As such, quite a few owners prefer a stainless steel dog water dish and food bowl. These bowls are easier to clean. They are resistant to scratches and chips as well.

Naturally, the size and breed of your dog will factor into your decision as well. Obviously, a little dog will do better will a small dog dish. Large dog bowls are better for bigger breeds, like labs, St. Barnard's, Great Danes, mastiffs, and other dogs like that. They are also good if you have two or more dogs.

If, for instance, you want to make things more comfortable for a big dog, you might consider a dog bowl stand, so that the dishes are elevated. This keeps the dog from having to bend his neck quite so much.

Also, using an elevated dog bowl is a great way to ensure that there will be no fighting between two dogs. If you have a small dog and a large dog, you may want to get an elevated dog dish so the little dog will not eat all of the food and the large dog can get some! Also, if you have cats, using these types of dog bowls is a great way to ensure that the cats will not be able to steal any bites of the dogs food!

Of course, you might have to try out a couple of bowls made from different materials. You will want to see what your dog likes best as well. Even a big dog might prefer a small bowl, for instance. Likewise, a small dog might like a larger one.

It is not uncommon for dogs who get along to be wary of sharing their food bowls. This is another instance where a dog food stand can be extremely beneficial. If you are averse to that, just make sure you have a set of bowls for each dog. Still, though, having the bowls on a stand can also prevent any kitty cats from getting into the puppy chow.

You can now see why it is so important to consider so many different things when you are picking out dog dishes for your beloved family member. You want him or her to be happy, after all. Your dog needs to be happy with the size, shape, and make of his or her dishes. That way, eating and drinking will be pleasurable experiences.

About the Author:

Author Leo Stanley writes for Remmeer.com, an online retailer offering a wide variety of dog dishes, as well as other unique dog gifts.

Secrets to Stop a Dog Whining

By Craig Clemins

Lots of dogs whine for lots of different reasons. The first thing you need to do before being able to solve the problem is to understand the cause of the whining.

A couple of reasons dogs whine are that they are not feeling well, or that they are lacking attention. The whining is simply a form of telling you that's something's not right. Whining due to feeling lonely or in need of attention can be simply cured by spending some time playing with your dog. Dogs that aren't feeling well for other reasons should be taken to a vet promptly.

Dogs also whine at times when they are left at home alone. If your dog is whining when you're not there, it is probably due to separation anxiety. Separation anxiety is something that can be fixed relatively easily. All you need to do is to teach your dog that when you leave the house, you will always return. Start by leaving the house for one or two minutes at a time, slowly work this up to 10 minutes and then half an hour once your dog gets accustomed.

When using this method to teach your dog that you will always return, ensure you make no big deal about leaving or returning. Don't get too excited when you return, only start giving your dog attention after you've been home for ten minutes or so. This way your dog learns that leaving is no big deal, and in fact, it's a normal occurrence.

If you are trying the 5 or 10 minute training, where you leave a return after being gone this short period, you may add more time to this absence, increasing the time to 15 to 20 minutes, then 30 to 40 minutes then finally a few hours. Eventually your dog will not really pay attention to the fact that you have returned home and it won't be such a big deal for her.

Another approach to stop your dog whining is to using negative reinforcement. This method is rather controversial however as it involves ignoring your dog which can be dangerous if he has a real problem. Firstly, tell your dog in a firm way to stop whining. If your dog doesn't stop, start making some loud unpleasant noise that your dog will associate with the whining. In time your dog will learn that whining is unpleasant and will stop.

Even if your dog's whining is driving you crazy, never resort to physical punishment. Abuse is not an effective form of training and it's also against the law. It can have many harmful effects on your dog, more than just the pain of the abuse. The best way to get lasting results when training your dog is to treat it with love and firm but fair respect.

About the Author:

Craig Clemins is a dog enthusiast who is very experienced in solving all types of dog behaviour problems. Craig rates Secrets to Dog Training as the number one dog training guide, read his Secrets to Dog Training Review now or visit http://www.dog-solutions.com for more information.

Crate Training A Dog From The Beginning

By Craig Vic

When pen guiding a dog the age doesnt really matter until they become old enough for it. It is usually good to train a dog in the early stages but it can not bar one from the training. Despite the age, pet training is compulsory for every dog, but all this said, not each dog will make it to be petted.

A fully grown up dog, may find it difficult to be caged, but if this is the case, then one can opt to baby gating in a confined kitchen area.

Crating an elderly dog is delicate and must be handled with utmost care. Older dogs do not have the flexibility and the level of control that they used to in young age. First and foremost, the dog has to be made comfortable in open cages with motivators like toys and food.

With constant supervision, the dog is to be made used to the confined space for longer hours. Once we are satisfied with his level of comfort we can close the door, still staying inside, just to make him feel comfortable.

We have to be prepared with accidents and must not do much ado about it. Clean it and move on " that should be the idea. We must make sure not to frighten the dog and must escort him to the potty area, if that is the requirement.

Keep in mind that they are old enough, and they too need love, understanding and much patience at this time. If in case they do not get acquainted to pet training and they are usually having accidents give them once-over which might come in handy. Due to their age they may be incurring various medical issues which may be affecting their bladder and or bowels.

Patience and understanding plays a key role while crate training a dog, puppy or an adult dog. No matter about the age as and when the dog becomes older it get on harder.

The dogs must be assured of love and care no matter what and that they please us in return. Its a two way process.

About the Author:

Learn more about how to train your dog by visiting this website about stopping dog barking.

Discover Dog Training Tips You Must Know Before Training Your Dog

By Sandy Kleiman

Training your dog is the first step in strengthening the bond between you and your dog and getting full enjoyment out of your relationship with your pup. Obedience training is important regardless of what type of dog you own. Without proper training you run the risk of having your dog display bad behaviors and not act like the "good boy" you are hoping for!

It's important that you remember that with any dog training program you want to approach it as though you are a teacher to your dog. You don't want to be a ruthless enforcer just as much as you don't want to let your dog think that he or she is in charge! Remember - you are teaching your pooch how to behave and become a well-behaved dog that will make any dog owner jealous.

If you have ever debated between training your pooch on your own or hiring a professional dog trainer, it's an easy answer. There's no better person than you to train your dog and grow the relationship between the two of you.

You need to enter your dog training with a mapped out plan. We included a link for you at the bottom of this article with full details on a couple programs you can use at home. In the meantime, here are a couple of tips you can use when training your pup.

The first thing to always keep in mind is that you want your dog to be in the right frame of mind before you start any "training session". Make sure they have gone to the washroom so they aren't distracted. You also shouldn't start training right after they have ate - it's easy to get sleepy after eating.

You are hoping to eliminate any distractions that might get in the way of your training.

Another tip is to have a little play time before you jump into training. This makes your dog relaxed and more receptive towards you.

And as you might have expected, doggie treats are a part of any training program! Your dog loves to be rewarded when he or she does something right. Don't go overboard and give 3 dozen treats each time - save them for when your pooch has truly earned it so he or she knows what they did right.

It's normal for your dog to run off every now and then during your training. Don't go in a frenzy and chase after them. Simply call him back using an authoritative tone to call him back and keep working on your training when you have his attention again.

One important thing to keep in mind is to not become frustrated if your dog seems to be clueless about what you are expecting from them. If you simply get upset with your dog you aren't helping the matter. Instead you need to learn how to better communicate with your pup.

During your training there are going to be some times where you actually have to show him what you want him to do. It might be a tad on the frustrating side, but over time it will get a whole lot easier - I promise!

If you have decided to train your dog on your own, pat yourself on the back! It's an incredibly rewarding experience that will pay huge benefits in the long run. You (and your dog) will be happy you decided to do it on your own. Good luck!

About the Author:

Go to http://www.easyathomedogtraining.com to get an "at-home" training your dog program that will cut your training your dog time in half! It's a powerful dog behavior training program that makes training your dog both exciting and simple!

What's The Best Way To Train A Dog? Some Must-Know Tips

By Sandy Kleiman

Being able to train your dog on your own is one of the most rewarding experiences any dog owner can have. Not only will you get your dog to be the "good boy" (or girl) you want, but you will also strengthen the bond between you and your pooch.

Before starting any dog training program, keep in mind that you want to be a teacher to your dog. You don't want to be a crazy dictator but you also need to remember that you are the one in charge. You are teaching your pup to be a better behaved dog and be the pooch that everyone admires!

One of the most common questions we receive is whether you should train your dog on your own or hire a professional trainer. Thankfully for us it's an easy question - you should! It's a great way to improve your relationship for the long run.

Effective dog training requires a battleplan. I included a link at the bottom of this article so you can get a full dog-training program you can use at home, but for now here are a few tips to keep in mind when starting to work with your pooch.

Before you start any training session, make sure your dog is in the proper mindset. Take him or her for a walk so that your dog can go to the washroom. You also don't want to try to train them right after they have had a meal. Just like humans dogs can get sleepy after they have filled their belly.

You are hoping to eliminate any distractions that might get in the way of your training.

Another tip is to have a little play time before you jump into training. This makes your dog relaxed and more receptive towards you.

You should also have some treats for your dog ready to go. It's important to reward him so he knows the type of behavior your are looking for. Just make sure you aren't giving out too many - you don't want to confuse him!

If your dog runs off during a training session, don't chase after it. Simply use an authoritative voice and call him back; then reissue the command you are working on when your dog returns.

Don't let yourself get frustrated if your dog appears to be lost at times. Sometimes they just won't understand what you are trying to teach them at first - however getting mad won't solve the problem. You should look to improve the way you communicate with your dog instead.

You may have to help him out and physically show him what you want him to do. There are times that it might be frustrating, but this will get a whole lot easier over time. It will pay off in the long run!

If you have decided to train your dog on your own, pat yourself on the back! It's an incredibly rewarding experience that will pay huge benefits in the long run. You (and your dog) will be happy you decided to do it on your own. Good luck!

About the Author:

Go to http://www.easyathomedogtraining.com to receive an "at-home" dog training program that will cut your dog training time in half! It's a powerful dog behavior training program that makes dog training both exciting and simple!

Taking a Road Trip with Your Dog

By Anya Dee

Oh how I wish it were warmerisnt it APRIL?!? Thankfully despite the cold weather, I have a dog who could care less. Blizzard, monsoon or hurricane, Janey just wants to be outside. So I invested in a few warm sweaters and a good jacket and away we go. One thing I plan on doing this summer (hint hint Mother Nature!) is taking a few road trips.

My old way of traveling was to wait until the night before a trip and grab whatever I can, hoping to remember what to bring. The next time, I will have a plan to stick to prior to leaving. I am starting my planning about a month before the trip.

Get an ID tag for your dog. Make sure it includes your dogs name, your name, and contact information. You may also want to put your vets number on the tag. I like having a secondary phone number just in case.

Get a doggie first aid kit. You never know what will happen, especially if youre traveling on the highway and have to let your dog out at various rest stops. They can pick up ticks, step on things that irritate paws or get scratched.

Depending on where youre going, you may want to visit the veterinarian. Ask about specific vaccines. I go for the Lyme disease one because I will be hiking with my dog. Make sure you have your dog on heartworm preventative meds because hiking areas are over-populated with mosquitoes. I youre going to stay at a hotel, consider getting flea protection too.

Be sure to bring an air-tight container with your dog's food. You don't want to have to switch foods while traveling because your brand isn't available. Pack bowls and paper towels. A good rule is to bring a few gallons of water for the road. If you let your dog out on the way, you can be sure to have water for your animal. Put together your dog's necessities such as the collar, leash, brus, toys, towels, plastic bags for clean up and medicines. An old blanket can serve as a resting spot for your dog if you go camping.

Decide what you're going to do about meals while on the road. You could do fast-food, or you could just bring a big cooler and plenty of ice. I like the later. That way I can find a picnic table and everyone can eat together outside, weather permitting. With a dog, depending on the age, plan on stopping every 4ish hours to let the dog stretch, get some water, and relieve himself.

** According to the ASPCA, on a warm day the inside of your vehicle can heat up to 160 in minutes? NEVER leave a pet in a car, even with the windows open, in warm weather! **

There are so many great places to explore in the summertime with your dog. Thats why I cant wait until it gets warmer. I love state parks and camp grounds to hang at for a few days. Taking your family on a road trip can be a lot of fun and with a little planning, you shouldnt have much to worry about.

About the Author:

Click here for helpful information about dogs.

The Shocking Truth About Dog Food You Absolutely Must Know

By Linda McNaughton

If you are a dog lover, it's important you understand the dangers of using commercial dog food. With the number of dog food recalls that have happened in the recent future it's no surprise more and more people are starting to research the food they are putting in their dog's dish. Much of the dog food you find in the stores has been linked to all sorts of disease and illnesses - obviously you don't want to put your pup's health at risk.

These recalls weren't just small isolated cases - some of them were widespread and affected thousands of households.

Many pet owners lost their dogs - someone they considered members of their families - over tainted dog food incidents. Many dog lovers will never trust the commercialized dog food industry ever again.

The problem isn't just with dog food that has been recalled - it extends far beyond this. Commercial dog food is produced in a way that would make most people cringe. Since it's all about cutting costs for the companies they put in all sorts of fillers that have been linked to all sorts of health problems.

It's no mystery that there has been a huge trend in healthy eating. As humans we are becoming more aware of the benefits of eating a healthy diet and eating nutritious food to keep our bodies well fueled.

Yet, do we consider what foods we purchase for our dogs to eat? Are we simply buying certain dog food based on what we think our pets like the best to eat? You owe it to your pooch to pay close attention to what you are putting in it's precious tummy.

Some of the ingredients in commercial dog food have no place in a dog's system. They are unreliable and extremely unhealthy.

As an example, corn gluten is a by-product that is found in dog foods. This is used because it is an incredibly cheap filler. However, not only is it an extremely poor source of protein, but it is one of the most common causes of allergies in dogs.

Chicken by-product meal is also used in the dog food industry. This is made up of parts of the chickens feet, necks, intestines, etc. They use this as a source of protein as well, yet this it is of such low grade that it does nothing for your dog. It also has the potential to be toxic or tainted.

Soybean meal is an ingredient that is used in order to provide a source of protein. It's cheap and is found in many dog foods. The problem is that soybean is the number one cause of allergies in dogs. It annoys me that they would include an ingredient that they know so many dogs will have a reaction to.

There are other ingredients to consider, but I think you have gotten the gist of why some of the major brands of dog food that are on the supermarket shelves should be avoided.

When you do your research about feeding your dog the right foods, you will be amazed at the changes you see. Your dogs mood, energy levels, skin, bathroom habits and even their behavior will improve. It's amazing what a change in diet will do.

Now, this article isn't meant to make you think that there is no commercial dog food that is ok for your dog. You just need to know exactly what to look for to make sure your pup is getting the nutrition it needs. There's a link at the bottom of this article where you can get more information.

It's easy to find a diet for your dog that doesn't include any of the nasty ingredients that you find in most of the commercial dog foods in the stores. The benefits to your dog are simple - a healthier, happier, and longer life!

About the Author:

Click Here for information on the dog foods you must avoid and how to keep your dog in its finest shape. It's important to know how to find healthy dog food to make sure your dog lives a healthy, happy and long life!

Want To Save Your Dog's Life? The Truth About Dog Food!

By Lynn Halladay

What you don't know could turn out to be bad for your dog! While most of us don't pay a lot of attention to what we're feeding out pets, we really shouldn't be trusting manufacturers to label things accurately and follow regulations. There aren't actually very many rules about what can be used in dog food, and what you don't know could make your dog very sick.

Not Fit To Eat

Dog food can contain a lot of things we wouldn't be happy about eating, including bones, nervous tissue, organs, skin, ligaments, hair and meat from animals with diseases. The bodies of euthanized pets and zoo animals have been used, too.

Most of the "good" meat that makes its way into dog and cat food has long since been processed so heavily that all its nutritive value is gone. If you see ingredients on your dog's food bag like "animal meal" or "poultry broth", you shouldn't imagine the sort of thing you'd eat.

Animal meals are what's left after all the meat and fat have been processed out of a carcass - any carcass at all. The remainder is ground and dried, producing a "meal" that's similar in texture to ground grains. The broths in dog food are similarly unpleasant, made up of processed carcasses from all kinds of animals, in all kinds of condition.

Not Illegal

Unfortunately, none of the disgusting or unhealthy ingredients in dog food are illegal. While we have reasonably strict rules about what can be part of human food and those laws are well enforced, pets don't have that protection. Rules about pet food ingredients are much looser and more poorly enforced.

That means that almost anything could end up in your dog's food, and that the labels on the package that claim it's "healthy and balanced" have little to no meaning. All that those words mean, in a legal sense, is that those foods contain a particular percentage of fat, protein, and added minerals and vitamins.

Additives

All of us have probably heard about the recent recalls due to melamine contamination. What you might not know is that this isn't the only additive in pet food that might cause illness or death. There are a number of preservatives used in pet food that cause real problems in humans who work with them, and could cause liver and kidney failure or cancer in your dog over time.

Not Only Cheap Brands

It's not just cheap pet food that's the problem, either. There's no regulation on high end or organic foods, as well. While these pet food may be of higher quality, we have no way of knowing whether they use the same ingredients as their cheaper relatives or not. That can make it hard to find a food that's good for your dog, even if it's one recommended by your vet.

Solutions

You have a number of choices when it comes to improving your pet's food. First is to learn how to read the labels. Ingredients that come first are there in bigger percentages, so look for named meats far up on the list instead of generic terms.

You can also learn about the additives and preservatives that can hurt your pets, and look for the foods with the lowest percentage of grains. There are also a number of excellent recipes out there that can help dedicated pet owners make their own foods. Just be sure to do something, since most foods are actually dangerous.

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Click Here to find out which dog foods have been proven to be harmful to a dog's health. Find out what the best dog food is to make sure your pooch is in perfect health.