Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Sharing A Home With A Pet

Article Title: Sharing A Home With A Pet
Author: Ricardo D Argence

Inviting a pet to share your home is a huge decision. Sure,
pets are cute and cuddly and fun to play with but they are also
a large responsibility.

There is a whole creature that is dependent upon you for its
care.

In many cases, having a pet is not unlike having a child, the
main difference is that eventually a child learns to talk and
can tell you when something is wrong. With pets, you have to
guess as most of them don't speak the same language we do.

Studies done in the last few decades have shown that there are
actually health benefits to having a pet, especially if you live
alone.

Having a pet can improve your mood. You have to be very
determined to stay mired in your bad mood when you have a pet.

There is just something spirit lifting about your cat curling
up on your lap and purring or your dog putting his paws on your
knees and looking at you from under those doggie eyebrows.

Some research has shown that people with serious illnesses are
two thirds less likely to experience severe depression if they
own or have regular access to a pet. Pets have also been known
to reduce a person's blood pressure.

Having a pet will encourage you to get your exercise your pets
need exercise and it is up to you to make sure they get it,
whether it means going for a walk with your dog or getting down
on the floor and playing with your cat.

Perhaps the most notable benefit to having a pet is the way
they keep us from feeling lonely or unloved. Pets are the best
source of unconditional love there is.

Pets are a good idea for children as well. Taking care of
small pets is a great way to teach your kids about
responsibility and caring for others.

They also are a fabulous way to keep your kids from miring
themselves in front of the television set or a video game.

Having a pet to play with keeps them active the same way that
it keeps you active! They are also good for teaching your kids
how to be patient with others and pay attention to the small
details of behavior they see in others.

Before you get a pet, you should consider a few things. The
first, of course, is you: do you have the time and energy to
get a pet? Pets take up a lot of both!

If you do, then look at the amount of space you have in your
home. Bigger animals require room to run and play, so a small
apartment might not be the greatest place for, say, a St.
Bernard.

It could, however, be a perfect place for an aquarium (fish
need love too). You should also consider how much money you
have pets cost money. They have food and vet bills and toys.

Pets are a wonderful addition to any household that can have
them.

The decision to get one, though, is often life altering so make
sure you really think about it before you take on the
responsibility of one!

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The Key To Successful Dog Obedience Training

Article Title: The Key To Successful Dog Obedience Training
Author: Sarah Jackson

Dogs are very sociable creatures. Some of them can get to the
point of being too sociable and may get aggressive. Thus, it is
very important to train and control the behavior of your dog.

The last thing you want is to have your dog biting other
people. Some statistics show that as high as 77% of dog biting
incidents occur within the family. Yet experts say that most of
these cases could have been easily avoided with good dog
obedience training techniques.

With proper dog obedience training, bad behavioral habits can
be removed and dogs can have better control of their actions and
feelings when faced with different social and environmental
factors.

However, effective training of your dog is easier said than
done. One of the most important key element lacking in dog
obedience training to produce positive results is what experts
call "positive reinforcement". This actually refers to the
proper use of treats, incentives and praises when rewarding your
dog for showing positive behavior.

Through positive reinforcement, dogs are able to understand
that praises and treats will follow whenever it shows good
behavior. An example of positive reinforcement is when you give
your dog a treat for obeying your commands. This will cause the
dog to think that obeying commands will result in treats.

On the opposite side, if a dog does not obey your command, you
should not use punishment as a form of counter-reinforcement.
This does not help in training your dog and will only make it
worse. It will only confuse your dog and it will begin to doubt
its feelings. Thus, only "positive reinforcement" should be
employed.

Another important aspect of dog training is to avoid training
your dog to take up bad habits. Most people are unaware that
they are doing this and instances may occur that the trainer may
think he is training the dog to achieve a certain behavior but
actually giving the dog a bad habit along the way as well. They
may not realize it until the dog displays the bad habit when it
thinks the owner is asking for it.

As an example, it is very common for dogs to bark when they see
something strange or unfamiliar and this is a good thing. But
when they continue to bark when seeing a familiar person then it
becomes a problem and dogs should not be rewarded with treats
when they are doing that.

Some owners at this point may yell and shout at their dogs to
shut up. This kind of reaction from the owners will confuse them
and make them think that the reason why their owners are yelling
is because they are also enjoying the barking scene and that
they are actually "barking" together with their dogs.

The right thing to do is to actually avoid paying any attention
to them at all. After a while, they will stop and this is when
they should be rewarded.

To sum it all up, effective use of positive reinforcement is
the key to successful dog obedience training. Armed with this
knowledge, any owner can have the most obedient dog as his best
friend.

About The Author: For the Top Dog Obedience Training Secrets to
Stop Your Dog's Behavior Problems, Visit:
http://www.DogsGlobe.com Put an End to The Annoyance and Stress
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Fearful Behavior In Dogs

Article Title: Fearful Behavior In Dogs
Author: David Beart

Just like humans, some dogs are naturally shyer than others.
Shyness can be a devastating trait for dog and owner, making
both nervous about daily walks, trips to the dog park, and even
inviting others into the home. If your dog is scared of
strangers, do not be disheartened. With proper socialization,
obedience training, and leadership (from you, considered to be
the alpha dog), your pooch can overcome his fear of strangers,
and become your calm, self-assured and happy companion. Although
many dog owners assume that a fearful, cautious dog has endured
some type of abuse during his life, this is not always the case,
but it doesn't hurt to look into. Fearful behavior can be caused
by many things such as genetics, physical ailments, or lack of
socialization as a puppy. It can be learned from the mother's
behavior, and dog breeders see that boldness runs in certain
bloodlines, while timidity and nervousness run in others.
Deafness, ear infections, epilepsy, and thyroid problems can
cause a more nervous dog, so be sure to have your dog checked by
a veterinarian if he suddenly exhibits fearful behavior, when he
didn't before.

The problem with fear in dogs is that the fear may lead to
aggression when your dog's fight or flight response kicks in. A
scared dog will often run away from strangers, cower to look
small, or even hide behind its owner for safety. If the dog ever
feels trapped, which may only be imagined, but is quite real for
the dog, he may lash out by growling, charging, or biting at
whomever he feels is trapping him. If this person backs away,
the dog will learn that this behavior is effective at getting
what he wants (for the stranger to go away), and a new habit of
fear aggression will be formed. To avoid this potentially
dangerous habit, you must prevent your dog from becoming scared,
and also prevent positive rewards for aggressive behavior. Early
socialization is vital to prevent fear in dogs. Socialization
allows your dog to develop interactive skills with other dogs,
other kinds of animals, and people of all sizes and ages.
Puppies, like children or other baby animals, will form memories
and associations to what they learn at a young age. If they
learn to trust and interact with different people, they will be
comfortable with humans later on in life. On the other hand,
isolated puppies that have little interaction with people tend
to become attached to one person only, the owner. Unfortunately
for the dog, he will inevitable have to interact with other
people all the way through his life, like the vet or groomer.
However, one great characteristic of dogs is their ability to
learn new behavior at any age. If your dog is scared of
strangers, it is time to socialize.

A major part of overcoming your dog's fear is overcoming your
own anxiety and fear about your dog's actions toward others. Pay
attention to your own actions while walking your dog; do you
shorten the leash and tense up when a stranger approaches in
anticipation of your dog's behavior? Do you get nervous before
company comes to your home because you are fearful of how your
dog will interact with them? Just as your dog will grow more
fearful by sensing your anxiety and stress, he will find
confidence in your strong, assertive leadership. You must show
that your dog can relax knowing that he is safe under your care.
Ascertain your dominance through walks and obedience training,
and be aware of your own mental state during interactions with
strangers. During personal interactions, instruct others on how
to behave with your dog. On the first meeting, there should be
no eye contact or touching; the stranger should act impartial in
your dog. This allows your dog to have his own personal space,
and not to be threatened by what he perceives to be a dominant
stranger. Remember, you know your dog better than anyone else,
so be aware of his mental state at all times. If your dog is
afraid of children, hats, or loud noises, begin to expose him to
just those things, in very small doses at first. Increase
exposure only as your dog becomes more comfortable. Take your
dog for a walk past a school while children are outside. To keep
his mind from focusing on the children, ask him to sit, or lay
down; as long as he is focusing on you and the rewards for his
good behavior, his mind cannot be consumed with fear. It is
enormously important to remain upbeat and positive during these
training sessions, as your dog will feed off of your mood. You
can correct your dog for not obeying a command, but do not
punish for fearful behavior, as this will only increase anxiety.
Socialization is a life long process; the learning never ends
for your dog, and as long as you can help alleviate his fear, he
can continue living his life to the fullest.

About The Author: David Beart is owner of the
http://www.professorshouse.com Professors House, a site
dedicated to family, relationships,
http://www.professorshouse.com/pets/dogs/dog-training.aspx dog
training, and household issues.

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Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Norwegian Buhund A Less Well Known Dog Breed Which Makes A Great Family Pet

Article Title: Norwegian Buhund A Less Well Known Dog Breed
Which Makes A Great Family Pet
Author: Steve Evans

The Norwegian Buhund is a breed of dog, specifically a member
of the spitz family and much loved by the breed owners. These
dogs are friendly, fun-loving, loyal, affectionate and very
intelligent.

The breed has a short-ish coat and it does molt of course,
however grooming is not particularly important and can be left
for short periods if grooming does not occur, without causing
matting etc. Buhunds were taken along by the Vikings on their
travels and colonizing journeys over 1,000 years ago were the
ancestors of the Iceland Dog and influenced the collie breeds.
As a working dog breed their owners have in the past put great
store in selecting hard working dogs, and they have done this by
choosing the active ones through millennia, so it is not
surprising ho much these animals love to keep on the move.

A well trained Buhund is not aggressive, but any self
respecting dog will fight back if attacked by another dog and
children may not be strong enough to cope with that sort of
situation. A Buhund will take as much exercise as you can give
him, once he is fully grown but, provided he is also mentally
exercised, he will be equally happy with just a few short walks
a day.

Like most of the working breeds, the Buhund is an intelligent
dog and so easily becomes bored if left alone ignored for long
periods. If you are selecting a breed and you will have to leave
your dog a lot then maybe you should look at other breeds, yet
no breed should be left for long.

These dogs are very good with children and will be patient and
gentle even if tugged about by really young children. However,
all owners must supervise their dogs with children and the
buhund is no exception.

The propensity for this breed to bark is a disadvantage to some
with a house close to neighbours, but these dogs are so readily
trainable that with suitable incentives this can be controlled.
Modern breeders say the breed can be adapted not only for sheep
and goat herding, but also for turkeys, ducks and domestic
pheasant.

If you buy a puppy from a member of the Norsk Buhund Club, you
will know that the puppies are usually only sold after they have
been screened at the age of six weeks and that the parents have
a current clear eye certificate under a recognised eye scheme.
The same will be true for almost all good sellers.

The original job and purpose of this breed was as both a farm
and herding dog. Just like the Collie, and like the Collie they
also they make excellent Agility Event performers.

The kind of work done by the "hunting" dog of the Scottish
Highlands, as well as with the work done by the herding dogs of
Iceland and other northern islands settled by the Vikings. If
you have ever owned a breed which has been aggressive, the
Buhund is the antidote to return your faith in the loving nature
of the dog! We recommend this great breed.

About The Author: Steve Evans is a regular contributor of dog
breed related articles at http://www.dog-breeds.me.uk . Visit
that site or continue to his great dog blogsite and subscribe to
his Newsletter at The Dog and Puppy News Blogsite
http://www.dog-and-puppy-news.com .

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Designer Dogs, Happy Humans

Article Title: Designer Dogs, Happy Humans
Author: John Hill

Todays' relationship between dogs and their owners has changed
dramatically from the days of old. Sure, they still stand guard
over you and your family, and occasionally they still chew up
that favorite pair of shoes. However, no person on earth has
been able to display the type of unconditional love that our
wonderful pet bestows upon us every day. Despite the difficult
and trying process of house training and the sometimes long
hours left alone while we are working, our beloved dogs eagerly
wait for us to walk through the door, ready to snuggle up and
help us unwind from a tough day at work. Sometimes a person's
best friend is the one with four legs and a wet nose.

With our growing love for these faithful companions it is no
wonder we began to pamper and treat them to the finer things in
life. From clothes to toys, special shampoos and beds, dogs are
becoming increasingly more and more like our own children.

There are many online companies specializing in designer
products for your dog where you can purchase items specifically
designed to help you and your dog express that wonderful
personality that has so endeared them to your heart. You can
find a large array of pampered pet products such as suede
sheepskins collars and leashes for that urban dog that enjoys
treks through the parks or the occasional works outing. For the
more sophisticated dog, you may prefer the stunning Swarovski
crystal collars and leads that are available. Owners can also
find the perfect little outfit for their best friend, including
PJ's for your little canine baby to snuggle into for a good
night's rest.

In addition to clothing and accessories, online pet boutiques
often feature fashionable dog beds, from faux suede dog
mattresses and dog hammocks to padded beds and cradles. These
boutiques often also feature dog bowls and bowl mats so that
your pet can enjoy sleeping and eating designer style.

As with humans, before getting all dressed up in their new chic
clothes for a day at the park, your dog might like a good
grooming to make him or her look their best. Why no try grooming
products that will deliver professional results, making your
dogs coat shiny and velvety soft? Some products are designed to
condition dry coats, ward off summer flea and mosquito attacks,
and there are even detangling shampoos and leave in shine
treatments that will smooth away those troublesome stray
strands, leaving beautifully soft fur.

When it comes to pampering your dog, there really is no limit
to style, design, or product for your fuzzy buddy. After all,
your dog deserves the same amount of love and attention they
show you every single day. If your dog is a very special part of
your life, then from time to time you might like to seriously
pamper your pet. Although be sure not to over-pamper your dog
and make your family jealous.

Doesn't your dog deserve the best of everything?

About The Author: Hot Dogs Cool Cats
http://www.hotdogscoolcats.co.uk Designer Petware offers
designer dog collars, dog shampoo, dog leads and much more.

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Monday, January 28, 2008

Dental Care For Dogs

Article Title: Dental Care For Dogs
Author: David Beart

It's often been said that a dog's mouth is cleaner than a
human's. That's never been proven, but the fact remains that
dogs put their mouths places humans would never dare to (or be
able to, for that matter). Dogs don't think twice about sifting
through garbage, digging in the yard and licking themselves
wherever they can reach. They also use their mouths to carry
toys as well as dirty "treasures" from the yard. With their
mouths working overtime, good dental care for dogs should be a
priority for any dog owner.

A dog's teeth can be a good indication of overall health. But
as important as good dental hygiene is for dogs, many dog owners
overlook it. Just like in humans, it's important to practice
routine oral maintenance on your dog. Not only can it help its
teeth stay healthy now, but it can also protect against more
serious issues later.

If bacteria are allowed to grow in a dog's mouth, plaque can
accumulate on the teeth. If it's not addressed, it can escalate
to more serious concerns. Since a dog's mouth is used to play
and eat, among other things, it's important to keep it in top
shape. The best way to do this is through maintenance and
prevention.

Believe it or not, most dogs three years of age and older have
some form of gum disease. If a dog's teeth are neglected, plaque
can form, setting the stage for advanced oral diseases. Plaque
can bind with minerals in a dog's saliva and create tartar,
which attaches to the teeth and can cause irritation to the
gums, or gingivitis. Left untreated, tartar can get under the
gum line and dissolve the bones that hold the teeth in place,
causing the teeth to become loose and possibly fall out.
Periodontal disease, as it's called, is treatable, but once your
dog's teeth fall out, there's little to be done. The best line
of defense is regular brushing and check-ups.

Home care is important, but it's also critical to have your
dog's teeth examined regularly by a professional. A simple
visual exam can be done in an office visit, but more
comprehensive care, such as x-rays and tartar removal, has to be
done while the dog is under sedation. It's safer for both the
dog and the medical staff, and it gives the vet an opportunity
to do a more thorough exam. Some vets even specialize in dental
care for dogs, so it's worthwhile to investigate your options.

It may take time before your dog is comfortable having its
teeth cleaned. If you use a toothbrush, be sure to get your pet
familiar with it, so he's more likely to allow you to use it. A
toothbrush allows you to reach teeth more effectively, but a
finger brush may be easier to maneuver. Just be sure it fits
well, so it won't fall off in your dog's mouth. Find a
toothpaste formulated for dogs. Human toothpaste is made to be
spit out, while a dog will swallow it, so don't use human
products, just to be on the safe side. Many dog toothpastes have
added flavors that are attractive to dogs, such as beef, chicken
or vanilla.

While brushing your dog's teeth, take this opportunity to
examine its mouth for any signs of disease. Bad breath (that
which is out of the ordinary for your dog), yellowing or crust
at the gum line, swelling, or pain when you touch your dog's
gums should be noted. These could be signs of infection and
should be addressed immediately. Not doing so could result in
tooth loss for your dog.

Another important consideration for healthy teeth is your dog's
toys. Excessive chewing on hard surfaces can lead to a dog's
teeth being damaged. If this occurs, bacteria can get into the
tooth and cause infection. Bones can splinter and lodge between
teeth, rocks can break teeth and toys can cause bleeding gums if
a dog chews too aggressively. Be sure to monitor your dog during
play time, and only give it toys that are appropriate for your
pet's size and activity level.

Your dog's food and treats can be a good tool for treating
plaque. Dry food can help attack plaque, while there are dog
treats on the market that are especially formulated to address
the issue of plaque and oral care.

Dental care for dogs consists of relatively simple maintenance.
Following these tips can keep your dog healthy for a lifetime.

About The Author: David Beart is owner of the
http://www.professorshouse.com , a site dedicated to family,
relationships, dog health, and household issues.

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Select A Pomeranian Breeder Carefully

Article Title: Select A Pomeranian Breeder Carefully
Author: Rosie A Allan

When on the search for a Pomeranian puppy, it is important that
you take care in deciding between Pomeranian breeders. Look out
for the warning signs and always check and double check a
breeder before making any final decisions. There are many
important questions you may want to ask a breeder before
deciding to do business with them. How long they have been in
the breeding business, how many types of dog they breed, and
what they charge per puppy, all of these are going to be vital
inquiries that will help you greatly in making your decision
here. The bottom line is that if you want to find a good
Pomeranian breeder you are going to need to ask the right
questions and really care about what you are doing. Far too
often people are in too much of a rush to get a puppy and simply
do not care where it comes from.

There is no better pet than a dog, and if you are thinking of
getting a new puppy, one of the first breeds you may want to
consider is the Pomeranian. They are small, cute and
affectionate, and adults and children love them. They make for a
great pet, but know that the process of finding good Pomeranian
breeders can often be tricky.

This is because there are lots of bad Pomeranian breeders out
there, many of which are what are known as mass breeders. These
mass breeders are dog breeders who are more interested in the
financial aspect of breeding rather than the health and
happiness of the dogs, and should be avoided at all costs.
Rather you want to find good Pomeranian breeders who breed
because there are qualities in the bitch that they want passed
on and who care for the health and happiness of their dogs.

There are a few questions in particular that you are going to
want to ask a breeder before agreeing to do business with them.
One of the first and most important questions involves
registration. You may come across a puppy that is not
registered, and you will want to find out what the Pomeranian
breeders reason was for this. You want to make sure that the
breeder cares about the dogs and about what they are doing.

You will also want to question about the breeder's background,
asking for references and an experience statement. Be wary of
any breeder who is unwilling to give you this information or who
does not understand why you are asking for this sort of
information. Also ask about the litter and why the litter was
bred. You will not want to deal with any breeder who replies
with an answer involving money. Remember that any good dog
breeder is going to expect these sorts of inquiries and be
agreeable to answer them.

Once you have had such questions answered by the breeders you
are considering, you will find it much easier to narrow down the
selections and make a final decision on one Pomeranian breeder.
It may seem like a rather long and complex process, but the
rewards you will receive as a result of taking your time here
will be great indeed.

By asking the right questions and taking your time here, you
will ensure that you are only dealing with the best breeders and
therefore getting the healthiest and happiest dogs. Some
breeders, those who do not take proper care of their dogs, will
have puppies who have behavioral and temperament problems,
problems which may not even be noticed until a few years down
the road and which are usually incredibly difficult to treat. It
is therefore going to be well worth it for you to put time and
consideration into this process and find the best Pomeranian
breeders you can.

About The Author: Rosie Allan has a lot of experience with
Pomeranian dogs and is educated on how to find a good breeder.
To find good
http://www.officialpomeranianguide.com/Pomeranian_Breeders/index.php
Pomeranian breeders ask the important questions and get to know
as much about the breeder as you can. When you have got the
http://www.officialpomeranianguide.com/Pomeranian.php Pomeranian
information you are looking for you will be able to choose the
right breeder.

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Shar Pei Breed Standard: Are They Supposed To Look Like That?

Article Title: Shar Pei Breed Standard: Are They Supposed To
Look Like That?
Author: Melissa A Coleman

Shar Peis, also called Chinese Shar Peis, are more wrinkled as
puppies than as adults. Because of the wrinkles about the mouth,
the Shar Pei drools a lot. There are many ways Shar Peis can be
disqualified from an AKC show. The Shar Pei's tongue or coat
might be the wrong color, or their hair might be too long. Shar
Peis were bred to fight and guard livestock, which makes their
temperament often ugly. A Shar Pei is a bad choice for the first
time dog owner.

When someone sees a Shar Pei for the first time, they commonly
react, "My goodness – what is wrong with that dog?" Shar Peis
have a distinctive look that you either love or hate. The
puppies are deeply wrinkled all over their bodies, but lose most
of the body wrinkles as they age. They keep almost all of the
deep folds and wrinkles around the face. Their eyes are almost
invisible, their ears are incredibly tiny and they usually drool
most of the time. The breed standard prefers a head that looks
too large for the body.

These grow into massive dogs with solid muscle, making them
look like a canine wrinkly-faced equivalent of Mike Tyson. They
need plenty of exercise, especially if they are to live in an
apartment. Their skin is usually so loose it looks as if you can
fit another dog in it. If you come across a purebred Shar Pei
with tight skin, it is still a purebred Shar Pei – just not one
that can't be shown.

The breed standard for Shar Peis (also called Chinese Shar
Peis) described the ideal Shar Pei as standoffish. They should
act superior, as if they know they are worth a lot more money
than you are. This is not a breed that eagerly greets strangers
or easily wags his tail. However, they can be affectionate and
playful with their people, usually preferring one family member
above the rest. Puppies need to be introduced to other dogs and
other people very early in life in order for them not to be
aggressive.

The Shar Pei is thought to be descended from the Chow Chow,
and, like the Chow Cow, has a blue-black colored tongue (the
only breeds of dog to have this quirk). They are incredibly
wrinkly when born (as puppies are kind of wrinkly anyway) and
they tend to loose most of their body wrinkles as they mature.
They usually retain a lot of wrinkles around the head. Their
skin is usually loose.

The Shar Pei temperament is perhaps the most surprising,
considering the breed is considered so cute in North America.
They were bred to be fighting dogs. The loose skin and wrinkles
give not only a scowling appearance, but less of a solid hold
for an opponent to sink his teeth into. Chinese Shar Peis are a
lot like Japanese Sumo wrestlers. They were also bred to fight
off human and animal predators from livestock.

As a consequence, these are not very friendly dogs, on the
whole. They usually do well with children, but become aggressive
to other dogs and to adults. They often bond closest to one
member of the family. They make great watchdogs and need a lot
of exercise in order to burn up their energy. They are fearless
dogs that feel superior to the rest of the world that need few
excuses to ignore you. These are not the dogs for first time dog
owners.

About The Author: Melissa Coleman has interviewed numerous
owners, vets and trainers about Shar Pei history. The Shar Pei
usually gets along with kids and other pets except other dogs.
Shar Pei information is easy to find if your search the web or
go to the library. http://www.sharpeiguide.com

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The Siberian Husky Breed Standard

Article Title: The Siberian Husky Breed Standard
Author: A Preston

Never get a Siberian Husky puppy from a pet store or Internet
site, because that supports inhumane puppy mills. Get a Siberian
Husky from a breeder or rescue, and know the breed standard when
you go. Siberian Huskies come in a wide variety of colors. They
should look like they are strong athletes that can pull sleds on
marathon runs. Other faults for show-quality Siberian Huskies
include too curly a tail, floppy ears and cow hocks. It is very
hard to find a show quality Siberian Husky.

If you are thinking of getting a Siberian Husky from a shelter
or Siberian Husky rescue, a good place to find out about the
kind of dog you are getting is through studying the breed
standard. If you want to show your Siberian Husky, then you
really should get your dog from a reputable Siberian Husky
breeder. If you do go that route, then you will need to know the
breed standard just to be sure you are getting your money's
worth.

Never get a puppy, Siberian Husky or any other kind, from a pet
store or an Internet site that sells puppies and ships them to
you anywhere in the country. These places are usually supplied
directly by puppy mills, and the Internet sites are usually
fronts for the puppy mills themselves. In a puppy mill, dogs are
stuck into wire cages stacked on top of each other so the dung
and urine passes through. The owners perform all veterinary
functions. They are grisly places.

It has only been in the last few decades that Huskies were bred
for looks rather than for function. This shows in a great many
purebred Siberian Huskies, which is one of the reasons why they
can be abandoned. Some people not only want a purebred Siberian
husky, they want one that looks like the fictional ideal of the
Siberian Husky set out in the American Kennel Club. For the most
part, Siberian Huskies are abandoned through no fault of their
own.

The ideal Siberian Husky is about fifty pounds and twenty-two
inches high at the shoulder. His or her coat is double layered
and not too frizzy, silky or too long. He or she does not have
dewclaws, knock-knees, an overbite or a muzzle that is either to
pointed or too blunt. All of his or her body parts in proportion
to give a look of a smoothly flowing, athletic little wolf.

According to reliable Siberian Husky information, not all
purebred Huskies have pointed ears. The puppies are born with
floppy ears that do not stand up until the puppy is about six
months old. But sometimes, the ears just stay floppy. Huskies
also should not have a tightly curled tail for showing, or have
too low a tail set however, this happens a lot in purebred
Huskies.

Huskies should have jaws that match each other with what's
called a scissors bite. They should not have an under bite like
a bulldog or an overbite. Huskies should appear athletic and
ready for action. Huskies are built for economical speed in
harsh climates. They should stand squarely. Purebred Huskies can
get a disqualifying fault called "cow hocks", which are
knock-knees of the hind legs. Many purebred Huskies fall short
of the breed standard somewhere. This is why a show quality
Husky is so hard to find.

About The Author: Andrew Preston collects and researches about
dog breeds, including Siberian Huskies. The Siberian Husky breed
has very specific standards as laid out by the American Kennel
Club. If potential owners had more Siberian Husky information
before getting a dog there would be far fewer abandoned.
http://www.siberianhuskyguide.com

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The Truth About Beagle Breeders

Article Title: The Truth About Beagle Breeders
Author: Michelle A Adams

Due to the growing popularity of beagles, there has been a rise
in the number of dishonest beagle breeders and puppy mills in
this country that supply their dogs to the pet stores. These
dogs are often sick or dying when delivered, due to the
horrendous conditions in which they are forced to live. These
puppy mills breed their dogs in terrible conditions, and very
rarely deliver healthy dogs to the pet stores. This makes it an
almost certainty that any pup bought from one of these stores
will be sick or dying when you get it home. By doing the right
amount of research, and only purchasing your pups from a well
respected breeder, you can help do your part to put these
terrible puppy mills out of business. Remember, a well respected
beagle breeder would never supply pups to a pet store, so by
staying away from pet stores you can help to better ensure you
are getting a healthy beagle pup.

There is a growing epidemic in this country. A recent spike in
the popularity of beagles has led to the rise of a great many
dishonest beagle breeders who run puppy mills to meet the
growing demand for these sweet little dogs. These puppy mills,
as a general rule, supply the majority of pet stores in this
country; which is why many would-be beagle owners wind up taking
sick or dying dogs home with them.

Even honest pet storeowners are buying these puppy mill pups,
never knowing that they are purchasing unhealthy dogs from a
dishonest beagle breeder. The only real way that you can be
absolutely certain that you are getting a healthy beagle these
days, is to be certain that you only buy a pup from a well
respected beagle breeder that your trusted vet has experience
with. This will help you to ensure that your new pup has
received the proper care and treatment before being delivered to
you.

The biggest issue with a dishonest breeder is that they will
often continue to interbreed their dogs, so as to produce the
largest amount of pups. Since beagles are prone to certain
genetic health issues to begin with, this is a very dangerous
practice. An honest beagle breeder recognizes the danger of
interbreeding so many generations without bringing in any new
blood, and will absolutely refuse to do so. They will try to
keep the genetic lines as far apart as possible, so as to
prevent further aggravation of these conditions.

It is a sad shame that so many pet storeowners are unable to
distinguish an honest beagle breeder from a dishonest one. But
so many pet storeowners are simply concerned with keeping up
with the growing demand for beagle pups, that they never take
the time to research the conditions the dogs they are buying
come from.

An honest beagle breeder will generally do as much research
about the person who wants to buy a pup from them, as you should
be doing about the breeders. It is not uncommon for an honest
beagle breeder to refuse to sell a pup to someone, simply
because they do not believe that the person is ready for the
responsibility of taking care of a beagle in the way they
deserve. But you don't have to be one of them.

Understanding that beagles require extra care and medical
attention because of the many years when interbreeding was such
a common practice, is the first step to becoming the owner of
one of these sweet little dogs. Having the responsibility to
carefully research any beagle breeder you are considering buying
a pup from is the second step. By refusing to buy pups from pet
stores supplied by puppy mills, you can rest assured that you
are doing your part to ensure a long and healthy future for
these little dogs.

About The Author: Michelle Adams's love for the beagle breed
has led to a personal mission to educate others about the
disparaging practices of puppy mills. It is of the utmost
importance that would-be beagle owners understand how to tell
the difference between honest and dishonest
http://www.beagledogguide.com/Beagle_Breeders/index.php beagle
breeders. This article is for anyone looking for
http://www.beagledogguide.com/Beagle.php beagle information
about how pet stores are supplied by puppy mills and dishonest
breeders.

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Sunday, January 27, 2008

The Right Dog Bowls For Your Pets

Article Title: The Right Dog Bowls For Your Pets
Author: Mike Brown

Buying the proper to all bowls for your dog is extremely
important. If you are using the wrong size bowl for your dog
this may create problems while he is trying to eat. For
instance, the dog bowl may skid across the floor, if the animal
is too large for it. When the dog has his nose in the bowl and
begins to push it across the floor because he/she simply has
trouble accessing the food in the dish.

You'll want to prevent this by looking at a bowl's dimensions
and figuring out which size bowl is right for your dog. For a
large dog you'll want a bowl around 10-12 inches in diameter.
Whereas for a small dog about 4-6 inches in diameter and of
course a medium size dog should fall somewhere between the two.

Many times if the dog is to large for any given bowl they begin
the scoot the dish across the floor which can lead to skidding.
A solution to this problem is first, buy a larger bowl for your
dog. This allows your pet more access to the food in the
container and he/she isn't having to force their snout to the
bottom of the bowl to eat. Secondly consider buying a non skid
dog bowl. These heavy bowls help prevent the dog from moving the
dish and often times contain small pads on the bottom of the dog
bowl to further increase its staying power.

Another issue that can occur when feeding your dog, is bowl
tipping. Bowl tipping can be a very irritating problem.
Basically while your dog begins eating the end up tipping the
bowl over. A very nice solution to this problem is to buy a
non-tip dog bowl, which as you may have guessed will prevent
your dog from tipping the bowl over. This will solve two
problems, you'll be happier and your pet won't be running all
over trying to pick up the pieces of food it just tipped over.

Another problem when dog bowl selecting is buying bowls if you
have multiple puppies. This can get expensive so an easy
solution is to buy a flying saucer style of bowl. Flying saucer
dog bowls often come in a stainless steel layout and are open
around the edges. In the middle of the bowl is a raised nose
which makes this dog bowl look similar to a bunt cake pan. This
type of dog bowl allows your puppies access to the food from
every side, making this perfect for multiple pets. You may also
consider using a double diner dog bowl when you have more than
one small dog or puppy. Double diners sit into a small platform
and are two bowls in either side of each other. This style of
dog bowl allows bowl dogs to eat side by side at the same time
and works perfectly for smaller dogs.

If you are going away for a few days or prefer to fill up your
dog bowl and not have to deal with refilling it every other day
then this next dog bowl may be perfect for you. Twenty-four hour
dog feeders are idea for owners who have trouble feeding their
dog every single day or just prefer not to. You put the dog food
into a dispenser and as the dog eats food flows automatically
back into the bowl. This also helps dogs who eat fast to keep
from eating so quickly. As the food flows slowly into the bowl.

Decorative designer dog bowls also exist for anyone who prefers
their house and dog dish have style together. Often times
designer dog bowls are made of stoneware or ceramics. However
these type of dog bowls can be found in many different shapes,
styles and sizes.

Next time you are shopping for a dog bowl keep these tips in
mind. Finding the perfect bowl for your dog will also benefit
you and the needs of your household. Most dog bowls are
inexpensive and replaceable quickly.

About The Author: by Mike Brown - To find the most complete
site on dog bowls online visit the following links.
http://dog-bowls.org/
http://dog-bowls.org/ceramic-dog-bowls.html

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7 Easy Home Pet Remedies Anyone Can Do For A Dog Or Cat

Article Title: 7 Easy Home Pet Remedies Anyone Can Do For A Dog
Or Cat
Author: Keisha Seaton

This article will help you to find simple home pet remedies.
These home pet remedies can be used either for dogs or cats,
unless otherwise stated.

Anemia: To help get rid of anemia in your pet increase the
amount of iron, and vitamin B intake. A recommended serving of
liver in the amounts of an ounce for cats, two ounces for small
dogs, three ounces for medium dogs, and four ounces for larger
dogs.

Arthritis: First things first, if your pet is overweight, then
you will need to get him/her on a weight loss plan. Loosing
weight will take the pressure off of those painful joints.
Several 20 minute walks a day can be very helpful as well.
Avoid having your pet sleep outside when it is cold. The cold
air is not helping as it inflames the joints, and triggers the
arthritis. Finally a moist heating pad around the joints can be
applied for about 20 minutes twice a day.

Bad Breath: If your pet has bad breath it is sign of plaque.
Simply brushing your pets' teeth will help reduce the bad breath
odor, and help to eliminate the plaque. Raw carrots have been
known to help with the cause of bad breaths in pets as well. To
prevent bad breath try giving them a rope to play with, don't
feed can foods, and as bad as it is try not to give them table
scraps.

Diarrhea: One of the easiest home pet remedies for diarrhea is
to make sure that your pet is well hydrated. Adding Gatorade to
their water will also help the diarrhea. The Gatorade will help
them to stay hydrated, and retain some electrolytes. It is best
to stop regular routine feedings, when you are aware of this
problem. If the diarrhea does not stop with this basic home
remedy please seek professional advice from your veterinarian,
as it could be a more serious problem.

Fever: Warning - If your pet has had a fever more than 24
hours please consult your veterinarian. A fever that cannot be
broken is a sign that something is severely wrong with your pet.
If you have just discovered that your beloved pet has a
fever, then use a cool compress on their belly. If that is not
possible, a cool bath will also help. Normal temperatures for
dogs and cats run usually from 1000.5 to 102.5 anything over
that is considered a fever.

Fleas: One of the best home pet remedies for fleas is to mix
in some Brewer's Yeast. In addition to the yeast adding about 3
cloves of garlic cut up will keep the fleas away from your pet.

Smelly Kitty Litter: To keep your kitty litter smelling nice,
and fresh, use about 2 parts baby powder to one part baking soda
in your kitty litter.

Hope you have enjoyed this article about home pet remedies.
Please note that these home pet remedies are not professional
veterinarian advice. If serious problems persist with your pet
please seek the care of a trusted veterinarian.

About The Author: If you enjoyed this home pet remedy article
please do not leave until you have claimed your free ecourse "7
Secrets To Healing Your Pet" & FREE e-book, "Healing Your Pets
At Home" Claim Your Free Course Here:
http://www.my-articles.com/recommends/home_pet_remedy.html

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