As opposed to what most persons believe, dog adoption is no trivial matter. Just one has got to try and do a thorough analysis of his or her reasons for adopting the dog previous to contacting the breeders or rescue facilities. Some of the significant details that persons overlook or consider lightly include the fact that a dog comes with its fair share of responsibilities. This suggests that getting sympathetic with dogs that haven’t found loving houses to reside in is just not adequate motive to assume that one can deal with an adopted dog.

Very first, just one desires to contemplate just how many several hours they prepare to invest while using the pet after the dog adoption course of action is complete. Just like humans, dogs are social beings; they are pleased when they’ve organization, and bored when left alone for hours on end.

Accommodation is the second consideration that 1 has to consider into account. A person considering dog adoption should make satisfactory preparation to produce the residence viable to accommodate the dog. Bigger breeds require far more room and hence tiny apartments wouldn’t be comfortable for them.

The costs involved in feeding, medical care and ensuring the general wellbeing from the dog is a important thing to consider as well. All dogs irrespective in the breed need wholesome diets, veterinary care, routine wellness checkups and vaccinations. Initially, even so, one particular will need to have to purchase food and water bowls, carriers, licenses, tags among other factors. As this kind of, a single needs to take into account whether they have the financial resources required for such purchases. Most dog adoption agencies or breeders will need you to verify this prior to completing the adoption method.

Different dogs need to have several exercise regimens. Dogs which are much more prone to obesity will will need more hours of actual physical exercise than naturally lean breeds. Depending on the breed you pick, be prepared to spend specific amounts of time exercising it. Men and women ready to carry up dog adoption also need to have to ensure that they will maintain the dog secure, secure, healthy and properly taken proper care of.

When the dog is not previously neutered when adopting it, a single requirements to make sure that he or she visits the vet. Which is unless she or he would like to set up a breeding agency. Parents who adopt dogs for their kids also require to realize that the dog’s main caretaker is not the youngsters but them.

General, prospective dog adopters have to have to find out a couple of things about dog handling, training and attention just before contacting a dog adoption agency. It is through skills learnt at such a time that allows the dog and the owner to cohabit peacefully, although enjoying each other’s company.

Goldendoodle and other dog facts

When it comes to Goldendoodles, they are a dog that is now the most loved, adored and also the most misunderstood canine of all. For instance, did you know that there are 701 pure breed dogs and that the Border collie, Poodle and Golden retriever are claimed to be the smartest of dogs? I do not know why just these three breeds were listed because I am sure there are other smart breeds of dogs out there and the person behind the poll definitly didn’t include the Goldendoodle! Fact 1: The Goldendoodle dog is highly intelligent.

Goldendoodle dogs also have a superior sense of hearing and smell, but of course when it comes to documented evidence, the bloodhound is so trustworthy that it is the only dog whose evidence is admissible even in court of law in the United States! There are alot of Goldendoodle as well as other dog facts are very interesting. For instance, it is claimed that the Great Dane is the tallest of all dogs, while the Chihuahua is the smallest dog of all. But are they really? As a breeder of Goldendoodles since 1999, I know for a fact that one Goldendoodle we created some years ago turned into a 150 pound “small pony” ! And while it is claimed that the Chihuahua is the smallest dog, we own a tcup sized LhasaPoo (a different type of hybrid dog) who weighs three pounds or less and I’ve heard of some tcup Yorkies as well as Tcup Poodles weighing even less!

Goldendoodle dogs are usually very attached to their families. Some are even heroically so. Goldendoodles can even take care of their invalid or handicapped family members on a daily basis, if properly trained. Over the years, we’ve had some of our past customers train their Goldendoodle dogs as therapy dogs or assist dogs. Many rescue organizations and policing organizations use Golden Retrievers as well as other types of dogs as a part of their regular team. Some Golden Retrievers are used as narcotic dogs. While it is doubtful that a Goldendoodle can be used as a guard dog, I see no reason why they could not be trained as hunters, draught animals, drug and explosive detectors, and even as a dog who seeks out weapons.

In the Middle Ages, dogs wore spiky light armors and ran into the battle grounds to attack mounted knights. The Rottweiler was one such breed used in medieval battles. The German Shepherd dog has been used in the field with every day soldiers for many centuries. There are many fun facts regarding all dog types, but the Goldendoodle dog has not been around long enough to have a lot of facts written about them. The Goldendoodle dog was first known as a “Goldendoodle” sometime around 1997. This hybrid was first created by the Australians who were looking for a low shedding, low dander assist dog for those who had allergies. Goldendoodles in Australia are used for other purposes and make wonderful family pets for children of all ages. There are only three coat types for the Goldendoodle dog.

1. Shaggy.
2. Curly.
3. Smooth.

The Goldendoodle does not have any rare colors and actually can have markings anywhere on its body, of any color. The Goldendoodle dog also can have various eye colors such as brown, blue, green or multi colors. Since beginning our Goldendoodles in 1999, we have seen some Goldendoodles born with one green eye and one blue eyes or one brown eye and one blue eye. In 2010 we hope to create Duetche Kurzharr Doodles which is a German Shorthaired Pointer mixed with a Goldendoodle. Since we do have a sire with blue eyes and our German Shorthaired Pointer has lovely amber colored eyes and multiple freckles, we hope that we will see offspring coming out with not just lovely light colored eyes, but with spots and freckles. The German Shorthaired Pointer is extremely intelligent! Our own girl, Merry-Belle, is fascinated with squeeky toys and carries them all over the house. She loves to have someone hold a ball up in the air and anxiously awaits it to be tossed in her direction so that she can jump high up in the air to catch it.

Before purchasing any type of dog, you should attempt to learn all the important facts that pertain to the breed you wish to own. Many families make the mistake and hurry up to get a dog because their children have been insisting on having one. Many parents buckle under pressure. But the problem is, people who purchase a Goldendoodle under the assumption of knowing the facts, find out that the dog isn’t for them. Sure enough, after the dog arrives home and the initial excitement has quieted down, the chore of actually taking care of the dog and molding its character begins. This is when the honeymoon is over and when most families realize that their Goldendoodle is really a bundle of work, like all dogs!

Children find out that the dog can’t just let itself out to use the bathroom and many will gripe about having to constantly take their new dog out for bathroom breaks. Most of the chores of caring for a Goldendoodle or any dog for that matter usually falls to the parents after a few days. A puppy is cuddly and sweet until it poops or pees on the floor or has to be supervised at all times or when it howls and howls for attention from its human family. The Goldendoodle dog has become the most popular of hybrids because other dogs with long and short hair, shed profusely. Many people who buy a Goldendoodle are told by their breeder that the dog doesn’t EVER shed and that they are “hypoallergenic”. Imagine the family’s horror when they realize that indeed their Goldendoodle dog sheds and not only does it shed, but it needs constant, regular care! This is just one example of how some doodle breeders try and use the “non shedding”, “Hypoallergenic” key words to bring in a customer. An inexperienced breeder can lead someone to buy a Goldendoodle dog for the wrong reasons. Since 1999, we as breeders have watched the Goldendoodle hybrid go through 10-15 different coat changes. We know for a fact that the Goldendoodle dog does indeed shed. BUT, they shed like no other dog we’ve ever seen.

The Goldendoodle will lose a strand or two of hairs and not gobs of hair or clumps of hair. Unless your Goldendoodle has a hormonal imbalance, his or her coat is not going to just completely fall out. Unlike a dog with a double coat, the Goldendoodle dog has a single coat and sheds very, very little. As the Goldendoodle dog changes from a puppy to an adult, there will be coat changes and you may see its coat do the most shedding during this “growing up” phase. When the Goldendoodle dog turns a year of age, their owners will see the least shedding.

Goldendoodle facts become very important if you really want to understand your doodle. Knowing as much about your doodle dog will also help you with training. Some dogs are quick to learn, while others need more time. Regardless of breed, dogs are individuals and training needs to be specifically geared toward the individual dog itself and not by breed type or generalization. Just as human have their own unique way of responding to learning things, dogs are the same way. They are individuals just like we humans are. Most dogs respond well to rewards and praise, while a few breeds need firm commands and rigorous discipline. Goldendoodles do not learn well with negative training. Positive reinforcement works very well for getting your Goldendoodle to comply and respond to training commands. Some dogs like the Dalmatian, need a lot of exercise and are not very suitable to small living quarters, while others like the Poodle have a lot of grooming requirements. Shaggy and curly coat Goldendoodles have a high grooming requirement. All Goldendoodles, regardless of size, would do well indoors so long as he or she is taken for daily walks. Goldendoodles enjoy being where ever their human family members are. They are happy to run beside you if you are jogging or on your bicycle and they are just as happy to sleep at your feet if you are sitting down watching television. Goldendoodle dogs are snugglers. They usually are not independant dogs. They can become lonely if left for long periods of time without human companionship. Depending upon coat type, some Goldendoodles can tend to be barkers or high drive. It has been our own experience that the shaggy coat and smooth coat Goldendoodle has the best temperaments of all three coat types. The curly coat Goldendoodle can tend to pick up some of the quirkly traits of the Poodle. Those experienced with the Golden Retriever will want to stick with either the shaggy coat or the smooth coat Goldendoodle. Those experienced with the Poodle will want to stick with the curly coat Goldendoodle.

Many people believe that certain dogs inherit certain disorders like hip dysplasia and cataract based on breed type. Many people believe that some breeds are prone to getting fat if they are not exercised regularly. Genetic ailments can happen to any type of dog regardless of their breed and all dogs can become fat and lazy if they are over-fed and are lacking in exercise. Dogs who are inbred or backbred or come from a genetic bottle neck (lacking in a wide genetic gene pool) will be at a higher risk for having genetic ailments. Age also plays a direct role with health issues in dogs. It is not known why some dogs die from health issues and others can go through their entire lives not ever having a health issue. Just as people die from various types of health issues or just simply pass away in their sleep, dogs are very similar in this way. Goldendoodles who come from a first generation breeding seem to be the hardiest of dogs. Goldendoodles can be a long lived dog under ideal circumstances just as the Poodle is the longest lived dog of all dogs.

One of the most important dog facts most overlooked by many is that every purebred has been originally created with a particular purpose in mind. While the Lhasa Apso was originally created as a palace guard dog, the Poodle was used for multiple purposes such as retrieving, swimming and just being a companion. The German Shorthaired Pointer makes a wonderful gun dog and many Rottweilers and German Shepherds or Doberman Pinschers make excellent guard dogs. Depending upon the history and lineage of your Goldendoodle, he or she may have a wonderful compilation of traits that would be suited for multiple tasks or would simply just make a wonderful house pet.

If you expect a breed of dog to completely forfeit its inherent tendencies and don a new mantle, you are asking for trouble. Never expect a Goldendoodle to guard you or your possessions and don’t be surprised if your Pit Bull bristles with anger and ultimately attacks a stranger. Some traits are deeply rooted and instilled in particular breed types. With our own Goldendoodles, we do know that their lineage holds multiple companion dogs, Utility dogs, show dogs, Master Hunters as well as having a deeply rooted love for playing in the water. Training your Goldendoodle or entering them into obedience classes can help you to bring some discipline to your doodle as well as even enhance their natural tendencies. Training does not replace them.

Anyone deciding to purchase a shaggy or curly coat Goldendoodle must also need to learn basics in grooming unless you are going to have someone else groom the doodle. Being knowledgeable about the Goldendoodle will help you become a better doodle owner. Goldendoodles can participate in fun competition dog trials, even fun dog shows. Their are other important dog facts which also include a need to know such information like neutering, spaying, vaccinating and de-worming your doodle at regular intervals. You will want to have your vet place your Goldendoodle on a vaccination and deworming schedule and let your vet get to know your dog. It is also very important to know that owning a Goldendoodle as with any other type of dog can be expensive. Know before you buy, that you can afford the upkeep that your doodle will require.

In a nutshell, knowing your doodle facts will help you, the new doodle owner, to truly appreciate your Goldendoodle’s uniqueness and will allow your doodle to happily spend its entire life with you.

**Author/breeder: Dee Gerrish @2009.
**About the Author: Dee Gerrish as been a private, professional hobby breeder since 1996. Dee Gerrish has written extensively about the Goldendoodle dog since 1999. Visit her site at http://www.goldendoodleworld.com/

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Puppy Behavior 8 – 11 weeks old.

Puppy behavior is important to be able to understand as when a puppy goes through certain stages in its development their behavior will also go through changes. We will look at the stages a puppy goes through between the ages of 8-11 weeks of age and how you can learn how to train a puppy during this stage.

Puppy Development 8-11 weeks old.

You have just purchased your adorable new puppy and have teaken him home. However, you must try not to get to caught up with the ‘cute puppy’ phase and should start puppy training as early as possible.

You should start basic training.
Don’t allow strangers to scare or intimidate your puppy as this can seriously affect how your puppy interacts with humans in adulthood.
Some dog trainers argue that this phase is so important that if you want your puppy to be a detection dog and you have not taught him the basics of the ‘fetch command’ between 8-11 weeks then they will never be able to become a detection dog

Your puppy will want to explore his surroundings but will have a general fear of everything.
Start socializing your puppy by introducing him to different objects.
Use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior-give your puppy a treat and lots of praise.
Do not be over protective with your puppy. If you give your puppy lots of attention when he becomes scared this will teach him that it is natural to be scared and when he shows fear he gets praise-never a good idea.

Your puppy’s personality will start to really develop so it is imporant to start puppy socialization with other humans and other animals.
Puppy parties are a good socialization tool-but don’t start introducing your puppy to walks or other dogs until your vet says it is ok.
As a new owner you should expect crying and house soiling in the night.
Your puppy will also cry when he is left alone-he is not used to being seperated and he is still a baby.
Monitor fearful behavior as you don’t want irrational fears to develop into adulthood

Your puppy may start tugging and pulling on clothes and even jumping up.
Understand that puppy chewing may happen-but do not allow it.
A puppy soon grows so don’t allow behavior such as jumping up to happen-if he does start ignore your puppy.
Remember that you are the pack leader so you need to be strong and set the House rules
Try not to let anything startle your puppy at this age-watch out for fire works parties
You really need to start introducing your puppy to other dogs as this is how they learn to behave and respond to other dogs.
Although Diarrhoea is common at this age due to changes in diet-if you have any worries at all you must consult your vet.

Yo can start basic puppy training as it is a great way to communicate with your puppy and to build a string relationship-remember these golden rules when puppy obedience training:
Be patient-remember that a puppy has a limited attention span.
Be consistent-set the rules and stick with them.
Positive reinforcement-always heap lots of praise on a puppy that behaves well.
Be rational with your puppy by understanding that you are also learning how to train a puppy so will make mistakes
Be fair at all times with your puppy and accept that their will be accidents in the House.

Start Basic Puppy Obedience Training
Keep pupy obedience training short and fun.
Have lots of treats ready to give your puppy when he behaves well.
Do not give commands in a harsh tone.
Make sure the whole family use the same commands otherwise it will confuse your puppy.
Practice training techniques everyday

Puppy Behavior 8-11 weeks old – what to expect
Fearful behavior
Play biting and chewing
Your puppy may chase other animals
Crying when seperated from you or the family
Minor destructive behavior
Jumping up

If you found this article on puppy behavior and puppy development useful-you may find our more indepth puppy behavior tips useful or visit our site on Dog Obedience Training for more general dog and puppy training advice.

There are a good number of reasons why you should train your dog of which the following include some of the more obvious :

1. Housetraining: Unless you are partial to the aroma of dog poop and pee then it would certainly make sense to, at the very least, have your dog housetrained. Yup! There’s no way round it, but that cute bundle of fur otherwise known as a puppy, unless taught to the contrary will quickly and happily turn your pristine house not only into his playground but also into his personal toilet. And make no mistake, this is not a problem that is going to disappear with age; any dog that is not housetrained be it a puppy or adult will soil your residence until it is taught not to!

2. Socializing: An unsocialized dog is generally an unhappy dog because such an animal finds it extremely difficult to interact comfortably with strangers or other dogs (and animals). This type of dog is characteristically nervous and highly-strung, which condition manifest as a dog with a hair-trigger response to aggression at the slightest perceived provocation (usually more imaginary than real) or a dog that slinks around in a constant state of fear. It matters little which errant behavior is displayed, the fact is either existence will be detrimental to the dog’s well-being.

3. Bonding: A well trained dog is a happy dog. When you and your dog understand one another well your relationship is going to be that much richer for it.The only way to achieve that level of harmony in your relationship with your dog is if you both work at understanding one another; and that will only be achieved through proper training. Besides dog training should be fun for you and your pooch, especially since it challenges and stimulates your dog’s mind. As frequently happens with human adolescents, a bored dog is going to be driven to destructive behavior; this is especially true in the smarter breed of dog.

Types of Dog Training

These days there are quite a number of different dog training techniques, enough to accommodate everybody dog owner out there. Some are very popular and come highly recommended whilst others seem to be a throwback to a more primitive time and age when we didn’t understand man’s best friend as we do now. The following lists some of the more commonly used methods of dog training:

1. Reward Training

Currently a big favorite in dog training circles, this technique employs the use of treats to reinforce good and desired behavior patterns executed by your dog. When used correctly this is a pretty effective training technique but its downside is that it is fairly easy to abuse the system and thus nullify its effectiveness by giving your dog treats at times other than during dog training sessions.

2. Clicker Training

Clicker training is a classic Pavlovian technique that utilizes conditional training through sensory association. As the name suggests the clicker, which is a plastic box with an inbuilt metal strip that makes the actual clicking sound, is used in conjunction with a treat or something your dog finds highly desirable to reinforce and encourage a particular behavior. In time the treat reward is removed yet the dog still associates a given behavior with the sound of the clicker and thus performs that behavior in the absence of the treat.

3. Whistle Training

Dogs have far better hearing than people and can hear frequencies that our ears cannot pick up. It is on the basis of this premise that the ultrasonic whistle functions which means that since you cannot hear it but your dog can (supposedly) it can be a little tricky getting to grips with its use.

4. Dog Whispering

Yeah sounds a bit corny doesn’t it and most likely the name of this method is an obvious offshoot reference from the 1998 Robert Redford movie (starring amongst others a young Scarlett Johansson) titled the Horse Whisperer themed around a man who had an uncanny ability to communicate with horses. Anyway these days Dog Whispering is now a broadly accepted term and its training technique is based on understanding a dog’ body language and the many unvocalized signals that are part and parcel of dog communication.

These four examples above are just a few of the dog training methods available and in fact there are a whole slew of collar based  training methods that have not been listed here partly because some of them are archaic and barbaric such as electric collar training or prong collars.

In summary, this article barely touches the tip of the iceberg as far as dog training is concerned but the thing to remember is that utilizing dog training in the everyday life of your pooch will greatly enrich the relationship the two of you share.
Article on dog training written by Kayye Nynne

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Of all the dog breeds available to choose between, parents need to take all considerations into account when they are choosing a pet for their family needs.  Don’t just choose a pet based on what you want or let price or convienience be a determining factor for choosing the pet you get.  All breeds have their own traits and characteristics that are unique to their group; i.e. the herding group has instincts for chassing and gathering, and the hunting group has instincts to hunt for instance the bird dog has point and retrieve instincts.   Use the unlimited resources of the internet, books and don’t forget about your veterinarian to gather info so you can make a smart and decisful decision on which breed will fit your family lifestyle and needs best.  Below are a few breed suggestions I have compiled that I think make great pets for families. 

Bulldog- Usually a great breed for the family in the North do to the heat can restrict play outdoors; they do well with all ages of children and other pets.  They love to be part of the family and enjoy all the attention they can get.   Beagle – Despite a Beagle’s hawl/bark, they are usually non-aggressive. They are great around people and other pets, but they don’t like being left alone.  Boredom can lead to behavior problems if left alone for too long.  They are very active and love to run off energy with the kids, but they are hunters, so running away can be a problem. Cairn Terrier – They are great for families that prefer a smaller dog.  Cairns are about 10 inches tall and weigh about 13 pounds and are good with children and other pets. German Shepherd – This dog is good with older children. They are playful and loyal dogs with considerable size and strength. Begin obedience training early because without training they can become quit a handful for you and small children. Poodle – This breed comes in three sizes.  Standard,  Minature, and Toy.  Most people keep them groomed regularly to keep a neat appearance.  Research each size to determine which would suite you better.  Also popular is the designer breed; the Labradoodle.  Labradoodles are a mix of Poodle and Labrador Retriever.  They can be a great alternative to a Lab because children with allergies to pet dander usually can tollerate Labradooles do to them being considered a hypoallergenic breed. Collie- Collies are the American icon thanks  to the dog “Lassie”.  This breed is very well rounded for the family.  They are intelligent and train eaisly.  They have to be part of the family, or they can get bordom habbits.  They make playful companions for the children. Basset Hound – This breed is good with children of all ages. They are known for their gentleness and kind demenour.  They are in the hound group, so they can be noisy. Their long backs can be injured if too rambouncious or a child can accidently injure them. Labrador Retriever – Labs are a very popular family dog due to it’s playful, energetic and easygoing demeanor. Generally this breed is non-aggressive, gets along with other family pets, and loves to play all day and swim as well. Pug – This affectionate breed loves being part of the family. Outgoing and mischievous, they make playful companions for children. Golden Retriever – Similar to the Lab in personality, Goldens are mild mannered and enjoy being around families and other people. These dogs are easy to train are gentle with children.  They do have a coat that needs attention from time to time. Cocker Spaniel – This breed thinks and loves to be a lap dog.  They are sensitive and sweet and enjoy the attention of all who will pet them, especially children.  They are obedient when trained and friendly around people and other pets.  Regular grooming is needed to keep a healthy coat.

Allthough this list is not a full comprehensive list of which breed would be best for a family, your research may find other breeds of which you could include in your list to research and ask questions about.   There are houndreds of dog breeds and designer dog breeds to choose from.  This list just captures some of the popular breeds that are chosen to be part of the family.  Each dog is an individual and can be an exception to the general breed rules. With that in mind, here are a few breeds to be more cautious of around young children and toddlers.

Dominant and Willful Breeds – Rottweilers, Chow Chows, Coonhounds, Border Collies and Weimaraners all have personalities that make them more difficult to train and trust with a young child. These dogs may function better in homes with older children. Toy Dog Breeds – Young children may play too roughly with the smaller breeds such as Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas and other breeds that are under 10 pounds.  These breeds can sustain leg injuries and other serious injury due to being steped on or fallen on.  Small breeds can also be more temperamental and “one owner” dogs which make them more apt to snap at children.

Dog rescues are organizations with the goal of helping dogs find permanent homes. Many dog rescues are geared to a certain type of dog, for instance there is probably a rescue for any breed of dog you can name.  There are rescues for basset hounds, Dobermans, Greyhounds, etc. And there are also rescues for the ‘mutts’ of the dog world.

Dog rescues are typically operated by volunteers who are dedicated to the welfare of that breed of dog.  They try to find new homes for abandoned, abused or relinquished dogs.  The reasons for so many dogs needing homes are numerous.  Some dogs may have been strays where no owners could be found for them.  The dogs could come from pounds or shelters where their days before being euthanized were numbered.  The dogs could simply have been unwanted and relinquished by their owners for reasons unknown.  At any rate, there are a great number of dogs who need rescuing and are in need of new homes.

Most dogs found in dog rescues have been examined by a veterinarian and as such have had their shots updated, have been spayed or neutered and have had any medical problems looked after.  Some of the dogs may have ongoing medical problems, such as blindness, a missing limb or arthritis, but such conditions are disclosed before they are allowed to be adopted.

With many dog rescues, the dogs have been placed in private ‘foster care’ homes and are looked after by caring people before they are offered for adoption.  Such a process ensures that the animal is ready to be placed in a permanent home, and can often dictate what type of home is best suited for that dog.

Now, where do you come in to help dog rescues?  Every dog rescue is in need of your help in one way or another.  Here are a few ways you can help:

Adoption:  If you are looking for a dog to adopt, going to a dog rescue is a great way to get a loving pet. You can find the breed, age and type of dog you want by searching for the appropriate dog rescue.  This is the number one way to help in rescuing dogs.

Fostering:  If you do not want a permanent pet, but could take one on for a short period of time, fostering may be the way to go for you.  You can be an individual or a family with a heart big enough to take one a dog in a safe loving environment until a permanent home can be found.

Transportation:  Sometimes a dog that has been relinquished needs to travel from one place or another (for example from a shelter in one city to another city a particular breed dog rescue is located in, or a dog on his way to a permanent home in another state).  You could volunteer to transport the dog from one city to another, one state to another, or even just part of the way.  Dogs also need transporting from the rescue site to a vet appointment.  You could be very helpful in volunteering your services in this way.

Supplies:  You could donate things like dog collars, leashes, dog food, bowls, dog toys, crates or whatever else you may think of that dogs would need. Just contact the dog rescue to find out what they may need and let them know you would like to help. You could collect items from friends, family members, garage sales, etc.

Monetary Donations:  Since dog rescues are typically run by volunteers, donations are always welcome.  You donations would go towards the feeding and housing of the dogs. Adoption fees only go so far, especially when there are so many dogs in need of rescue. And, most donations are tax deductible. Again, contact the rescue to find out how to go about this.

Administration:  You could volunteer your services in an office capacity at a dog rescue. You could help process adoption application, keep records for vet and other bills, answer telephones, handle correspondence, etc.

Advertising:  One of the most important jobs for dog rescues is trying to find appropriate homes for the dogs.  You could volunteer to put up flyers, advertise in newspapers or magazines, or even send out messages on the internet to find people who may be suited to adopt a dog from the dog rescue.

Whichever way you choose to go, dog rescues would be very grateful for any help you give them. Through caring volunteers, the dog rescue benefits and so do the dogs – and the bonus for you is the knowledge that you have helped give a needy dog a loving home.  

Stray dogs are taken to dog rescue shelters. These are places that assume care of abandoned, lost, and stray pets. They are duly licensed by the government and operate within the set standards. Most of the groups that setup and own dog shelters are non-profit organizations that would like to help the society by giving a temporary home for animals. Dogs are put into the shelters if there’s nobody to take care of them. Right now, there are several dog rescue shelters all over the world. And all of them are manned by people who are trained to handle pets, even in their most aggressive behavior. If you have lost your dog and you can’t find it around the neighborhood, you can check the local dog pound to see if they have your pet. You can then get your dog from them and make sure that it won’t stray far from home ever again.

The US has what is called the Animal Placement Bureau. They house dog of all types, breeds, and varieties. There are even some a-list dogs in their roster, like Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and Papillion. It is possible for a family to adapt a dog from this shelter. If you want to own a dog, it is best that you check out the shelter first. You are not only helping the dog find a home and a master – you are also helping the society in general.

Dogs inside rescue shelters are duly neutered and spayed. This is done to avoid mating. There are a good number of new dogs coming in into these shelters everyday. It won’t help if there is a new batch of puppies to take care of along with them. Most rescue shelters welcome cats and dogs at the same time. The animals are kept in kennels and stay there up until a person comes in and assume ownership of the dog.

Homes that need dogs either for their kids or as a guard dog are advised to check out the shelters. It is possible to find good breeds from these places at a very minimal cost. The price is way lesser than going to a breeder. If you’re an expert pet owner or has cared for a dog before, it won’t be hard for you to train a dog from a shelter and adopt it as part of your family.

However, the dog rescue shelters would be the ones to determine if you’re fit enough to adopt the dog that you chose. There are dogs found in these places that can be used as police dogs, therapy dogs, sport dogs, and guard dogs. With proper training, these pets can still be improved to help their masters with certain tasks. It is possible to spot pure breeds like Dalmatians, Labrador Retrievers, and Saint Bernard here. The larger breeds of dogs require owners who truly know how to take care of them. First time dog owners are advised strongly to get dogs of the smaller build because the big ones can be aggressive if not given the proper treatment.

It is part of your responsibility as a dog owner to give your pet the proper training if it so require. You may give such a training yourself or you can hire a professional to do the task. Either way, once you decide to get a dog from dog rescue shelters, the animal becomes your sole responsibility. You should give it the love, attention, and care that it needs.

Dog food is the animal or plant material that is used for consumption by dogs or canines. Dog treats are the special type of foods that are given as a reward to the pet, and not as a regular diet. Many people buy the readymade dog food, but few prefer to make their own dog food as per the pet’s individual requirement, and using best quality ingredients. Best diet for dogs has always been a controversial topic. Some people argue that dogs have been thriving on scraps and leftovers from their masters for several years, others feel that commercial dog food is the best choice, and few believe that commercial foods contain additives, poor-quality meats and many other ingredients that pets should not ingest, and hence they must be fed the most natural diet.

Commercial Dog Food

Most of the pet foods available in the market are either in a dry form, known as kibble, or in the wet form. Dry dog food is more convenient for the owners, is much cheaper, and can be left out for several days. Canned food becomes unappetizing after few hours, but it has a longer shelf life, and it also contains more fat and protein as compared to dry dog food.

These days, many types of dog foods are available in the market, and some of the common alternative dog foods include frozen, dehydrated, fresh and homemade foods. Freeze-dried or frozen food comes in cooked or raw form. It skips the processing stage, hence preserving the nutritional integrity.

You can see that there’s practical value in learning more about dog food. Can you think of ways to apply what’s been covered so far?

Refrigerated or fresh dog food is produced through the pasteurization of fresh ingredients. After slightly cooking, the products are quickly sealed in the vacuum package, and refrigerated till served. Homemade dog food usually comes in the bucket type package, and is preferred by many dog owners for their pets. These diets contain raw or cooked meat, pureed vegetables, ground bone, multivitamin supplements and taurine supplements. Some of these dog foods use the vitamins specifically engineered for dogs, and other use the human vitamin supplements.

Most of the commercial dog foods contain the materials that are considered undesirable or unusable by some authorities and dog owners. Some of these ingredients include grain by-products, meat-and-bone meals, horse meat and so on. Cheaper canine foods usually have less meat, and more grain fillers and animal by-products.

There are also special dog foods that are formulated for the dogs allergic to common ingredients such as wheat, corn or chicken. These foods have substitute uncommon starches and novel proteins.

Many people believe that animals living in the wild eat the natural diet, and such diet is most ideally suited for them. These pet owners are usually opposed to the commercial pet foods, and try to mimic the natural diet for their canines.

There’s no doubt that the topic of dog food can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about dog food, you may find what you’re looking for in the next article.

Everyone already more or less read, seen or heard, a history of dog having saved its Master in danger of death, and retained these rare cases (when it is not a question of urban legends) that the best friend of the man felt the danger, and did not hesitate to carry help to its Master. Reality is unfortunately very different.

Everyone already more or less read, seen or heard, a history of dog having saved its Master in danger of death, and retained these rare cases (when it is not a question of urban legends) that the best friend of the man felt the danger, and did not hesitate to carry help to its Master. Reality is unfortunately very different.

An experiment was carried out confirming this nonchalance of the pooch. In order to test their capacity to recognize an emergency case, several dogs were put in situation. In a first case, the owners of the dogs pretended the heart attack, in the second experiment, they simulated an accident into which a library was falling over them, leaving them on the ground, unconscious. Amazement, dogs were not interested in the second state in which their master was, without doubt they had better to sniff or water … In any case they did not carry help to their Master by going to seek one of the accomplices who waited wisely not far from there.

The dog behaviors can be interpreted so many ways. Dog professionals can analyze this experiment based on their past experiences. However, they will definitely agree with the outcome of this experiment.

The conclusion is that dogs (not trained to do so) cannot recognize an emergency.

If you’re a dog owner, no doubt your dog is part of the family. As your dog gets older, he or she may have needs that were not present when younger. Old dog care is an important part of your dog’s life as he or she approaches the senior years.

Different breeds of dogs age at different rates, and oftentimes, those who are “mutts” are in general hardier than purebred breeds. However, no matter the breed, at some point, a dog is going to exhibit signs of aging, and you have to be ready for this so that your beloved pet can receive the care required for an older dog.

Just like human medicine, veterinary medicine has made great strides in geriatric care, so that our pets can live longer than they ever have before. With a little bit of effort, you can provide your old dog care suitable for your faithful companion, so that he or she has a comfortable and pleasant old age.

The Aging Process

Some signs you may notice that show Fido is showing his age may include: sleeping more; eating less; being startled by noises, bright lights, or lots of activity; not coming immediately when you call (may indicate hearing loss or physical difficulties such as arthritis); a duller coat; skin with less elasticity; eyes that are not as bright or may be clouded (including the possibility of cataracts); or loss of bladder or bowel control in a dog that was previously well housetrained.

Keeping Your Senior Dog Comfy

You can provide proper old dog care so that your senior dog remains comfortable in his or her old age.

First, most dogs know, for example, that they should not be having accidents in the house. Therefore, make sure that you are soothing and comforting if your geriatric dog should happen to have an accident in the house. This is not a time to punish, because the dog is already going to feel that he or she did something very wrong. Instead, provide a comfortable spot for your old dog to lie on that’s easily washable, such as a bed or comfortable rug. That way, if an accident happens, it’s easily cleaned up. If your dog must stay out of places, such as a favorite room, where accidents simply can’t happen, use a baby gate to keep him out of that particular spot.

Second, old dog care should include regular veterinary visits to make sure your dog is up on his or her shots, and that everything is being done to make sure he or she remains healthy. One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to make sure that his or her teeth are clean and healthy. Get your dog’s teeth cleaned on a regular basis if necessary. Not only does an unhealthy mouth cause things like gingivitis, soreness, or tooth loss, but it can actually also cause other systemic problems like heart problems and arthritis.

Third, make sure you provide the proper diet for your dog. Your veterinarian can give you proper foods that are more appropriate for older digestive systems, as well as for dogs with such problems as kidney failure, heart failure, or for those who have trouble chewing.

Fourth, make sure your dog stays safe. As hearing and eyesight fail, and as coordination becomes less trustworthy, your pet may have trouble with things like stairs, and can actually fall and injure himself. Strategically placed baby gates by stairs can help ensure that your dog doesn’t take a tumble.

Fifth and finally, make sure you provide lots and lots of love to your aging pet as part of your old dog care. Remember that your pet is the same loving dog he or she always has been, with just a little more gray hair and a little less agility. Shower him or her with lots of attention just as you always have, so that he or she still feels like part of the family.

If you have not already realized, the costs of veterinary care is escalating. By purchasing a pet insurance for our pets is also a wise choice to keep pet care costs within an affordable range. As pets become an important member of our family, purchasing a pet insurance is one of the ways to ensure our pets in getting the best care it possibly deserves.

Here are the 4 simple steps to purchase your pet insurance

1) Pet Insurance Online

Since most pet insurance companies have their own websites, one of the best ways to begin your research in pet insurance is to look for them online. When you do so, you will find a wide variety of insurance options and pricing. Some companies will even give you an additional discount if you purchase their pet insurance online.

However the first thing you should do is to select a number of pet insurance companies and make sure that you only deal with those reputable companies. Therefore check to see if each company is truly legitimate by going through them with The Better Business Bureau website.

Looking for a pet insurance online enables you to look for a policy that suits your needs faster. It is also more accurate because you have access to thousands of different sites. With this much information that can be gotten so easily you will able to make an informed decision in purchasing a proper pet insurance.

2) Pet Insurance Ratings

Since the internet is so easy to access, there will also be just as many scams regarding pet insurance companies. With thousands of pet insurance websites, there is also another method to get the best pet insurance that most suits your needs. That method is by looking at the pet insurance ratings.

By reading the pet insurance ratings you are able to tell which the best pet insurance company is and which insurance company to avoid. If you look at the pet insurance ratings, you can be sure to get what you pay for.

If you are wondering where to look for the pet insurance ratings, you can find most of them done online by independent companies. This is the best done by independent companies because you know that they aren’t biased and therefore they are going to give you great information.

3) Pet Insurance Quote

Pet insurance quotes are available since 1928. Today there are numerous pet insurance quotes for you to decide one that most suitable for you and your pet. Furthermore if you get a pet insurance quote with a complete explanation from several carriers will be a very wise choice to make.

i) You can start by getting a pet insurance quote from your veterinarian. In turn, your veterinarian may offer a discount plan intended specially for his clients, or he may recommend a locally based plan that would be more suitable for you and your pet. This sort of pet insurance may be better for you than one of the bigger plans, depending on both your financial means and the breed of your dog.

ii) You can also choose to shop around and ask for pet insurance quotes from different insurance companies. When you ask for different pet insurance quotes, you will have a solid basis when you compare the services and prices of the insurance companies.

One of the reasons for getting several pet insurance quotes from different companies is that often congenital and hereditary illnesses or pre-existing conditions are not covered by pet insurance. Therefore it is best that you do a thorough research and consult your veterinarian.

iii) After you have found reliable pet insurance companies that may meet you and your pet’s needs, narrow down to at least five of them. The reason being the more pet insurance quotes you have, the more difficult it is for you to make a choice. If you want to simplify things, you can narrow down your choices right from the start.

4) Compare Pet Insurance

Since there so many pet insurance companies, you will be faced with numerous options. Therefore for you to get the best value for your money you need to compare pet insurance options and policies to see which policy is most suited for you.

Before you start your comparison:

i) You must have a general idea about what options you need for your pet. For example, basic plans are the cheapest but they also cover only the basic emergency and illness care.

ii) You also need to look at things such as deductibles, copays, and lifetime limits.

iii) You need to find out how a claim is filed and how the claim is paid. It is also useful to know what items are excluded and what items have payment limits placed on them.

iv) You should find out if you are allowed to visit the vet of your choice or do you have to use a vet recommended by them.

v) Do also find out which ones cover after hours emergencies such as accidents and sudden serious illness and that if the accident or illness is serious and your pet may require a specialist.

When you find the policy that you feel is most suitable for you then all you have to do is fill out their form which gives them your pet’s information. The pet insurance company may also set up to accept payment online.

Did you know that a dog jumping up on people is a sign of dominant dog behavior?  Dominance issues are one of the more serious dog behavior problems.  If a dominant canine is causing headaches for you, you need to stop dog jumping now.

Dominant Dog Behavior

Canines are pack animals.  Each pack has a leader who asserts his dominance over the other individuals in the group.  The leader will often do this by “jumping up” on another pack member and putting one or both front paws on the other’s shoulders.  Are you seeing any similarities here with your pup’s behavior?

Watch how two canines greet each other.  Each will stand quietly and allow the other pup to sniff him.  They don’t jump all over each other when they first meet.  This kind of behavior is very ill-mannered in the canine world, because, as mentioned above, putting front paws on another individual is a way of asserting dominance.  

In the pack, a subordinate individual would NEVER jump on the pack leader.  The leader will not tolerate this behavior if he wants to remain the leader, so he corrects the subordinate pup immediately.  

If you allow your pet to jump up on you, and you don’t correct him right away, you’re confirming to him that he’s the alpha dog in your household.  This is a sure recipe for dog behavior problems.

Controlling A Dominant Dog

It’s important that you don’t allow your pet to jump up and get his front paws on you.  If he attempts to jump up on you, turn to the side and block him with your hip.  If he manages to get his paws on you, turn your back on him and make a point of ignoring him.  Once all four feet are on the ground, tell him to “sit” and then pet him.  

Never reward him with attention for jumping up on you.  If he ambushes you and gets those front paws on you, don’t yell “no” or back away or push him off with your hands.  He’s liable to think you’re playing with him, which will make him jump even more.

A dominant dog will often demand your attention.  You must be the one who decides when he gets attention.  Ignore him when he demands that you pet him.  If he’s very insistent or pushy, use a water pistol to squirt him in the face.  When he gets down, tell him to “sit” and then pet him.  Never give in to his demands.

Make him earn your attention.  Have him sit-stay before you pet him.  Your dog needs your love and attention, but you need to give it to him on your terms, not his.

More Dog Obedience Tips

Consistency is extremely important to stop dog jumping.  You won’t be able to end any dog behavior problem if someone in your household is encouraging it.  

Spend ten minutes a day training your pup.  You’ll be amazed at what a difference even a few minutes a day will make in his behavior.

Your goal now is to look for a good dog training course so you can learn to control dominant dog behavior.  Try to find one that offers a free consultation with an experienced dog trainer, so you can avoid accidentally reinforcing problem behaviors.  With love and attention, you can stop a dominant dog jumping up on people.

We all have rules that we must follow. These rules can come from our government or can be self-imposed rules to guide our behavior. Dog’s are much the same way in that they must have rules to follow.

Dog obedience training helps show the animal how they should act and in what manner they must react to outside stimuli. Just as our past influences our behavior, a dog’s behavior is the same way.

There are a variety of places a pet can come from. It may be as a puppy from a professional breeder or it could be an animal rescue organization. He or she can also come to you later on in their doggy years as a result of owners moving, being forced to get rid of the animal or from the local pound.

If you get your companion as a grown one, it may have had training. You can get an initial idea of the dog behavior by observing the animal when you go to pick it up.

There are some things you should and should never do when it comes to dealing with dog aggression. The first understands how an aggressive dog’s stance can suggest how it will react to you. The first mistake most people make is assuming that all dogs are friendly.

They are not and you can find out this lesson in a very hard way. Always treat a new one with suspicion first. Do not immediately hug the animal or put your face on level with his or hers.

Do not make prolonged eye contact if the animal is growling or standing in a rigid way. The best way to approach an unknown one is with soft words and to allow the pet to gradually come to you.

Once the pet is in your possession you must immediately start working on the dog obedience lessons. You have to establish yourself as the dog’s Alpha. In the wild or in groups of canines, the Alpha is the leader.

He or she is the dominant one of the pack. You must be dominant over your pet in order to have the obedience lessons stick.

Dog obedience training applies to all aspects of the animal’s life, as well as your own. He must always know that you are the boss and that he must follow the rules. These rules could be house training, walking on a leash, eating food that he finds or from strangers and most importantly…not being aggressive towards other people.

Dog’s bond with their Masters and will often show signs of aggression as a way to protect the Master from outsiders or dangers perceived by the animal.

Dog’s make wonderful pets and can bring joy to you and your family’s lives. Be responsible by training your pet. If you have questions you can look on dog forums for answers from fellow pet owners.

It is essential to show love to your pet and know that he is protected. If you do not think you can handle the dog obedience classes, or can not take the time, then be responsible by allowing someone else to have the opportunity to own and love the animal.

Have you ever wished that the secrets of dog behavior training were available to anyone who wished to take their dog obedience training to a new level? The truth is that proper dog training can be simple for anyone who is willing to educate themselves on the best way to communicate with man’s best friend. In order to succeed at puppy training or adult dog training you must first understand why dogs do what they do. There are only two reasons why a dog performs any behavior:

1- To increase pleasure: Have you ever wondered why your dog pees on the floor, chews up your couch, and jumps on your guests? That’s right, these activities produce pleasure for your dog. It’s as simple as that. If these behaviors didn’t produce a fun experience then your dog wouldn’t do them. Any time you wish to correct behavior problems with your dog it is important to first realize that your dog is doing these things out of pure pleasure.

2- To avoid discomfort: Old school dog behavior training prescribed a very harsh method of correcting behavior problems and fomented a dog obedience regimen that was very disciplinarian in it’s root form. That type of dog training is unnecessary and will often do more harm than good.

Very skilled dog behavior training, though, should use humane corrections that merely provide an annoying deterrent to help correct behavior problems. Humane corrections can run the gamut from spray bottles to annoying noises all the way to training collars. Yes, used properly, a training collar can be a very valuable and humane tool for getting rid of unwanted behavior problems. It is recommended that you seek out the services of a qualified professional if you are going to use such a tool. These dog training collars are merely used to provide an annoying feeling and not a painful feeling.

In understanding these two concepts it is then much easier to formulate a training program that will fit your individual dog. With my own dogs or with the dogs of clients I always have a two-fold approach to training:

1- Obedience training must be mandatory. This is where the new school of dog trainers go wrong. The new school of dog obedience training uses lots of treats. The correction for an unwanted behavior is often a simple ignoring of said behavior. This style of dog training will never make obedience a mandatory endeavor for your dog. Think about it, if your dog has the option to come when called to get a treat or run wildly towards a busy street in the direction of a fleeing cat, which option do you think your dog will take? Likely he will head to the street and risk life and limb for the cat. This is because the owner never enforced their training efforts to the point where obedience is mandatory.

2- Obedience training must be fun. Just because something is mandatory doesn’t mean it also shouldn’t be fun. Dog behavior training is intrinsically fun for your dog because your dog gets to work side by side with you. Your dog is able to bond as he learns from you and learns a deep level of trust as you guide him along with his training. If you skip this step then you may have an obedient dog, but he sure won’t enjoy it.

I have referenced old school and new school dog training practices. Old school training is harsh and rough. New school is all fun and games. To truly have the best trained dog you need to combine the best of both schools. From the old school we use corrections to get rid of unwanted behaviors. From the new school we use a great deal of motivation and fun. The end result is the best trained dog on the block.

When you understand dog behavior training and how your dog views his world you can truly accomplish amazing things with your canine companion. Dog training can truly be made easy when you live these principles, rather than practice them at random intervals throughout the day. It’s time to get to work!

Most dog breeders are reputable people who truly care about the health and welfare of the dogs they breed. There are several things that you should look for when buying a puppy from a dog breeder. When you are purchasing a puppy from a dog breeder do not be afraid to ask to see where the dog breeder lives. A puppy is a companion that will be with you for several years. To ensure your puppy’s health you want to see the type of conditions that the puppy was born in. When you visit the dog breeders home you want to make sure that the kennel is clean and smells good.

Some puppy mills will disguise themselves as dog breeders. In order to find the right breeder you may want to ask veterinarians, boarding kennels, groomers and other pet owners in your local area who reputable dog breeders are. Another suggestion is to go to the local kennel club and ask there if they know of any local dog breeders.

When you are purchasing a puppy from a dog breeder make sure that you see the whole litter of puppies and at least one of the parents. You want to make sure that the other dogs do not have runny eyes or noses. The dogs should look healthy and well fed. A dog breeder should be knowledgeable about the type of dog you are buying. A reputable dog breeder will also ask you questions about you, your family and your lifestyle. Some dog breeders will ask you to sign a contract that specifies that it is your responsibility to take good care of the dog.

When you are buying a puppy make sure that the puppy is at least eight to twelve weeks old. There are so many kind-hearted dog breeders that care about finding each puppy a good home for life. Do not be surprised if your dog breeder makes a follow up call to see how the new dog is doing.

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

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

There are quite a few more human foods that dogs should not eat. Research any food you plan to hand over to your dog. Trying to satisfy your dogs desires, could be a devastating result. In fact, chocolate is lethal for your dog, especially dark chocolate. The ingredients in chocolate are digested and excreted by a human in as little as three hours, but the same amount of chocolate in a dog can take up to 18 hours to leave a dogs body. Here are some of the symptoms of dog chocolate poisoning: vomiting, excessive urination, hyper, diarrhea, seizure, coma or death.

Read the labels of their dog food. Dogs diets should be rich in meat protein.

If you choose to have canned dog food, look for chicken, turkey meat or pork because they will help keep your dogs coat smooth and healthy. Give the foods that have a high vegetable protein level because these foods are more easily digested and give the dogs energy. They should also receive an adequate amount of carbohydrates, such as rice, corn, oatmeal and wheat.

Dont give your dog a bone! Once bones are gnawed to where they are soft enough to eat, they will feel like splinters inside a dogs throat and this could cause them to choke.

A natural dog food diet is a great way to increase your dogs overall health. People who have tried the natural dog food diet have been very happy with the outcome. They report that their dogs have shinier coats, their eyes are brighter, they have more energy and their breath is better. The idea of a natural dog food diet is to feed your dog quality human food, not just your leftovers. If you do not take care in what type of human food you feed your dog, than instead of making him healthier, you could be leading him down the path of degenerative diseases or diabetes. Many people are beginning to give their dogs more natural dog food diets.

Some people are making the meals right in their kitchen. However, the dog food industry has recognized that owners want to give their babies a variety of healthier foods, so you can find more natural dog food manufacturers on the internet. If you do choose to make your own food, be prepared to spend a little time in the kitchen. Prepare the food ahead of time, so that you are not tempted to give in to their desires of your leftovers. This can happen if you are simply too tired to get up and make your dogs meal after spending all that time making your own meal!

There are many different dog foods available. Be sure you are choosing a dog food that is high in meat protein. Before you prepare any meals for your dog from quality human food, check to be sure that the food is not toxic to your pet.

After feeding your dog his meal, take him on a walk. This will help to ensure a healthy lifestyle for you and your dog. Bring along the pet stroller so that he can have a relaxing ride back from the park after all of the playing. He will likely be ready for a nice long nap in his dog bed after his big meal and playtime!

Making your own homemade dog food with this recipe is easy and will give your dog the best all natural dog foods available. Just remember that in the wild your dog would catch small prey and eat the whole thing. This consisted of the meat, bones, organs, even the heart, brain and eyes (which are high in taurine). The vegetables they would get were in the stomach and digestive tract of the animals already partially digested. If you make your all natural dog foods to imitate your dogs prey hey will enjoy optimum health and love you for it.

Meats need to be fed one animal at a time. In the wild your dog would not eat more than one kind of meat at once. The meat should be ground or served in chunks which are easier to eat. Larger pieces will cause your dog to hold them with their feet to rip the meat apart, which can get messy.

Do not feed any fat that has been cooked which can lead to problems with your dog’s pancreas. Remember in the wild your dog would only get the fat that was on the animal and eaten raw. Use the skin that comes on the meat of in the case of beef the fat riddled throughout the meat.

Meats that cause trichinosis should never be fed like pork, bear, seal, ground squirrels, etc. However specialty meats like moose, ox, venison or bison are very pure and nutrient dense and can be fed in smaller quantities occasionally. Soft boiled eggs are also a good protein source, feed shells and all.

Organ meats are also very nutrient dense so use organ meat sparingly in your homemade dog food recipe. Either feed organ meats a couple of times a week for the meat portion or feed small amounts daily. Brains, heart and eyes are very high in taurine which is an essential amino acid for a healthy dog.

Vegetables are also essential in the best all natural dog foods. Remember to shred vegetables in a blender or food processor, your dog was used to getting them predigested in the wild. Use 3 or four different kinds of vegetables, preferably different colors to receive a wide variety of nutrients. The darker the vegetable, the more nutritious it will be in your all natural dog foods homemade dog food recipe.

It is best to avoid vegetables from the nightshade family like eggplants, green peppers, potatoes, onions, chives, garlic and tomatoes. These vegetables are associated with arthritis problems. Spinach also has a high oxalic content which can lead to kidney stones.

The best ingredients for the best all natural dog foods in your homemade dog food recipe are free range or organic meat because of the amount of toxins in meat and organic vegetables or peel the skin or wash with a spray to remove pesticides. Organic is always the best choice for all natural dog foods. Warm purified water is also an essential element in the best homemade dog food recipe. If these ingredients are not available use what you have, because it will make better all natural dog foods than you can purchase. Do not make your homemade dog food recipe because you cannot get all organic, what you make will be much more nutritious than any all natural dog foods you can buy.

Mix the meat at about 75% with the vegetables about 25% of the homemade dog food recipe. Puppies need a little more meat to vegetables since they are growing. Mix enough warm water to make a stew consistency. Meat and vegetables should be raw with the vegetables shredded finely. If you see vegetables in your dogs stool they are not chopped fine enough.

Your dog will eat until he is full. A good rule of thumb is about a pound of all natural dog foods per fifty pounds of your dog’s body weight. Do not feed your dog again until he has eliminated the previous meal or this can cause digestive problems for your dog. Always introduce any change in your dog’s diet slowly, increasing the new food daily until you have switched your dog over to the new all natural dog foods.

Using these simple guidelines you can make your dog the best all natural dog foods from your own homemade dog food recipe so your dog can enjoy optimum health. Your dog will love you for it.

We as dog owners need to be aware of the deadly parasites that walk our earth. Our dogs stand a chance of being introduced to more of them than we may know. Even though most stages of problems to external parasites are only minor, they still need to be looked into. Dogs that hold a large infestation can sometimes bit and scratch parts of their bodies. Corresponding with that, usually dogs that bite themselves harm their own body in someway.

The myth that dog fleas do not bite humans is very much false. This is a scary thought, but it is in fact entirely true. They do prefer the company of dogs more, but that does not stop them from what they do. Most families ignore dog fleas and it is a serious problem of infestation. Taking care of fleas is very simple and usually cost productive.

The most common parasite that gets into the canine body is roundworms. The name roundworms gives a good explanation as to what they actually are. Roundworms pass from dog to dog through touching of the saliva and noses and such, but can also be passed from simply being in the dirt for an amount of time before they die.

The main parasite that sticks to the outside of the canine skin is called the tick. This is a common fear of humans due to their very ugly spider like appearance. The tick is not really the dangerous part, but what the tick spreads is. What they do is jump from dog to dog sucking the different blood types of the canine and mixing them at times. As you can imagine, the mixing of blood is always dangerous with disease.