Aug 27 2010

Learning About The Idea Behind Pet Shock Collars

It’s been shown to be true that shock collars are an effective way to impact your pets behaviors. Some say they are cruel, but others indicate they are not only safe, but they are remarkably effective on managing your pets.

You should still take a long hard look at how to use these tools.

The shock collar works by administering a small electric jolt to an animal’s neck whenever it senses a high rate of vibration from the animal’s vocal chords. The level and intensity of the shock is minimal and only meant to dissuade a continued behavior.

People compare the feeling of the shock to the shock one gets from static electricity or from a small battery. It is fairly uncomfortable, but advocates insist it isn’t actually painful and it is very short term.

You should know what size of collar to buy before you buy it. Use a tape measure to get an accurate measurement of your animal’s neck. If you don’t have one of those, get a string or ribbon and wrap it once around the animal’s neck. Then measure that length with a ruler. Collars generally come in three sizes: Small, medium and large.

When you receive your new collar, you should be able to set its level. Collars are capable of administering a range of shock levels; you should begin with the lowest level of electricity. If your pet doesn’t respond to that level, you can increase it until it reaches a functional level.

You shouldn’t have to use the shock collar indefinitely. Once your pet ceases the target behaviors, you can stop utilizing the collar. It is only meant to be used as long as necessary.

Your pet will always associate the target bad behaviors with the unpleasantness of the shock collar. If the animal backtracks into bad behavior, you can reinstate the use of the collar as long as necessary.

See additional articles created by this writer about things such as closet shoe storage and recessed lighting fixtures.

categories: pets,animals,dogs,training,product reviews,safety,family,home,science,information,psychology,research,sales

Aug 24 2010

Always Do Some Research When Getting A Dog

If you are thinking about getting a golden retriever, make sure you do your research beforehand. Different breeds are cared for in different ways, and you should make sure that a golden retriever is the best match for you and your lifestyle before buying one.

Learn about the disposition of the dog you want. Some breeds are more aggressive than others while others are very calm and lazy. Some people don’t mind having a tennis ball tossed at their feet every five seconds, but it can drive other people crazy. So it’s important to know what you’re getting into.

Grooming is another thing to consider when buying a dog. A lot of people don’t have the time to spend hours brushing and clipping their dog’s hair. People like this should invest in a low maintenance breed that does not require much grooming Attention also, people may not want to go for extensive walks; you may prefer to just walk outside for a few minutes and come back in. If this is the case, you do not want a breed that needs plenty of exercise. A frustrated dog can become rather destructive.

You need to know how to take care of a dog before you get one. Giving up an animal because you did not do your research and found out that they needed more care than you are willing to give is irresponsible and unacceptable.

One thing you should do when you buy a golden retriever online is ask the breeder about the dog’s immunizations. Find out what shots it has had and which ones it will need in the future.

All dogs should be spayed or neutered if you do not intend to breed them. This prevents unwanted dogs from being born and ending up in the pound, seized by animal control and destined for euthanasia.

Knowing about the trainability of your chosen breed is also important. Many dogs get sent to the hounds simply because their owners are too frustrated and impatient to train them properly. Some breeds are harder to train than others; do not get a hardheaded breed if you know you will not have the patience for it.

Some breeds also run into health complications at some point in their lives. It’s important to know this so you can be prepared, and awareness can help you provide the proper living conditions for your pet.

Check out more of this author’s articles regarding products such as solar skylight tube and electrical blinds.

categories: pets,dogs,animals,home,family,happiness,lifestyle,research,dog breeds,training,health,food,diseases,finance

Aug 21 2010

The Process Of Crate Training Dogs

Being consistent and not giving up on your dog is what it takes to get started in Crate Training Dogs. Many dog trainers recommend this process to get your dog housebroken. Having a dog go to the bathroom in the house is not acceptable, so this is an easy way to train.

A dogs natural instincts is not to soil his sleeping area or den. When the dog learns that the crate is his special place then he will not soil his sleeping area. A dog likes to have his sleeping area clean like we do.

A dog in a crate is very important. It protects them in an airplane, car or a bus. If he is used to it, then he will not bark and whine while traveling. If leaving dogs at home it gives them a safe place to wait, especially if the outside weather is bad.

If you feel a punishment is needed for a dog, do not put it in the crate. The dog needs to know that it is his safe place to be and not a bad place where he gets locked up.

Pets need to learn the rules of the house, just like people do. Chewing on things that are not for dogs is a very important lesson to be taught. It takes time to learn this lesson so a crate or cage will help them to learn. Remember that time and patience is very important, and this could take more time than you expect, depending on the dog.

When choosing a crate, their are lots of choices. The plastic ones are nice and usually have a locking door and a feeding dish. Fabric cages are pretty good but owners need to stay with their pet. Metal cages collapse making it easy to pack in a car, and does not take up much space. A dog needs to be able to turn around and stand up in the cage, to be the right size.

Now that the crate has been bought a person can get started in the training. Put it in a place where the family spends some time. Leave the door open and put a towel or blanket in it. Put some toys to entice him in the cage. Put some food on the outside of the door then gradually move the food inside.

Some dogs will whine because they do not want to be in the crate. After the whining stops the dog can be let out. It is important to not let the dog have his own way. Be sure there is plenty of food and water in it.

It is important not to leave him in the crate too long. Puppies will need to go outside during the night. Do not crate a dog for more than four hours at a time. If a person is gone all day, make arrangements for your pet. He should not be crated all day and again at night.

Keeping a crate close to you will help with night crying. Dogs get lonely and want to be with their masters. If the dog has to go to the bathroom then take him. If he is whining merely because he wants out then make him stay in the crate. Usually the whining will last for a few nights when he first comes home.

Taking your pet out regularly will help him learn. After you feed him, when he wakes up, and before he goes to bed should all be times to go outside. Pick a spot for him to use and he will go there again. Exercise your dog to keep him healthy and happy.

Searching to find out more about the steps to crate training, then visit TW Bell’s site on how to pick the best dog crate for your animals needs.

categories: dog,crate,training,dog crate,crate training,dogs,puppy,pets,animals,obedience,home

Aug 20 2010

How Dogs Get To Learn Simple Commands

Most people say that an old dog can still learn some new tricks but you cannot teach the cat any tricks. This is because the pet owners know that it is very difficult to get the cat to learn and most of the feline lovers have all but given up on this. Well, the real facts are that cats can be taught anything you want them to learn.

Just to apply the basic rules of behavioral training, you are able to give rewards to instill in them any good behavior, and of course you use punishments to force them to obey instructions. Just reward the cat each time it is called and it obeys.

The next step would be to choose what you want to get the cat to do. If you want to be able to walk the cat on a leash for example, you would just go purchase a collar and put it by the cat’s bed.

It will soon get used to seeing that collar constantly, so the next thing is to put the collar around its head before you give it food. Next step follows when you start allowing it to remain with the collar on its neck for a few days. It will definitely get used to wearing it and so when the time comes for the walk, just slip a leash on the collar and voila, ready to go.

Another hurdle is how to get the cat to use the toilet. Here you will need a litter box which you place next to the toilet on the floor, and raise the toilet lid.

You would then use a pile of newspapers to move the litter box higher and higher till it reaches up to the toilet bowl.

Keep the litter box secured by a metal bowl for some time till the cat becomes used to it. Later remove the box and before you know it, the cat will be using the toilet automatically.

Of course you will have to be very patient and take a lot of time to get this done, but it will be rewarded when the cat begins to do exactly what it is told.

Aside from training your dog, this author additionally regularly contributes articles about thermostat with remote and digital programmable thermostats.

categories: pets,dogs,animal,home,family,training,education,psychology,behavior,dog training,lifestyle,outdoors,learning,house

Aug 06 2010

Choosing The Proper Dog Crates For Your Pets

In a pet-friendly culture, you see man’s best friend everywhere- in homes, parks, spas and even restaurants. Today’s dogs enjoy privileges within the community that they never had in the history of their domestication. Dogs are loyal companions that provide security, affection and in some cases- can be trained to aid their owners for work and other specific purposes. So, for dog’s on-the-go, the most essential accessories to have are dog crates.

Crate selection is a necessary process in training your dog. You will need to purchase a crate that is big enough for your dog to stand and lie in it comfortably. Be advised that if you buy a bigger kennel your dog may eliminate in the corner, so it is important to get the right size. Take two measurements, taking from the shoulder down to the floor and from the head to the base of the tail then add three inches to both measurements. This gives you a figure on the minimum height and length of the kennel you need to purchase. If you are considering getting a dog crate for your puppy, purchase a wire crate with a divider panel. A divider panel is cost-efficient because it is versatile enough to adjust the crate as the puppy grows.

Dog crates come in many types and features. Generally, there are three types of kennels that are available to you at pet stores, these are wire, plastic, and metal crates. They come in different shapes, colors, sizes, features and some of them can be customized to suit you and your baby love’s needs.

Wire carriers are long lasting. They are cost effective and require less maintenance. Because the sides are corrugated, it has superb air flow. These kennels are resistant to corrosion, equipped with a sliding pan, and is easy to fold up and put away.

For air transports, airlines would advise you to use plastic dog crates as they weigh less and allow for optimum airflow in the confined space of the aircraft. To avoid upsetting your animal during the ride, it is wise if you get it accustomed to being in a crate prior to the flight. You would to risk traumatizing your pet.

Metal or aluminum crates are heavy duty. They are perfect for big, heavy canines. They come in collapsible varieties; most of these crates are pre-assembled and easy to clean. Although, they are slightly heavier than most crates, they are useful for traveling. Be sure you purchase the one with proper ventilation. Some aluminum crates are airline approved. Check on further airline guidelines before purchasing.

With all the fully-customized pet accessories we can access through your local pet store or on the internet, finding the best dog crate to fit your needs, lifestyle and your pets personality is an easy task indeed. Sizes and embellishments are yours for the asking if you find the right supplier.

The ease of mobility afforded to you by these dog crates is truly invaluable as they give your dog the opportunity to travel with you in style and comfort. The journey you take will be made all the more memorable if you take your best friend along.

Looking to find out more about the steps to crate training, then visit Tim Bell’s site on how to select the best dog crate for your animals needs.

categories: crates,crate training,training,dog training,puppy training,puppies,pets,animals,pet health,kids,home and family,home

Aug 03 2010

Tools To Help With Dog Training On Your Own

Dog behavior training is a very long and complicated process; this is mainly because your dog do not understands what is expected of them when you are starting out for the first time, and despite the fact that most of the time they truly want to please you. To make things even more difficult for you, they generally have a very short attention span, and thus before you decide to quit trying altogether, you should consider some of the tips and aids below to help you out.

Instead of punishing your dog every time they fail to perform a task that you ask, why not try the reward model instead? This can be done by having a reward in place every time they do something that you ask, whether potty training or simple training, rewarding them accordingly is can increase their affection and reinforce their behavior, rather than punishing them which sometimes can have more negative effects than positive ones. Include this positive reinforcement as part of your do training and you’ll soon see the results you want!

If you are more of a tools and items guy when it comes to training your dog, then be sure to only use ones that have been proven successful by previous owners when it comes to training your dog. Choke collars, chains are usually ineffective and can be considered as downright abusive when it comes to training your dog, as such consider having a sturdy collar and a good leash as all you need to do is to give your dog a slight reminder by a tug instead of the choke collar when you want them to stop barking.

You will also find others training aids such as toys and grooming brush for your pet, and this can be a very enjoyable and effective way to train your dog. Couple these tools in your reward models and you will find that your dog too enjoy a little fun and games, aside from just snacks.

Finally, if you view dog training as a boot camp or discipline training for your dog, then you want to reconsider the view. It should be as fun as it gets and more of a relationship bonding instead, gaining affection and loyalty of the dog is part of it and you will never get a more satisfying feeling that that.

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Jul 22 2010

How To Effectively Crate Train Your Dog

Are you getting a new dog? Have you thought about all the training you are going to need to stay on top to have the behavior that will be acceptable in your home from a dog? Training a new dog, especially a puppy, is going to require a lot of your time and patience. However, it is all worth every second for the bond that is formed between you and your pet. One way to effectively train a dog or pup is with dog crate training.

The most effective crate training will be with a young pup. Many older dogs might have had a bad experience with a former owner concerning a crate. If you do adopt an adult dog that refuses crating, you should consult with a vet about the gentle ways to reintroduce it to him. Pups, however, need to be started in all parts of their training as soon as possible, especially when it comes to crating.

Keep up with the amount of time you leave your pup or adult dog in a crate, puppies should never spend longer than a couple of hours at a time inside it. Older dogs crate time may vary, but never leave them for longer than they would spend taking a nap. Being locked up too long inside a crate will create anxiety issues about you and being inside the crate. If you are using a crate to house train, make sure to take him out as soon as he wakes up.This is true for adults and puppies.

If you are using a crate to house train an adult dog, the same thing applies to them as it does with puppies. The only difference is adults will have fewer trips outdoors than do puppies. Make sure your dog associates his crate with pleasure and resting time. This will help him in realizing the crate is truly his own place, his secure den.

While training an adult dog or a puppy to be house broken, you should always remember to never use the crate as punishment for accidents. If you scold your dog and place him inside the crate, he will begin to associate the crate with negative feelings. If he does have an accident, gently scold him and take him outside right then.

Making sure your dog associates his crate with good times like sleeping and eating can be done by feeding him inside it or next to it. Many trainers suggest introducing a crate with the positive reinforcement of food and treats. Dogs, even puppies, also have the instinctive want to potty away from their place of rest and eating. This will help even more with house training.

If you would like to ensure a dog accepts his crate, you can do so by putting his bowl of food into the crate. When he goes in the crate to eat, gently close the door behind him. Do this every time you feed him. After the food is eaten, let him stay inside a crate for a few minutes, then open the door. Let him come out only when he feels like it. The more you do this, the more it will occur to him the crate is his secure place.

Most dogs, especially puppies, have a chewing fetish. This would be alright if they would only chew up their toys, but for some reason, dogs seem to be attracted to those items you treasure. One reason for this is the love they have for you and your things have your scent on them. Dog crate training works well in containing your pet long enough for you to go do the grocery shopping or to a doctors appointment. However, if you are going to be gone too long, find alternative ways to keep your dog from chewing things up. Pet sitters are great for times like these.

Polly Browder is a professional dog trainer and groomer. For more information about dog crate training visit PetsPavilion.com.

categories: training,dogs,pets

Jul 10 2010

Electric Dog Fence - Use Caution In Training

It is not difficult to condition a dog to an electric dog fence system if you understand your dog’s personality or temperament. By understanding your dog’s personality and not trying to prematurely rush to get your dog contained on an electric fence for dogs, you can be sure your dog will adapt safely and easily to the boundaries of his/her property.

If training isn’t done correctly, dogs can be afraid to even go outside. Poor training can cause dogs to use the home as a place to do its business. It can cause more fearful and timid tendencies to grow. Improperly trained dogs can repeatedly run through the invisible fence and sometimes can never be contained.

It doesn’t take any longer or any more work to do it right from the beginning. I am sure your dog would feel the same way if he/she could express it to you. Done properly, a dog does not have to fear the electric dog fence system; but, will look forward to playing and getting exercise in the yard every day.

What is the best way to train a dog to the invisible dog fence? Use a professional dog trainer. The little fee paid for his/her services will present a dog that adjusts easily to its boundaries. A properly trained dog will not test a boundary as much; thus, there will be less chance of him escaping the system. Also, a properly trained dog will not be afraid of the invisible fence for dogs; but respect it and its outer limits.

There are very few electric dog fence companies that require each dealership to have a professional dog trainer on staff; but, that would be a company high on my list.

As a rule electric dog fence companies use the guy who installs the fence to help teach your dog. Would you let your landscaper teach you Quantum Mechanics? Nope. Neither should you allow someone not qualified to train your precious family member to the system. Don’t believe or assume a company has a true professional trainer for conditioning. Let them prove it by providing you obedience references, certifications, etc.

In conclusion, the invisible fence for dogs is an incredible invention for keeping dogs at home. Search for an electric dog fence company that has good quality products and employs professional trainers. If a dog does run through the invisible dog fence boundary, the professional dog trainer should provide a training and conditioning resolution to correct it.

categories: dog,home,family,pets,dog training,shopping,product reviews,advice,reference,training

Jul 09 2010

Learn To Control Your Dog To Stop Him Chewing

Whenever your pet starts to give you trouble, like biting, chewing or barking, then it’s time to take control of your dog and help him to understand what’s right and what’s wrong. The bond between a man and his dog is so strong, but only if you take the time to properly teach him the way to act in the home and around other dogs.

The Right Way of Teaching Him

Taking control of your dog to stop him chewing means that you need to approach your dog training in the right way. You’re expecting your dog to put effort into learning what you’re teaching him, which means you also need to put effort into praising him when he does well.

Be Consistent

Once you do start the training, you’ll need to make sure that you keep it up consistently. This means working on it each and every day, and not letting sessions run on for hours at a time - otherwise this will overload him! You’ll just get frustrated if you push it too far.

Stop Him From Chewing By Understanding Its Cause

When your dog chews, he might do it for any number of reasons - so you should start thinking about this and incorporate it into his training. For example, he might get separation anxiety when you go out, in which case you need to slowly build up the length of time you go out for to get him used to being home alone. He might just be bored, so give him plenty of chew toys and take him out to make sure he has something to do.

Dogs will also start chewing when they’re teething, which is natural for him. It’s up to you to give him things that he is allowed to chew, and to praise him when you see him chewing the correct things. When you see him chewing things that he isn’t allowed to, tell him a firm no so he starts to understand.

These are just the beginning steps when it comes to taking control of your dog’s chewing and teaching him the way to go. It takes real patience, but it is possible for anyone to train their dog with a little effort.

Feeling lost about your dog chewing? Check out Dog Training: Chewing for steps you can take to get him to stop quickly. It isn’t as hard as you think!

categories: dog,pets,home and family,home,animals,education,resources,shopping,books,training,tricks

Jun 22 2010

Use Agility To Build Confidence In Your Dog

If your dog is timid around people or other dogs, then agility training can to build confidence in your dog. An agility class is a great place to learn about the sport and how to train your dog. But it may take some time before it is ready from your lap or under the chair.

A shy dog can only learn when it is inside its comfort zone. So all training must start where it feels safe, and all learning must be done in small increments. The best place for training and learning is probably the home.

But how do you train your dog at home? You need two things: guidelines and equipment. You can find multiple websites with information on agility training. Other options are books and videos with details, visual aids and lesson plans for both beginners and experts.

You can find a lot of equipment that is helpful and useful to have at home for dog training. All the equipment recommendations are based on location of training and the available space. Do you e.g. have a large yard with room for 10 obstacles? Or do you only have a small yard, so you have to tear down the equipment before you can setup something else up? Will the training be in the basement or garage; or maybe in the living room?

The equipment has to be safe and sturdy when training a timid dog. A good place to start your agility training is a pause table. A 12″ high pause table (preferable with adjustable legs) is a great starting point for dogs in all sizes. Setup the table in an area that the dog is familiar with. If your dog is the type that barks at everything new, you can leave in the house or yard for a couple of days before using it. Then the dog can inspect and smell it. Remember you need to use baby steps with an insecure dog.

To encourage it to get up on the table you can use treats or its favorite toy. And remember it may well take several lesson. If it loses interest, you should try something new like placing yourself on the table. Then you can either hold it or have it on leash, while you are sitting on the table. But remember only to treat it when it comes against you. Never reward it, when it is pulling away.

Eventually, you want your dog to be able to jump on the table with your cue word like Table (or whatever word you use), Stay to have it stay on the table as you back away and then Come when you call. Build your distance slowly so that your dog is not pushed too soon.

You can follow the above techniques introducing new obstacles as your dog is able to succeed. As your dog succeeds on each new piece of equipment you will see his confidence grow.

Martin Elmer is the editor of Hundefan - a website about ting til hunde. Here you can also read about hundegitter.

categories: dog,agility,equipment,training,dog agility,agility equipment,dog agility equipment,dog training,dog training equipment,dog table,pets,confidence,timid