Choosing a Trainer For Sheltie Training

The sheltie is known as intelligent and highly trainable breed of dog. But even if they are regarded as such, it is undeniably true that many of them are given up or abandoned when the cuteness and the normal behavior disappears. Shelties who end this way are actually not problematic dogs when they were born. However, many of these four-legged friends turn into little monsters when they are allowed to do so. Ignorance on the owner's part sure is a big factor in molding a dog to become aggressive, excessive barker - in general, a problematic dog that you are not dreaming of. On a positive note, sheltie problems can be treated and even prevented through sheltie training.

When talking about sheltie training, it does not necessarily mean that you are required to get a trainer for your dog. If you just want someone to accompany your dog when you're gone or someone who will take your dog for a walk when you're too busy to do that, then you need not to hire an intensive dog trainer. There is no reason for you to pay more... a dog sitter is just what you need.

On the other hand, if you intend to have a show dog or if your dog is giving you headaches, then hiring a dog trainer is a great idea. When looking for a dog trainer, the number one factor to consider is training technique. A trainer who believes in the power of humane training technique is preferable than someone who thinks that dogs can be trained and corrected by physical punishment. Positive reinforcements such as food, praise, attention or time to play are far more effective than spanking the rear or rubbing the nose in the dirt.

Observe the class first before you enroll to any training class. A good instructor will allow you to do so. When observing, notice if the trainer:

• makes the class enjoyable for you and your dog
• explains the lessons with clarity and even provides materials or handouts on how to teach a certain behavior
• encourages and assists students individually
• gives students enough time to practice and is patient and supportive towards them

You may also want to do some background check. Has he attended any formal training or a member of any dog training organization? Is he continually updating himself with the latest training technique?

If you feel uncomfortable with the trainer's method, don't take any chances. Look for another more competent trainer to be on the safe side at the same time ensure the success of your sheltie training.

Richard Cussons wants to help owners achieve success in sheltie training. Visit sheltiesavvy.com to learn advice effective in sheltie training.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Cussons

Training Dogs - Myth Five

Your Dog Feels as Though it is in Prison When You Put it in a Cage or Crate

Wrong!

Confinement means something very different to dogs and humans. To your dog it is an area they recognise as being their very own, and is somewhere they can go, and once there, know they do not have to do anything, such as protect you, alert you or even just keep you company - basically, it's an area where they don't have to make any decisions at all.

Many dog owners use crate training as a method of house-training their dog, as well as an area which will keep them safe from any potential dangers around the house.

You should make your dog's crate a comfortable place for him by adding soft bedding as well some of his toys and once your dog recognises his crate as his own "safe area" he knows it is somewhere he can go to get some peace and quiet or rest.

A few things you must remember when using crate training with your dog include:

Keeping Your Dog Safe and Out of Mischief: If you are busy with something and not able to keep an eye on your puppy or dog, this would be an ideal time to put him in his crate. It gives him the opportunity to rest or play with his toys until you have completed whatever it is you are doing.

Putting him in his crate whilst you are in the house will help him become totally used to the crate, and enjoy being in it. Then, once you know he is totally at ease whilst in the crate, you know you can safely put your dog in his crate if you need to leave the house for short periods.

Use the Crate to House-Train Your Puppy: Most dogs are unlikely to soil their own play and rest area, which makes the crate an ideal way to train your dog to hold it in until you take him to the area you have designated for him to do his business. Don't make your puppy wait too long in the crate because if he really needs to go to the toilet he will have no alternative but to go in his crate. If this does happen he could well associate going to the toilet with his crate and this could become a hard habit to break.

To learn more about Dog Behaviour and Crate Training, and to Get your Free 6 Day Course Bonus on Secrets to Dog Training (worth $27) visit http://www.train-my-dog.info. Free tips from the experts on how to train your dog the right way.

If you are having Dog Barking Problems and need some advice on how to deal with them please visit: http://www.squidoo.com/Dog-Barking-Problems.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terri_Villa

Bloat - A Fatal and Urgent Dog Problem - Learn the Ins and Outs Now

Before you start learning about bloat in dogs, first a WARNING: Did you find this page because your dog is showing symptoms of bloat right now? Then STOP reading and hurry to the vet this second! Gastric dilatation and torsion (commonly referred to as bloat) is one of the most urgent medical emergencies a dog ever faces.

Still reading because you're not sure whether it's bloat, but it looks like symptoms of bloat? Well, as I always say: 'It's better to err on the side of caution'. Now go! Ok, so you're still here and your dog is just fine at the moment. Apparently you are a responsible dog owner and reading about this topic before you actually face it.

Thumbs up for you!

Let me tell you about the symptoms, causes and remedy of gastric dilatation in dogs.

What is bloat?

Bloat in dogs is an acute and serious medical emergency that often ends in death. When bloating your dog's stomach becomes dilated with gas and twists on itself. The blood flow is blocked and the stomach cannot be emptied. The gas buildup continues and the vital organs receive not enough blood to continue functioning. If not treated quickly and effectively your dog could die from blood poisoning and toxic shock.

Symptoms of bloat in dogs and gastric dilatation - When your dog is suffering from bloat he (or she) is very uncomfortable. You may see these signs:

* A distended abdomen that might feel like a drum.
* Pace back and forth, unwilling to sit or lie down, restlessness.
* Drooling and producing more saliva.
* Panting and having trouble breathing

When you notice only some of these signs then visit your vet. The drum-like abdomen is not always seen. Be alert whenever your dog is not acting like his usual self.

Causes of bloat
The actual cause is unclear, though bloat is more often seen in large dogs with deep narrow chests (as compared to small dogs with barrel-shaped chests). Dog breeds that are at risk are: Great Danes, St. Bernards, Gordon Setters, Irish Wolfhounds, Weimaraners and Doberman Pinschers. Please note that this list is not complete and all dogs can develop this condition. Not all narrow chested dogs will experience bloat and other factors that contribute to the risk are:

* Rapid eating and gorging behavior. Dogs that eat slowly and chew their dog food carefully have a lower incidence of bloat. You can buy special dog food bowls that will reduce eating speed.
* Whether exercise right after eating increases chances of developing gastric dilatation is unclear. To be on the safe side my dog and I always go for a walk first and he gets his meal after. Better be safe, than sorry.
* A relation between stress and bloat is likely, so try to avoid that too. Happy dogs have a lesser chance of developing gastric dilatation as compared to fearful and dogs in stress situations.

Curing bloat
Speed is of the essence. Chances of loosing your furry friend range from 10 to 60 percent. When your dog is not given veterinary treatment within a few hours after the symptoms appear, he is most likely to die. Gastric torsion is such an acute life-threatening condition that when your dog develops symptoms in your absence, you could find your friend dead.

Your vet will physically examine your dog and can confirm the diagnosis using x-ray. The x-ray photo will then show a stomach that is twisted and/or distended with gas. The stomach can be decompressed by passing a tube down your dog's throat or, when impossible, multiple small cylinders through the skin into the stomach. Your vet will then have to perform surgery to return the stomach to its normal position and tack it to your dog's body wall (in order to prevent twisting in the future).

Prevention of bloat in dogs
Especially dogs that have suffered from bloat should eat multiple, small feedings per day instead of one large meal.

During surgery, your vet can attach the stomach wall to the body wall. This is the most effective means of prevention. When your dog received medical treatment, but not surgery, the risk of recurrence is quite high. In those cases, feed small meals, avoid stress and allow the food to digest before play or exercising your dog.

For more information about dog allergies visit http://www.Best-Dog-Food-Guide.com Here you will find much more dog food related information. Subscribe to the e-zine to receive the free e-book 'A bit of Tender, Love and Care for Dogs'. To stay tuned to dog food news and trends please pay a visit to http://www.dog-food-blog.com
All the best, Barbara.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barbara_Kremers

Joint Problems in Dogs - 5 Ways You Can Help!

Joint problems in dogs are never fun. The pain, swelling, and stiffness are often too much for pet and pet guardian alike. Joint problems in your dog can make your best friend feel miserable, and you... hopeless. Take heed of the following five steps. They can alleviate your dog's joint problems in no time!

1. Massage. Yes, massage! Simply take a minute or two, once or twice a day, to generously massage the muscles surrounding the affected joint. Obviously, you never actually want to touch the joint itself, but when you give a real, heart-felt rubdown to the surrounding muscles, you will relieve you dog's pain in a huge way!
2. Acupressure. This can also provide significant pain relief. Keep your dog in the lying position (you'll want your dog to lay down during the massage) so that he or she is extremely comfortable. What you'd like to do immediately following the massage is to squeeze his or her akeela's heel (the one closest to the affected joint) with your thumb and middle finger. Do it firmly, like you really mean it, for 30 to 60 seconds. Just watch your dog go into "bliss" mode while you're doing this!
3. FOOD! It is absolutely essential for getting your dog back on track to offer your buddy healthy, natural food. One ingredient in your dog's food makes all the difference between misery and happiness. That ingredient is glucosamine. Many specialty dog foods will be labeled "joint health formula." Read the ingredients. If the food is high in glucosamine, it's probably a winner!
4. Light exercise. This is important for two reasons. Firstly, you need to keep your dog's joints lubricated. Gentle movement is a great way to do this. Secondly, the lighter you keep your dog (within reason, of course), the easier his or her affected joint will have it. We're not talking about anything major, here. Just a nice walk every day should suffice. Just note the importance of managing your dog's weight.
5. Supplementation. Avoid chemical painkillers. A dog's body is not meant to handle medicine. Instead, implement a homeopathic supplement regimen. This can work absolute miracles for your dog's joint problems. Make sure your supplement contains ingredients proven to deal with pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Do these five simple things for your dog's joint problems and watch the amazing transformation happen before your very eyes!

Lee Murray is a nutritionist and dog lover who is committed to helping you make your best friend as healthy and happy as possible. You are invited to take a look at Pet Bounce, the safe, effective treatment for dog joint pain and arthritis.

Examine the incredible ingredients, see how it's helped others, and then sign up for your very own FREE trial! Your dog is going to LOVE you for this!

Go to http://DoggyJoints.com right away!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_A._Murray

Stop Dog Whining With Positive Reinforcement

While stopping dog whining can be one of the more difficult actions to control. I know that for me I always had one dog that would constantly whine about anything that he could think of. While I have tried many methods I found that some of them worked really well, while others would leave me thinking that I was wasting my time. So I thought I would share the method that I found that worked out best in helping to stop my dog from doing this behavior all the time.

The method that I found that works out best is to figure out what he is whining about. I know that at times this can be very difficult to do because they could be doing this for attention, something is wrong, they have to go potty, or a wide variety of reasons. I know that if they are doing it for attention the worst thing that you can do is give them the attention right away because then they will keep on doing that behavior each time that they want to have that reward. So the best way that you can get them to stop whining for attention would be to ignore the whine until they are quieted down and settled down some then you will be able to pet them.

I know that this might seem kind of odd that once you discover that they are doing this because of wanting attention that you just ignore them, but if you give them attention they will keep doing this. However, by ignoring them and only rewarding them when they stop the bad action they will put two and two together and stop the bad behavior.

If you do not believe me on how easy it is to stop your dogs whining problem it can be done very easily. I know that finding out what your dog is whining about is the first step, but you will want to find out even more information at dogbarkingcure.info.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Fisher

Two Fast and Easy Dog Training Programs - A Review

"Puppy Training and Dog Training Online" is a program created by Dove Cresswell, an animal trainer working in Hollywood. Her program is video based and includes several bonus items. Her training includes:

* Puppy House Training / Potty Training
* Dog Obedience Training * Crate Training
* Walking Politely on a Leash: The Informal Heel
* The Recall
* Good Puppy & Dog Manners
* Special Dog Tricks

In the entertainment business, time is MONEY... and the puppies and dogs need to be trained FAST. Each dog must perform exactly as required by the director - PERFECTLY, every time, over and over until the director yells "CUT!" At the age of 25, Dove is one of the top trainers in the industry and you can utilize the benefit of her expertise to train your dog FAST.

Beside the basic lessons listed above, the program includes several bonus items, the best of which is direct email access to her expertise.

Since the lessons are in video format, there is a flow to watching them, and some might prefer an ebook format so they could refer back to it without rewatching a video. The benefit of the video is that you hear the voice inflections Dove uses when she is training animals, and that probably speeds up the training process.

Dove Cresswell's program sells for $38.97.

"How to Train Your Dog in One Evening" is a training resource offered by Don and Ellen Langton. Their dog was peeing on their bed, barking incessantly, refusing to obey, and in general making their life miserable. The Langtons were almost ready to take the dog to the shelter, when their vet suggested this book.

Amazingly they were able to correct the bad behavior in just a couple of days. The book includes training techniques for over 80 different problems. There are contributions from a panel of dog training experts with over 80 years between them. Obedience trainers, show dog trainers, breeders, veterinary technicians...even the folks who train those police K-9 dogs.

I'm told that many of the secrets in this book have never been revealed to regular dog owners before. That they were part of the "private bag of tricks" used by these pros.It is a menu of options for specific problems.

This program will appeal to those wanting a reference for specific training issues that they can return to as needed.

"How to Train Your Dog in One Evening" is $39.95.

These two programs are both very good, and depending on your specific needs and desires, both might fill the bill. Dove Cresswell's program is geared to comprehensive training and the Langton's is designed for more specific needs. I would rate Dove Cresswell's program a 5 stars out of 5 possible, and the Langton's 4.5 stars out of 5.

Dizzy Bayles is from Socal. Check out his blog, including his preferred dog training methods at:

http://fastandeasydogtraining.blogspot.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dizzy_Bayles

The Puffin Eater - A Look at the Norwegian Lundehund

The Norwegian Lundehund (one of the rarest breeds of dogs on the planet with only about 1500 remaining) has certain qualities that no other dog breed possess. The first unusual feature of this that all four of its paws have six toes. Other dog breeds have four toes and a dewclaw. Each toe has several joints as well, allowing for a full range of motion, where as other dogs only have muscle in the toes. These extra toes allow the animal to have much better balance and able to easily travel across rocky cliffs, uneven terrain, and even propel itself through narrow cave passages while on its side as it goes after the puffin bird they were originally used to hunt. Their feet also have extra pads to walk on with 8 on each of the two front paws and 7 on each of the back.

Another unique trait Lundehunds possess that no other dog has, is the ability to stretch its front limbs to the sides at 90 degree angles from it's body. This looseness of the shoulder joints is helpful for the dog uses while climbing out onto the rocks to travel out to the nesting area of the puffin. To anyone watching this, it would appear as if the dog is able to run in a straight line across uneven ground with ease.

One trait the dog has that is unique to its breed is the ability to either fold its ears forward, closing off the auditory canals, or bend them backward and move their cartilage separately to pick up sounds with the flesh of the ear pressed back on their head...

And finally, and perhaps the most unusual talent possessed by the Norwegian Lundehund is one that only one other mammal (the Reindeer) is capable of doing. It has extra joints in its neck, which allow the dog to bend its head all the way backward over its own spine, touching its forehead to its back. Doing this effortlessly, the canine is able to manoeuvre through tight spaces when going after its prey of choice, the puffin.

My name is Darren and I own the http://www.raredogbreeds.net web site. It has info on lots of rare dog types, including this article on the Norwegian Lundehund.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_R_Sturridge

An Owner's Responsibility For Having a Well-Trained Dog

There are very few to possibly no exceptions to the rule that a poorly behaved dog is the responsibility of the owner. Dogs are usually very easy to train and there really is no excuse to have a dog that behaves badly.

If you are going to be a dog owner, the most important thing that you will need to do is to establish a pack order. You must be the alpha dog. Dogs are natural pack animals and they adhere closely to pack order. You and every human member of the family must be above the dog in the pack order. That means that when a human family member speaks, they listen and obey.

Dogs are unlike humans. They cannot reason. You are not being mean to your dog when you insist that he obeys you. You have to be the leader and he will love you more for it.

In order for your dog to be safe and your family to be happy, you need to be able to control your dog. When you say, "stop" he needs to stop. When you say, "Sit", he needs to sit. In short, when you are the leader of the pack, he needs to respond to you and when you establish yourself as the leader he will always respond to you.

There are a few tips that are important to consider when training your dog. First off, dogs respond to positive reinforcement. You can always get better results with praise and treats than you can with negative reinforcement, such as anger and yelling.

It is best to ignore bad behavior while rewarding good behavior. If you respond to bad behavior you could end up creating fear in your dog instead of obedience and compliance. Also, again remember that dogs cannot reason. They truly do not understand why you are angry at them.

In order to reinforce behavior you must respond to your dog immediately, otherwise he will not associate the wanted behavior with the reward and you will be spinning your wheels. As soon as he exhibits the desired behavior you must reward him. You can reward your dog with treats, praise, toys or even just a pat on the head. He will respond to loving and positive rewards no matter what form they take.

After your dog understands what you are asking and he is consistently doing what you ask, then you need to only reward him intermittently. Intermittent reinforcement is actually more effective for cementing in the behavior than giving him a reward every time.

If you are consistent with your training efforts, your dog can become well trained quickly and easily. Just be sure that you are the alpha and that you consistently expect the best results from your dog.

Discover some of the best dog obedience training advice at UniversityDog.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Lynch

Stop Dog Barking - 2 Step Dog Behavior Success

A dog's natural instinct is to bark when they feel their territorially is being compromised by another dog or human visitors. They consider it their obligation to alert you of an impending threat to your property, which is of course, their property as well. In some cases, dog owners appreciate the warning that their dog bark provides them however, excessive dog barking can become a behavior problem, and here we look at some practical tips, which will allow you to control your dog's behavior and will with patience, cease excessive dog barking.

As soon as you observe your dog excessively barking at visitors or passers-by to your property the first thing to consider is rather than disciplining the dog, will be to teach ourselves and the animal that this type of behavior should be rewarded. Inconsistent commands by dog owners are the primary reason for excessive dog behavior and the key you and your dog need to learn is consistency.

Inconsistent messages given by you to your dog will develop into confusion and an inability for your dog to retain any of the learned behavior which you're trying to teach.

Follow these simple dog behavioral techniques for instant success;

1. Whenever your dog barks at visitor passing by your property allow him to bark for two or three occasions. It is important to praise your dog alerting you of the impending visitor, and should, however gently request that the dog is now quiet. If the dog ceases to bark for a few seconds praise him and offer them a reward. This will help focus your dog on the command.

2. Provide them with a treat as soon as they are quiet and consistently praised them for doing so. Ultimately, any discipline directed at the dog should be for disobeying your command rather than the barking itself (this applies to any dog behavioral problems). As above, always be consistent with your dog. You will always be setting yourself up to fail if you offer him or her inconsistent messages.

While it will take several occurrences for your dog to learn that barking is not a bad behavior, consistent messages applied by you to reward quietness after the act will remedy the problem of excessive dog barking. This technique can also be applied for many other dogs behavioral issues and this simple two stage process of command and reward is excellent practice for the future. It will ensure that you and your dog relationship will blossom upon mutual respect and understanding.

As we have just learned, consistent and confident commands are the key to dog training success and it cannot be over emphasized how important the early stages of a dogs development are for the future prosperity of both dog and owner. Puppy Training Dogs would like to invite you to effectively and simply learn the best principles required in training your dog. This unique technique, developed specifically for new dog owners, has helped thousands of people promote and maintain the best relationships between dogs and owners. Visit Puppy Training Dogs to participate in this valuable course.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Brielle

A dog's natural instinct is to bark when they feel their territorially is being compromised by another dog or human visitors. They consider it their obligation to alert you of an impending threat to your property, which is of course, their property as well. In some cases, dog owners appreciate the warning that their dog bark provides them however, excessive dog barking can become a behavior problem, and here we look at some practical tips, which will allow you to control your dog's behavior and will with patience, cease excessive dog barking.

As soon as you observe your dog excessively barking at visitors or passers-by to your property the first thing to consider is rather than disciplining the dog, will be to teach ourselves and the animal that this type of behavior should be rewarded. Inconsistent commands by dog owners are the primary reason for excessive dog behavior and the key you and your dog need to learn is consistency.

Inconsistent messages given by you to your dog will develop into confusion and an inability for your dog to retain any of the learned behavior which you're trying to teach.

Follow these simple dog behavioral techniques for instant success;

1. Whenever your dog barks at visitor passing by your property allow him to bark for two or three occasions. It is important to praise your dog alerting you of the impending visitor, and should, however gently request that the dog is now quiet. If the dog ceases to bark for a few seconds praise him and offer them a reward. This will help focus your dog on the command.

2. Provide them with a treat as soon as they are quiet and consistently praised them for doing so. Ultimately, any discipline directed at the dog should be for disobeying your command rather than the barking itself (this applies to any dog behavioral problems). As above, always be consistent with your dog. You will always be setting yourself up to fail if you offer him or her inconsistent messages.

While it will take several occurrences for your dog to learn that barking is not a bad behavior, consistent messages applied by you to reward quietness after the act will remedy the problem of excessive dog barking. This technique can also be applied for many other dogs behavioral issues and this simple two stage process of command and reward is excellent practice for the future. It will ensure that you and your dog relationship will blossom upon mutual respect and understanding.

As we have just learned, consistent and confident commands are the key to dog training success and it cannot be over emphasized how important the early stages of a dogs development are for the future prosperity of both dog and owner. Puppy Training Dogs would like to invite you to effectively and simply learn the best principles required in training your dog. This unique technique, developed specifically for new dog owners, has helped thousands of people promote and maintain the best relationships between dogs and owners. Visit Puppy Training Dogs to participate in this valuable course.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Brielle

Man's Best Friend and Toxocara Infection in Children

There are so many reasons to teach young children to keep their fingers out of their mouths and not to eat dirt. Add the fact that there are so many dogs and puppies using our yard for a bathroom; your own, a neighbors, even a stray.

In the United States, most puppies and many adult dogs are infected with the roundworm, Toxocara canis.

Infection of the adult dog with this parasite happens when they ingest eggs from the contaminated environment. The puppies usually get this parasite from the mother before birth through her milk. The puppies will start passing eggs in their feces by 3 weeks of age.

This parasite can be spread to humans by ingestions of eggs from the soil or from contaminated hands. Most at risk are young children under 5 years of age, especially those with a history of eating dirt and exposure to puppies.

One study showed that 20-60% of soil samples from backyard residences, public parks and children's sandboxes were contaminated with Toxocara canis eggs. Though it is found throughout the U.S., diagnosis of disease in children is made most frequently in the south.

Light infections in humans are usually asymptomatic, and probably occur quite frequently.

Human infection with Toxocara usually takes one of two forms; visceral larval migrans (VLM), this is where the larvae migrate aimlessly. They usually end up migrating to the liver, but almost any tissue can be invaded.

The other more rare disease is ocular larval migrans (OLM), where the larvae enter the eye where permanent vision loss is possible.

The diagnosis of Toxocara is usually based on clinical signs, history of exposure to puppies, laboratory findings (including eosinophilia), and the detection of antibodies to Toxocara. Stool samples are not useful for examination since the larvae don't mature to adults in humans. Anti-parasitic drugs are available for treating VLM. You cannot treat OLM with antiparasitics and is usually left to trying to prevent more damage to the eye.

The best treatment may be to increase prevention by reducing the accidental ingestion of eggs.

Prevention measures include:

• keep the dogs & puppies under a veterinarian's care for early and regular deworming
• clean up after the pet and dispose of stool
• keep animals' play area clean
• wash hands after playing with dogs or cats
• keep children from playing in areas where animals have soiled
• cover sandboxes to keep out animals
• Don't let children eat dirt.

I have over 20 years experience in clinical and public health microbiology and infectious diseases. I want to enlighten and inform about infectious diseases that could affect you, rare and common, and what you can do to protect you and your family from these dreaded afflictions. See more of my work at http://www.examiner.com/x-7707-Tampa-Disease-Prevention-Examiner

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_Herriman

Be a Volunteer to Walk Dogs at the Humane Society - It's Good For You

Imagine if you were locked up in a small cage all day. Wouldn't you get excited if someone came along to take you out? The dogs at the humane society experience this every day. Sometimes a volunteer comes along to take them for a walk. This is usually the highlight of their day and makes them happy. Why not volunteer at the humane society yourself? The dogs would love it and it could also be good for you.

Any time you volunteer for a good cause, it should make you feel great about yourself. It's called generosity. But when you walk dogs, you get something special in return. You get a new companion that instantly loves you. And, companionship is good for you. Sure, they're not human beings and there's no substitute for human interaction, but companionship is companionship, no matter what. And, dogs provide that.

Not only that, volunteering to walk dogs at the humane society is good for your health, too. North Americans don't exercise as much as they should. Perhaps exercise just bores them. Think about how much more interesting it would be to get your exercise while walking dogs. It sure beats the mundane thought of walking by yourself. And, yes, walking is considered exercise.

Most people have time to spare. Just think about all the hours you spend in front of the television every week. If you take just two hours away from TV time, you too could find the time to do volunteer work at the humane society. Like I said, it's good for you!

Tino writes a blog about lottery winners stories, which includes stories about people that have won big jackpots in lottery games.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tino_Sundin

Dog Agility Training - The Benefits For Your Dog

A dog's happiest moment should be spent running, jumping, catching, and stretching; dog agility training can really help turn idle dogs into active dogs that age gracefully and happily. You might be surprised to learn that the hardest part is starting, but once you have started the sense of achievement as you and your dog progress is reward in itself. Dog agility training can be great fun for both you and your dog as it consists of high energy and quick thinking movements. Dog agility training has many benefits it can

* Transform an idle dog into an active one * Increase your dogs confidence * Improve physical development * Allows for mental stimulation with its quick thinking movements * Most of all is fun

How Does Dog Agility Training Work

Through verbal cues or body language given by the instructor a dog that is off the leash is guided through a range of obstacles. The trainer needs to be aware of the course and the order of the obstacles and the dog needs to focus on the trainer and the cues given by them to conquer each obstacle.

In an obstacle course you will find a variety of exercises such as

* Jumping through a tyre * Running through tunnels * Running up and down a frame * Weaving through poles * Jumping across barriers

Training your dog

When you begin to train your dog you need to take into consideration the dog's maturity.

Dog agility training can only begin when your dog reaches a certain maturity and can respond well to basic commands. Each dog has their own starting points, for smaller dogs which weigh less than 50 pounds you need to wait till they are 9-12 months old for large dogs you will need to wait till they are around 10-14 months. If you begin training your dog too early you are putting them at risk of causing serious injuries.

A Few Rules To Consider

* The first few times your dog goes through the obstacles, ensure that you go at the dogs pace and make sure that it is a fun experience for them.

* Ensure that your dog is under control and listens to your commands this will decrease any risk of potential injuries.

* Treats and happy talk to encourage your dog through the obstacles are a must. Keep the mood happy and positive.

* Reward your pet when they have reached a goal and have performed a correct action. Gradually teach each obstacle first and then join then together to form the course.

* If your dog does not want to participate do not force them, the sport is intended to be fun for both you and your dog. If your dog does not want to initially participate then stop and bring then back to it in a couple of days.

* Have fun and always end your training on a positive note.

Like everything we all need to start somewhere and your dogs agility training is no different. Having a positive attitude and guidance your dog can master the world of dog agility training.

About the Author

For more information on what obstacles to choose for dog agility training then visit http://www.dogbeddingandmore.com

Dig Leash Training

Dogs walk faster than humans can. Naturally, if you put them on a leash, they'll start pulling to get to whatever they're looking at faster. A dog, having what is called an opposition reflex, would lean on a pressure it feels on its neck and chest. Understanding this makes it clear that if you want to have a leisurely walk with your dog on a leash, you must begin dog leash training while your pet is still a few weeks-old puppy.

Begin by allowing your dog time to get used to the collar around his neck. When you put it on for the first time, your puppy will scratch, roll around or try to get it off. Make sure you fasten the collar securely and don't remove it when the dog is trying to. When he finally calmed down and shows signs of being comfortable with it, you can remove the collar for a short while. This teaches the dog two important things: first, that the collar won't come off when he wants it so he'd best get used to it and second, the collar is not a permanent attachment. Check the collar regularly to make sure it isn't too tight. Your dog grows in size and you need to adjust the collar regularly.

When the dog is ready, attach a leash to the collar and allow the dog time to adjust to the leash. Allot a few minutes every day to for leash training with your puppy and have some treats handy. Your goal is to be able to walk around with your dog on a leash without him pulling at the other end. This means you should be able to stand still with your dog and walk around at your pace, not his.

To get started, fasten the collar securely around your pup's neck and attach the leash. Hold the other end securely. Try and have the dog stand still beside you. When he starts to wander too far and pulls on the leash, call the dog back to your side and reward him with a treat when he does. When he finally is able to stand still beside you for the time you wish to, you can begin walking him around. When he wanders too far to the point of pulling on the leash, call him back to your side. Pull on the leash if needed. When the dog returns to a comfortable distance - walks beside you without pulling on the leash, reward him with a treat.

Do these training exercises with a reward system for several days or weeks or until your dog learns to consistently respect the leash. When your dog is finally able to stand still beside you or walk around your house or backyard with a loose leash, reward your dog with a lot of praise, hugs or pats and some treats. He is ready to be taken out for a walk.

Remember that to condition your dog to respect the leash, focus on allowing your dog to progress forward when the leash is loose. If you allow your pet to proceed forward when the leash is tight, you're teaching him to pull.

Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com.

How To Solve Your Dog's Excessive Barking

If you are a dog owner, chances are you might be aware how frustrating it is to control your dog’s behavior. Some dogs get too aggressive to the point that they become disturbing and irritating to your family and your neighborhood, while others bark excessively for some weird reasons. Many dog owners find themselves clueless and unsure as to what must be done to solve this behavior.

Here are a few tips to help you solve your bestfriend’s nuisance barking:

The primary thing you need to check is if you’re giving your k9 all the things and necessities he needs. Barking is a natural behavior among dogs and they usually bark to communicate something with you. If their needs are not being met, the barking might be a cry or signal that he longs for your care and assistance. Always ensure that you give them the right amount of food and water everyday. You also have to clean after your dog.

Dogs could be barking because of irritation. Flea or tick infestations and skin allergies can cause your dog to make excessive noise. Taking your dog to a veterinarian can help you determine whether or not he is healthy and free from any canine diseases.

If your beloved pet barks a great deal, you might observe that they are either bored or energetic. Don’t let your dog be confined inside your house, instead, take him outside where he can play and interact with other dogs as often as you can. You can also train him using tools such as dog training crates and dog exercise pens. A dog that is properly trained to socialize with people and other animals will not bark excessively. Training your dog is a great way to improve his physical and mental stimulation. Dogs naturally enjoy the outdoor and like to experience new things. The barking problem may be solved when the dog is taken on regular walks.

By and large, dogs bark for they beg for a little attention. So don’t be rude. Never yell, hit or scold your dog when they are barking. These kinds of reaction can aggravate your k9’s anxiety. If your dog barks because he is stressed or lonely then your yelling is just going to confuse and hurt him.

Along with these behavior modification methods, you may also try using some gadgets that are designed to address the barking. You can buy bark control collar and other training collar equipment that will quickly train your canine to stop his nuisance barking.

Pet Article courtesy of http://pet-articles.blogspot.com.