A DOG and YOUR LIFESTYLE

If I was to come up to you and ask what affect a dog would have on your lifestyle, you would have a reaction, whether you like dogs or do not care for them. Either way, dogs affect your lifestyle. Dogs and humans have interacted for thousands of years, so rare indeed is the person who does not have an opinion or feelings about man's “best friend.”

Therefore, it is safe to assume that you have had at least one experience with a dog that was either positive or negative. This experience has had an impact on your life, whether you realized it or not. If it was a negative experience, you will be scared or distrustful of dogs and avoid them as much as possible. If it was a positive experience, then you will probably have a pet dog or have done so in the past. If the experience was kind of benign, you may not have formed an opinion one way or the other, however, this type of situation is not typical. Typically, that experience with the dog has left you with a life long emotional feeling regarding dogs.

If you think that dogs are big or small stinky nuisances, then you will probably not have a pet dog and you will never experience the emotion of receiving unconditional love (you may have a great love life, but it will have conditions attached to it). In spite of this, you will have to admit that dogs, or a specific dog, has influenced your current lifestyle. If you are completely honest, and haven't substituted another pet in the place of a dog, you will have to admit that your life is somewhat sterile and maybe, just a little empty, or at least missing a little something.

Now, just for fun, let's look at a hypothetical example to see how your emotions and lifestyle can be changed. For this example, let's say you are a twenties or thirties single person who is career orientated. Because you are so wrapped up in your career, you are probably not at your optimum weight or physical condition. You may have even tried to diet or taken out a membership in a gym, but they didn't work because your lifestyle didn't leave enough time to properly adhere to the regimen required,

One night, you come home tired and just want to get off to bed when you realize that tomorrow is garbage collection day and you must put the garbage in the bin in the back alley. It's raining and quite cold. You grab the garbage you've placed into a garbage bag, pulled on a coat and a raincoat and rushed out to the garbage bin. There, huddled whimpering beside the garbage bin is a little puppy. It appears to be abandoned, and it looks pathetically at you. You don't particularly care for dogs because they don't really fit in your lifestyle. But, this one looks so pathetic and helpless that you feel pity for it and pick it up and take it in out of the wet and cold, just for the night.

Once inside you grab a towel and dry the poor little thing. It licks your hand. Once it's dry, you pour a little milk in one bowl and a few leftovers from the refrigerator in another. The little thing devours everything in minutes, then licks your leg and curls up near your feet. You resolve to arrange for the puppy to go to the place where they put abandoned dogs, but you're not sure if it is the city pound or the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). You take the puppy out to relieve itself just before you head to bed. Next morning, just before you head off to work you take puppy out again, then when you come back in you put a few pieces of newspaper on the kitchen floor and head off to work.

Work is a bedlam of calls and demands and you don't have time to find out where to take the little stray. You'll have to keep it another day. On the way home you stop at Walmart and go into the pet department to get some puppy food. The clerk recommends that you take the puppy for a daily walk, so you buy an inexpensive collar and leash.

When you get home, you find that puppy has wet partly on a piece of newspaper and partly on the floor. You put the newspaper in the garbage and wipe the floor. The puppy bounces over and licks the back of your hand.

You put food and water down for puppy and make a quick supper for yourself. Then you put the collar on puppy who is not happy with it at all. She keeps trying to pull it off with a hind leg. After putting your coat on and pocketing a bunch of paper towel and a couple of plastic sandwich bags to pick up any bowel movements, you snap the leash onto the collar and partly lead and partly drag puppy to the door.

Once out on the front sidewalk, puppy rushed off to the end of the leash pulling madly as she explores everything she sees. A couple of gentle tugs on the leash slows her down a little and you make it erratically to the end of the block. You decide to walk around the block a few times. By the time you get around the block the first time she is walking more normally and not pulling as frantically as she was. The second time around the block, she stops and you're glad you brought two plastic bags. You pick up after her and seal the bags to enclose the odour. When you get back to the front door of your building, you realize that you've just walked eight blocks or about eight-tenths of a mile as most city blocks are about one-tenth of a mile in length. Puppy looks tired and you're a little fatigued yourself. You haven't walked that far in quite a while.

The next day at work is another busy one and you don't get time to phone about the puppy, again.

When you get home, there's no mess left by puppy who happily bounds up to you. You bend down to pet puppy and get a sloppy lick on your chin. You feed puppy and yourself and repeat the walk again. Your legs area a little stiff and sore from the unusual exercise and puppy is much more manageable.

This routine continues for the rest of the week and by Friday, you find, much to your amazement, that you've become quite attached to puppy and can't bear the thought of her going into a cage at the pound or the SPCA. Since you've decided to keep her, you give her a name and get some toys and some piddle pads in case she has to go when you are out. The walks continue and the length of them has increased to three times around the block. “Taffy” has grown a bit and always greets you enthusiastically when you get home from work.

About a month goes by and you notice that your clothes are not fitting as well as they did. They all seem to have stretched. You step on the bathroom scale and are shocked to see you have lost ten pounds. You realize that your daily walks with “Taffy” have resulted in a loss of weight and then you also realize that you are not nearly as stressed or “up tight” as you had been.

“Taffy,” the little stray you were going to put in the pound or SPCA (you're still not sure who looks after strays in your city), has helped you to reduce your weight and make you a happier and less stressed person. She has also provided you with attention and plenty of affection. Quite a reward for taking her in. And to top it off, she has changed your lifestyle and possibly your whole future.

Although the above was a fictional account, get yourself a dog and see if it doesn't make you into a whole different person...I dare you!

Until next time,

Teia


PS. Let me know if a dog has changed your lifestyle.

Bedding For Your New Puppy

Bedding for your new puppy is very important, as this is where she will be spending quite a bit of time - especially at night. The ideal bedding for your puppy should be a natural fibre, such as wool, because wool absorbs moisture and it will keep your companion warm. When you go to buy your blankets, you may want to try thrift stores, as their blankets will be relatively inexpensive. Puppies love to chew, so you don’t want to buy expensive blankets. They can chew or tear blankets in a very short time, so expensive blankets would be a waste of money.

When you bring your new puppy home, you may find that she is a little stressed by having to leave her mom and the others of her litter and by being in a new environment with strangers. The scents and memories that she came to know and love are now being replaced with new ones. If you are going to get your puppy directly from a breeder, take an old towel with you when you go. Before leaving the breeder, rub the towel on the mother and other pups in the litter. This towel can then be given to your puppy to sleep with. It may help to ease the transition from her original home to yours. If you get your puppy from a pet store, towels, even if they do not contain the scent of her mother and litter mates, when wrapped around a windup clock, are a great way to help her relax and sleep.

You should keep her food and water near her bed, so if she gets hungry or thirsty she can get what she needs. In addition, you should plan to take her out between one-half hour and one hour after she has eaten. You should place a puppy piddle pad about 6 feet away from her bed so that she can use that in emergency situations. You will have to place her on the pad whenever she shows signs that she needs to go to the bathroom. (Some puppies turn in circles just before they relieve themselves, so keep watch for this.)

If you are planning to have your puppy sleep with you, you must be ready to get up once or twice during the night to take her outside to go to the bathroom. You don’t want her to have an accident on your bedding.

If you decide to leave your puppy outdoors, you’ll obviously need to use a different style of bedding. Doghouses are essential for dogs who stay outdoors, as it helps to keep them warm and protects them from inclement weather. Inside of the doghouse, most people tend to use straw so the puppy can make a bed out of it. You can also use a blanket or quilt as well, so that your puppy can wrap herself up in it should she get cold.

If you do not want to use straw, you can consider using wood shavings or newspapers as they also work quite well. Note that newspapers tend to get damaged much more quickly than other forms of bedding, so they will have to be replaced more frequently. You must provide something other than the wooden floor or bare ground for your dog to lie on. Dogs that lie on the ground or cold wooden boards tend to develop arthritis more quickly than dogs that have soft absorbent bedding.

In northern climates where the temperature drops below freezing, puppies should not be left outside in a doghouse in cold weather because they have not been exposed to it during the time they spent with the rest of their litter mates and they could succumb to it. Wait until the weather warms before putting your puppy into the outside doghouse.

Although having an outdoor dog works great for some families, you should still take your dog for walks on a daily basis and let her join you in activities that she finds enjoyable. This way, you can build a unique and lasting friendship with your pet. A dog can quickly become the best friend you have ever had - as long as you take care of her. Making sure that she has proper bedding is a great place to start.

Until next time,

Teia

Adopting an Older Golden Retriever

Pictured here is "Emma" our neighbour's dog who stopped by on one of her daily walks to let us see her boots which are used to protect her feet from the extreme cold of a northern winter.

If you would love to own a Golden Retriever but aren’t ready to go through the problems associated with getting a puppy, you should look into adopting a mature Golden. Older Golden Retrievers prove to be great in homes where they are allowed to spend a quality amount of time by themselves. Golden Retrievers are a very adjustable breed, because they are mild tempered. No matter how old the Golden may be, she will quickly become a valued member of your family in little to no time at all.

Many times, breeders will have older dogs for sale. There are several reasons for this, which include show dogs that have lost their potential, studs that have been used for breeding and are now ready for retirement, female Golden’s that have been bred a few times then retired, or where a breeder is helping a friend get rid of his or her Golden Retriever. There are other reasons as well and whatever they may be, the adult Golden Retriever will be available for anyone who wants her or him.

Older Golden Retrievers are already housebroken and know how to adapt to many situations, which will allow them to adapt to a new and loving family. Although it will be a little hard on your new pet at first, if you give her plenty of love, attention and patience, she’ll be just fine. You need to keep reassuring your new Golden on a regular basis because she has just gone through the trauma of moving from familiar surroundings into strange ones. Let her know that you are her new owner and that you love her and you are glad she’s a member of your family.

If you have been thinking of adopting an older Golden Retriever, you should make sure that you learn everything you can about her. You should also determine her temperament and whether or not it’s compatible with your family’s lifestyle. You should also learn other important things as well, such as her diet, likes, dislikes, daily routine and her habits. Before you decide to take her, you should always make sure that the members of your family meet her as well, so you can talk it over and decide whether everyone wants the dog to become a member of your family.

With an older dog, you need to provide a lot of attention for the first few days and let her know where everything in your home is located. You’ll need to show her where she sleeps, where she should go to the bathroom and where to eat her food. Take your time and be patient with her, as it will normally take her a few days to learn how things in your home work. A friend who lives down the street has a Golden that he got from a family member who lives is a different part of the country. He takes her for several daily walks and spends a lot of time with her. She just adores him, because he meets all of her needs. He fusses over her and walks her to ensure that she gets the exercise she needs to remain healthy. When he goes out in the car, he ensures that she accompanies him. As a result of the interaction, the needs of the pet and the owner are met, which benefits them both.

You should always give your new Golden Retriever at least a month or so to get used to her new environment, before you start her new obedience training. Even though your new dog may have some prior obedience training, you should still enrol her in a new class. This way, she can brush up on training and you can work with her to help her understand your commands. Once you have finished training, she’ll understand your commands better and both of you will get along just fine.

All Golden Retrievers, regardless of their age, love attention. One thing that you may have to take into account when considering an older Golden is that she may have medical problems. You shouldn’t let this stop you from getting an older Golden Retriever though, because the rewards that you’ll get will be far greater than any cons. Although many people don’t give a lot of thought to getting an older Golden Retriever, they are perfect for families who don’t want to take the time and trouble of raising a puppy, which can certainly be onerous at times.

Until next time,

Teia

Tips for Buying a Golden Retriever Puppy

Anyone that has ever been around a Golden Retriever knows that they are beautiful, obedient, and make great family pets and hunting dogs. Golden’s, as they are frequently referred to, also make great guide dogs for the blind, narcotic detection dogs and even tracking dogs for finding missing people. Although there are many other dog breeds out there, Golden Retrievers remain one of the most versatile and most astonishing breeds that you can get.

Before you rush out to buy a Golden Retriever puppy, you should first take the time to learn a bit more about the breed. You can attend dog shows, meet with various owners of Golden Retrievers and even go to your local kennel club. Most people who own Golden Retrievers are extremely proud of them and will be more than happy to share their enthusiasm with you.

When you buy your Golden Retriever puppy, it’s worth considering the possibility of buying it from a backyard breeder. Backyard breeders usually know and care a lot about the breed. Usually backyard breeders aren’t just in it for the money - they actually care about their dogs and want you to get the best Golden possible.

You can also visit the Golden Retriever Club of America or their local member clubs, as they can supply you with a list of breeders in your area. If these breeders don’t have any Golden’s for sale themselves, they will be more than willing to help you find what you’re looking for. If you do not have a club in your area, then check with your local veterinarian. Since veterinarians usually treat most dogs in the area, they are familiar with any local breeders. By dealing with someone from a Golden Retriever Club or veterinarian recommendation, you can get a Golden from a very reliable source.

Whatever you do, you should never rush into buying a Golden Retriever. You should always take your time, because when you buy your puppy, you want a healthy puppy that will grow up to be a fine testament to the breed. By taking your time and making a careful decision, you can save yourself a lot of time and money later on down the road.

Golden puppies that are of poor quality, are normally produced by breeders who just want to have a litter or breeders who are just looking for the profits and care very little about giving thoughts to looks, quality, or temperament. If you buy a puppy from either of these types of breeders, you’ll more than likely end up with a puppy that has poor health, poor temperament and even flaws in relation to the breed standards.

When you get your puppy, you should always think long term. If you buy from a quality breeder, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Always remember that you aren’t just buying a Golden Retriever puppy - you are buying a companion and a friend for life.

Until next time,

Teia

What Every GOOD Dog Breeder Will Tell You

Before I start today's entry, I'd like to tell you a little story about a dog breeder that my mom and dad dealt with years before I was born. Mom and dad decided that they would like to get a new puppy to replace a Poodle who had recently passed away. They looked in a book about dog breeds and decided that a Bichon Frise would be the dog that they should get. They checked the local pet stores and none had a Bichon for sale. A check of the pet section of the local paper revealed one breeder with puppies for sale. Mom and dad phoned the telephone number listed in the advertisement and were told that there was only one puppy available, a female. The rest of the litter had been sold. Mom and dad found out that the breeder lived hundreds of miles away, but that she would be in the city mom and dad lived in visiting a relative. An appointment was arranged and mom and dad went to look at the puppy. It was white, cute and had a good personality. Mom and dad asked if it had any genetic defects and the breeder said that it didn't.

They agreed to purchase the puppy and paid the breeder the requested fee. Several weeks later, they noticed that “Brandy” was limping a bit on her left hind leg. They kept an eye on her and as the days passed, the limp became more noticeable. They took “Brandy” to the veterinarian and he advised that she had hip dysplasia. Mom and dad contacted the breeder to advise her of this problem. The breeder replied, “You bought a dog, not a car or an appliance, they come as is, so she's all yours,” and slammed down the phone. Mom and dad didn't want a refund, they just wanted to let the breeder know that her bitch or stud had genetic problems. Needless to say, they informed all the pet stores, veterinarians and people they knew that this breeder was selling dogs with genetic defects. This lady was not a GOOD breeder; she was only interested in making money from her dogs. Now, on to today's post.

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So you have decided you want a puppy? You have done all your homework to decide the breed you want and you know you have the finances, time and energy to take care of it. Next step is to find a breeder and purchase a puppy.

Be warned, purchasing a puppy from a breeder can be fraught with risks. As in any business there are those breeders who are genuine, who care for their animals and whose reputation is important to them. Others, often known as backyard breeders or puppy mill owners, are only interested in making a fast buck. It is now up to you to find a reliable and honest breeder. Fortunately, because of the Internet, it is much easier today to conduct this research than it was prior to the introduction of this electronic marvel.

Do some research before contacting any breeders. Contact the kennel club of the breeds you are interested in and request a list of their breeders. The Internet can also be a good source to find and research breeding kennels. Ask friends who have dogs of that breed where they purchased them from and if they are happy with their chosen dog.

Shows are another place where you can meet breeders and see their animals, both in a show environment and in kennels before and after the show. Just remember this is a busy time for the breeder and they may not have a lot of time to chat. Get their details, observe their animals and contact them at a less busy time.

Visit the breeder’s facilities before choosing a puppy to see how the animals are cared for. Do not buy the first puppy you see. A good breeder will want to ensure you are a suitable owner just as much as you want to ensure they breed quality animals. Look for clean facilities with healthy, clean dogs that are free of parasites. The dogs should behave in a manner you would wish your future dog to exhibit, e.g., if the majority of the dogs appear to be timid and afraid it is a safe bet any pups will be of a similar disposition.

Ask the breeder questions such as:

- How long have they been breeding dogs?
- What is the pedigree of the animal you are considering purchasing?
- Are both parents at the kennel?
- Are there veterinary certificates available for both parents and offspring?
- What screening has been done for any common health issues for the particular breed?
- What guarantee will they offer if the pup proves to have any major health issues within a short time of purchase?

The breeder should also ask you questions like:

- Do you have a house/yard suitable for the animal?
- Do you have the time to care for a dog?
- Are you fully aware of what is required to care for the animal?
- Will the dog be a pet or for breeding/showing?
- Do you have children and if so, what are their ages?
Breeders are well within their rights to refuse to sell a pup to anyone they consider not suitable as an owner of their dogs.

A sales agreement should be signed by both parties outlining the obligations of both purchaser and seller.

The good breeder will usually offer advice on feeding, grooming, health care and list any equipment you may need, as well as a schedule for all necessary immunizations.

A reputable breeder will also ensure you do not take your puppy home too early, to ensure it gets early socialization with its siblings. A puppy removed from its litter too early may fear other dogs for the rest of its life. While six weeks is the time many puppies are taken to new homes, many breeders prefer to retain the pup until they are around nine weeks old.

Once you have collected your puppy keep in touch with the breeder as they will be a fountain of knowledge for you regarding your new dog and they often like to keep track of their animals.

If you do all your homework and purchase from a reputable breeder, you will have a dog that will be a wonderful part of your family for the next 12 to 15 years.

Until next time,

Teia

Caring for Your Chihuahua

Well, you have just returned from the pet store with your Chihuahua puppy. You sit down and start looking around for the owner's manual . . . What no owner's manual?

Unfortunately your cute little puppy, like a human baby, doesn't come with an owner's manual. So, it is up to YOU to learn how to care for this charming creature. However, until you get up to speed with your learning program, this article will help you on your way.

Chihuahuas, are a good breed for small homes, apartments or city dwellers, because they are very small dogs and are mainly house pets. You should NEVER let them outdoors by themselves. They do not know they are tiny and will challenge the biggest dog on the block because they are very protective and extremely self confident. If you take your pet outside, make sure he is on a harness and leash and do not leave him unattended. There have been unconfirmed reports of these little dogs being carried off by large birds of prey and coyotes.

Care and feeding.

You should consult your veterinarian about the nutritional needs of your puppy but after weaning (up to six weeks), puppies should be fed four small meals a day until three months old; from three months to six months they should be fed three meals a day and from six months to a year they should be fed twice a day. After one year, once a day is fine, however, Chihuahuas prefer several small meals as opposed to one big meal per day with regular adult dog food. Sometimes, canned food is difficult for this breed to digest, resulting in diarrhea, so you may want to avoid the use of canned food.

Bathing your puppy should be done about once a month. Bathing too often may remove the natural oils from the coat and result in dandruff. Shampooing on a monthly basis can actually enhance the sheen of the coat. Be careful not to get water into your dog`s ears, as an infection could develop.

Technically speaking, Chihuahuas remain puppies for about two years. This is the training period and you should begin training as soon as you get him settled in your home (about two days). To assist you in raising your puppy please refer to the following entries:
April 3, 2009, "When Should You Start Training a Puppy"
April 28, 2009,"An Overview of Dog Training"
May 10, 2009, "How to Stop Your Puppy From Jumping Up"
May 15, 2009, "How to Potty Train Your New Puppy"
May 27, 2009, "Teach Your Child to be Safe With a Puppy"
May 28, 2009, "10 Foods You Should NEVER Feed Your Dog"
May 30, 2009, "A Guide to House Training Your Puppy"
June 1, 2009, "Dog Ownership Resonsibilities"
June 2, 2009, "The Rewards of Training Your Dog"
June 9, 2009, "Training Your Dog to Sit."

Puppies and adults should have access to fresh clean water at all times. His bowls should be scrubbed, at least once every couple of days, with very hot water, but avoid using dish soap as the odor and residue may cause him to shy away.

Trimming your puppy's nails should be a monthly event. You can use a cat claw trimmer and it is best to start this nail-trimming routine early-on so that your dog becomes accustomed to the clipping of the nails and to the use of the trimmer. If you feel that you are unable to trim your dog`s nails, you can get your dog`s groomer to do it, or you can have it done by your veterinarian.

Consult your veterinarian on the periodic cleaning of your Chihuahua's ears and teeth and regular vaccinations.

It is best to visit a local veterinarian when your puppy is eight or nine weeks of age. Your puppy will probably need additional vaccinations. You should bring the puppy's vaccination record that you received when you purchased him. If you did not get a vaccination record, return to the location where you purchased your puppy and see if they have the record. If they do not, find out the name of the veterinarian who administered the first vaccinations to your puppy and request a vaccination record from that vet.

At your first visit to the veterinarian with your puppy, he should either be de-wormed or given a fecal test for worms or other parasites. The de-worming is less hassle and expense than the test and will not harm your pup.

The veterinarian may suggest that you brush your pet’s teeth. The small breeds like the Chihuahua have more dental problems than the standard and larger breeds. Obviously the anatomies of the smaller breeds have left the teeth more crowded in the jaw and, with little space between the teeth, enable more harmful bacteria to remain in the mouth, hence the need for brushing.

Also, you should be aware of the fact Chihuahuas are prone to weak knees. This problem may occur as your pet gets older. If your Chihuahua has trouble walking, take him to the vet immediately.

Try to stay with the same veterinarian or treatment facility and keep good records. It is important for your pet's health.

You must remember that this is just an introductory part of your "owner's manual" to start you off on the right path to giving quality care to your puppy. You should learn more from books and other Chihuahua owners.

More importantly, your Chihuahua needs much tender loving care with human contact, touching, petting and general attention.

Chihuahuas are by nature gentle, loyal and sweet-tempered and they will give a lot of love and affection to you in return for your care. You will never be alone with a Chihuahua in your household.

Until next time,

Teia

PS. Refer to an entry made March 24, 2009, titled “Dog Breeds – The Chihuahua” for more information on these marvelous little dogs. Also learn about "Frank," my hero.

Training Your Dog to Sit

Mom and dad were talking to a neigbour the other day and she asked them how to train her new puppy to sit. Dad told me about it and I thought that it would be a good article to do for the blog since training your dog to "sit" is probably the first thing you will train your puppy to do. In fact it was the first thing I learned and mom and dad started teaching me as soon as I got settled in my new home. You might think that training a dog to sit isn't that important because they do it all on their own quite frequently. However, learning to sit on command is very important. Read on and you will find out why it is important and how to train your dog to do it.

1. This first step in this training program is easy. You just start by saying "sit" every time the puppy sits itself. He learns to associate the word sit with the action. This is a tip you can use in all training.

2. Take out a treat, his favorite treat if you know what it is and keep it in your hand. Anything that is tasty and won’t make a mess in your pocket usually works well but remember to cut it in small pieces so the puppy can swallow it fast. Mom and dad found that “Chicken Tenders,” dehydrated chicken breast, cut into little pieces was a great puppy treat for all occasions. It's healthy for me and I really enjoy it.

3. Sit down on the floor so you get to nearly the same level as your puppy. You are less threatening when you sit. More important is that you are closer to him so you can reward him more quickly. More about that in a moment.

4. Slowly move the treat over your puppy's head. The intention is to get the puppy to smell the treat (he will) and follow it with his nose. He has two options. Either back up while standing or sit down. It's easier to sit down.

5. Immediately as he sits you say "sit" and give him the piece of treat. This is the key factor to all training. The reward has to be given to him in exactly the same moment as the dog does the right thing.

6. Praise the dog. Show your happiness with your voice as well as your body language.

7. Repeat these steps 3-5 times and then take a break. You want this training to be fun for your puppy and if you keep doing it over and over for a long period of time, the puppy will get tired, lose interest and rebel against the training. However, you can repeat the steps several times during the day, as long as you only do it 3 to 5 times and then take a lengthy break.

8. Once your puppy does this repeatedly, you can try to see if the dog reacts only to the word "sit" without your hand and the treat. If he sits down you obviously should praise him and give him a treat. Once he does this repeatedly, see if he will continue doing it with only the praise, but without the treat. If he doesn't, don't show disappointment. Just go back a step or two in the training and start over. You should never show your disappointment to your dog when you are training. Once your puppy will sit on command, stand up and try it again. Once he responds to the sit command with you standing you can go onto the next step.

Now you can try to make him sit down beside you. This is actually a preparation for the heel training. There you want him to sit as soon as you stop walking.

The next level is to strengthen the word so you get the dog to sit in every situation no matter what's going on around him. This is an ongoing process and you should never stop training. Use every new situation to train him. Make him sit with new people, new dogs and new surroundings.

It's quite easy to train your dog to sit. If you consider not training your dog, my advice is think again. When you start training with your new puppy you get much more than the sitting part. The puppy loves to do things with you. He learns to listen to his name. He gets used to training and doing things with you and on your initiative. This strengthens your position as the leader and the puppy feels secure. When the puppy falls asleep in the evening his last thoughts should be: "This is a really great pack!"

Until next time,

Teia

Dog Ownership Responsibilities

In addition to the joy of getting a new dog, you have also taken on a lot of responsibilities. Of course you must feed your new pet, take care of her health, groom her and give her lots of love and attention. Many animal lovers do not think any further than this. However, discipline is also a very important part of owning a dog.

Behavior Problems

Proper discipline can help prevent behavior problems later in your pet’s life. House breaking is the most common form of training. However, a caring owner will often go a lot further than this. Your pet's obedience will lead to a stronger bond between the two of you, as well as meaning less frustration and annoyance. Your pet starts learning and shaping behaviors early in life, so that is the best time to start with dog training basics. Recent scientific study has revealed that the best time to train a puppy is from seven to twelve weeks of age as they are most impressionable at that age and they have not yet learned bad habits. If you wait until later to train your new puppy, he will be more difficult to train and he will have picked up some annoying habits that will be difficult to eliminate.

Puppy Training

You can never start too early with puppy training. Many people hold the mistaken belief that puppies less than six months are too young to train, but this is simply not true. You can start shaping a puppy’s behavior the moment you acquire him if it is done in the proper manner. If you do some research, it is easy to find plenty of dog training books, websites about pet training and obedience training tutorials. You may even consider hiring a professional instructor. Ask your veterinarian or friends if they know of any reputable trainers in your area and shop around for the person who is right for you. Whether you hire a professional or train your puppy yourself, use the reward for good behavior, not the punishment for bad behavior type of training. You will always get better results for rewarding your puppy when he does something right than you will by punishing him for doing something wrong. Like little children, puppies have short attention spans. By the time you catch him and punish him for a misdeed, he will have no idea why you are punishing him and just think you are mean. However, if you quickly give him a treat after he does something right, he will remember that after a few repetitions and learn that a particular action or response results in something good.

Obedience Training

There are many aspects to dog obedience training and not everyone wants to get the same experience out of it. Some people will be content with house breaking, leash training and basic obedience to simple commands. Many dog owners do not realize that they can change or prevent problem behaviors such as barking, whining, digging, growling, chewing and aggression. Yet all these behaviors can be addressed with proper teaching. Decide what tutelage is most important for you and your pet and make sure you are willing to invest the time and energy into a program that will yield the desired results.

Professional Trainers

If you decide to use a professional trainer, be sure you keep the breed of your dog in mind when shopping around. Some breeds may be harder to train than others, so some trainers may prefer not to work with them. Alternatively, some trainers may specialize in certain breeds, so they will have more success with your pet than another trainer may have. Even if you are teaching your pet yourself, there are books and information geared toward certain breeds. Do not get discouraged if you are told your breed is hard to train, just look for proven methods to use. The hardest work always yields the greatest rewards.

Owning a pet is a big responsibility, but the right attitude can make it fun and rewarding. Do not think of your canine companion as an object for your amusement, but as a living creature that can become a treasured friend. Dogs are motivated by their owner's pleasure, so if you work together, the dog training process will be an important step in your relationship. You will learn to trust one another, which will allow you to enjoy the pleasure of each other's company. Teach your dog what you want and expect from her and she will give you that and more in return.


Until next time,

Teia

A Guide to House Training Your Puppy

This entry was prompted by a request from someone who met my dad in the grocery store while he was picking up some dog food for the dogs of a family mom was house sitting for. This lady had just picked up her first puppy and she didn't know how to house train him. Dad told her the information contained in this post and I thought that there were probably many more people who could use the information too. So, for all you first time puppy owners, here's a guide to house training him.

Dogs are probably the only animals in the world who love unconditionally, with their whole heart, body and soul. There are many stories of dogs saving the lives of their owners, of warning people of danger or of seeming to know when an owner is sick or in pain. Some dogs have been trained to diagnose cancer and detect oncoming heart attacks and epileptic seizures in humans.

If you've decided to get a puppy, or you've recently brought one home, congratulations! You will have a loyal friend and companion who will enjoy your company, never be too tired to go for a walk with you and who will always be on your side, no matter what!

One note of caution though. A dog is only as well-trained as he has been taught to be by his owner. It is important that your puppy understands as quickly as possible what is considered acceptable behavior in your home and what is not.

You need to decide early on if you will allow your puppy to get on your furniture. Also decide where she can sleep and what she can chew on.

So house training your dog now, while your dog is still a puppy, is the best way to ensure that she/he is a welcome and happy member of your household.

The crate method is one of the fastest and most humane methods of house training your puppy.

But, first, here are some do's and don'ts for house training your puppy:

DOES:

Do be accessible to your puppy. If you are going to be gone for long periods of time during the training period, then do not give the puppy full access to your house. Put him in an area which you have prepared for accidents.

Do limit the amount of food your puppy has throughout the day. If it's hot outside, make sure your puppy has enough water to drink, because if she becomes dehydrated from lack of water, you could come home to a dead or very ill puppy. Also remember that what goes in, will come out so be prepared for puddles when you come home.

Do praise your puppy every time he or she does what you expect him/her to do. Your puppy wants to please you, and he/she needs to learn what behaviors create praise from you.

Do be consistent. You will only confuse your puppy otherwise.

Do be realistic. Your puppy may not be capable of being completely house trained until he is at least six months old. I had a lot of trouble learning where to go. I was born in the winter and trained to go outside on the snow. When the snow melted, I was confused and didn't know where I was supposed to go. So, I held it as long as I could then just went where ever I was when I couldn't hold it any longer. Eventually I learned that I could go on the grass or the gravel outside, but not before mom and dad got frustrated. As they learned to understand me, they finally came up with a solution that made us all happy.

DON’TS:

Don't reprimand your puppy when he has an accident. It's going to happen and if it does, it means that you didn't get him outside in time. Just clean it up and move on.

Don't use the crate as a means of locking your puppy up for long periods of time, or as a punishment.

Don't let your puppy go to the bathroom anywhere except his/her designated area while you are training him/her.

Why the crate method works: Dogs are naturally fastidious animals and they don't like to eliminate where they sleep or eat. Therefore, if your puppy sleeps in the crate, she/he will not use the crate as a bathroom unless they have an accident because they couldn't go elsewhere.

First things first:

Puppies need to urinate shortly after they eat, drink, play, chew, run or walk. Depending on the breed, size, temperament and age of your puppy, this can be within 15 to 30 minutes.

1. Keep a record, for a couple of days, of the times your puppy needs to go. This will help you to learn his natural schedule and make the training process easier.

2. Plan your "walking" schedule around your puppy's needs. From the time your puppy is about ten or 11 weeks to six months old, he/she should be walked between five and ten times a day. Once your puppy is between six months and 11 months old, this will drop to around four to six times a day. And when he/she is an adult, walking your dog two to four times a day will be sufficient, depending on the breed and temperament of your dog. Remember to take along several clean pickup bags to pick up after you dog has a bowel movement. It is not courteous or sanitary to leave it behind for others to step in. Turn your pickup bag inside out, put your hand into it and reach down and grasp the stool. As you pick the bag up use your free hand to fold the bag down over the stool. Once the bag is right side out again, release the bottom where the stool is and tie the top tightly closed. In this way you can sanitarily carry the stool to a proper disposal container.

3. Especially after your puppy has spent the night in his/her crate, do not return from your morning walk until he/she has eliminated. (If for some reason you do have to return, put your puppy in his/her crate, and then take him/her out every fifteen minutes or so, until he/she goes.) Make sure you give your puppy lots of praise and affection, once he/she has done what you wanted.

What the crate means to your puppy.

A crate is your puppy's home away from home, his/her sanctuary in times of stress and his "bedroom" at night (if you have chosen not to let your dog sleep with you).

Make sure that your puppy associates his/her crate with positive feelings. Put his/her favorite blanket, chew toys and treats inside the crate. When helping your puppy get used to the crate, leave the door open until your puppy shows no sign of fear of the crate.

The more comfortable your puppy is inside the crate, the less likely he/she will be of soiling it. Never let your puppy out of the crate for bad behavior such as barking, whining or scratching.

How to Get Started:

1. Establish a regular schedule of feeding and going outdoors.

2. Put the puppy in the crate at night, but make sure you take him/her out first thing in the morning and don't go back into the house until the puppy has finished.

3. After the puppy has gone to the bathroom, bring him/her in, and let him play for an hour or so. (Remember not to give your puppy complete run of the house until he is completely house trained.)

4. Feed the puppy.

5. Using the chart you created, take the puppy outside within 15 minutes of the time you know he/she is going to need to go. Don't come back in until the puppy has gone.

6. Bring the puppy in and let him/her play.

7. Put the puppy in his/her crate for a nap.

Repeat this schedule throughout the day.

Yes, this is a lot of work. But the method is effective, it works quickly and your puppy will soon become house broken. As he/she gets older, your puppy will let you know when he/she needs to go to the bathroom. In the meantime, you'll be able to have complete confidence in your puppy.

Until next time,

Teia

Testing a Puppy's Personality

WHAT IS PUPPY TESTING?

Just like humans, every dog has its own personality. This can be determined, in dogs, at a young age. The object of a puppy test is to determine what kind of personality the dog has. Knowing this, allows you to train your dog more effectively.

Some people believe that a puppy test allows you to pick the perfect dog. This is nonsense. It does, however, allow you to pick a puppy which is mentally stable and has an easy-to-work-with personality. From experience, my mom and dad can say that dog training is 70% the owners experience and mentality and only 30% that of the dog. So, having a mentally stable and easy-to-work with puppy does not guarantee that you will have a dog that is easy to train or that will turn out to be a perfect dog. YOU, as the owner, will make a huge contribution to the type of dog you end up with.

CONDITIONS FOR A PUPPY TEST

It's important that the test is performed in a neutral room or space where the dog hasn't been before and where there is no external distraction for the dog.

The optimal age for the test to be performed is when the puppy is five to seven weeks old. At this point, the personality is nearly set, but the dog is not yet fully attached to humans.

The person performing the test should be someone the puppy has not met before. This is necessary so that some parts of the test do not give invalid results.

THE ACTUAL TEST

The test described below is the well-known Campbell test.
(See http://www.seefido.com/html/campbell_s_test.htm for scoring information)

This is not the only test that can be used as several others exist.

With this test, the puppy is scored on five criteria:

* Social attraction.

* Facility to follow.

* Reaction to orders.

* Social domination.

* Acceptance to being lifted.

For the “social attraction” test, the testing person sits a few feet from the puppy and observes how the dog reacts: Does it come? If it comes, is the tail carried high or low? Does he scout his surroundings? Does he run the other way?

When testing the “facility to follow,” the tester will put the puppy next to him and then walk away. Does the dog follow or not? Does she follow and jump up at the test person and even try to bite his ankles? Does she follow from a distance? Does she wander off on her own?

The “reaction to orders” test requires that the puppy be put on his back and held down on the ground by placing a hand flat on his chest. Does the puppy protest heavily, try to turn over and try to bite the hands of the testing person? Does he initially protest but calm down later? Does he remain quiet or does he try to lick the tester’s hands?

With the “social domination” test, the tester will sit down next to the puppy and just stroke him. Here he'll observe what the puppy does. Some puppies will try to crawl up on the test person, others will try to bite the hands of the test person and other puppies will lie on their back and lick the hands of the test person. Some puppies will even run away.

For the final test the puppy is lifted from the ground supported only at his chest (this way the puppy doesn't see the test person). Does he struggle and try to bite the hands of the tester? Does he initially struggle but calm down after a while? Does he remain calm and perhaps even try to lick the hands of the test person?

The combination of results lets you determine what personality the dog has. For novice dog owners it is best to pick a puppy that hasn't got an extreme test result, because puppies with extreme results are either very dominant or extremely submissive and will require a handler who is experienced.

Until next time,

Teia

Question - Do you think puppy testing is worthwhile? Leave your comments.

Teach Your Child to be Safe With a Puppy

It has been said that a dog is “man's best friend” and that a well trained dog can provide much love, fun and security. However, you must remember that a dog is an animal, one that can be dangerous and inflict serious injuries and even cause death. It is, therefore, vital that just as you would train a puppy at an early age, you must educate your children in the correct ways to deal with a canine. ALWAYS remember that when a child and dog are 'loose' together that they MUST BE under adult supervision.

Children must always understand that a dog, especially a puppy, is not a toy, a doll or teddy bear. Children love being cuddled and hugged, kissed and carried around, but they also know that at times they become grumpy and irritable when adults fuss over them too much. Well, a dog is exactly the same. They do not want to be disturbed when eating or resting or sleeping but they cannot say “go away' or cry. When they get grumpy, they may snap at the offender.

Adults must be aware that young children may unwittingly encourage puppies to chase them, often leading to play biting. The puppy sees the child as one of its own and in the excitement of play an injury can occur. So this is another reason why there should always be adult supervision. Older children and even adults can be guilty of over-stimulating an excitable puppy one minute and then telling it off for the same thing a minute later and even worse hitting it the next! Adults should avoid and definitely should not let children play aggressive rough games with any puppy. This may result in an aggressive dog or a dog with behavior problems later on. Likewise, taunting or making a puppy jealous can have serious implications in an adult dog. Remembering its puppy days, an adult dog can misjudge a situation and react in the wrong way.

Children should be encouraged to leave the puppy alone unless it comes to them for attention. If they want to play with the dog, they should call it by name and get it to come to them. Just as humans dislike close face-to-face interaction so do puppies. So, children must learn not to push their faces into the dog’s, because they could risk a painful nip. Children should also be encouraged to put their toys, clothes, shoes etc. out of the reach of a puppy. This prevents the puppy from claiming these items as its own. This solves two possible problems. One, a child trying to pull items away from a dog could get bitten and two, the possibility of the pup swallowing an item leading to a painful (for the dog and the adult’s purse) trip to a veterinarian.

The most important lesson, though, is to teach respect for a living animal. Children must understand the need to give a dog space, let them have quiet time and then when together to be quiet and gentle with one another. The same rules really apply with children interacting with one another. Living with a dog or dogs will enrich their lives as long as they learn to understand canine language. Caring for a dog encourages responsibility and develops empathy. There are so many positives in a child - dog relationship, providing a responsible adult has trained the dog and the child in the correct ways of living together.

Until next time,

Teia

How to Potty Train Your New Puppy

Many questions arise when you bring your new puppy home.

Such as . . .
How do you potty train your puppy?
What can you do about your puppy when you are at work?
Are there steps to follow when potty training your puppy?

Keep in mind that raising a new puppy is a lot like raising a child. It is a lot of work, they keep you up at night, they get into things and make messes, but your new baby (puppy) also gives you a lot of joy and love.

Potty training a puppy is not that hard.

Here are some proven steps to potty train your new puppy:

1) Purchase a play pen, portable dog pen or kennel.

2) Line part of the floor of the kennel, portable dog pen or play pen with newspaper or puppy pads. In the play pen and the portable dog pen there is room for newspaper/puppy pads on one side and bedding on the other. If you use a kennel, it is a little smaller and your puppy may have a few accidents at first. Generally, dogs do not go potty where they sleep, but when they are very young, they just cannot hold it for long.

NOTE: Using a play pen or portable dog pen is such a great way to potty train your puppy. They are also great for when you are unable to give your puppy undivided attention. You can place your puppy in them and it is a safe place for puppy to play and not get hurt or get into anything that he shouldn't.

3) Keep your puppy in the play pen, portable dog pen or kennel when not attended or when you are not at home.

4) Within 30 minutes of feeding your puppy make sure there are newspapers or puppy pads accessible for your puppy to go on.

5) If you catch your puppy in the act - place your puppy immediately on the newspaper or pads so they can finish there.

6) Do not hit your puppy. They do not respond to cruelty. Instead reward your puppy with treats whenever they go potty properly on the paper or pads.

7) As soon as your puppy has received its third set of shots you can begin putting your puppy outside to go potty. You can move the newspaper outside to help your puppy get used to going outside.

8)After a while (usually 4-6 months), your puppy will be trained to go outside on his or her own.

9) The end result will be that you will get a well trained, well-behaved puppy and you will be a happy owner too!

The first week of potty training your new puppy may be a little trying at times, but you have to remember this is a commitment to a life long friend and your new puppy is getting used to his or her new family.

You really want to be consistent in your training of your puppy. Your puppy will be more easily trained if you follow a routine -- otherwise you will confuse your puppy, cause your puppy to have more accidents and have a much harder time with potty training.

Putting time into your puppy at the beginning of its life will pay big dividends in good behavior later.

Until next time

Teia

Keeping Your Dog Healthy

Like people, dogs need to be healthy to enjoy life. Dogs are your friends, companions and often your guardians, but since they are also totally dependent on you for their well-being, it is your responsibility to look after them properly.

One of the most prevalent 'diseases' in dogs these days is one that also affects humans. Obesity. A fat dog is an unhealthy dog and is likely to suffer from arthritis and heart failure. Remember, in the wild, dogs eat fresh meat that they have killed themselves. They also eat certain types of grass and may eat wild fruits like berries if these grow in their natural habitat.

Milk, custard and cake are the worst things you can give your grown dog and, though a puppy may benefit from the calcium in milk, there are commercial milk products available that are especially formulated for a puppy's needs.

Dry dog food, or kibble as it is sometimes called, is said to have all the nutrients that your dog will need for good health, but the more expensive brands are often better. Dogs fed on cheaper brands may constantly chew grass to attempt to settle their upset stomachs because they may be missing something from their diet, or the “fillers” used to bulk up the food contain something your dog is allergic to. Tinned food can be given as a treat. A healthy dog should have a smooth, shining coat, clear eyes and a moist nose. Its breath should not smell foul. It should be slender, though not thin enough to see its ribs sticking out. If your dog's breath is disgusting, it could be due to the tartar on its teeth. Chewing on a big raw bone will help to clean your dog's teeth. Or as an alternative a good quality rawhide bone will also work quite well.

Annual vaccinations for distemper, heartworm, and parvo virus are a must. Kennel cough is not likely to be a problem unless the dog is kept on cement or spends time at boarding kennels. If this is the case, then your dog should also be given a vaccination to prevent kennel cough.

If you notice small white flecks in your dog’s stool, it is a sign of worms, so you should consider administering worm tablets to your dog. Your vet will need to administer the vaccinations, but you can worm the dog yourself. The tablets should be pushed down the side of the dog's mouth until he swallows. If this is too difficult, you can wrap the tablet in a slice of processed cheese or you can crush the tablet into some tinned dog food and offer it when the dog is hungry. Watch to make sure he eats it all.

Parvo virus breaks down the digestive system and eventually affects the heart. It tends to come in outbreaks when people forget to have their animals inoculated. Symptoms include bloody stool and the animal is quickly unable to move and in obvious pain. It almost always fatal. Luckily, it is not transmitted to humans.

Symptoms of distemper include runny eyes and a dry nose. It is rather like flu in humans. Your veterinarian can aid you in getting your dog through this disease.

A dog with worms may have a poor appetite, and will often - though not always - appear to be in poor health with a dry coat that is harsh to the touch. If your dog drags itself along the ground in a sitting position, suspect worms immediately. Worms can sometimes be seen hanging from the anal passage. The problem needs to be addressed as soon as possible, because worms are easily transmitted to humans.

Fleas, which will happily jump from dogs to humans, can be another problem. These bloodsuckers can actually kill a tiny puppy, simply through blood loss. Puppies too young to wear a flea collar may be washed in a suitable preparation from the vet. Towel dry the puppy afterward and keep it in a warm place so it doesn't get cold. Always be sure to keep kennels and yard clean to reduce the flea problem. If they get out of hand, you may need to spray all bedding and surrounding areas to kill the fleas and their eggs.

If you live in a tick prone area, be sure to keep a tick collar on your dog at all times. Mark the renewal date on the calendar so you don't forget to renew it. Your pet's life may depend on it! Check your dog frequently for ticks. They will show up as a dark lump on the dog. Frequently the back end of the tick will stick out of the skin. When you see a tick sticking out of your dog, apply Vaseline over the part of the tick that is sticking out. This cuts off the air supply and the tick will back out of the skin. When it gets completely out, lift it off and kill it so that it cannot reinfect your dog, or you. If you cannot get the tick to come out of the dog, take the dog to a veterinarian, as soon as possible, to have the tick removed before it lays eggs in your dog. If not removed quickly, the paralysis tick can cause death in three to five days. Wood ticks and grass ticks can also have fatal results if not treated. A number of years ago, a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police was conducting a search for a missing person in a heavily wooded area that contained many wood ticks. The search lasted about two weeks. Unknown to the member, a wood tick burrowed into the back of his neck. A week after the search ended, the member died. The coroner blamed the death on the wood tick.

If your dog seems to suddenly have weak back legs and falls over often, inspect it immediately for a tick and get it to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Luckily, the tick vaccine works well and quickly and can save a dog that looks like it is gasping its last breath.

With attention to these few details, your pet should live a long and happy life, rewarding you with years of fun and companionship.

Until next time

Teia

How to Stop Your Puppy From Jumping Up

The main reason you're likely to have a problem with your puppy jumping up at you is that you actively encourage it yourself!

Go on, admit it, it gives you a lovely, warm feeling when your new puppy excitedly jumps up and makes a fuss of you, doesn't it?

And what do you do in return? That's right, you make a fuss of him right back, don't you?

The signal you give him by doing this is that he's pleasing you and winning your approval. And perhaps you'll not realize that this is exactly what your puppy is looking for and that it just reinforces the behavior.

Pushing him off isn't the answer, because he'll see this as a game. Remember, play fighting is part of a puppy's natural instinct and learning process.

Shouting at him isn't an answer, because he interprets that as getting attention and that's just what he wants and it may get him barking too.

What you really need to do to break the jumping up habit is the exact opposite of what you actually are doing.

That's right. Ignore your puppy. Completely ignore him. Pay him no attention whatsoever. Yes, we know it's hard but it's the only way you'll ultimately break this habit which can be annoying to guests and dangerous for small children.

Ignoring him means no verbal interaction (don't talk to him) and no touching. Turn you back on him and fold your arms to keep them out of his reach.

If your puppy jumps at your back, take a step away from him. If he comes around the front of you, turn your back on him again.

To repeat, don't give him any acknowledgment whilst he is jumping up at you.

As soon as he gets down on all fours and stops jumping at you, go down to his level, make a fuss of him and give him a tidbit.

In other words, reward him for doing what you want him to do and give him nothing he can construe as a reward when he's doing what you DON'T want him to do.

So, to sum up, you want him to understand that four feet on the ground is what will get your attention, two feet on you will not.

It's also important to make sure that any visitors to your house also understand this drill.
It may seem an impossible task now, but if you're consistent with the above exercise, you'll be pleasantly surprised at how quickly your puppy gets the message that remaining on the floor is what will get attention.

Until next time

Teia

How to Buy a Dog From a Breeder

The first thing to decide before buying a dog is what type and size you want. Many factors are important when buying, but be sure to consider what breed is suitable for you and your family. Some breeds require a lot of daily exercise and others require daily grooming. Remember also that different breeds may have genetic health issues to watch out for.

Larger dog breeds can be susceptible to hip dysplasia. This is a degenerative disease that affects the hip joint. When a dog with hip dysplasia matures, the hip joint and socket lose their ability to bear the animal’s body weight. They will have a hard time running or walking and even standing may become difficult. The only cure for this condition is surgery and even that is not very successful. My mom and dad had two dogs with hip dysplasia. The first one was a female Bichon Frise. She was operated on and it changed her whole personality. She went from an energetic puppy with a limp to a dog that only moved when it had to. Their second dog with hip dysplasia was a German Shepard cross. He did well until he was eight, with the help of an Aspirin on days when his hips were sore.

Smaller breeds of dogs can have genetic concerns of their own. Dogs that are in the "Toy" breed category, like the Pug, the Pekinese and the Lassa Apso are susceptible to breathing problems. These dogs have a short muzzle (or nose), which does not leave much room for sinus and nasal development. This is a condition that is often not evident in early development.

So, what should you look for when buying a dog? INFORMATION is the key word! After you decide what type of dog you want, seek out people who already own this type of dog. Maybe somebody you know already owns one? Get the word out that you are looking to buy a dog. Talk to people and gather as much information about the breed as you can. If you go to a pet store, talk with people. Pet owners love to talk about their pets.

Do research on the internet about your dog breed and print out whatever information you can find. Buy books and read about the bread you are interested in. Know that it is extremely important to become an educated consumer BEFORE you buy your dog from a breeder.

Finally, when you talk with dog breeders, ask any questions that come to mind. Honest dog breeders will be more than happy to talk with you and answer every question. Note the condition of the dog’s environment. Are the dog pens clean? Are the puppies well cared for? Can you see the mother and father? What type of puppy food are they being feed? Have the puppies had their shots? Reputable breeders love their animals and go to great lengths to provide a proper "home like" environment. Puppies are products of their surroundings. A good, clean environment will surely be reflected in a dog's playfulness.

Beware of breeders who are interested only in making money. They generally don't pay much attention to their dog’s emotional needs and health concerns. Also, they may inbreed their dogs and this can trigger severe health issues. AVOID THESE BREEDERS!

Some breeders may offer a 72-hour guarantee. This allows you time to take your puppy to a vet for inspection. If any health issues are identified, contact the breeder and get your questions answered.

Good, honest breeders care for their dogs and it shows in their surroundings. There are no guarantees that you will always have a normal, perfect puppy, but you greatly increase the odds when you do your homework first!

Mom and dad have gotten dogs from breeders, pet stores and the Humane Society. They have loved them all, but each source has produced both good dogs and dogs with problems. Sometimes, in spite of all your research, your heart takes over from your head and you just have to get that cute one that bounded over and licked your hand. In those cases, your affection for the dog overcomes any short comings that it may have.

Until next time,

Teia

When Should You Start Training a Puppy?

It is never too soon to start training a puppy. Other than teaching her about paper, piddle pad or outdoor bathroom behavior, you may want to give your puppy as much freedom as possible until she is about four to six months of age. That does not include letting her run amok in public places. Always keep a lead and collar on your puppy in public places where there is danger from road traffic, children or other dogs. In many countries it is against the law to allow a dog to run free, so be careful if that applies in your country.

Also be careful in off leash parks if there are older dogs loose as they may attack a rambunctious pup they think is infringing on their territory. A boisterous young pup of a larger breed can also harm young children or frail elderly people by jumping on them excitedly. Always keep your pup in sight when she's off her leash.

Plenty of exercise and fresh air are essential for a fast growing young puppy. She needs the exercise to strengthen her bones and fresh air for the development of strong lungs. Being in public places also allows her to interact with people and get used to the noises of traffic and life in general. She should be exercised daily if possible. A side benefit of this is that she will sleep well and not get bored, which is the main cause of bad habits and destructive behavior seen in so many young dogs today. Another thing it prevents is shyness, which is primarily caused by isolation as a pup, although shyness is also a trait that can be inherited.

Starting Basic Puppy Training

You can start training a puppy from about four to six months of age. It is possible to train older dogs, but it's a lot harder. Don’t overdo these exercises. Twenty to 30 minutes a day is adequate. You'll find that your puppy tires fairly quickly and a tired pup won't learn anything. Be regular in your training sessions, taking her out about the same time each day. Dress in the same shoes or jacket each training session and the pup will soon associate those shoes or that jacket with training.

Teaching a Puppy to Heel

Walk at a steady pace with your puppy on a lead attached to a firm fitting collar. Have her on your left side, occasionally saying the command HEEL. Each time you say HEEL, slap your thigh or the side of your leg. If your pup pulls away or gets distracted, just keep walking, she'll soon get the message and follow along. If you don't stop, she'll have to follow. As she follows you after a distraction, pat her saying GOOD DOG or GOOD GIRL. If she tries to run or pull against the lead, say a very firm HEEL! When she obeys, give her a pat and praise her and she'll soon get the message. In place of a pat you may want to try a small treat. Take it from me, the way to a dog’s heart is through its stomach. Praise and a small treat work wonders when training your puppy.

Teaching a Puppy to Sit

Once your puppy is heeling properly, it's time to teach her to sit. With her walking at your left side, stop, transfer the lead to your right hand and while pulling up on the collar, press down on her back end with your left hand. She will have no choice but to sit. While lifting with the collar takes weight off her front legs the motion causes the pup to want to sit, especially with your hand pressing her down. Firmly say the command SIT as you press down. Repeat this several times, praising her each time she sits. Now walk further along and repeat this exercise several more times during your walk.

Once puppy has learned these basic commands, register her for an obedience class. Check with your veterinarian to find out where they are held in your area. If the veterinarian does not know, check the yellow pages in your phone book or the pet section of the classified advertisements in your local paper.

Until next time,

Teia

Dog Breeds – The Chihuahua

The most likely origin of this breed of dog is that it is the progeny of the mating of the native Mexican Techichi and a minature Chinese dog such as the Chinese Crested dog. Over the years, it has been selectively bred to become the smallest dog breed in the world.

The remains of a progenitor of the breed was found in ancient ruins in the Mexican state of Chihuahua so this is the name that was given to this minature dog.

Believe it or not, I am one-eighth Chihuahua. The other seven-eighths is Shih Tzu. My half-sister, Jemma, is half Chihuahua and half Shih Tzu.

If you are considering whether or not to buy a Chihuahua, regardless of whether it is as a pet or as a show dog, there are four important things to consider.

Hype - Don't be drawn to the Chihuahua simply because it is so small. You may have heard of phrases like: teacup Chihuahua, pocket Chihuahua and miniature Chihuahua, among others. These phrases are sometimes used by breeders and pet shops as a marketing ploy to increase their sales. These phrases really do not apply to the Chihuahua as they do not exist in the breed standard. Therefore, implying that a Chihuahua pup is a teacup Chihuahua is simply a device to entice you to purchase the pup in the hope of getting a very small Chihuahua. In actuality, Chihuahuas range from about 4 pounds to just over 10 pounds and their individual size is determined by the genetics of their parents and grandparents.

Fragility - Chihuahuas are not usually suited to small children because they tend to be quite aggressive and can bite if provoked and they are quite fragile when young. I have heard that for the first few weeks of their life, some Chihuahuas require leg splints because their legs are too fagile to support their weight. They can actually be killed or badly injured if they are accidently stepped on or dropped. They can even be crushed in a well-meaning cuddle. Being such a small dog, the Chihuahua needs constant supervision and should always be kept on a leash when taken outdoors.

Behavior - It's not often that you will come across a docile Chihuahua. This dog is very protective of its territory and as a result it can become quite belligerent if it feels that its area is being threatened. Most are loud and dominant. They try to run the entire household, your other pets included. That is why my half-sister and I fight so often. We both want to be the alfa female. It's quite common for a Chihuahua to boss around a Boxer or even a Rottweiler, without any concern for its own safety. What they lack in size, they make up for in spirit. It truly is a tiny dog with a great big heart. You need to be firm and apply consistent training to gain the upper hand. This is also necessary if the Chihuahua has developed the bad habit of 'yapping'. They tend to bark at almost anything that moves or frightens them and can sometimes become quite aggressive toward strangers. This behavior could lead to biting and therefore needs to be constantly controlled.

Housebreaking - Of all the dog breeds, the Chihuahua is one of the hardest to train. This is especially true if the Chihuahua suffers from shyness. Raising your voice and/or losing your temper will not help the matter as sometimes the deed is done on the carpet before they even get to the paper, training pad, or litter tray. Patience and easy access to facilities are the only avenues and even then, this task may never be completely accomplished. As I previously mentioned, I have a problem when there is no snow on the ground.

Although there are a few down sides to owning a Chihuahua, there are many more upsides. You will have a friend for life as Chihuahuas can live well into their teens. They make great travelling companions as they travel light. They love to snuggle with no expectations. Chihuahuas don’t need much exercise or space and they will gladly give their life for you. What more could you ask for?

Until next time,

Teia

PS. Frank! My Hero! I just have to tell you about Frank. He was a very proud Chihuahua whose "mom" was connected to a dog agility training group in Calgary, Canada. He was raised with big dogs, a Great Dane and a Labrador. He swaggered when he walked, his chest all puffed out. Oh, he was a grand sight to see. His "mom" put him through the agility course between rounds of the competition. He raced through the course, bypassing the stations that were too physically large for him to complete as though they didn't exist. The crowd went wild, whistling and clapping loudly. He even bowed to the crowd when he completed the course. When he was walked on his leash, he would prance up to the biggest dogs he saw and say, "Hello" to them. Oh he was grand....he just stole my heart away.

Tips for Puppy-Proofing Your Home

Ah, puppies . . . We’re so adorable, filled with boundless energy and curious about any-and-everything around us. That's why taking steps to puppy-proof your home will go a long way in protecting us from harm. And on the flip side, your precautions will also safeguard your belongings from possible damage.

Your first task is to observe things from a puppy's point of view. How? It’s simple. Go from room to room; get down on your hands and knees and take a good look for anything that we might be enticed by. Remember, we are new to the world and like toddlers, we are inclined to explore our surroundings by putting things in our mouth and poking around in nooks and crannies.

Cabinets

Be mindful of cleaning supplies and personal care items that are stored in low storage areas like under the kitchen sink and in bathroom cabinets. Needless to say, the ingredients in these products are extremely harmful and can even cause death. If the cabinet doors can be easily pried open, think about storing these items in some other place. Another option is to purchase plastic childproof cabinet locks that can be temporarily attached to the handles or knobs. When mom and dad had Bucko, a blue and gold macaw, they had childproof locks on every cupboard door in the house. These safety locks can usually be found online or in local stores that carry baby supplies. Also remember that most of us are allergic to chocolate and raisins, so ensure that you keep these tasty morsels stored in high cupboards because if we eat them it could be fatal. Some of us are also allergic to grapes so do not leave them where we can get to them.

Electrical Cords

You can’t imagine how tantalizing an electrical cord is, especially when it's looping down from a table or desk. "I can jump at it, pull on it, wrestle with it and even gnaw on it," we all think to ourselves. The dangers are obvious: a falling lamp or electrocution can cause serious injury or worse. Wrap up loose hanging electrical cords or at least block access to them. And for cords that need to run across the floor, enclose them in rubber or plastic cord/cable runners that can be purchased at an office supply outlet or home improvement store.

Plants

Household plants are attractive to most animals, especially puppies. However, most of them are toxic to us. Ingesting a bite or two can cause nausea, vomiting and in some cases death. For our safety, reposition your plants so that they are out of our reach.

Small Objects Around the House

Be alert to small items around the house that can be swallowed or cause choking such as coins, jewelry, sewing supplies, batteries, medication and miniature knick-knacks left on low surfaces. A few of us will eat any small object that will fit in our mouth, so until you are sure about us, keep small objects where we cannot get to them. You don’t want an emergency operation to be necessary to remove a small toy or ornament from our stomach. Believe it or not, I heard of a dog that ate stones and he had to have expensive operations on a regular basis. And don't forget to block access to trash receptacles in the kitchen, your home office and even the bathroom. Now speaking of bathrooms . . .

The Toilet (Or, "Beyond the Great Rim")

To an adventurous puppy, the challenge of climbing up, up and over the rim of your toilet is a tail-wagging delight. Unfortunately, falling head-first into this big, slippery bowl of water is not so delightful especially for a smaller-sized pup. Simple solution: make it a house rule to keep the bathroom door closed at all times because even as we get bigger, some of us like to use the toilet as a water bowl.

Puppy-proofing your home may seem like a hassle but providing the safest environment possible is a necessity. After all, we are your lovable, four-legged bundle of joy and we are worth it. We don’t mean to be destructive or troublesome, but like a child, we are adventurous and we want to learn everything we can about our new home and environment. We also want to learn what the rules are. We can’t abide by them if we do not learn what they are.

Until next time,

Teia

What You Need to Know Before You Buy Your First Puppy

Your children want a puppy. All your neighbors have dogs, and your children want one too. It’s the dream of all children to have a dog like Lassie. However, if this is your first puppy, there are important things you need to know before you commit to buying a dog.

First, dogs take time and puppies take even more time.

Having a puppy is like having a 2-year-old. Until we are trained (see the second entry), we require almost constant supervision. After we are trained, we still require supervision until we are older - much older. If you can't entertain us nearly all day, you may want to consider two dogs, or taking us to puppy daycare, or maybe a cat would be better for your family. If you consider two puppies, be very careful. A few years ago, my dad got two males from the same litter. Until they established who was the dominant male, there were a lot of fights. Once that was established, they got along well. The next time they decided to get two dogs, they got two females, my step-sister and me. We’ve been with them for nearly five years and we are very jealous of each other, with any excuse being a good excuse for a fight. Although lately, we’ve been getting along a bit better. I think that the best combination would be a male and a female. However, if you are not planning on breeding the dogs, get them spayed and neutered at 5 - 6 months of age. Also remember that male dogs have a tendency to raise their leg and wet on furniture (to mark their territory).

Second, puppies need training, and so do your children.

You can pretty much ignore cats, however that is not the case with dogs. You have to train us to go outside to wet and do our bowel movements. You can start by training us to do this on paper or puppy training pads which are available in all pet stores and the pet section of major chains like Walmart. Once we have mastered this, then slowly move the paper toward the door. When we have learned to do it on the paper beside the door, then move the paper outside and make sure that we have many trips outside. Once we have learned that we have to do it on the paper outside, you can slowly make the paper smaller and smaller until there is none left. Alternatively, you can train us to go outside from the first day you bring us home. Just make sure that you take us outside at least once every half hour and preferably once every 15 to 20 minutes. Always praise us when we do something outside. Make a real fuss of us and give us a small treat when we come back inside. I was a winter puppy and I learned to go on the snow. When the snow all melts, I have trouble remembering to go outside because the dirt, grass and gravel in my yard don’t feel right. I’m lucky though, because my mom and dad put down training pads so I can go on them if I have a sudden need to go. This saves their floor from getting damaged.

You will need to take your puppy to several puppy classes and possibly more classes when your puppy is grown. Dogs are dependent and you need to teach us proper behavior.

If you have children, they need to take the classes with their puppies so they can learn how to interact with their new pet.

Third, puppies cost money, sometimes, lots of money.

Ok - this isn't unreasonable, but you need to be prepared to add your puppy into your budget. You will have many expenses, especially when you first get your new puppy. We need toys, rawhide chew bones, vaccinations, a dog licence, and don't forget the food, possibly a dog house, collars, clothes (no really - it’s a big business - you'll be tempted!) veterinarian bills and training (see above).

Dogs are one of the most expensive pets around. Most puppies become part of the family - and will cost you like part of the family. Don't go into this venture thinking we’re cheap. The initial cost of a puppy will depend on whether you choose to get a pure bred dog or a mixed breed dog. Pure bred dogs usually cost considerably more to purchase than a mixed breed dog.

Fourth, remember that puppies grow into dogs.

I know that's obvious - but you need to be sure you know how big your dog will be. If you have young children, your puppy may outweigh them within a year. Do some research so you know how big your cute little puppy will be when he's a full grown dog. If you purchase a pure bred dog, the seller should be able to tell you how big the dog will be when full grown, what it will look like and many other factors. However, a lot of purebred dogs come with breed specific problems. For example a number of breeds have a high incidence of hip dysplasia which is very expensive to deal with and very painful for the dog. Mixed breeds are less prone to inherited problems, but you are never sure exactly what you are getting until the dog is full grown. What looks like a cute little puppy could end up being a 185-pound behemoth when full grown (this happened to my grandma - she got a nice chubby little puppy which grew into a dog that was half the size of a black bear and he looked like one too). So, if your pet is a mixed breed dog, look at its paws. Usually, a puppy will grow into its paws. Big paws on the puppy mean that you will have a big dog when full grown. Little paws usually mean a little dog. However, while this is a good yardstick to judge the size of your dog when full grown, it is not infallible. Sometimes dogs with small paws grow into quite large dogs.

Fifth - Dogs need exercise.

People need exercise too - so this can actually be an advantage if handled properly. Puppies need room to run and play. They need people to play with and they need toys to play with. If you lead a very sedentary lifestyle, be sure you pick a dog breed that is low activity.

The larger the dog, the more room and exercise it will need. You will need to walk your dog several times a week. Be sure and plan that into your schedule now - or you may find your puppy running around the house all day without you. Always remember that a bored puppy will frequently get into trouble because we need something to relieve the boredom. Chewing things and scratching flooring, furniture and bedding are some of the things that we do to amuse ourselves when we are bored.

Owning a dog can be a very rewarding experience - even if this is your first puppy. Your dog will become one of the family and be a faithful companion for life. Be prepared for your new puppy, and it will be a great adventure for both of you.

If you are getting the puppy for your children, I can guarantee that within three months or less you will be looking after the puppy as the children will find it far too much work and responsibility. Always remember that getting a puppy is a lifelong commitment. It is not fair to get us and then abandon us when the novelty wears off.

Until next time,

Teia