All puppies are small dogs – some, however, won’t be small for very long. You have to know how big your dog is going to be when it is fully grown before you can buy it a bed of its own, unless, that is, you don’t mind buying your beloved canine friend a new bed every six months or so for several years.

The beauty of small dogs is that for the most part they are full-grown in under a year or so. You can count on certain breeds merely doubling in size from birth – starting out at about four to five pounds and ending up at only ten pounds or less. So buying this breed of dog a small dog bed means that unless there are accidents or other unforeseen circumstances, one small dog bed may be good for the life of your pet.

Another factor to keep in mind when buying a small dog bed is whether or not your puppy is a chewer. Chewing dogs, especially those puppies having a difficult time cutting their first set of teeth, may destroy the beautiful bed you’ve bought them as a way of relieving the pain in their mouths.

Housebreaking your pet is another factor to consider when purchasing a small dog bed. Maybe you should wait until the dog is completely housebroken, whatever that means in your particular living situation, before purchasing that new dog bed. You might spend a lot of time and money, place your beloved puppy into his new sleeping place for a good night’s sleep, and then awaken to find he’s pooped and peed all over his new bed. Finish the housebreaking process and then go to work on finding a permanent sleep situation for your pet.

The rule of thumb for small dogs is to measure them in their sleeping position and then add 7 inches for future growth or a change in sleep style. In this manner your dog won’t hang over the edge of his new bed or outgrow it too quickly. Small dogs prefer the “nest” type of bed, where there are structured sides to lay against and offer comfort when sleeping.

Finding the right bed is important because small dogs spend a lot of time being held by their owners, more so than larger animals, and the comfy, cozy small dog bed makes them feel right at home without the added human touch.

Dog Beds Info provides detailed information about small and large dog beds, as well as designer, orthopedic, and discount dog beds. Dog Beds Info is the sister site of Bird Cages Web.

Chronic ear infections are among the most commonly seen disorders in pets. Often they occur in certain breeds, including spaniels and retrievers. I regularly consult with owners who have treated their pets for years with various medications. The ears improve during treatment, but quickly relapse once treatment stops. With time the treatment ceases to work since the bacteria and yeasts which cause the infections have built up resistance to the drugs.

It’s very important to determine the cause of the infection so that proper treatment can be selected. Only a microscopic examination (cytology) of the ear discharge can tell us this. If chronic bacterial infections occur, ear cultures plus oral medications (in addition to ear drops) are needed. In my practice, most ear infections are the result of yeasts; pets treated incorrectly with antibiotics (drops or oral medicines) will never get better and will in fact worsen. Keep in mind that certain breeds of dogs are prone to ear infections and also allergies (which are a common reason for chronic ear problems.) Unless the allergies are correctly treated (and not with just repeated doses of steroids!,) your dog’s ear problems will never go aware.

Here’s what I suggest for the pet with chronic ear problems. Get the correct diagnosis. Treat underlying problems such as allergies. The ears should be flushed (and anesthesia will probably be needed) before you treat them with the appropriate drops. I’ve had success with various supplements (olive leaf, Echinacea, etc.) in treating chronic ear problems. Once the problem is corrected, regular ear cleaning (several times a week at a minimum) must be done to prevent frequent recurrences.

Dr. Shawn Messonnier is the author of 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog, The Allergy Solution for Dogs, and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. Dr. Shawn is the medical consultant for Pet Togethers, a pet supplement company.

http://www.pettogethers.net/healthypet

http://www.petcarenaturally.com

Obesity is a severe and debilitating illness. It is the most common nutritional disease in pets and people; estimates suggest that up to 45% of dogs and up to 13% of cats are obese (many doctors think these estimates are quite low judging by the number of obese pets they see every day in practice.) Current medical opinion states that a pet is obese if it weighs 15% or more over its ideal weight. While pet owners often use the pet’s actual weight to gauge obesity, it is probably more accurate to use a body composition score. Body composition, measured by looking at the pet from the top and sides and feeling the areas over the ribs and spine more accurately reflects obesity than a certain magical number.

Can pet owners prevent obesity? Keep in mind that most obese pets are made, not born, that way. Many owners give their pets treats and snacks and feed them whenever the pet begs for food. In essence, these owners are setting their pets up for all of the medical problems that can occur with obesity. While many people who constantly reward these begging behaviors believe that they are being kind and loving owners, they are actually killing their pets with kindness.

Problems that are associated with obesity in pets and people are numerous and include orthopedic problems (including arthritis,) rupture ligaments, intervertebral disk disease, difficulty breathing, reduced capacity for exercise (and in severe cases any movement at all,) heat intolerance, increased chance for complications due to drug therapy (it is more difficult to accurately dose medications in obese pets,) cardiac problems, hypertension, and cancer. When you keep in mind that the excess body fat occurs in the body cavities of the chest and abdomen (often being deposited there first) as well as under the skin (what we see as “fat”,) it is not surprising all of the medical problems that can be associated with obesity.

Because diseases such as hypothyroidism and diabetes mellitus can be associated with obesity, obese pets should be screened for these disorders prior to treatment for obesity

The treatment of obesity involves restricting calories and increasing the metabolic rate via a controlled exercise program. Using store bough “Lite” diets is not usually adequate, as these diets are not designed for weight loss but rather weight maintenance. Additionally, since many store bought diets may contain chemicals, by-products, and fillers, they would not be a part of a holistic pet program. Homemade restricted calorie diets would be the first choice for dietary therapy for obese pets (see my book The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats for an example of a homemade diet for overweight pets;) processed “obesity-management” diets available through veterinarians would be the second best choice as some of these diets may also contain chemicals, by-products, and fillers. These “obesity-management” diets are used until the target weight is obtained, then replaced with a homemade maintenance diet if possible. Foods which increase metabolism such as vegetables which are high in fiber are included in weight loss diets. Fiber, contained in vegetables, decreases fat and glucose absorption; fluctuating glucose levels cause greater insulin release. Since insulin is needed for fat storage, decreased or stable levels are preferred. Fiber also binds to fat in the intestinal tract and increases movement of the food in the intestines, which is of benefit to the obese pet.

There are several natural therapies that may be helpful as part of the treatment of obesity in some pets. Suggested therapies include chromium, carnitine, herbs (cayenne, ginger, and mustard,) hydroxycitric acid (HCA,) white bean extract, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG,) and coenzyme Q-10. The natural treatments are widely used with variable success but have not been thoroughly investigated and proven at this time. However, a new supplement that appears promising contains the clinically tested starch blocker Phase 2 pet�, which is an extract of white bean. Phase 2 pet� is shown to cut starch digestion up to 75%. Also in the formula is EGCG from green tea extract which boosts metabolism, inhibits carbohydrate digesting enzymes, helps maintain normal blood insulin levels (which promotes the burning of fat,) and helps to control appetite, which helps support weight loss and weight management. Chromium polynicotinate is a niacin-bound chromium, that supports appetite control, building of muscle, and the burning of fat.
Finally, as with people, a regular program of supervised exercise is also important for pets on a weight reduction program. Using these ideas will help your pet get that old, slim figure back!

Author, 8 Weeks to a Healthy Dog, The Allergy Solution for Dogs, and the award-winning The Natural Health Bible for Dogs & Cats. Dr. Shawn is the medical consultant for Pet Togethers, a pet supplement company.
http://www.pettogethers.net/healthypet
http://www.petcarenaturally.com

Does your dog have allergies? It is interesting how dogs experience many of the health issues that humans do, including allergies.

Dog allergies can include skin allergies, dog food allergies (particularly corn and soy), house dust and dust mites, ragweed, molds, pollens and others.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Dog Allergies

Common signs and symptoms of dog allergies include your dog licking her paws, scratching her body or pawing at her ears (due to inflammation). In severe cases, you dog may have oozing hot spots on her body. Allergies may be seasonable or your pet may suffer all year round, depending on the allergen.

How to Avoid Allergens

Avoiding allergens should be the first step in treating your dog’s allergies. If you suspect your dog may have allergies, see your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.

If you dog is allergic to dust mites, vets suggest you use a plastic cover over your dog’s bed, use a waterproof liner to keep mites from getting in the bed, avoid letting your dog on upholstered furniture and avoid stuffed animals. Dogs with dust mite allergies do best in uncarpeted rooms. Be sure to vacuum very frequently.

If you dog has allergic reactions to pollens, keep him out of fields and tall grasses. Keep your lawn cut short and keep your dog indoors during days with high pollen counts.

How Are Allergies Treated in Dogs?

Typically, mild allergies are treated with soothing shampoos liked oatmeal shampoo, vitamins containing essential fatty acids to help stop itching and keep skin from getting dry. Hydrocortisone spray or shampoo may also help to relieve itching. Check with your vet for other recommendations.

Best Dog Breeds If YOU Have Allergies

If you suffer from dog allergies, the following dog breeds may be a good choice for you because they don’t shed much, or have hair rather than fur: Terriers, Chinese Crested (hairless), Italian Greyhound, Maltese (has coat similar to human hair), Shih Tzu (has hair rather than fur), Poodle (little shedding). Other popular low-breeds are crosses with Poodles such as the Cockapoo and Labradoodle. Keep in mind that no dog is completely non-shedding, except perhaps hairless breeds!

Valerie Goettsch is web master of My Favorite Dog, a website featuring dozens of articles and information on where to find the best of everything for your dog, from flea meds to beds, training and designer dog clothes.

Crate training is one of the most effective ways of house breaking any puppy or dog. Crate training is very efficient, and very effective, since it uses the natural instinct of the dog to achieve the desired result of a clean house and a well trained dog.

The concept behind crate training is that a dog naturally strives to avoid soiling the area where it eats and sleeps. By placing the dog in the crate, this instinct is enhanced. The dog will come to see the crate as its den, and it will try to avoid soiling its den.

The key to successful crate training for a puppy or an older dog, as with other forms of dog training, is to establish a good routine. This routine will enhance the ability of the dog to do its business in the right place, and avoid eliminating in the wrong place. It is important to shower the dog with praise each and every time it eliminates in the established toilet area, and not to express frustration or anger when the dog makes a mistake.

It is important to confine the dog or puppy to a small part of the house, generally one puppy proofed room, when you are not at home. The room should contain a soft bed, fresh water and some favorite toys to prevent the dog from becoming bored and frustrated.

Crate training is different from confining the dog to one room, however. With crate training, the puppy or dog is confined to a crate when unsupervised. The idea is that the dog will think of this crate as its home, and not want to soil is home.

When crate training, it is important to remove the dog from the crate as soon as possible after returning home, and to take the dog promptly to the previously established toilet area. When the dog does its business in this toilet area, be sure to provide lots of praise and treats. It is important that the dog learn to associate proper toilet procedures with good things like treats and toys.

It is important to never leave the dog in its crate for long periods of time, as this will confuse the dog and force it to soil its sleeping area. The crate is simply a tool, and it should not be abused by leaving the dog in it for extended periods of time. If the dog is left in the crate for too long, it could set back the training program by weeks if not months.

The dog should only be confined to the crate when you are at home. Except for nighttime, the dog should be given the opportunity to relieve itself every 45 minutes or so. Each time the dog is taken out, it should be put on a leash and immediately taken outside. Once outside the house, the dog should be given three to five minutes to do its business. If the dog does not eliminate in this time period, it should be immediately returned to the create.

If the dog does its business during the set time period, it should be rewarded with praise, food, play, affection and either an extended walk or a period of play inside or outside the home.

During the crate training period, it is important to keep a daily diary of when the dog does its business each day. If the dog is on a regular feeding schedule, the toilet schedule should be consistent as well. Having a good idea of when the dog needs to eliminate each day will be a big help during the house training process. After the dog has used his established toilet area, you will be able to give the dog free run of the house to play and enjoy himself.

Dealing with accidents during crate training
It is very important to not punish the puppy or dog when it makes a mistake or has an accident during the crate training process. If there has been an accident, simply clean it up. Accidents during house training mean that you have provided the dog with unsupervised access to the house too quickly. The dog should not be allowed unsupervised access to the home until you can trust her bowel and bladder habits. If mistakes do occur, it is best to go back to crate training. Taking a couple of steps back will help move the house training process along, while moving too quickly could set things back.

Edwina Hanson runs a successful dog and owner training company. She is the author of many articles and reports about all aspects of dog training. Click on Complete Dog Care Report for a free 73 page report.

Dangers of Fleas

Besides really annoying your dog, fleas can also cause an allergic reaction called flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) which leads to hair loss, skin inflammation and irritation. For severe cases, your pet can experience anemia due to blood loss. This can be fatal if your pet is young or debilitated. Also, fleas are carriers of common tapeworms, which can cause cramping and gas.

Preventing Infection

Putting flea powder on your vacuum cleaner will exterminate all the fleas inside the bag. Monthly topicals is an easy and inexpensive approach to protect your house from fleas. Bio Spot or Frontline Plus are recommended topical brands available. You might also want to build a doghouse or spot for your dog that is elevated since fleas can’t jump higher than a foot. Water is a flea’s top enemy, so wash the areas that a dog might run around – like your backyard. Minimal contact with grasses and woods will lessen the possibility of infection. If you have a garden, trim leaves and clear brushes, as well as grassy and kennel areas.

If you have a home grooming kit for your dog, it is best to include a flea comb. Use it regularly on your pet. Its soft, fine bristles, it will catch the flea. Start combing around the hindquarters and the pet’s head, where flea dirt can also be seen. When you trap a flea, immediately put it in soap-water solution. Fleas thrive in warm conditions, that’s why in warmer climates, it is best to give your dog flea products the whole year. Although pupa stages can become dormant in cold climates, increasing the length of its lifespan composed of egg, larva, pupa and adult.

Treatment

A flea bath is the first step to a parasite-free pet. Be careful in using a flea shampoo because most products are too harsh on puppies. Consult your veterinarian on what to use if your puppy has fleas. It can also relieve irritation and itching. Don’t stop at shampooing because it doesn’t really protect your dog after getting a bath.

One alternative is using flea dips that keep fleas at bay for some time after dipping, but it is not recommended by most veterinarians. The downside is that your dog might eat or swallow these parasites after licking, since a flea dip stays on the dog’s hair coat. Another option is a flea collar. It will only kill all the fleas in the dog’s neck and face – not the whole body. Some also dogs develop a rash when using flea collars. While flea medallions can contaminate the dog’s drinking water, since it hangs loose from the collar.

A good choice is the use of flea sprays and powders – both for your dog and your house, so be careful in reading the instructions to know which is which. Products intended for your home is too strong to use on your pet. Using two or three different flea products at the same time can be toxic for your dog.

If there are numerous fleas that infested your dog, it is recommended that you treat your home too. Methoprene and fenoxycarb, two active ingredients contained in flea sprays are efficient and safe. It stops the growth of eggs into adult fleas. As mentioned, sprays are too strong for dogs, so take them outside for a walk when you treat your home. Some products are designed to destroy adult fleas – one product is Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) can help kill flea eggs and larvae. Before applying such products, vacuum your carpet or furniture first to rouse eggs and larvae from their cocoons.

Veterinarians recommend these products to for flea control: Pyriproxyfen (Nylor, Archer), Imidacloprid (Advantage), Lufenuron (Program), Fipronil (Frontline Top Spot), Cythioate (Proban), and Fenthion (Pro-Spot)

Follow this information to better understand the health of your pet so you know when it is appropriate to take serious action to assist a vulnerable or ailing dog.

Michael Fortomas is a teacher of Biology in a High School of Athens Greece. Also a freelance journalist – writing about health, the environment and development – issues he cares deeply about. For the dog owner who wants dog health care information – everything for Dog Diseases and Treats, Foods and Diet, visit:
http://1source-body-health.com/dog-health-care.html

Utilizing homemade dog treat recipes may be the best alternative to dog owners whose pet has severe allergies. Although some dogs have no food allergies as all there are many dogs that are either severely allergic to one or two specific ingredients and other dogs have allergies to many ingredients. Buying dog treats for dogs with allergies can be a difficult task. You have to examine the labels carefully to ensure that you the dog treats do not contain any ingredients that can cause an allergic reaction in your dog. This can be difficult because sometimes it is hard to determine what is included in the dog treat and there may be derivatives of the ingredient that your dog is allergic to that can be hard to identify.

Homemade dog treat recipes are one of the safest ways to provide treats to dogs with allergies. When you use homemade dog treat recipes you are cognizant of each and every ingredient that goes into your homemade treats. You can modify the homemade dog treat recipes to exclude any ingredients that your dog is allergic to or you can find homemade dog treat recipes that do not include these ingredients in the first place.

Todd runs a website where you can find all sorts of homemade dog treat recipes. Over 140 homemade dog treat recipes available at: http://homemade-dog-treat-recipes.com

Often when we move, we’re so busy with packing and preparing for the move that we forget to give proper attention to our pets. But we shouldn’t. For dogs, like for many other pets, a move to a place with new sights, sounds and especially smells can be a challenge or even a trauma. Especially it concerns dogs which never leave the house but for a veterinary clinic. It’s harder for them to adjust than for the dogs that are used to new experiences going out every day. The most important thing in moving with a dog is to make it feel as secure, calm and comfortable as you can, otherwise your move can turn to nightmare. The following suggestions will make the dog moving easier:

Start packing 1 or 2 week before the actual day of the move in order not to get a dog overly excited when you try to pack everything in a rush during the last couple of days before movers arrive. Do not pack your dog’s favorite toys or move the bedding if possible. Sudden change of safety environment will make your dog anxious and may lead to unpredictable behavior.

Don’t change the feeding schedule of your dog and keep doing the regular walks with it on, before and after the move.

If the place you are moving to is located not far from the place you are moving from, try bringing your dog there so it can explore new sights, sounds and smells during the walks. In this case the change of moving won’t be as stressful for your pet.

Prepare the new id tag for you dog and be sure that the dog wears it on the day of the move, especially if you’re moving long distance. This is in case the dog gets scared and runs away or gets lost in the turmoil of the move.

It is strongly recommended that you leave your dog at your neighbors’, friends’ or relatives’ your dog is familiar with on the day of the move. If you have to use a pet care center for the move day. This will serve several purposes:

a) – the dog will not feel invaded, threatened by seeing the strange people entering its space. This can trigger the aggressive behavior and may lead to accidents if the dog encounters movers; dog can damage the furniture if it is locked in a room. Other dogs may feel frightened and this can lead to runny stomach and accidents of other sort.

b) you do not have to tend to him while the moving men are around packing your household goods and loading the van.

c) moving men will not be distracted or scared to do their job and this will also result in a faster and more efficient move.

If you have no other option – then lock your dog in a room where it feels comfortable and make sure the dog has its favorite toys and a bed. Try to and make sure the room is empty of the boxes and furniture your movers will need to take. Often dog’s anxiety can turn to aggressiveness to strangers so it might be even better to put a sign on the door like “Dog. Do Not Open.” so your pet won’t be disturbed and excited by the sight of the moving men.

Transporting the dog to a new place can also be problematic, unless it is so close so you can walk there. Do not put your dog in the back of the truck. When truck body is closed, conditions are very adverse: it is dark, noisy and scary. Shipment may shift, boxes and furniture might fall. It is extremely hot inside in the summer.

If you do not have a car – then use a pet-friendly taxi to get you to the moving destination with a dog. When moving your dog by car, make sure you prepared a sheet or a blanket for the car seats, paper towels, food and drink if the trip takes more than two hours. If you’re traveling far, don’t feed the dog at least 3 hours before the trip and don’t forget to make stops every 2 hours to get some fresh air and drink for you pet. You can put one of the favorite toys of your dog in the car for it to relax. Check the pet friendly hotels you can stop at on your way.

If you are traveling by air, take into consideration that no airline can guarantee acceptance of an animal it has not seen. Make sure you’ve got all the necessary documentations, proper carrier markings and sizing, and food and drink for the flight. You can check with Delta Airline recommendations on shipping your pet.

Usually interstate health certificates for dogs have to be obtained before entering most states. Rabies vaccine is required for dogs to enter most states. Hawaii even requires that dogs be quarantined for the period of 120 days. Be sure your pet wears identification tags with your pet’s name and description, your name, address and phone number; vaccination tags are often required as well. For more detailed information on each state requirement for pet’s travel go to USDA Veterinary Services.

Airlines generally transport animals in the cargo compartment of the plane, but small dogs are allowed to travel in airliner cabin with their owners, provided they are placed in an approved carrier that will feet under the seat. Dog kennels should be roomy enough to allow you pet sit, stand and lie naturally; they must be easy to open, strong enough and leak proof; kennels should have proper ventilation: at least 14% of the total wall space and at least one third of the openings must be located on to the top of the kennel with the rims on the sides to provide at least an inch of clearance in case the opening is blocked by another cargo. The kennel should have handles to lift it and marked “live animals” with the directional arrows showing the proper position of the kennel. Also the instructions for feeding and watering you pet should be attached to the kennel. Food and water must be provided for puppies every 12 hours and for mature dogs should be fed every 24 hours and given water every 12 hours.

Feed your animals no less then 3 hours before the flight and take it for a long walk. It would be better if you arrive to the airport early so you have enough time to take care of your pet according to the airline regulations. When you reserve the flight make sure it has as few stops and transfers as possible and try to avoid peak travel periods. Also when you make your reservation tell the airline directly that you are traveling with the dog and ask what requirements they have. The law is changing and airlines often require animals to be prepared by professional transport companies with all necessary documentations.

If you are planning to use sedative for your pet consult your veterinarian to be on the safe side. Generally it is not advised to use sedatives because animals lose balance and control over their bodies what may hurt them during turbulence or other unstable conditions of a plane. You get a word about using sedatives from American Veterinary Medical Association .

At the place you move in, find again the small and comfortable room for your dog to lock it in while the moving men unload the truck.

Make sure your pet knows where his stuff is: bed, crate, litter box, toys, eating area. And don’t interrupt the day routine for you dog. Give the dog the water from the previous home, gradually mixing it with the water in the new one. Leave as little surprises for it as possible. Get your dog acquainted with the new home gradually: don’t let it roam around everywhere at once.

Keep the dog at home for few days for them to adapt before letting it out to the street. Try not to leave the new home to eat out at first, do it at home so your pet won’t feel forsaken.

And, lastly, be human – don’t punish your pet for initial misbehavior, find some way to reduce their stress. But should your dog leave some “accidents”, be quick to get rid of it, so the odor won’t attract it again.

http://www.ezmoving.com/

Most dogs love to dig holes, unfortunately if you own a dog you will come across a digging problem sooner or later. One of the most common questions I receive from dog owners is “How do I Stop My Dog From Digging?”

Dogs dig for a number of reasons, it’s important to keep in mind that your dog is not digging to spite you. If you don’t clearly communicate to your dog that his digging is
unacceptable, he won’t realise that he is doing anything wrong.

Why Do Dogs Dig Holes?

In order to stop your dog from digging holes it is crucial to determine the reason why your dog is digging in the first place. Below is a list of the most common reasons your dog may be digging:

• He simply likes to dig!

• Your dog may just looking for some attention

• May be bored and digs for mental and physical stimulation

• If your dog is digging under the fence he may be trying to get out to search for a mate
  Tip! Dogs love their masters and the masters reciprocate by providing them with all the things of comfort they can afford.

• Dogs often dig in freshly turned dirt (like your rose bed!).

• Dogs are often attracted to fertilized dirt – the fertilizer is irresistible to some dogs

• To dig themselves a den – much as they would have done in the wild

• For shelter, to cool themselves down or warm themselves up

• Some breeds are very prone to digging (terriers), it is instinctual and bred into them.

• May be because your dog is hunting for some little critters that live in your garden

• For food storage purposes. While you and me prefer to use the fridge, our dogs think the garden will do just fine.
  

How To Stop A Dog From Digging

Whenever you are trying to change any behavior in your dog the golden rule is be consistent! Make it very clear to your dog what is, and is not acceptable behavior.

Depending on the reason you believe your dog to be digging, you can apply some of these proven techniques:

• Give your dog lots of exercise, including heaps of physical and mental stimulation.
  Tip! Consider adopting an older or rescued dog? Older dogs are great family members and need homes.

• If your dog is always digging in order to bury a bone, don’t give bones! Substitute with chewing toys like rawhide bones.

• Confine your dog when you can’t supervise him. Place him in a crate or kennel run whenever you aren’t around to spy on him. You’ll need to do this until you have fixed the digging problem.

• Blow up some balloons and bury them in the area your dog likes to dig. When he strikes a balloon, the noise of it popping startles your dog. In some cases the negative association this produces is enough to stop your dog from digging in the future.
  Tip! There are no dogs that are “hypoallergenic”. But there are breeds that considerably produce less dander, which causes the allergies in pet owners.

• If you are able to be around your dog for a couple of days, you could achieve some success with this method. Whenever your dog starts to dig, reprimand him and spray him with the hose. Again this method produces a negative association to your dog each time he digs. You must be perform this reprimand every time your dog starts digging holes.

• If your dog has a favorite spot he likes to dig you can bury some chicken wire just under the surface of this area. When your dog starts to dig he won’t like the feeling of his paws scraping along the wire. I’ve used this method myself and found that it worked well for my dalmation puppy.
  Tip! Dogs can see some color but not as vividly as humans, thus they are considered color blind. Yet, dogs can see much better in dim light than people can.

• This one doesn’t sound very nice but is a very popular and effective way to stop your dog from digging. What you do is fill up the holes your dog has created, adding some of his poop (feces) to the filling. Most dogs are really put off by this and won’t attempt to dig again. Some trainers advocate feeding your dog pineapple before performing this technique. Apparently the pineapple smells terrible when mixed with the poop.

• Some dogs just copy what they see their owners doing. So if you’re working away in the garden, suddenly your dog may be interested in doing the same! Such dogs may need to be confined while you are working in the garden.

• If you’ve got the room a great solution for both you and your dogs is to provide them with a digging area. You can actually encourage your dog to dig in this designated area. Fill it with nice soft sand and bury some of your dogs favorite treats in it. Most dogs figure out that if they want to dig, they must go to this area.
  Tip! During the crate training period, it is important to keep a daily diary of when the dog does its business each day. If the dog is on a regular feeding schedule, the toilet schedule should be consistent as well.

• If your dog is digging under the fence it may be worth filling in all the holes in and under the fence. This takes away the visual temptation your dog may be trying to get at.

• If none of the above methods work for you and your dogs, you may wish to try a remote electronic training collar or e-collar. This method does work, although I realise many dog
  owners don’t like the sound of using such a device. In reality it works the same way as many of the other techniques in that it provides a negative association to the act of digging.
  Healthy Food For Dogs: Homemade Recipes. Know how to feed your dog to quickly get Astonishing results.

• If you take a trip down to your local Pet Shop you will find many commercial products that claim to help digging problems. They are effective for some dogs and may be worth a try.
  

Good luck with stopping your dog from digging, and remember that basic dog obedience training
is the key to correcting any dog behavioral problems. If your dog respects and trusts you, he will be eager to please you in all situations.

Chris Smith is a dog owner and creator of http://www.dog-obedience-training-review.com
To find out how to properly obedience train your dog at home please visit my site for tips and advice.

People seem to marvel at small dogs wearing clothing. They are just so cute you want to hug them! Not only are they cute but clothing can be functional too! Short haired dogs benefit from sweaters or coats in cold weather. Long haired dogs that live in the house really benefit from a rain slicker in wet weather keeping the wet dog smell down.

Hunting dogs benefit from leather boots to protect their feet from sharp rocks. Rubber boots help protect the feet from tracking mud into the house. Insulated boots help with the frost factor in some of the areas that have lots of freezing weather. Antifreeze chemicals used in deicing streets in cold weather states hurt dogs paws, the animals may start licking them and end up ingesting the toxins. Ingested antifreeze toxins can shut down your dogs kidneys. To prevent this, it is necessary to wash the dogs” paws in warm water immediately.

An Article in the Moscow News

“Dogs need to go for daily walks-and because Moscow’s sub-zero temperatures and sidewalks may be covered in ice or harmful chemicals to melt it, warm clothing and even shoes for dogs become not only practical but also humane.”
“In temperatures of minus 15 degrees Celsius or below, it is imperative to put coats on dogs.” Said Valeria Shishmaryova, a veterinarian at the Movet Clinic in western Moscow. When the weather is not that cold, Shishmaryova said, dog owners should take two factors into account: breed and age.

Because of the companionship, entertainment and unconditional love dogs give us it stands that we humans are willing to care for mans best friend by spending millions to protect, dress and entertain them.

About the Author

Judi Burns lives on a small horse ranch where she breeds and trains horses.
She has three constant companions Libby (Border collie), Red and Wendy (Aussies). Libby is a retired Search and Rescue dog. Judi and three of her horses are certified and active in Mounted Search and Rescue. Judi also sells on-line dog apparel.