What happened when one day you bought a puppy and this cute dog suddenly start biting and chewing everything in the house, from socks, toilet papers, carpets, etc… and there is nothing wrong with his health?

It is very important that dog training is conducted at an earliest stage possible while they are still puppies but when you just got your new dog, here are some ways to puppy proof your home as an emergency and short term solution that you can use immediately to reduce the damage.

It’s perfectly natural for puppies to want to explore their surroundings.

They know the world around them through their noses and mouths, which is why many puppies can be seen smelling or chewing on just about everything they encounter.

The fastest way to prevent this destructive behavior for your Puppie is this Puppie Proof Your Home instead of reprimanding her as she is not trained yet.

What does “Puppie Proof” your home mean:

1.Temporarily take up any throw rugs.

2. Place all plants, poisonous substances, household cleaners, trash receptacles, paper products (such as tissue and toilet paper), shoes, and any small chewable objects out of reach.

3. Either remove, cover or tape down all accessible electrical wires.

4. Remove or secure heavy objects which could fall or be pulled down and cause injury to the puppy.

5. Confine her to just a specific location of course with a few toys to play with. Too much toys is also not good and may cause her to confuse between what belongs to her and what belongs to you

6. Apply bitter apple spray to some things which is very hard for you to move like furniture legs and etc.

That’s it some of the ways to puppy proof your home.

Last Note, it is good for your puppy to have a lot of outdoor exercise and for a much better and fruitful relationship with you, it is good to let your puppy goes through dog training session.

Puppy proofing your home should not become an excuse for you for not training your pets, but instead puppy proofing will give you some breathing space to create a dog training routine while preventing the puppy from his own destructive behavior.

So with that say, training is probably your must solution to providing long term solution to your dog behavior problem and in the long run will create a more meaningful relationship for both the dog and its owner.

I have a sheltie that is less than a year old. When I am sitting down on an ottoman watching tv he will walk up in front of me and then back up. When he does this I scratch the top of his back by his tail and his hind legs and then he walks away. I was just wondering if anyone knew what this behavior meant. I can get him to do it now on command – it's pretty funny….
I was hoping someone with canine behavior knowledge would be able to answer this question.

It simply means your sheltie has trained you, just like mine have trained me, to provide butt scritches. For some unfathomable reason, ALL shelties loooooove butt scritches. I figure it is a small price to pay for the entertainment they afford me.

powered by Yahoo Answers

A dog that has been over-punished lacks self-confidence. Therefore, such dogs should be allowed to succeed. This is fortunately a simple process with dogs. They are dramatically quick to learn from people when taught by nonphysical methods. Even a simple 3-part exercise, performed daily, can bring about a behavior change in a few days. All that is needed is to crouch down, say “Rover, come,” and heartily praise when it responds, even if it only looks at the owner. If the pet urinates on the way, the praise must be continued. The wetting usually disappears as confidence improves. When the dog comes all the way, it should be petted, preferably on the throat and chest to eliminate fear responses that may be caused by hands over or on top of its head. Most shy dogs usually come readily to a crouching figure.

The “Sit” command is simple, once the pet comes dependably. A hand is held up over the dog’s rump as the words “Rover, sit” are spoken. The dog usually looks upward, and should be praised by happily saying “Good, sit,” but without bending down or petting. If this is patiently repeated a few times, most dogs will sit down. The spoken praise should be followed by petting. It is important not to bend over from the waist to pet shy dogs, as this movement often signals possible punishment. Crouching avoids bending over, and is friendly and reassuring. Pushing down on its rump, holding, or otherwise manipulating the pet must be avoided. Physical force is at the root of most submissive behavior and interferes with effective learning.

The second part of therapy requires that owners avoid punishing the pet. If other behavior problems exist, these must be resolved using nonphysical methods and as light as possible. Self-control is a major challenge to most dog owners; however, after they see the progress usually achieved in a few days, their feelings that the pet “needs to be told it has done wrong” usually crop up. Any backsliding on the owner’s part is quickly reflected by regression in the dog. This feedback provides an effective control mechanism to which most owners are highly sensitive.

A third step in correction is used for dogs that respond submissively to persons outside the family. If a few friends are gathered to reinforce the owner’s teachings, the dog usually responds satisfactorily. Correction in most cases requires only a few minutes on 2 or 3 occasions. Older dogs with a persistent problem may require longer training periods. This approach to correct overly submissive behavior in shy dogs assumes the pet is healthy, so that no possible organic influence interferes with the learning capabilities of the animal. Total rehabilitation can be expected in 6 weeks when the process is carried out daily.

forgreat (dogcare)clickhere

The first thing you should understand about alleged “behavior problems” is that they are rarely a problem for the dog. Chances are pretty good that he enjoys digging up your garden, tilting over the trash, jumping on you, chasing any cat or un-stuffing the couch.

Problem correction, like command training, has an expected sequence of steps you must follow to be successful:

Prevent Unwanted Practice

Before you could attempt to any changes make sure that you are not creating another problem. If you don’t give the dog what he requires, a proper diet, plenty of exercise and daily dealings or if you give him more than what he can actually handle, crate him for long hours, constantly excite him or may be frighten him frequently, he would not be able to give you his best.

Now prevent the accidents until you and your dog are actually prepared. Crating, closing doors, moving the cat box or bowl, or may be keeping him on lead with you are just a few ways to minimize mischief. When you leave, lock him safely.

Teach Better

Always give your dog a way to succeed, a way to earn rewards. With behavior problems, ask your self “What behavior we want?”

Often “sit” is a normal option. A dog who is sitting cannot be jumping up, stealing food from the kids counter tops etc… One of the best ways to address a surplus behavior is to just spend several days working on the desired alternative until your dog would do it quickly and more reliably by clearly directing him to the desired behavior, he quickly learns how to earn approval and rewards.

Practice

Behavior problems can not be willed away. It doesn’t really help to think about crating him or to think setting up a training situation. Do it. We’ve seen people resolve similar difficult canine problems for which we held out little hope of recovery. It has achieved through pure diligence and pure commitment. Not every problem has a solution, but most they do and that solution is 100% dependent on you. Take the time and create a minor miracle.

The other end of the leash by Patricia McConnell

The hidden life of dogs by Elizabeth Marshall Thomson

powered by Yahoo Answers

You bring your cute, fun loving puppy home for the first time and of course you want your canine to sleep with you. All furry warm and snuggly. But that is not the best thing to do for you or your dog. You really need a canine bed and establish the correct behavior at the outset. Sure it’s fine now but when your dog grows to it’s full size at 100 lb, will it be such fun?

Dog beds today come in all sizes, colors, shapes, materials to suit any canine and any decor. If that’s not enough you can even have dog beds custom made. If you adopted your dog from the pound he may actually prefer his own place.

Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Bed.

Does your pooch shed or have any other disorder that will cause the bed to need constant cleaning? Does he hang his head over the edge? Does your dog curl up in a ball? The answer to any of these questions will help determine the type of dog bed needed for your pet.

Some Of The Benefits of Dog Beds

A dog bed allows your pet to have his own space, a place where he can curl up, relax and sleep. Beds with sides are great for dogs that like to hang their head over the edge.

Cushions and support should be considered for older dogs, as well as pooches with other joint or bone problems. Orthopedic foam tends to provide additional warmth too so if you live in a warmer climate, your hound may prefer a cooling bed like the Canine Cooler to the traditional orthopedic bed.

Some Dog Bed Features

You’ll find out that this is something your canine will be using every single day for the next five to ten years so you ought to put some thought into the dog bed selection. You should consider the size of your room and size needed for comfort the of your pet.

Quality beds such as the Memory Foam Bed or the Thera Ortho Mattress are designed to relieve sore joints, bones and other problems that may arise due to your pets age or weight. More traditional-style cushioned outdoor beds are made of tough polyester and resist mildew and fungus.

Other Dog Bed Considerations

Be sure to measure the entire length of your canine at rest to get an idea of how much space he is using so you can select the correct size. The most efficient way to make sure you are ordering the correct size bed is by measuring your hound in his favorite laying position and adding five inches. Watch your dog sleep. Does he usually curl up or stretch out? If he’s relaxed to his maximum size, make sure the bed is big enough to support his entire body.

If you have a little hound a small round pillow-type bed may be the best. It will let your pet burrow and nest. They come in a variety of styles, materials and colors and most can be thrown straight into the washing machine.

Next on the list of requirements is probably a chew proof bed, especially for puppies! There are any amount of styles of dog bed, such as indoor or outdoor, heated or not, travel or car beds and as previously mentioned orthopedic beds for the older canine. Most are stuffed with polyfill, often have cedar chips to repel odors and their covers are removable and machine washable.

For older dogs you need to consider the ideal dog bed. What about Grandma climbing into a waterbed with a two-foot frame? Or better yet, imagine her trying to get out. If your older pooch currently sleeps on the floor or in a cardboard box with blankets, his discomfort would be similar to these scenarios. An orthopedic dog bed would be ideal in this case.

Your dog will enjoy a high quality dog bed for all the same reasons that we enjoy our beds so make sure you buy a good quality bed that fits your pet and suits the way he likes to sleep.

The sister has started to attack the smaller female and bite her, drawing blood 3 times. Nothing has changed, but why is she attacking her. They all usually get on well. All have been doctored and are treated equally. The smaller female is terrified of the other female. When the older female approaches the other her hair goes up on her back. The twins are 2 1/2 years old the other 18 months. Normally all are good matured.

I smile to myself.

You have discovered that having several dogs can be quite a handful and are not as easy to control without some understanding of the canine pack mentality.

You say the dogs are treated equally, well, that could be the problem. The two females are challenging each other for the dominant position. You need to identify which of the females is the more dominant, for which you may need professional help. Please note that unlike the human world, dominance has nothing to do with aggression. Once you have identified the dominant female, that one ALWAYS gets fed first, gets treats first, gets groomed first.

This will do two things, it will show assertion to all the dogs that you are the pack leader. And two, the higher status female will have her position in the pack reinforced by your beviour.

But, that said, I still think you are in need of professional help.

powered by Yahoo Answers

Starting out with a high quality dog bed can help keep your dog fit and healthy. If you get your hound used to sleeping in one spot it’s less likely to sleep on the floor or other hard surfaces which can cause arthritis and calluses in later years. He’s alos less likely to sleep on your bed, which may be a blessing if he grows to his fill 100lb size! A dog bed allows your pet to have his own space, a place where he can curl up, relax and sleep.

Some Details to Consider for Your Dog Bed

Whey you start out looking for a dog bed you should ask yourself these questions: Does he sprawl and stretch out completely? Does your hound shed or have any other disorder that will cause the bed to need constant cleaning? Does your pooch curl up in a ball? Watching his daily behavior will help you select the correct bed for your dog.

Be sure to measure the entire length of your hound at rest to get an idea of how much space he is using so you can select the correct size.

Dog Bed Features and Varieties

The Indoor/Outdoor Bed is tough, water repellent and can be used inside or out. If your pooch has a shedding or odor problem, make certain the cover of the bed is removable and washable. They come in all kinds of colors and materials, and a number of of them you can toss right in the washing machine (the beds, not the dogs!). So make sure the bed is easy to clean. Some beds are also specifically treated to eliminate mold, fungus, or other outdoor hazards which may affect your dog.

Similar to humans, dogs also experience changes as they age. Their joints can stiffen, or their bones become thinner. Cushions and support should be considered for older dogs, as well as pooches with other joint or bone problems. Orthopedic foam tends to provide additional warmth too so if you live in a warmer climate, your hound may prefer a cooling bed like the Canine Cooler to the traditional orthopedic bed.

A slightly elevated dog bed style with soft polyfill conserves heat and the slightly elevated style protects your pet from floor drafts. If your hound likes his head on a pillow, try a lounge bed or couch. Next on the list of requirements is probably a chew proof bed, especially for puppies that like to chew!

So as you can see there are multiple styles of pooch bed, such as indoor or outdoor, heated or not, travel or car beds and as previously mentioned orthopedic beds for the older hound. Most are stuffed with polyfill, often have cedar chips to repel odors and their covers are removable and machine washable. Picking the right type for your dog will help him get a good nights sleep and be a happy rested dog.

Think of the bed as an investment, a number of high quality beds will last the lifetime of your dog, and so will their benefits! When a dog owner thinks about what products will be needed for their new pet, a high quality dog bed should be well up on the list.

I do not want to use drugs, natural way if possible.

I have struggled with this since I got one of my dogs. I tried the aids that they sell at pet stores (Forbid & Deter), neither had any effect. Adding some fresh pineapple to her meals seemed to help a little (supposed to make it taste really bad when it comes out the other end), but hasn't completely stopped it.

First, make sure she is on a good quality food, as bad quality foods can cause them to eat their feces (bad quality doesn't fully digest, so what goes in comes out the same). I have heard that adding meat tenderizer to their food can also help, but I have not tried that yet.

Good Luck!

powered by Yahoo Answers

Dogs are considered man’s best friend. Throughout the ages and of all animals, dogs have been man’s companion. More than companions, dogs serve a variety of functions. There are working dogs (e.g., police dogs) and dogs that are used as guides for the disabled. Farmers and livestock owners use dogs for herding, and some home owners get dogs specifically to guard their property.

Whatever the primary purpose of a particular breed of dog is, it’s important that it receive proper training. Many dog training professionals will attest to the importance of having a well-trained dog. You don’t have to be a professional dog trainer to train your dog. You can do simple activities to teach your pet how to behave.

Dog training tip #1: Curbing your dog’s digging behavior

As a dog owner, you need to understand that dogs are social animals. When they are lonely or alone, dogs resort to digging. Loneliness isn’t the only reason dogs dig, though. In some instances, dogs that dig are experiencing some sort of nutrient deficiency. To make up for this condition, dogs oftentimes would eat the dirt they dig. If your dog tends to dig a lot, spend more time with him. It also pays to have your dog checked up to make sure that his health is in good condition.

dog training tip #2: Potty training your dog

A reward-based method works best when potty training your dog. To use this method, give your dog a treat after it potties in the right place. Following up good behavior with a reward will make it easier for your dog to remember doing good behavior.

Dog training tip #3: Repetition is key

Whenever you are trying to teach your dog something—whether it’s a trick or making your dog obey a command—repetition is important. Repetition and consistency are keys that will help your dog understand a command. To test if your dog knows a command after so many repetitions, test him without any assistance. Do this at least three consecutive times to make sure that your dog’s grasp of a command is not simply a fluke.

Dog training tip #4: Communicating with your dog

When training your dog to follow a certain command or do a certain thing, it’s vital that you not just issue the command out. It’s also important that you direct your dog how to perform a command or drill as well as correct your dog if he doesn’t follow the command properly. Be consistent when you are issuing out commands and trying to teach your dog to develop certain behaviors. For instance, if you are trying to teach your dog not to chew on slippers or shoes, do not praise him one day when you see him chewing on a slipper.

Dog training tip #5: Proper timing in training your dog

It’s always best—and professional dog trainers will recommend this—to train your dog when it is still a puppy. When it comes to training dogs, it is indeed true that old dogs can’t learn new tricks. So start training your dog early.

Dog training tip #6: Let your dog know you’re the boss

Dogs are pack animals, which means they follow a hierarchy. Thus, when training your dog, it’s important that you establish yourself as the alpha dog (the leader). Your dog needs to understand that he is the submissive being. Avoid showing any fear when your dog snaps back. Doing so will break the established hierarchy you have with your dog. When your dog is doing his exercises, never allow your dog to stop mid-way or not complete the exercise. Firmly let your dog know that it should do what you, the alpha dog, wants him to do.

Dog training tip #6: Act around your dog

Your puppy will naturally want to chew on things so give your puppy an outlet for his chewing urges. You can give your puppy a chew bone to chew. If your puppy tries to chew on you, yelp loudly, fold your arms and ignore your puppy for about ten minutes. When a puppy becomes too rough on other puppies, the others yelp and tend to ignore the puppy. However, you may need to assess your puppy’s personality because he may react to the yelping by biting more and even harder. If this happens, you may need to apply a more aggressive approach.