By Stanley Morse

Training a dog is one of the biggest let downs in owning a dog. Yes you could hand it off to a professional but this may entail big costs. Also, training your own dog is much better because this will give you a chance to develop a bond and strengthen your relationship. But, most of the time, when it’s time for you to train your dog, you will most likely encounter some dog training problems.

Knowing that you will be encountering these dog training problems will most likely be a deterrent to any owner to undergo the program. But, being reluctant with this endeavor can only lead to an ill-mannered dog in the future which could lead you to detest it. So if you really want to have a dog you can truly love, then it’s essential that you understand these dog training problems and nip it in the bud before it even happens.

First, many dog owners encounter problems in dog training not only with their dog but also with themselves. You have to mentally prepare yourself for the task at hand, many dog training programs ended abruptly or took a longer time because the dog owner or trainer would get frustrated and end the program right in the middle of it. Some would resume the program but only after a while and all the progress beforehand were lost.

Next, a dog can be very stubborn and is difficult to work with. This is usually experienced when you are training a dog breed that is known to be very hyper. This is also evident when training older dogs. Dog are creatures of habit, so older dogs may have already set their ways and will have difficulty in breaking the habits they have already established. Persistence is the key here. By using a reward system, a dog may change his habits knowing that they will be able to get treats if they follow you or their trainer. For hyper dogs, train them frequently but in short period of times. They don’t have long attention spans so it is integral that you can make a game out of their training program and keep it sweet and short.

Another dog training problem is when a dog is overly aggressive. The key here is understanding the signs that show that a dog is feeling agitated or threatened. Dogs tend to be aggressive only when they feel their space is being invaded. Some signs include snarling, showing of teeth, hair raised, a posture that seems it will be lounging for you and more. When you see these signs, give the dog ample space and don’t rush in to its space. Talk in a low friendly voice. Don’t force the situation.

These are just some of the most common dog training problems encountered even by professionals. And the best way for you not to experience them is to avoid them from ever happening. If you haven’t had any experience with aggressive dogs especially the older ones, don’t attempt to train them. The key here is to first develop trust between the two of you.

Stan enjoys writing on wide range of topics such as Dog Training Problems. Visit http://olderdogtraining.org for more details.

By Laura A. Hofman

Anyone who shares their life with a dog knows they area a member of the family. As such, they need to be comfortable in your living space, including your garden. Here are some easy and practical tips to creating a dog friendly garden that you and your best friend will love…

What Is A Dog Friendly Garden?

The most important factor to consider when creating a garden your dog will love is their personal habits. Is your dog inquisitive by nature? Do they like to dig and chew? How much space do they need to run and explore?

Examine your dogs habits and research the breed if necessary. If your dog enjoys digging, like a beagle for example, you’ll want sturdy plants that are easy to replant. Similarly, if your furry friend likes a full out gallop now and then, it is important to give your pet enough area to roam and run.

A dog friendly garden is essentially an outdoor living space that both you and your pet can enjoy. Your dog’s safety is of primary importance, so you will want to choose plants that aren’t harmful to animals if ingested. From your viewpoint, you won’t want to constantly replace damaged plants and flowers, so consider your pets habits when choosing places to plant.

Choosing Your Plants

When you own a dog, chances are great they will occasionally interact with your plants when running, fetching, or playing. Choose sturdy species that can withstand a little rough housing. Also, consider where your dog likes to nap and eliminate. You won’t want your prized plants damaged by their daily routine.

If you have a boy dog, choose plants that are immune to the nitrogen in their urine. Boy dogs mark their territory, so your plants will get sprayed now and again. Certain types of plants are immune, like viburnum and spirea. Interestingly, shrub roses are another great choice. Not only are they sturdy and hardy, but they are practically immune to dog urine.

After a while, your dog will learn its space boundaries. Dogs are highly adaptable creatures and in general will cooperate with your landscaping ideas. Be sure they have enough shade, a place to nap outdoors, and room to run and you should be fine.

Plants To Avoid In A Dog Friendly Garden

There are certain species of plants that can be toxic to dogs. That said, the risk really lies in your dog’s habits. Most dogs will exist peacefully with plants and won’t chew and gnaw at them. Even if your dog is a chronic chewer, you can alleviate your worry by giving them dog bones that will keep them busy for hours.

With that said, there are a few plants that should give you pause. They include lilies, tulips, and azaleas. When ingested, these plants may cause severe digestive problems for your pet, so exercise due caution. For the most part though, if your dog is properly exercised daily, they really won’t be inclined to chew on plants.

Summary

Designing a dog friendly garden is well worth the time for both you and your pet. You will be able to match your landscape preferences with your dog’s habits by following a few simple tips.

Examine how your dog interacts with your outdoor space and plan accordingly. Also, be sure to properly exercise your dog to help curb their inquisitive nature and avoid nuisance behavior like chewing and possibly damaging your plants.

Laura A. Hofman is an expert gardener and pet lover who enjoys helping you get the most enjoyment from your outdoor living space. Discover the secrets of a dog friendly garden by visiting Laura’s new website dedicated to eco friendly and cost effective gardening tips for dog lovers. You’ll find it at: http://www.dogfriendlygarden.com

By Kimberly Case

Choose the right dog toy. Photo by Aussiegall

Dog treats and toys are not a one-size-fits-all purchase. There are products designed with puppies in mind while others are created for adult dogs only. This can pose a problem when specific items are given at the wrong age. Whether you are buying dog treats and toys for your new pup or for someone else’s’ take care to choose the right products.

Treats for Puppy

Although a puppy can probably swallow some adult dog treats, these have not been made with a puppy’s growing body in mind. They can create serious digestion problems as well as be harmful to puppy teeth. Look for biscuits that are designed specifically for puppies, such as AKC puppy training treats. These are a great choice because they come pre-sized for a small puppy mouth. They are also designed to help you get a good start on training. Just because they are smaller and designed for your young dogs’ growing body doesn’t mean they lack in taste, either. AKC dog treats include real liver among the ingredients.

Puppy Teeth Treats

Puppy teeth are very different from adult dog teeth. They are not intended to remain long term, and can be damaged. N-Bone has created a puppy teething ring treat. These are very unique because they are completely digestible but crafted to optimize chewing for a young dog’s teeth. The teething ring measures three and a half inches, so it is very easy for a little dog to carry and maneuver without trouble. No nylon or rubber pieces are used to there is less concern for choking hazards or stomach problems.

Bones for Puppies

Any dog owner knows that bones are a great way to keep their pet occupied. They can also help work out frustration and clean teeth. Puppies, on the other hand, may find adult dog bones too hard and heavy to get their jaws around. Nylabone has created the Toro puppy roll bone which is ideal for a growing dog. These dog treats are bones that are a little softer and made in short sticks. They even come in enticing flavors, such as bacon. Calcium has been added while salt and sugar has been left out to keep the Toro dog bones healthy for pups. These dog treats will last longer when given to most breeds.

Plush Toys for Puppies

Plush dog toys are a fun addition to your dog’s collection, however make sure you are choosing the right toy that will keep your growing dog safe. Stick with plus dog toys that do not have small parts which could be broken or chewed off and swallowed. Also make a point to check your pet’s toys daily and remove worn toys that have tears or damage. This is especially important when using plush toys that have squeakers or rattles inside. Your pet can free these items, which are not meant to be played with individually. If uncertain, always err on the side of safety and throw the toy away. If you are careful and selective about the dog treats and toys you give your pup, he or she will have no problem growing into a strong, healthy adult.

Article by Kimberly Case of dogtreatstogo.com- Where you can find a large selection of Dog Treats including Dog Biscuits and Salmon Dog Treats Online!

By Raymond Remi Rheault

Photo by Mike Baird

I really think that getting the dog out for a run is important and I do my best to get her out all year long. Of course, there are inconveniences no matter what season it is. In the winter it’s wet paws on the back seat of the car, but even wet paws are better than the mud soaked ones that comes with fall or spring! In the summer my problem isn’t really dirt so much as the heat.

Dogs need a lot of water, and if they get a lot of exercise they need much more. Have you ever thought about how you would feel if you ran as much as your dog? I’d be pretty near dead, I’m sure. It’s amazing really, the amount of effort they put into it. A dog needs almost an ounce of water for every pound on their body. Depending on the season, this can be tricky.

In the winter it’s as simple as letting your dog eat snow. He or she will want to, so there’s no encouragement required. Still, bring a bottle of water and keep it warm if possible. In the spring and fall, depending on where you are, there are usually lots of places to find running water or newly formed mega-puddles. It’s important to be aware that near major roads there can be unknown toxins in puddles, so try to keep your dog away. Find a lake or stream.

In the summer, bring a dog water dish in the car with you and go for a nice long ride with the windows down after you take your dog for a run. They’ll appreciate the cool wind. Be careful with your choice of water dish though, as it’s easy to spill in the car when you’re making corners (or if your dog is a messy drinker) and spills can lead to unpleasant odours and ruined upholstery.

I recommend the K9 Travel Mug, it fits directly into your cars cup holders, is spill resistant, and made of durable stainless steel.