Archive for November, 2010

Why Dogs Chase Everything That Runs From Them

Dogs are natural hunters and they will chase almost anything. With the proper amount of training this can be reduced or at least controlled.
Because dogs are natural hunters and they have an instinct to chase down prey and capture or kill it, they will chase almost anything that runs. Some breeds of dogs are more aggressive than others for example, German Shepherds and Rottweiler’s are natural guard dogs. It is their instinct to chase down, capture and bite their prey.
It is very difficult to get a dog not to chase things that enter or come near their territory.
Predatory aggression, the dogs instinct to chase is triggered by almost any rapid or unexpected movement, such as a jogger, a bicyclist, another dog walking by or by an animal in the yard such as a cat. Even the most gentle of dogs are capable of predatory aggression if its triggered.
The dog must be trained as a puppy not to be aggressive with other animals otherwise you will need the help of a skilled dog trainer to deal with their natural instincts.Columbus Pet Grooming

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Most dogs at least the domesticated ones anyway chase because they think it’s a game. For example, a dog chases a bicyclist, the sight of a moving bicycle stimulates the dog to chase it. If the cyclist continues, most dogs will stop believing they chased the cyclist out of their territory.
Another example is the dog chases a jogger, if the jogger should suddenly stop and challenge the dog, he will learn this is not an acceptable and rewarding activity.
Most dogs chase out of instinct and because they want to play, if the dog becomes overly aggressive towards humans or other animals he will have to undergo some training. If training is required of the dog, this must commence while the dog is still a puppy otherwise it will be extremely difficult and much more expensive to get the required training.

Six Steps To Successful Crate Training

The crate will become your puppies own special place, like a doggie bedroom or private sanctuary. Your puppy will go to his crate for alone time or just a nap when he needs a break from people.
One of the most important components to your pups house training is control. Regardless of your life style there will always be times when you’ll need a place where your dog can stay and be happy and content by himself. Crate training is the best option for dog owners whom want well trained dogs.
There are six important steps to accomplishing your crate training goals.
1) Tell the puppy “its crate time” and place him in the crate with a small treat. Leave him in the crate for five minutes while you’re still in the same room, than let him out and praise him lavishly.
2) Repeat step #1 several times daily. Never release the pup early because he’s fussy, make him wait until he’s calm and excepts his situation.
3) On the second day start leaving the puppy in the crate for 10 minute intervals, same as day number one.
4) Everyday increase the time by 5 minutes until the puppy will stay in the crate for 30 minutes.
5) Go back to 5 minute time periods but leave the puppy in the crate while you are out of the room. It’s important not to skip any steps or alter the time periods, to properly crate train your puppy you will need to invest the right amount of time, which will pay off in the end.
6) Once again build up the crate time in 5 minute increments with you out of the room. When the puppy will stay willingly in his crate (he will probably start to use it as nap time) for 30 minutes with you gone he will then be ready to stay for several hours by himself.
It is very important to build up the new puppy’s crate time slowly over the course of a few days so as not to frighten the dog or make him feel like he’s being punished.
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Matted Hair A Dog Grooming Nightmare

Your pet may want to rub or scratch after being freed of extremely matted hair but you must prevent this at all costs. If your pet has just had his nails trimmed they can especially injure themselves.
After matted hair has been professionally removed their skin will be sore, tender and easily damaged. You can apply first aid cream or gel to your pet if needed. If the skin is tender the cream will provide a welcome soothing relief from itching and will encourage the skin to heal.
Believe it or not your pet has feelings, you should never allow anyone to make fun of how your pet looks. Going from being encased in hair to almost no hair can be traumatic for your dog or cat. You should reassure your pet with lots of praise and love.Columbus Pet Grooming

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On a side note make sure you protect your dog or cat from sunburn. Your dog groomer can recommend products that contain sunscreen for pets. After your pet has had the matted hair removed you have the opportunity for a fresh start. This is the time to form a good relationship with your dog groomer, they can keep you on the right path to providing the best care for your pet.
Together you can make sure that your pet is cared for properly and comfortably and that his hair never gets into such bad condition again. It needs to be a real team effort.
Your groomer can recommend and supply the grooming equipment that you will need to correctly care for your pet(s). There are specialty brushes and combs designed for different types of coats and your groomer can explain which ones are best suited to your pets needs.
Your groomer can also demonstrate the proper ways of grooming your pet. Together as a team this will make grooming time at home an enjoyable experience for you and your pet.

First time your dog goes to a professional groomer it should be a special event. Your dog should learn to look forward to these special times and anticipate an enjoyable experience.
Your groomer will give you a time to return to pick up your puppy, or will call you when he is finished. Make sure to give a contact number where you can be reached at any time. Whatever you do, do not come back early. Wait to be notified that your puppy is ready. If your puppy sees you or hears your voice, he could become so excited that it may make it impossible to finish his groom.
How to prepare for the big grooming day.
1) Set aside time every day to brush and comb your puppy. Make it your special ‘together’ time. Reward your puppy with plenty of praise and some treats.
2) Take him for short rides in the car to get him used to travelling.
3) Be sure to exercise your puppy right before his grooming appointment to allow him to relieve himself. Be sure to bring along one of his favorite toys.
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You need to help your puppy enjoy his first grooming experience. On your way to the pet groomers you need to display an attitude of happiness. If you feel stressed and nervous, your pet will pick up on your feelings and may become fearful and apprehensive.
Your pets grooming salon is his special place. Allow him to anticipate and associate the professional pet grooming experience with fun and enjoyment.
The main objectives of your puppies first grooming experience are simple. The most important accomplishment of your puppy’s first grooming session is…that he likes it. His first experience must be positive if at all possible. His first experience will last in his mind forever, positive or negative.

Dog Grooming For Your New Best Friend

When you decide to embark on a journey such as taking on a new dog, there are a few things that you must keep in mind. One of the most neglected needs your new dog has is his personal grooming.
When you bring your new puppy home he is a bouncy, wiggly ball of joy that fills your life with endless amounts of love and fun. He adores you and depends on you to supply his every want and need.
Early dog grooming is an essential part of your puppies life. You must teach your puppy the basics, gently touch him all over every day. Don’t forget his feet and toes. When your puppy is comfortable with being handled, you are ready to advance to brushing and combing.
Puppies should be introduced to professional grooming when they are about twelve weeks old. You should contact your dog groomer to discuss your puppy’s grooming needs, and to make an appointment for his first grooming.
Working as a team you and your groomer will provide the care that your puppy needs to look and feel his best.
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When your puppy has his first visit to the groomer he may be somewhat afraid and apprehensive. Your groomer may suggest that you bring your puppy to the salon for a couple of short visits to familiarize him with all the sights and sounds of the grooming salon before his actual appointment.
Other groomers prefer that you bring him in for his appointment and they will allow your puppy to become accustomed to the activity in the salon as they go through the grooming process. Your puppy’s first few visits may be quit lengthy. It is important for your puppy to trust the groomer and to be comfortable with everything the groomer does to him. With gentle guidance, he will learn that grooming is an enjoyable experience and not something to be feared.