Pets Breeding Basic

Large dogs and extra large dogs require more thought and planning when owners purchase a permanent dog bed. Even though large dogs can be just as lovable as their smaller canine counterparts, they require a more complex sleeping situation than small dogs. It's obvious that a large dog requires a large dog bed, and that an extra large dog requires an extra large dog bed. This goes without saying. But how big? And what kind of bed is best?

In this instance the answer is a function of not only the size but the breed of dog. You must measure the dog when he is fully grown, or at least have an accurate idea of what his size will be when he is fully grown. Just as with smaller dogs, you have to take into account your dog's sleeping style – for example, whether he sleeps curled up in a ball or stretched out across the bed. All of these factors will help define your choice of large dog bed for your canine pal.

Placement is more of an issue with larger dogs than smaller ones. No matter how sweet and cuddly your large dog is, very few people want to share a bed with a Great Dane. And the size of the dog definitely limits the spaces available to him for sleeping. You can't squeeze a Great Dane comfortably into a small bathroom and expect him to stay there overnight.

Large dogs tend to have a strong protective instinct, and so it is quite often the case that they sleep near the front or back doors. If your living room or family room happens to be the nearest space to one of those doors, a large bed that resembles actual furniture serves a dual purpose. First, large dog beds and extra large dog beds that mimic real furniture will keep your oversize pet off of the real furniture without making him feel deprived. And secondly, furniture type beds are actually more comfortable than a more standard round dog bed. They have pillows to rest heads and paws on and they are treated with flea and tick resistant powders to keep your dog free from those bothersome pests while he sleeps. In addition, they are sometimes filled with memory foam and gel products that conform to the musculature of the animal, which helps keep him comfortable while he sleeps.

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.

Dog Doors

When we think of dog doors, we think of flaps that allow dogs to trot on through. What a great convenience this can be for you and your pet. Allowing your pet this extra freedom can be exciting and it saves you the time of getting up and opening the door six times a day! But, we live in a modern world with great inventions. One such invention involves our dog door! Pet owners can now choose a dog door that is electronic!

Back in the day, a dog door was a simple flap. Often flimsy and thin, so the animal could pass through, it made keeping a home warm in the winter a tad harder. Or, it helped the air conditioning seep right out into the backyard. Kind of reminds you of that saying your mother used to use. "Were you born in a bam? Close the door!" But, through the passage of time and inventions, we have found that our dog door can be electronic. The process is simple.

For a dog door to work, all it needs is an electronic frequency that tells the door to open. Somewhat like the automatic doors at the local mall, electronic dog doors open for the animal. But, there's a difference. To help limit which animals can come into your home, an electric dog door requires a communication between the dog door and the dog, more precisely the dog's collar. When the animal gets close enough, it will open.

Adding a dog door to your home can seem like a difficult task. It doesn't have to be. It also doesn't have to be costly to your heating bills. By choosing an electric dog door you can allow your dog the freedom to enter and exit as it wishes and give yourself a sense of security as well. Deciding to purchase a dog door for your animal is ultimately the decision of the pet owner and homeowner, but what pooch wouldn't be happy with a dog door to call his own?

http://www.dogtrainingcollars.net

Byron Pappageorge

Housebreaking a puppy or dog of any age can be a daunting task at first. However, it really can be done so take heart.

Usually puppies respond well to housebreaking training when six to eight weeks old and the keys to successful results are confinement, training, timing and praise.

A dog does not normally like to soil the area where it sleeps so it's wise to keep your puppy confined when unsupervised. Know its schedule and teach it a designated "restroom" area. Take it on a leash outside to his area immediately after it wakes up, after a meal, after a play session and before it goes to bed at night.

Praise your puppy as it eliminates and you may even wish to use a trigger word.

When your puppy is not confined, be alert to signs that it needs to use its facilities such as a sudden stop of play, circling and sniffing, and running out of the room. If you catch your puppy in the act of eliminating in the house, scold it, and take it outside immediately to his "restroom" spot.

Really no good results come from correction long after the act. What's done is done so it's best to clean up the accident with a vinegar and water solution to remove the scent; otherwise the puppy will continue to use that place to do his business.

What about "submission urination"? This is urination during an excited greeting and is an involuntary, natural behavior in dogs. It can mean that the dog recognizes that you are the leader of the pack or alpha dog. Reprimanding your dog at this time may only worsen the situation, as this may cause it to urinate more in order to show further that it views you as the one in charge. Usually this behavior stops by the time a dog reaches two years old.

Remember, a dog is a social animal. Long periods of confinement can lead to hyperactivity, excessive barking, elimination accidents and destructive behavior. With proper training, your puppy (or even older dogs) can become delightful, faithful companions.

Reggie Andersen is a small business office advocate and pet owner. Check out his dog resource sites: Housebreaking Your Puppy or Dog

A dog is a man's best friend; dogs protect him and his home. A dog owner has responsibilities as well, like food, shelter, training, and even making sure to provide a dog with the proper collar. Electronic dog collars are one of the most commonly used tools for training.

Electronic dog collars help to correct a dog's misbehavior, train it to obey a certain way (even when off of a leash), and warn it of danger by sending signals, electronic shocks essentially, from the transmitter to the receiver. The degree of shock can be set for various sizes of dogs and there are collars of many different shapes and sizes. Eventually, a dog will learn to avoid misbehavior and an electronic collar will no longer be necessary. For those who don't like the idea of electronically shocking their dog however, there are collars that have send mere warning tones.

Studies show that misbehaviors in dogs are pretty normal – barking at the mailman, jumping on a visitor, digging a hole in the backyard and even running after a jogger. But these behaviors can be excessive and troublesome, causing accidental energies, property damage, and harm to other people and even the dog itself.

Electronic dog collars were developed to help dog owners prevent these problems and they are especially effective in young dogs. Even though electric impulses may seem painful, they allow a dog owner to educate the animal without yelling or spanking it.

To use an electronic collar effectively, first let the dog adjust to the feel of it around its neck and then make sure to keep the transmitter with you at all times, as it is a powerful device.

Use the lowest possible stimulation level – only if your dog does not respond to shock level one should you increase the degree. If a dog panics or starts vocalizing, decrease the stimulation.

When a dog exhibits aggressive behavior, like biting, do not use the electronic collar. This kind of behavior is better suited for a professional trainer. And don't use the collar arbitrarily – only when you want to deliver a command you plan on teaching the dog, should you use it. Furthermore, training sessions should be located in places your dog is familiar with and should be short, lasting 10 to 15 minutes long, and positive. A dog's focus should be on the trainer and any good behavior should be rewarded through play or treats.

Don't abuse or overuse the electronic collar, as that is animal abuse, a crime that can land you in prison. Remember, a dog is a man's best friend.

Simon Oliver has an interest in Pets and Recreation related topics. To access more information on small dog collar or on leather dog collar, please click on the links.

Flea control

Whoever said getting rid of fleas is easy needs to re-think again. In my experience, flea control can be quite challenging when confronted with flea infestation, flea bites, or fleas on pets.

Flea control is and can be effected by:

* climate changes

* where you live

* and a host of other reasons

Fact is, fleas never discriminate. They feel equally as comfortable on the most well groomed show dog or... on any stray animal. Their goal is clear... to simply feed and breed!

This is where your flea control skills will be tested to the max. There are so many methods of getting rid of fleas... Which Flea Control method(s) to use?

You can go either way by using either natural flea killers or by opting for a more aggressive alternative... chemical solutions. Both of these flea control methods have pro's and cons. It's really a case of discovering what's right for you, your house or your beloved pet.

I definitely recommend booking an appointment with your local vet. There, you'll be able to get specific information geared towards your individual needs.

You can of course try your own hand at flea control and save quite a bit of money on professional services. The choice is always yours.

My Personal Flea Control Tip

So, your beloved pet has fleas! First course of action... Don't panic, you're not alone with this problem. And you certainly won't find yourself short of anti-flea solutions.

Right now, you're probably really worried, almost to the point of frustration at the very sight of your pet itching like crazy as fleas settle down to a healthy meal of fresh, warm blood.

What to do?

Where do I go?

And which product is the best for darling pet?

I've faced the very same questions and after trying umpteen different products as a pet owner, the one that really stood out from the rest (in terms of results), was Advantage Flea Control.

Enough has been said, written and publicized about Advantage Flea Control without me having to blow the trumpet also.

In short, when faced with the challenge of controlling fleas on your pet, I highly recommend you give Advantage a try.

It will kill fleas on adult pets as well as puppies and kittens... however; do refer to the instructions on the packaging and if in doubt, refer to your local vet for more specific advice.

I hope you enjoy my website. In the near future, I will add a forum where we can all share our flea control tips. This way we'll help each other to keep happier, healthier pets...

After all, there's nothing better than happy pets! Wouldn't you agree?

About the Author

Stewart Alexander is the owner and Webmaster of "Flea Control Master"… a brand new resource directory site, built to assist pet and home owners in their search for quality flea control information, products and services.

You may freely distribute this article as long as the content and signature file remain intact.

©Copyright 2005 – Flea Control Master Home Publishing

You've decided to take your pet along on vacation. It will be more fun, and you won't have to worry about leaving a member of your family behind in an unfamiliar kennel. With some extra planning and forethought, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip with your pet.

Taking a Road Trip

If you're driving with your pet, you'll need to find a comfortable and safe way for your pet to travel. You can place your pet in a carrier and secure it in the car. Alternatively, you can purchase a seatbelt-like harness for your pet that will allow him to be out of the carrier but still safely restrained. It isn't safe to allow your pet to roam freely in the car. He can be seriously hurt in the event of even a minor accident, and he is much more likely to escape and become lost when you make stops.

Don't leave your pet alone in the car, especially in hot weather. The heat can quickly become life-threatening. If your pet becomes carsick easily, you may want to ask your veterinarian for motion-sickness medicine before the trip.

Carry some of your pet's food along with you, and feed your pet only small amounts of food at a time. If your trip is short, you may want to have your pet wait and eat when you arrive to avoid carsickness. You should also carry some of your pet's water along, or purchase bottled water. Local tap water may contain different minerals or sulphur, which might upset your pet's stomach.

Flying with your pet

Many pet owners do not like to fly with their pets because it can be traumatic for them, but sometimes it's unavoidable. Unless your pet is very small, he will fly as cargo and not in the cabin with you. Check with your airline to determine what type of carrier is acceptable and what rules apply to flying with a pet. Also ask what safety precautions are in place, what conditions the pet will fly in, etc. Ask your veterinarian if your pet is well enough to fly or if there are any special precautions you should take.

International Travel

Taking your pet out of the country requires careful planning. Check the regulations for the country you are traveling to and verify that your pet has the required vaccinations. In some cases, you'll need to have the vaccines administred weeks before your departure date.

Most countries will require a Rabies Vaccination Certificate and a Health Certificate. Your veterinarian can help you obtain both of these. The country you are traveling to may require that you complete paperwork gaining permission to bring your pet into the country. Also, some countries have quarantine regulations that may require your pet to remain in a kennel for up to several months.

Pet Friendly Hotels

A quick search on the Internet can help you find hotels that are receptive to pets. Many travel sites also allow you to specify only pet-frienly accommodations. Check with the hotel to find their specific rules regarding staying with a pet.

If your pet requires walks, ask for a room that opens on the outside. This will be more convenient for those late night trips outdoors.

Many alternative lodging sites, such as resorts, cabins and bed and breakfasts are also open to receiving pets. Check ahead of time for availability where you're traveling. Since many of these vacation spots offer outdoor activities, they can be great options for pet owners.

What Will your Pet do All day?

You know how you'll travel, and you've found a hotel that will welcome your pet, so now what? What will your pet do all day when you're out having fun?

An outdoor vacation is an ideal choice if you're traveling with pets. Consider renting an RV and taking a camping vacation. Many RV rental agencies allow pets with an extra deposit. A trip to the beach is another good choice for pet owners. However, keep in mind that sand can be irritating to some pets, especially dogs with deep skin folds. Some animals are bothered by long sun exposure as well.

If you're spending a lot of time outdoors, keep plenty of cold water on hand and watch your pet for signs of heat exhaustion.

Some restaurants now provide outdoor seating that is also pet friendly. Check ahead of time if any are available near where you are staying. If you'd like to spend mealtime with your pet and no pet-friendly restaurants are close by, you might consider takeout or even picnicing outdoors.

What if you're taking a more traditional vacation? Many tourist attractions will not welcome your pet, and it isn't a good idea to leave your pet alone in a strange hotel room all day. You may be able to place your pet in his carrier for shorter excursions, but for all day trips, consider researching pet daycare centers or kennels available in the area. You can leave your pet for a few hours in a safe environment but still enjoy his company on your trip.

What to Take Along

Bring your pet's food along or plan to buy it as needed. This is not a good time to change your pet's diet, and you should certainly avoid giving your pet any table scraps. Traveling can be stressful regardless of how careful you are, and you don't need the added complication of stomach upset for your pet.

Don't give your dog the local water, especially if you're traveling internationally. It's safer to give your pet only bottled water to avoid possible stomach upset.

Bring along any medicines your pet takes, including vitamins, flea medicines, heart worm prescriptions, etc. You should also bring some basic first-aid supplies in case of injury. Ask your veterinarian what should be included in your pet's first aid kit. These might include medicines for stomach upset and a mild tranquilizer in case your pet becomes extremely agitated. You can purchase pre-stocked pet first aid kits at many pet supply stores.

To make your pet more comfortable, bring along a few items from home. Bring some of your pet's bedding and a few of his favorite toys. Bring only treats your pet has eaten in the past with no stomach upset. Again, this isn't the time to try any new foods. The carrier you bring should be large enough for your pet to remain comfortably inside for a few hours. He should be able to stand, lie down and turn around easily within it. Also, be sure your pet has fresh water available within the carrier.

A Pre-Trip Checklist

Make an appointment with your veterinarian. Have your pet examined and any vaccinations done that are needed. Ask if your pet is healthy enough to travel, and ask for advice concerning any of your pet's health conditions. Remember that if you are traveling outside the country, you may need to plan weeks in advance.

Make sure your pet has current identification attached to his collar, and that it fits well and isn't likely to slip off. You might want to consider having an identification chip implanted before your trip, but you'll need to discuss with your veterinarian how soon your pet can travel after the procedure.

Gather phone numbers for veterinarians, pet emergency care facilities, kennels, etc. before you leave for each place where you'll be staying. If an accident or illness does occur, you'll be grateful that you don't have to take the time to find someone to care for your pet.

Make a packing list for your pet based on his needs and what your veterinarian recommends. Double-check it as you pack his things. Take your veterinarian's phone number along with you in case you need to call and ask a last minute question or have your pet's records sent to another clinic.

Take time to get your pet used to his carrier, especially if it's new. If you're driving, take your pet in the car for practice trips before the big day so it won't be so traumatic. Another benefit to this approach is that you'll learn if your pet become motion sick easily.

If you're traveling with your cat, bring a litterbox and litter along with you. It's easier to purchase cheap plastic litterboxes and throw them away rather than try to clean and transport them. If traveling with a dog, be sure to bring baggies to clean up after your pet's walks.

Embarrassing and Alarming Moments

Pets get stressed when traveling, so accidents can and will happen. Bring some disposable wipes and plastic baggies to clean up after your pet. Another good idea is bringing a small bottle of enzyme based cleaner. If your pet selects the hotel carpet as the perfect spot for his accident, this can remove the odor and stain before it has a change to set.

Never open your pet's carrier unless you're in an enclosed room. Pets can move much more quickly than you can, and nothing will ruin your vacation faster than losing your traveling companion.

Traveling with your pet can be challenging, but with some planning ahead, it can also be a fun and rewarding experience. Trying a short weekend trip before a longer vacation can also help your pet acclimate to travel, and you will learn how well your pet travels.

Author Ian White is founder of pet-sitters.biz Pet Sitting Directory

Find a Pet Sitter, Find Pet Sitting Clients.

Pet-Sitters.biz can help both ways! Pet sitters list their business and can be found easily when pet owners search for your services.

Pet owners list pet-sitting requirements and find those who meet their specific needs. Fast, easy membership Dog walkers, pet day cares also welcome!

Before the world even knew of the expression teacup chihuahua, regular chihuahuas have had quite a history of their own. They were first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1904 after being discovered in the Chihuahua state, a mexican region, bordering Texas and New Mexico. This also gave rise to the name of the breed.

As many times happens with history, there are slightly different versions as to the origin of what became the teacup chihuahua. If we comine known facts they are said to come from the ancient Techichi dogs of the Toltec Civilisation near Mexico City. The Azteks conqured the Toltecs and turned these dogs in to sacred icons of the upper class, giving them religious meaning. Todays chihuahuas are smaller in size than were the Techichis, which was also mute.

This dog is then believed to have been crossed with an oriental dog, a hairless breed that gave modern teacup chihuahuas more of the look they have today, smaller and smooth-coated with vocal resources that surpass their size. Where the stories differ is partly as to how this hairless breed came to that part of the world. Some say these early chihuahua ancestors immigrated across the Bering Strait land bridge.

Others claim they were brought by Spanish settlers who had established trade routes with China. In support for this theory is stated that China has well documented practices of cultivating both animals and plants to be smaller in size. In a historic letter found to be written by the famous Christopher Columbus is said that he found a small dog on the island of Cuba that was mute. This adds to the speculation of the orgins of the chihuahua.

There are different forms of support for the above theories, ranging from DNA to painted ancient artwork, though the the teacup chihuahua history might remain somewhat of a mystery, especially as to how they ended up where they were first discovered as a breed in 1884 and adopted into the AKC twenty years later. In England the breed was not registred until another twenty years later.

Even though its past in some parts still remain a mystery nobody can deny that this small dog with the big temper remains a favorite with many. The small chihuauas nicknamed teacup chihuahuas have made history in the past and continue to do so today on movie screen, TV, commercials and in homes worldwide.

Kari Eriksson is an infopreneur and a dog lover since many years. Lately Teacup Chihuahuas have become a special interest and he operates The Teacup Chihuahuas Directory at http://www.teacupchihuahuasdirectory.com where you can find articles, links and useful resources.

Let's talk a little about colds. Any living animal can catch a cold. The same thing can happen to your beloved turtle pet. If this happens to your turtle than there are many turtle care methods to treat your turtle.

So a turtle can catch a cold just like humans or other animals. Let's check the symptoms of a cold un humans. sneezing is one of them. A turtle can also sneeze. But if a turtle sneezes this doesn't means that she has a cold. Dust in the nose can make a turtle sneeze too. Also the turtle can have some kind on runny nose. This is usually caused by allergies or by cold. Because turtle care is very important when your pet get's a cold, you must be sure that the turtle really has a cold. So i advise you to take the animal to a good veterinarian.

Symptoms could be caused by just by a little cold. But you should take good care of your turtle because could also be signs of a serious respiratory infection. If this happens then medication is needed for the treatment.

What you should know is that a turtle doesn't get a cold from being cold. If the turtle is kept to cold then her immune system weakens. So when the immune system weakens there are more cohesive for the turtle to catch a cold.

In the most common cases Colds and respiratory infections or penumonia come from bacteria or viruses causes. If the cold is from a bacterium then all turtle care advise guides and veterinarians will recommend antibiotics treatments. In this case the chances that the pet will recover are high. But if the cold comes from a virus then things are more complicated because usually viruses can't be determined. In this unfortunate case all you can do is just sit, wait and hope.

The first turtle care advise for any cold symptoms is to keep a little higher temperature in the turtle enclosure. If the temperature will raise the immune system will recover a little. Take care that the turtle will have a very clean environment. Another turtle care advise for a cold turtle is to take it out of the water and put it in a heated box but don't forget to check the temperature with a thermometer.

If the turtle's situation doesn't improves then i advise you to see a veterinarian.

The real problem is that the colds, respiratory infections and pneumonia are one of the most common turtle care issues that a turtle will die from.

So if you have any suspicions that you pet has a cold than i advise you to search for some turtle care sheets on the net to see what's happening with your turtle. If you can't figure it out and the situation agravates the you must see a veterinarian.

For best turtle care advice, turtle food recommendation or turtle health issues visit us at the best turtle care site.

Most consumers would give a exterminate anything just to get the best product that would effectively deliver what they need. You may find it by browsing over the Internet or look everywhere.

Things can be pretty tedious when done like this. However, if you really want to buy an effective pet odor removal without spending additional expenses just to get the formula on other places, it is best that you stick to where you belong right now.

From an effective pet odor removal up to protecting your surfaces, finding them in a place like San Francisco is never too hard. This is because in San Francisco, people know how important pet odor removal formula is.

From a return on investment perspective, it is best to evaluate and choose a San Francisco pet removal product that can effectively wash away pet odors. These things have been proliferating through word of mouth, a marketing strategy that is almost twice more powerful than the usual type of advertising.

Basically, pet odors contain high levels of protein. This is the one responsible in giving out the pungent smell. Some people thought it was the acid content, but in reality, it is not.

In San Francisco, they exactly know what it takes to eliminate pet odor. After a series of careful studies and experimentation, people from San Francisco were able to come up with good and effective formula. These things are the best ones any San Francisco resident or visitors can enjoy using.

However, not all San Francisco pet odor removal formula can deliver quality service. There are some instances that people instantly believe that since the product came from San Francisco, it must be good. What they do not know is that nothing was created equal.

To know more about choosing the product, here are some tips to live by:

1. Do your homework

If you wish to buy a pet removing formula in San Francisco, it is best that you do your homework first. You will never know what comprises a good pet odor removal unless you know one.

Do research on things like their features or their pros and cons over the other formula. Knowing a lot of things will not only render you good information on your databank but can also make you understand why such things exist.

2. Shop and compare

In order to save more time and money on your San Francisco pet odor removal, it is best that you shop around first and the compare products. In this way, you get to obtain your product with the best bargain ever.

Moreover, when you shop and compare before deciding on a particular item, you get to choose the best deal among others because you were able to compare them side by side.

3. Be wary on the promotions

Most pet odor removal formula in San Francisco are usually marketed with their corresponding promotions. The problem is that not all of these things are built in good faith. Some were created to lure people to buy the product but will not render the services that people need.

It is best to try those with free trial for a particular period. This will help you in choosing the best San Francisco pet odor removal formula. Hence, it is still better to get those deals that are absolutely no risk to you.

All of these are boiled down to the fact that when choosing a pet odor removal formula in San Francisco, you do not have to automatically believe that the product is good. Like a typical wise consumer that you are, always go for the basics and get that effective and money-saving pet odor removal formula in San Francisco.

As many pet owners will tell you, their pet is often treated like a member of the family. If that pet becomes ill or suffers an injury, most owners will do anything to ensure their beloved pet gets the treatment it needs. Depending on the treatment needed, the cost can leave the owners with huge veterinary bills.

To prepare for such an occurrence, many owners are taking out insurance for their pet, to offset any costs that may be incurred and to ensure their pet gets the best treatment. Insurance can come in many flavors. The most basic insurance plans will only cover injuries and accidents such as car accidents, broken bones, swallowing foreign objects or poisons. These insurance plans will often cost around the 15-20 dollar per month mark. Although these are quite cheap, they are limited in what they cover.

The slightly more expensive pet health insurance plans will cover your pet against illness as well. These insurance policies will cover against long term treatment for diseases such as cancer or other illnesses such as flu. Another often overlooked benefit of these more expensive policies is boarding for your pet. This can be invaluable if you yourself are taken ill and your pet needs to be homed whilst your are hospitalized or otherwise unable to care for your pet.

When deciding which pet insurance policy to take out, don't just look at the monthly cost. Take into consideration exactly what is covered for your pet and whether you are getting what you pay for. As a guide, here are some of things you should be asking :-

Does it matter how old my pet is? - Some pet insurance policies will not cover pets over a certain age or will have a higher premium for older pets.

Am I insured if my pet goes missing or is stolen? - Sometimes pets can go astray or get stolen. Should this happen, will your pet insurance policy cover the cost of advertising and or the cost of putting up a reward for safe return of your pet? Some policies will even reimburse the purchase price of your pet.

Is third party liability cover for my pet available? - Nowadays, with claims for compensation becoming more and more common, it makes sense for you to insure yourself in case your pet causes damage to somebody else or their property. Third party liability cover against this up to an agreed value.

Will I have to pay an excess if I make a claim? - Most pet insurance health policies will carry an excess. This simply means that for any given claim, you as the policy holder will be liable to pay a certain amount towards the claim. More often than not, the policies with a lower monthly premium will have a higher excess. It is best to confirm that the excess is something you can afford before taking out an insurance policy for your pet.

As with most insurance policies, there are limitations and exclusions. It is wise to look into this before taking out any policy. It's much better to find out now what is not covered than when you wish to make a claim. In particular, check for limitations on how soon you can claim after the policy is taken out. Some policies will not allow a claim before a certain number of weeks have passed. Also check to see if preventative treatments are covered. Things such as fleas, worms, vaccinations, pregnancy etc.

Something else to consider, is whether you will get a discount for insuring more than one pet. Some insurance companies will offer a 5% discount or similar if you insure all your pets on one policy.

If you require optimum coverage for your pet, you will find that insurance companies will allow you to add extra cover for a given charge. Additional cover may include:

Holiday cancellation – If your pet is ill and you need to cancel a holiday to get treatment, some policies will provide reimbursement for this.

Hospitalization Of Owner – If you are taken ill, your pets boarding costs will be covered.

Taking your pet abroad - Quarantine costs and emergency expenses when abroad can be covered.

Article By Andrew Strachan. Find lots more information about pet insurance and different types of dogs at http://www.types-of-dogs.com Lots of help and advice too.

1. Be fair with corrections. Make sure your Beagle understands what you want before you correct him for not doing it. And let the punishment fit the crime. A correction should not be a release of anger, a clearing out of pent-up feelings by unloading them on the apparent cause of the problem, your Beagle. Instead, a correction is another way to communicate with your dog, to foster in him a clear understanding of his place in your human pack. As such, a proper correction is another way to strengthen the bond between you and your pet. At its mildest level, a correction is the absence of praise. Remember to always ask yourself if you're being fair before you give in to the knee-jerk reaction to leash-jerk.

2. Be positive. This tip refers to having the right attitude, of course, but it's more than that. Praise that's well timed and appropriate is essential to your Beagle's learning process. If all you ever do is tell your Beagle "no," your relationship isn't going to be a very good one. How would you like to work with a boss like that?

Praise is cheap and free - so use it, lots! Use praise when your Beagle tries to get it right. Use it more when your Beagle succeeds. Use it when your dog just pays attention to you, because that's the first step in the training. You don't have to be some gushing goof, but you do need to let your dog know when you're proud of her.

3. When training your Beagle, be on the same team. Don't think of training your dog as a you versus your dog endeavor. Think instead about the two of you being on the same team, albeit in different positions. Consider yourself the quarterback, if you like: You call the plays. Winning is a team effort. Of course, your Beagle has to learn the plays first, and you're the one to teach him. And this relationship is still not an adversarial one. You show your Beagle the things he needs to learn, and you do so with love and respect, which your dog will return in kind.

To bring your Beagle onto your team and show him the plays you'll be calling, you need to spend time with him. Bring him into your life. Let him sleep in a crate in your bedroom, practice his "sits" in the kitchen. The more opportunities for interaction and practice you have, the faster and more reliably your Beagle performs.

Identification of a Staffordshire bull terrier isn't difficult. You do not need an expert eye for this. This dog is burly and powerfully built. You would surely notice its broad head, thick neck and deep chest. The potent jaws with great muscles and undersized droopy ears complete the body contours of a Staffordshire bull terrier.

A Staffordshire bull terrier might be black, brindle, white or a reddish tan. The original name of this particular breed of dogs was bull terrier. Later, it was changed to its present name. However, do not get confuse to a Staffordshire bull terrier with an American Pit Bull Terrier. Although they look similar any lover of either breed could not mistake one for the other.

When you bring home a dog, you want it as your lovable pet. A Staffordshire bull terrier (call him Staffy) is not only devoted to you; it also possesses a very friendly spirit and a love of children that has given the nickname of the "nanny dog".

A Staffordshire bull terrier is a fighter by nature and is aggressive too with other dogs. Therefore, it is to be borne in mind to keep away your 'staffy' from other same sex dogs. It becomes a mandatory rule for the 'un-neutered' male dogs. Therefore, always keep a strict vigil over cohabitation of your 'Staffy' and its companions. Two Staffies should never be left alone for long periods.

While breeding a Staffordshire bull terrier, the most important consideration you have to make is its temperament. Remember, that the objective of breeding is to improve the breed. Merely because a Staffordshire bull terrier is KC registered does not mean it should be bred. The temperament of a Staffordshire bull terrier is its greatest asset so breeding should be done keeping in mind the temperament of the parents.

There are also many health concerns that should be taken into consideration and dogs should be health tested before going ahead with breeding.

The breed standard of Staffordshire bull terrier

The Standard refers to the "blueprint" of Staffordshire bull terrier. This is actually the ideal representative of the breed. There are some particular features, which do not tally with the idea of a Staffordshire bull terrier. Like, white and liver colors are strictly non-acceptable ones for the "ideal" breed.

Keeping within the ideal standard there are some attributes that should be avoided when pairing dogs. Strictly, avoid a pink nose. The eye color is preferably black. Avoid a pink pair of eyes, unless they are enclosed with a white coat with short ears. Complete drop or full prick will be considered a defect. The "model" tallness (at shoulder) and related weight is 14 to 16 inches/28 to 38 pounds (bitches, 24 to 34 pounds). Go for tight and clean lips. A tail that is too stretched or badly curled is an imperfection and the legs should be parallel when viewed from behind.

Of course, these are attributes that are desired when showing Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and again to meet the idea standards of the breed. Any dog that is born with these traits are loving and adorable pets just like all the rest.

Remember, a Staffordshire bull terrier, is very intelligent, brave and a faithful dog. It could become an indispensable part of your family if trained well.

Lungfish can survive in poorly aerated waters since they have lungs which make its possible for them to obtain oxygen directly from the air. The lungs are related to those in primitive amphibian animals. Today, there are six known Lungfish species in world, but they used to be much more common. Lungfish have been around since the Lower Devonian era and during earlier stages of the planets history there existed much more than six lungfish species. Those species that have survived have changed little since the Lower Devonian age. The Australian lungfish have for instance looked pretty much the same during the last 100 million years.

Today, you will find wild Lungfish in Africa, South America and Australia. The African and South American Lungfish species all belong to the family Lepidosirenidae, while the Australian Lungfish has its own family – the Ceratodidae. As mentioned earlier, all Lungfish species are capable of breathing oxygen from the air. Other shared features are their large, elongated and snakelike bodies. They are also predators and will eat pretty much anything that they manage to catch. Fish is their staple food, but they will happily also gulp down crustaceans, larger insects and other aquatic creatures. They are very robust and can survive in waters shunned by most other fish species. If you want to keep Lungfish in your aquarium you should however avoid the highest pH-values. Before you buy a Lungfish for your aquarium should consider their size. The largest Lungfish is one of the African lungfish species, a fish which can reach a maximal size of 2 metres / 6 feet which makes it unsuitable for hobbyist aquariums. Even the smaller Lungfish species grow very large and should only be housed in huge tanks.

In Africa, you will find four different Lungfish species. Protopterus annectens is the most popular species among aquarists. The three other ones are Protopterus aethiopicus, Protopterus amphibious and Protopterus dolloi. You should never get an African lungfish unless your aquarium is very large, since they grow rapidly. As long as you can provide them with enough space, they are however though fishes that will tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They will eat all sorts of food. Even though they are predatory fish, it is not very hard to make them accept dry and frozen foods. When kept on a diet of prepared food they will still appreciate occasional live treats. This means that your African lungfish should ideally be housed alone since it will happily devour any tank mates. If the other fish is too large to swallow, the African lungfish will simply bite chunks out of it until it is fully consumed.

On the South American continent you will only find one Lungfish, Lepidosiren paradoxa. This Lungfish can also be kept in aquariums and its requirements are very similar to the African lungfish species. Just like its African cousins, it must be given plenty of room. Lepidosiren paradoxa can reach a maximal size of 1.2 meters / 4 feet.

The Australian Lungfish, Neoceratodus forsteri, can also be kept in aquariums but you should be aware of the fact that they are CITES listed. You are only allowed to by Australian Lungfish from licensed breeders and if you live anywhere outside Australia it can be hard to get exportation and importation licenses. The Australian Lungfish is also known as Queensland Lungfish.

Read more about about African lungfish or other predatory fish

Everybody understands the reason why most plants can be seen in many aquariums. Healthy plants and their lush are beautiful to look at when they are in an aquarium. They also create a natural setting in the aquarium.

Most of the fishes feel secure, less stressed and safe whenever they have plants to hide in. Some species of fish do not survive in an aquarium without any plants.

Aquarium plants will not only give the fishes a helpful shelter and make your aquarium look attractive but they can maintain the quality of the water as well. Plants and fish both exist on the wild and they will surely match well in your aquarium.

The wastes discharged by the fish contain compounds that are useful for the plant's nutrition. Therefore, the organic wastes can be contained in the plants instead of seeing them float in the water. The plants must be pruned regularly and the dead parts must be eliminated from the aquarium ASAP.

Not only that, the aquarium plants will also provide a shelter to many micro organisms which are useful for the ecology and environment of the aquarium. In addition, plants have also the capacity to inhabit the growth of ugly algae since algae and plants compete for similar nutrients.

Most species of fish will never reproduce in an aquarium without plants. This is because some species need plants for them to feel secured enough to reproduce, while other species need the leaves of the plants to place their eggs in. An abundantly planted aquarium will also enhance the survival growth of the fry especially if you want to increase the number of fry in a similar aquarium like with the adult fish.

However, we all know that plants rely too much to light and photosynthesis. An aquarium with no plants will only need little. But if you are planning to have an abundant number of plants in your aquarium, you will be required to put new lights. A fluorescent light will be better to your planted aquarium, make sure that they are made especially for aquariums.

If you are a beginner, the plant species that will be suitable for you are the Java Moss and the Java Fern. These are strong plants that can survive in water hardiness and pH values. They can even be placed in a brackish aquarium like the Molly aquarium.

Aquarium plants are very important to the survival of most fishes in the aquarium. It does not matter what aquarium plant you choose, the important thing is you know how to maintain your aquarium as naturally as the fishes and plants habitat.

Most pet owners aren't aware that health insurance for their loved animals has been available for about 15 years now. However, both the availability and restrictions on most plans have made this type of health insurance out of reach for most pet owners.

Interestingly enough, pet health insurance has changed in the past couple of years. Now, animal owners are able to afford medical procedures previously prohibitive because of the cost. But many skeptics are concerned that health insurance for pets will see an increase in the red tape us humans already encounter every day.

Animal medicine is one of the few health care services that isn't financially dependent on health insurance. Medical, dental, surgical and pharmaceuticals are all pretty much covered by health insurance in humans, but veterinary patients are responsible for all of that, themselves. Or, at least their owners are.

Health insurance for pets is very similar to insurance for humans. The same fees, deductibles, coverage rates and plans are all in place, with different plans based on the age, species, and general health of your pet.

Most health insurance policies for animals start around the 6-8 week range, but when the policies end depend on a variety of factors, mostly decided by the health insurance company. Some have age limits, and some don't.

And just like with humans, some health insurance companies will only accept your pet on their plan if they are healthy; others will accept them only if they have had a stable condition for more than six months in a row.

Currently, deductibles stand around $100 for pet health insurance. Policy costs vary as much as human health insurance does, unfortunately. Some depend on what types and kind of coverage is desired, and yet others are just blanket coverage catch-alls. Some may only cover accidents and illnesses. And more pets usually means a reduced health insurance rate for subsequent animals.

But what if you decide that an health insurance policy is not right for you, and your pet? There are other options, of course!

First, discuss your situation with your Veterinarian. Some animal hospitals offer packages that aren't quite health insurance, but can offer a rate deal of some sorts on more mundane medical procedures (spaying/neutering, vaccinations, etc.), or packages for your aging animal.

Secondly, research plans that offer discounts on animal health services. PetAssure is one of these companies, but there are a myriad of not-for-profits that may offer this as a side benefit when you join. Or, these same animal not-for-profits may offer financial assistance for pet owners whose health costs are beyond their means – a sort of emergency fund, if you will.

All in all, it depends on you, and your pet(s), whether or not pet health insurance is the right choice. Hopefully, with the help of this article, your choice will be an informed one.

For more more information about pet health insurance please visit http://www.1health-center.com/articles/The-Important-of-Health-Insurance.php

A pet relies on its owner to look after it. Sometimes a veterinarian is too far away when your puppy needs immediate attention. Would you be able to administer basic first aid if you needed to?

It is up to you to be able to administer the first aid that your pet needs when he needs it. Something can happen at virtually any time at home or away from home. You should have with you a first aid kit that is designed for your pet in mind. If you take your pet away from home frequently, make sure to store the first aid kit in your car as well. These tools can save your pet's life.

Here are some of the things that you should have within that kit:

Hydrogen peroxide

Gauze pads and tape

Absorbent cotton/cotton balls

Scissors with a round tip

Instant ice packs

Tweezers

A bulb syringe to be used to remove mucous from the mouth/nose

Eyewash solution specific for pets

A clean white cotton sock for paws that are hurt

Flashlight

A rectal thermometer

Medication syringe for dispensing medication

An electrolyte liquid such as Pedialyte

You need to protect these products so keep them in a hard shell container that has a tight fitting lid. You should also have the vet's name and number written and enclosed in this package. You should know and secure information about the local emergency pet hospital as well. Also, when you leave your pet with another caregiver to take care of, such as when you are traveling, you need to provide them with the kit and a release form authorizing them to seek treatment for your pet.

A common dilemma is the bee sting. If this happens to your pet, you should restrain the animal and use a pair of tweezers to remove the stinger. Then, bath the area with a mixture of water and baking soda to relieve some of the pain. You can help to reduce swelling by using an ice pack on the area and using Benedryl. Make sure you know how much to give your pet by asking the vet.

What should you do if your dog is injured?

You'll need to approach the animal slowly and carefully because they may snap or bite at you. It is just a nature reaction for them to do this. See what has happened to them and reassure the pet that you are not going to hurt her through a smooth voice and calmness.

Your first concern is to stop the flow of blood as quickly as possible. Apply pressure to the wound and hold it there. Make sure to use a cloth that is clean and change them as needed. Keep as much pressure on it as possible until you get to your vet. If you need to, tape a thick gauze pad to the wound. You'll want to keep as much pressure on the wound though, so if possible have someone else transport you.

In the case of choking, you should use a flashlight to check down the throat. If you can, remove the object. If you can't see it, you'll need to use a Heimlich maneuver that is designed for your pet. As a pet owner, you should have this basic training taught to you. It is important to do it correctly in order to protect against serious injury of the pet. You can get this type of training at your local humane society or through your vet. You can also learn how to give your pet CPR and how to deal with serious injury and poisoning.

Best Pet Health Information is a resource which will help you find infomation, hints and tips to stocking a doggie first aid kit and keeping your dog happy and healthy. Dog News Center publishes news and articles about dogs and puppies.

http://www.best-pet-health.info This article may be reprinted in full so long as the resource box and live links are included intact.

Training your dog is a lot like studying foreign languages. The first one is very difficult and confusing, the second one a little easier, and so on. With a little time and a lot of patience it can be done. Armed with only a leash, a few treats to act as "rewards" for good behavior, a quiet secluded spot, and 10 or 15 minutes a day, results can be positive.

The following list of training tips are very useful and have proven effective with all breeds:

- Schedule your dog's lesson everyday at the same time and in the same place. Repetition is one of the key elements in training.

- Be enthusiastic. Make training fun. Good memories aren't easily forgotten.

- Be authoritive, insist on a higher standard of obedience during lessons than at ordinary times. Don't ask your dog to do something, tell him firmly.

- Use your tone of voice to help get your message across, a clear firm voice for commands, an enthusiastic one for encouragement, a cheerful one for approval, and a minor, low tone for disapproval. Nothing is accomplished by a loud voice or yelling.

- Start each lesson by reviewing what your dog already knows, and praise him for his good performance, even for his well-meaning efforts. Praise him for the slightest thing that he does right.

- Be as concentrated and observant during training sessions as you expect your dog to be. Then you will be able to anticipate his moves, to encourage him when he is on the right track, and to discourage mistakes before he makes them.

- Never proceed to difficult tasks until your dog has mastered the more elementary ones. It is much more useful for you to be certain that he will obey three or four simple commands than it is to hope that he will obey ten or twenty if he happens to feel like it.

- Follow each lesson with a moment of play then rest.

- Persuade the other members of your family to give the identical commands and to use the same terms of encouragement if they want to help with the training.

- Don't let your dog forget what he has learned, nor confine his obedience to lesson times. Use the commands he has been trained to obey whenever possible. That is what training is all about, to teach your dog good behavior and manners by repetition.

Randy Jones and his partner Brent Jones have been in the pet industry for a long time. Recently they formed Joncopets.com. On the site, customers can read articles about anything pets as well as shop for the latest designer dog clothes, dog collars, dog beds and more for their best friend. Feel free to check out the site at http://www.joncopets.com.

Puppy Training

Puppy training can be a trying time. The key to this time is to really remember that all puppy behavior is normal. They like to mouth, jump, bark, dig and piddle wherever they are. They aren't doing it to annoy you, they are just doing what they have learned so far. It is our job to train them not to do these things.

Think of it as teaching your child to read. You wouldn't punish your child for not knowing the alphabet if they have never seen it before right? So we don't need to punish our puppies for things we haven't taught them. Here, we will talk about normal puppy behavior and ways to encourage them to try something new. Remember - Behavior that is followed by something the dog likes will increase! puppy training should be a lot of fun!

Puppy behavior

Jumping: There are two ways to solve this - first, stand on their leash. Second, teach them to sit. By teaching sit we are removing the desire to jump.

Mouthing: See this full article on puppy mouthing.

Pulling: This one is easy. Just stop walking! If you never go anywhere when the dog pulls, he will quickly learn. Offer a small treat when he is by your side and talk in a happy voice to encourage him.

The key to training any behavior is to be 100% consistent in your efforts. Often times it will get worse before it gets better but it will go away if you are consistent.

Puppy dog training

Try enrolling in a puppy kindergarten near you. This will really help with socialization and early puppy dog training. Find a dog trainer near you.

Housebreaking puppies

Puppies need to go to the bathroom after they play, chew, drink, eat or sleep. Start by putting them on a leash and tethering them to you. That way you can be aware of them when they start sniffing the ground (usually a cue the puppy needs to go potty). Pick them up and carry them outside. When they go potty, tell them "good potty" and give a cookie as a reward. Do not let your puppy off leash until they have finished going so they get into the habit of going potty, then playing. Many puppies will want to go outside just to play if you let them off leash first.

What if my puppy has an accident?

He will. Do not punish your puppy though. If you catch your puppy in the act then clap your hands or pick them up - this will make your puppy stop going. Get him outside FAST and let him finish up out there. Reward him for going outside. Clean up the mess with natures miracle which will remove the odor completely.

Do NOT rub their nose in it, swat them with a newspaper, or isolate your puppy. It will only teach them to not go in front of you.

If your puppy is going frequently in the house you are probably not supervising them enough. Watch and learn their cues. If you feel you are watching and your puppy isn't getting it you can always have them checked for a Urinary tract infection.

If your puppy piddles when you greet them, this could be submissive urination. This would be a problem that is usually cured by ignoring the behavior and letting your puppy calm down before touching them when you first see them.

This article not only applies to puppies, but it is how you should train a dog of any age. If you can't supervise your dog, please put them in a crate to help curb accidents. Remember, dogs go where they go most!

This can be a trying time, so have patience and you will get through it.

Amy Dunphy CPDT
Owner of the Dog Trainer Search
http://www.dogtrainersearch.com

When we walk our dog, no matter the destination - on city streets, in parks or in open spaces - it is necessary that he respects the disciplinary rules required, to avoid having problems with other animals or people you meet.

So let's see how our dog will have to act in certain situations:

1. Usually, in crowded places keep him on a leash, to always have him under control. He will have to learn how to walk on a leash, near your foot, without pulling.

2. The dog is not allowed to jump on people or animals you meet or to attack any of them, as long as he isn't attacked first.

3. The dog shouldn't run after bicycles, motorcycles, cars or people that are running. Some dogs do that because of their hunting instincts.

4. When you let the dog free, to relax, it is crucial that when he is called he returns along the shortest route and as fast as possible.

5. At a picnic, the dog is not allowed to walk across other people's carpets or eat their food.

6. Wherever your dog might be, he is not allowed to eat food given by someone else or food found on the ground.

7. Generally, small dogs are more spoiled than big dogs and they are more aggressive, anti-social and afraid of people or other dogs. The ones to blame are the owners who are often amused when they see their dogs acting this way. Eventually the dogs may start to bark at and even bite their owner.

8. The dog must already have basic skills learned, so you have no problems when walking him.

9. All through the walk, the dog must not chew on his leash or pull it with his teeth, otherwise if he is tied somewhere alone he will chew on it until he becomes free and then get lost.

10. The dog is not allowed to jump up and put his front paws on us or others even if he is just playing.

11. Pay attention to drunken people! Many times the smell, the walk and the yelling of drunken people annoys dogs. The dog may follow his instincts and won't pay attention to any of our calls. Some drunken people are even aggressive to dogs. Stay away from them as much as possible.

To signup for 7 Dog Tips for free, check out Everything About Dogs Newsletter. Alternatively, check out the book "A Guide to Dog Training" at A Guide to Dog Training to learn more about training your dog.

Many owners of large and giant breed dogs often overlook the physical size of their pooch.

Truth is, most people including dog lovers can be quite intimidated by a large, or giant breed dog. After all, big dogs are not for everyone, a large percentage of dog owners prefer small, or medium sized companions.

Ever here a grown man scream?

One afternoon while walking our Dane in public we approached a middle age man that was unaware we were coming up along side. The poor guy caught a glimpse of our giant breed dog and let out a scream you wouldn't believe! Feeling sorry for the man we apologized then realized, we did nothing wrong! Unbelievably, the sudden unexpected appearance of our Great Dane was a shock in itself.

Further bias towards big dogs was evident one afternoon at our local lumber store. Previously witnessing smaller dogs being whisked around in shopping carts, we figured it would be fine to let our Great Dane come along and join the activities. Standing calmly on lead with my daughter, our dog was behaving perfectly. I began to load up the lumber needed for my Saturday afternoon project. Suddenly, we were interrupted by what looked like the entire store security staff! Being told there are no dogs allowed I quickly pointed at a Poodle in a cart further down the isle. After quarreling a bit, we were told, "he's to big" and swiftly escorted out the front doors.

Most large dog owners can attest, a giant breed dog like a Great Dane is no more a threat than an ankle biting Chihuahua! More often than not, they are truly gentle soles that want nothing more than to be around people. Unfortunately, their size and appearance is too often fearsome to the average person. Large dog owners often forget the true size and stature of their dogs. Remember, many strangers will panic if your giant companion rushes towards the curb to say hello.

Asking in advance, or announcing your visit, will help avoid unforeseen and unexpected conflicts of the dog vs. human variety.

Owning a giant breed dog requires proper training and socialization techniques. Special attention should be focused on interaction and behavior around people as well as other animals.

For additional information on training and socializing a giant breed dog, visit "training Great Danes" as brought to you by all-about-great-danes.com

The German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian or Schafer(hund)) is an intelligent breed of dog. Because they are eager to please, they are easily trained in obedience and protection. The German Shepherd Dog is a large, strong, substantial-looking dog.

Ever since Rin Tin Tin became a famous television personality, the German Shepherd has gone from an already popular dog breed to one of the most well known breeds on earth. This versatile dog breed seems to be everywhere that a dog can be of help, from war torn countries to areas where natural disasters have occurred. The powerful German Shepherd will strike terror in the hearts of criminals one minute and endure the overly affectionate attention of little children the next.

German Shepherds were bred to be guardians and the breed still has a very strong protective instinct. A dog that is high strung or nervous should never be bred, as the resulting puppies can be untrustworthy. However, most German Shepherds are wonderful dogs and devoted to their families, including children and other pets.

The German Shepherd is a fairly large dog, weighing from sixty to seventy five pounds and standing twenty two to twenty six inches tall. This breed has erect ears, dark, intelligent eyes, and a graceful tail. The German Shepherd is most commonly black and tan, although gray and tan or black and gray dogs are also available. A striking all white dog, commonly called an Alsatian, is popular with many people. If you like the look of the Alsatian, be sure you meet the puppy's parents, as these white German Shepherds can sometimes be a bit high strung.

Although German Shepherds are high energy animals, they can live in the city. Just be aware that you will have to exercise your dog frequently and that he will be miserable if you leave him alone for long hours without giving him a job to do. Of course, a house with a big yard in a rural area is ideal.

Since your German Shepherd will rapidly grow into a big, powerful dog, you may want to enroll him in obedience classes while he is a puppy. It is much easier to control a small puppy than a full grown untrained dog. In addition, puppy obedience classes also help provide another important benefit for your German Shepherd puppy, socialization to other dogs and people. Many people who own these intelligent dogs make the unfortunate mistake of thinking that their dogs need to be trained as guard dogs. However, this training can lead to aggression if your dog is not trained properly. Since German Shepherds are naturally protective, they do not need attack dog training to guard your home.

The German Shepherd's coat requires very little grooming. The dense coat is coarse and does not mat easily. Brush your dog once a week to remove dirt and debris. If you live in the city, concrete will probably wear down your Shepherd's nails. However, if your dog lives in a rural area he may need to have his nails trimmed several times a year.

German Shepherds need to eat a nutritional food that is formulated for large breed dogs. If your Shepherd is a working dog, you may need to feed him a high protein food. A good dog vitamin is also a smart idea.

This loyal, smart breed commonly suffers from hip dysplasia or epilepsy. To see one of these dignified dogs suffering from either disease is heart breaking. Please be sure that your puppy's breeder has had the parents tested to be sure they do not carry these diseases.

German Shepherd Dogs are often used as working dogs in many capacities, including search and rescue, military, police or guard dogs. They are also used as assistance dogs or service dogs (such as guide dogs).

If you want a dog who will be protective and loyal, then a German Shepherd may be the right dog for you and your family.

Clive Chansa writes for the Dog Care Guide at http://www.dog-care-help.com/ and the Pet Care Supplies Uk website at http://www.pet-care-supplies.co.uk/ which offers a wide range of pet products and supplies.

Most pet owners do not enjoy being disturbed in the middle of a spine-chilling scene on the television or in the middle of an interesting conversation with your neighbor so that they can take out their pets. The best option to avoid these interruptions is to purchase a pet door.

There is a huge variety of pet doors available in the market today, but if you are looking for a door that can be installed without cutting any holes in the door or walls, then a patio pet door is the answer. These patio doors are available in all sizes, so whether it's a Great Dane who needs a walk or a kitty that needs to go out, it's safe for all of them.

Patio doors have different models to choose from. There is the single-pane window, which can be fitted as a temporary or semi-permanent door on any glass door or screen door track. It is best suited for vinyl-clad sliding doors. There are also the thermo-panel patio doors, which provide the advantage of a dual-pane glass with the easy installation of a spring load and height adjustment feature of a quick panel. These sheathed or insulated dual-glass door panels are assembled using pre-fabricated glass units for efficiency. The height of these panels can be adjusted using the spring load assembly, which is totally tool free.

It is recommended that the patio pet door be as tall as the shoulder of the pet; a pet can duck, but it is better if he does not have to crouch his way through. Make sure he can pass through without much discomfort. These pet doors are also available in electronic versions, which operate with a magnetic key attached to the pet's collar. Before an electronic patio door is installed, you must make sure that you have enough room to move about. A patio door panel takes off about twenty-one inches from the sliding glass door opening. It is always better to check an electronic patio pet door to see if it works properly before installation.

Rabbits are rodents, varying in all shapes, sizes and colors they are understandably a very popular pet.

Traditionally kept in hutch out in the back yard, rabbit owners are now becoming more and more inclined to keep their pets inside.

Although not obvious, it would appear rabbits adapt very well to life in doors, what's more is they can be trained and tamed to a suprisingly high standard.

In fact, did you know you can teach your rabbit to respond to it's own name?

That's right, just like a dog!

So the obvious way here is for the rabbit to associate its name with food; if you already have a rabbit then you'll note that they are quick to come running up to you when they here the rustling of their mix bag.

The idea is to replace the rustling with your voice saying their name; the more distinctive the better.

Again it's just a case of time and repetition saying their name nice and clear, over and over each time you are feeding your rabbit.

You'll get to a stage where when the rabbit hears its name it thinks, "Rabbit Mix!" - As it knows your the provider they'll come running right to you.

NOTE: Don't over use the rabbits name as the more you do without presenting food, the less likey it is they will come to you.

For most West Highland White Terrier owners, the dog is a beloved member of the family. Like your children, you will want to capture pictures of your Westies from the time they are puppies until they are old-timers. Getting good pictures of Westies may require a bit of special preparation and know-how, but even the amateur photographer can get good ones at home.

Camera Angle

A common mistake amateurs make when taking pictures of their Westies is to shoot from a standing position, with the dog on the ground. Although you might get a good picture (teeth showing) or two this way, the best are shot from your Westie's level - low down, on the floor. Alternatively, for a posed picture, you can raise your dog up on a table or chair. The aim is to capture your West Highland White Terrier from his perspective on life.

Sitting Still

Pictures do not have to be hit or miss, with the dog owner struggling to get perfect candid shots. Dogs can be trained, and posed pictures can be taken if you prepare yourself and your pet. It is best to start when West Highland White Terriers are puppies, getting them used to the equipment and the picture-taking process.

A simple strategy is to take pics of the dog while he is in his bed. Try placing the bed near a window for natural light. Reward your pet with small treats when he remains still, and he will quickly learn this behavior. It helps to know your dog and his routine. Try to take your images at times when your Westie is neither tired-out nor frisky. Capture their attention, to pose the head in the direction you want, with interesting sounds, food, or a toy.

Lighting

There are two main lighting issues when taking pictures. The first is the camera flash. Like with humans, the bright lights reflecting off the Westie's eyes produces a blurry, red-eye effect.

If the flash can be removed from the camera, set it off to one side, where it will not shine directly into the eye. Natural light is the best solution, as it is with many picture-taking problems, but for indoor pics, increasing the room lighting will cause the dogs pupils to constrict, making red-eye a lot less likely.

The second issue is the color of West Highland white terrier fur. The solid white reflects all the light back at the camera, often causing the picture to be overexposed. If you have the camera and expertise to do it, close down the aperture on your camera one f-stop. Dark-colored dogs, like Scottish Terriers, have the opposite problem, with the fur absorbing all light until the detail is lost. The solution there is also the opposite - open up the aperture one f-stop.

(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)

I do hope that you have found the article of use to you.

Jeff Cuckson

Jeff Cuckson
webmaster@madaboutwesties.com
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Using homemade dog treat recipes gives you unlimited flexibility in the quality and variety of dog treats that you provide to your dogs. Chicken, beef, lamb and rice are some of the more popular flavors of commercially prepared dog treats and foods but when you use your own homemade dog treat recipes your flavor combinations are limitless. You can use peanut butter and honey to create sweet treats that do not include meat or you can substitute any meat you choose into your homemade dog treat recipes.

Many traditional homemade dog treat recipes included meats such as chicken, beef and lamb but when you create your own homemade dog treats you have the option of substituting other meats into the recipe as long as the meats are safe for your dog. Homemade dog treats are already usually more cost effective than commercially prepared dog treats but the flexibility of these recipes provides you with additional cost savings. You have the option of shopping for meats that are on sale or that have reduced prices when you are following a homemade dog treat recipe. You also have the option of reducing or increasing the meat content to suit your dog's tastes and needs.

Another advantage of homemade dog treat recipes is that they can be tailored to suit your dog's nutritional needs. Recipes that call for peanut butter can utilize reduced fat peanut butter if the treats are being prepared for an overweight dog. You can also eliminate any ingredients to which your dog has a known allergy. The flexibility available in homemade dog treat recipes makes it possible to create a treat that is right for every dogs.

With spring around the corner, many people tie on their neglected running shoes and hit the road. Are you one of those people? If so, as you head out the door, don't forget your dog.

Obesity in dogs in the United States is just as big of a problem as it is with their owners. Remember all those cold January nights when he wanted a walk and you, well, just didn't? Now is the time to get back out there and make a healthy difference for both of you.

Before you begin, consider your dog's current condition. If he's out of shape, begin slowly and work up gradually to more strenuous exercise, which is good advice for both people and canines. Of course, depending on the breed and age of the dog, you may have an excellent running partner, or you may have to stick to walks for older and smaller dogs.

If you are a fitness guru, you can always go running or biking and come back to walk your dog for a cool-down. Your dog appreciates a short walk more than none at all. Many people feel guilty for not spending enough time with their dog and instead of providing exercise, give them quick treats or table scraps. Try not to fall into that trap. A daily walk will strengthen your bond with your dog more than fattening scraps. If your dog has more energy than you, teach him to fetch a ball or a flying disc. All the retriever breeds enjoy this activity as well as swimming. Fetching into water is excellent exercise for many breeds. Here are some additional tips for exercising your dog:

1) Avoid exercising immediately before or after your dog has eaten. Large dogs in particular are susceptible to bloat, a condition where the stomach swells, cutting off circulation causing serious shock and death usually within an hour. Always wait for your dog to cool down and perhaps even stop panting before feeding. Deep-chested breeds, such as German Shepherds, Great Danes and Dobermans are the most susceptible. Feeding the dog before exercise creates the highest risk for bloat, although bloat has other causes as well.

2) Take care of your dog's paws. The health experts at Purina.com also recommend you clean any salt and packed snow out of your dog's feet in the winter. In the summer, be aware that hot asphalt can burn your dog's pads.

3) Train your dog to be a good citizen—no jumping on children or charging after other dogs. Keep him on a leash where required and train him to stay by your side.

Make exercising with your dog a habit. You'll strengthen the bond with your pet as you create a healthy lifestyle for both of you.

Diane Samson is a writer with The Lieurance Group, a freelance writers' cooperative in Kansas City, Missouri. Samson can provide writing, reporting and editing services for magazines, newspapers, corporate communications and especially animal publications. Find out more about her writing services at http://www.lieurancegroup.blogspot.com or email her at dianesamson@birch.net

The most common dog problems:

Dog Owner's commonly ask me the same questions repeatedly. This article aims to help dog owners prevent and find information about the most common dog health problems. Understanding the basics of these problems will go a long ways to helping your canine friend live a long healthy life.

1. By far the most common question I get asked from dog owners is a desperate call about their dog's vomiting. Vomiting can have many causes, but the most common cause is eating garbage, or wolfing down food. In most cases the easiest cure is to withhold food from your dog for 24 hours, but continue to give water. Then after 24 hours, start by giving small meals again. This rest period will allow the stomach to heal. If vomiting continues after this you should see your veterinarian.

2. The next most common question I get asked are reproduction questions. These questions range from breeding their dog, questions about whelping, and about raising puppies. While it is beyond this article to cover everything, here are some basics to keep in mind. Dogs come into heat every 6-7 months which is the time to breed them. The gestation length ranges from 59-63 days. Breeds that can have trouble with whelping are the pug, bulldog, Chihuahuas, Boston terriers, and the Pekingese. Whelping, the act of giving birth, can take from 2 to 24 hours. With several hours in-between the time puppies are passed.

3. Third, are questions about skin problems. These questions range from masses and bumps, to scratches and rashes. Whenever you find a mass on your dog it is important that you show it to your veterinarian. Most masses are benign lipomas, which are fatty tumors. Another common tumor of female dogs are tumors of the mammary gland. You can greatly decrease the risk of your female dog getting a mammary gland tumor by spaying your dog. One of the most common skin tumors owners are likely to see are Mast cell tumors. Mast cell tumors can appear anywhere on the body, and can range from benign to very aggressive.

4. Fourth are questions about the musculoskeletal system. Two possible causes of limping in dogs are arthritis and torn anterior cruciate ligaments. Arthritis is common in older dogs. To treat arthritis try some joint supplements like chondroitin. For dogs with torn anterior cruciate ligaments, surgery is needed. The anterior cruciate ligament is a ligament in the knees of dogs. Signs of this injury is when the dog is running and all of a sudden the dog whimpers in pain and starts to limp on its rear leg.

5. The fifth most common question is about allergies. Many dogs suffer from allergies. The most common clinical signs are the dog chewing its paws, reddened skin, and scratching. For a definitive diagnosis allergy testing can be done by your veterinarian. Allergies are often treated by antihistamines and in severe cases steroids.

With a little knowledge pet owners can be more proactive in the health care of their pets. With greater knowledge you can help your veterinarian come up with the best treatment plans for your pet, and are able to give a more complete history on your pet which can lead to a quicker and more accurate diagnosis.

For the complete TOP TEN LIST of questions visit my website at http://www.free-online-veterinarian-advice.com/doghealth.html

Chris Suckow, DVM, lives and works in Los Angeles, CA

A dog is certainly man's best friend. This is why you need to take extra care while choosing a dog collar. Today, the market is filled with various varieties of collars for different dogs. It is no longer regarded as a 'just a strap around the neck' but an accessory that gives a dog a personality. As a fashion statement dog collars are gaining popularity because owners like their dogs to look as fashionable as they are. Before you go ahead and buy a collar for your dog, spend a little time to find out all you can about the product. This way you can make an intelligent choice, which not only suits your pocket but one, which will be comfortable to your dog.

The most important factor in buying a dog collar is your dog. The kind of collar you buy largely depends on the breed of dog and its quality and color of its fur. Ideally you would want a collar that makes your dog look good. For smaller breeds you have the option of using brighter colors like pink or purple. For large and fiercer dogs, these colors would not compliment the dog's nature. Therefore, blacks, browns and reds are more popular for larger breeds.

The next important factor to keep in mind is your dog's temperament. Some dogs are more docile than others. Thus they do not require a high intensity collar. However, dogs in training would probably need pinch or choke collars. You need to be very careful about selecting these collars because extensive pressure can harm the overall health of the dog. The safest dog collars are the ones with buckles and those with a quick release mechanism. They do not cause your dog any discomfort. Owners with more obedient and trained dogs can afford to use these collars.

If you are a beach lover or if you have a pool at home then it is wise to get a nylon collar. It is best suited for dogs that are around water a lot. The most important factor to remember is how well the collar fits on your dog. Ensure that it is not too tight to choke or discomfort the dog. Experts say that there should be atleast two-finger space between the collar and the neck. If the collar is too loose the dog might be able to get it over its head in no time. This defeats the purpose of a dog collar. Today there is a wide choice of products to choose from. Electronic dog collars range from $130 and $1300. You can get a collar and leash set which match in color.