For most people, exercising a dog consists of a trip to the park for a run around. In some cases this might suffice, but responsible owners should be aware of the quantity and quality of exercise that their dog needs to maintain optimum health. Ask yourself the following questions.

1) How often does your dog get exercised?

It does not take a genius to work out that you put on weight if you do not burn off the calories that you ingest. Exercise is extremely important to the health and well being of your dog. Fit dogs are happier, more active, more mobile and less susceptible to health problems such as arthritis, ligament ruptures and heart disease. With such huge individual variation between breeds and ages, we cannot recommend a set amount of exercise that each dog should have, but all dogs require at least one walk a day, with the more athletic ones requiring two.

2) What type of exercise does your dog do?

Whilst a walk or two a day may be perfectly adequate exercise for your dog, there is huge benefit to be had from mixing it up a bit and trying out new activities. Adding variety to a dogs exercise routine provides extra physical and mental challenges that can be both interesting and rewarding for both dog and owner. If your dog has any medical conditions (e.g. heart problem, arthritis) you must consult a veterinary professional before adding any unfamiliar exercises. Here we look at various types of exercise possible.

- Walking & Hiking
The most common form of exercise for dogs. Always have your dog on a lead unless you are in a park or rural area without traffic. Beware the potential existence of other dogs in public places that may be irresponsibly raised and show aggression to your pooch.

- Jogging
Getting your dog to run alongside you and adjust to fluctuations in your speed will require a little training, but if you are a keen jogger it is a great way of exercising your dog. Make sure you choose a pace that is comfortable for your dog, and only attempt jogging if you and your dog are able to walk briskly for 30 minutes without tiring.

- Cycling
This is fantastic if you have access to the countryside where your dog can run safely off the lead. Also great for athletic dogs that need to run greater distances than you do to achieve a proper workout. If you wish to cycle with your dog in urban areas, he or she must have impeccable lead manners and ideally respond to commands such as left and right. Cycling early in the morning when there is less traffic is wise, and avoid busy roads.

- Inline skating
Skating, like cycling, means athletic dogs often get the chance to run to their hearts content. However, since you cannot go on grass and are concrete bound, it is only really suitable with a dog in a park, where you do not have the worry of traffic. Your dog should be taught commands such as slow and stop, and only let off the lead if he or she is ultra obedient. Using a harness rather than a lead affords greater control in this exercise.

- Jump & fetch
Getting your dog to jump and fetch a ball can provide hours of entertainment and is excellent exercise. Make sure the ball is not small enough to be accidentally swallowed. Also synthetic toys such as balls are far safer than sticks, which can fragment in the dogs mouth and get stuck in their throat.

- Frisbee
Playing frisbee is great fun for some dogs, but you need to have a large garden or a park nearby where your dog can run freely off the lead. This is great for the lazy person as you are pretty much stationary while your dog has a full workout. Clearly not all dogs are willing or able to catch the frisbee, so only those breeds that pick up the knack are suitable. Playing frisbee should be avoided in dogs with teeth or mouth problems, and also in dogs with joint problems and those susceptible to cruciate ligament damage.

- Circuit & agility
Those familiar with obedience competitions will be well aware of the fun and satisfaction to be had doing this activity. You and your dog run around a series of obstacles, aiming to pass through each without a problem. Courses often consist of bar jumps (hurdles of varying heights according to the breed), a tunnel (usually about 3 feet long), a ramp and a slalom (5 or more bars in a row). The key when starting out is to reward your dog enthusiastically for doing each obstacle with treats. You should lead him through the obstacle course, teaching him to respond to instructions such as Up!, and body language, for example the outstretched palm of your hand meaning Stop!

- Swimming
Swimming is one of the best exercises there is for both you and your dog, as you are using every muscle in the body. If you are lucky enough to have somewhere where you and your dog are both permitted to swim, and is also safe, then this is a highly beneficial activity. If you are swimming in the sea, make sure a lifeguard is around just in case, and be aware that cold water and current both increase the effort required as more calories are burned. Swimming is particularly beneficial for dogs with arthritis and other joint problems as it builds muscular strength without placing strain on the joints.

- Football
Start the game by kicking the ball slowly along the ground towards your dog, and encourage him to get it. Because the ball is too large to pick up in his or her mouth, it will take him or her some time to realize that it must be pushed with either the nose or the paws. Give praise and encouragement as he or she gets the hang of it. Small breeds can be offered a smaller rubber ball rather than a football. Make sure the ball is not small enough to be swallowed though.

Matthew Homfray
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/does-your-dog-get-the-right-amount-of-exercise-111236.html

Hi. Kinda struggling with this question on my assignment.

The first thing I thought of was when my dog actually tried to turn the door handle when my boyfriend left one day. She obviously watches us open the door with the handle. She learned the association with the handle and the door opening. When she was really pressed to get out she went for the handle. I think that qualifies as latent learning.

Thankfully she does not have thumbs. The door did not open for her.:)

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When a dog has been abandoned or mistreated the dog can be taken to a dog shelter. At these dog shelters the dogs will be cared for and they will eventually be given a new home. The various people who cared for the dogs at a dog shelter will make sure that these dogs will have a good meal.

The first thing that will happen is that a veterinarian will look after the injuries that a dog has sustained while it was being maltreated. The vet will also recommend the type of diet that will allow the dog to recover its strength. Once the dog has been cleaned up and the food that it needs to be eaten is noted down, the rest of the staff at the dog shelter will make sure that the dog has a good place to stay for the night.

Once the dog has been placed in the kennel where it will live temporarily the staff will give the dog some water and good food. The food will be filled with vitamins and other food supplements that will enhance the health of the dog.

There are different types of dogs that can be found at a dog shelter. These can be large breeds like Great Danes, Wolfhounds, Afghans and Alsatians to name a few. The medium dogs you can find in these dog shelters are Collie dogs, Boxers, Golden Retrievers, Labradors and others.

In addition to these types of dogs you will find small dog breeds like that of Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Japanese Spitz, Terriers breeds, Dachshunds and many other types of small dogs. For all of these dogs the dog shelter is the place where they will stay until at good and loving family is found.

While the dog is waiting to be adopted the various requirements for a well trained dog will be fulfilled with the help of foster families. These people will help the dogs from the dog shelter regain their trust in human families and the dogs will also learn how to socialize with family members.

When all of these aspects of the dogs mental, emotional and physical needs have been readied the dog shelter will place the dog with a family who will give the dog lots of love and care. From the different dog shelter that can be found different dog breeds have a chance to live a new life. They are also provided with a family who will give them unstinting care and love.

Krishan Bakhru
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-shelter-tips-128797.html

For those who own larger dog breeds, it is often difficult, not to mention expensive, to find the right accessories and items like dog beds. Luckily, there are a number of ways you can find better deals on beds for larger dogs without sacrificing quality.

There are a number of ways to fix the problem of beds for larger dogs, or at least help you find one that will work for both you and your dog. This involves thinking about sleeping habits, taking measurements and looking at firm, high-grade bedding. This also involves thinking about the shape of the bed.

First off, think about how your dog sleeps. Do they toss and turn, roll, or, in the cases of many larger dogs, sprawl? This is especially important if your large breed is as large as a Great Dane. A good remedy for this can be donut dog beds, which are simply large, round beds that are especially effective at supporting huge, sprawling dogs.

Next, think about your dog’s actual size and take measurements. This is key, as ‘large breeds’ encompasses breeds from German Shepherds to Great Danes, even though there is a significant height difference between the two. Thus, instead of relying in the ‘for large breeds’ title, take your dog’s measurements before getting them a bed. This ensures you can truly get the right size bed for your dog, whether it is square or donut shaped bed.

You want to ensure you get material that is high-quality, preferable with memory foam padding and virgin fiber fill. Remember that larger dogs wear things like beds out faster because of their weight and habits; thus hardier outside materials like canvas and firm, memory-foam insides are some of your best options when looking for a larger bed.

Last but not least, think about the shape of your dog’s bed. While square is fine, there is a reason many dog beds are rounded. Donut shaped dog beds are quite popular because they fit almost any size or breed of dog and come with as many options. They can also be easier to place in a house and make your dog feel more comfortable.

Kausik Dutta
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/buying-a-dog-bed-for-your-large-breed-121983.html

I am looking for personal experience not just a net answer. I would like to find a dog boarding place that does not have my dog in a kennel any more than 8 hours a day. If that's unrealistic still whats the best place in Boise/Nampa/Caldwell Idaho?

well since no one else is answering, I will try to help. Call the vets in your area and ask for their advice. Go out and check the places out yourself. Wish you good luck.

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Many people enjoy showing their dog for either championship levels and recognition for their kennel, for enjoyment of seeing their dog succeed, or for the experience it provides for the dog. There are two different types of shows; those that are for purebred animals based solely on conformation to breed standards and trials or events that are open to all dogs regardless of lineage and are judged on the dog’s ability at a particular event or activity.

For purposes of this discussion the focus will be on showing dogs in the ring, that is working with purebred, registered dogs to have them compete against other dogs of the same breed or against the standards as developed by the nation kennel club of the various countries. Most countries including Canada, Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom have their own kennel clubs that hold shows and events on local, national and international levels. Each kennel club also establishes the breed standards for the various breeds that are registered or recognized by the kennel club. Some breeds may be in different classes in various kennel clubs and some breeds may be recognized by one kennel club but not another. Mixed breeds, hybrids or designer dogs are not recognized by any of the national kennel clubs although some other organizations do register these crosses.

When showing a registered purebred dog there are some tips and strategies that will help you prepare both the handler, who may or may not be the owner, and the dog.

1. Read and study the breed standards for the specific breed of dog that you wish to show. Be sure that you only use breed standard trimming or grooming techniques or you will be disqualified. Pay particular attention to breeds that cannot be clipped in any fashion or those that can only be stripped (a particular type of hair thinning method) prior to competitions.

2. Know the judges preferences. Since most judges will judge the same types of categories and classes be sure to attend several events that the judges are working on. Watch how they judge the dogs, how they prefer the dogs to be presented, and what comments they make when selecting champions and winners in the class. While the judging is objective in that they use the standards as a guideline, there is still an element of subjectivity.

3. Wash and groom the dog the day before the show to prevent any last minute stress and possible delays. Trim nails, clean teeth, and ensure that the dog is looking in tiptop shape prior to the event.

4. Stay calm and positive with the dog. Take them for a good long walk before entering the ring and ensure that they have gone to the bathroom. This is a nervous time for dogs and to avoid any embarrassing moments a good walk is a wonderful idea.

5. Always socialize your dog as much as possible. If it is an option be sure to get your dog to the show in enough time for them to become familiar with the area, the crowds, and the ring and lights before the actual event.

Lastly, consider if you should hire a professional handler to show your dog. There is more to it than meets the eye, and a professional handler can help really accentuate your dog’s positive aspects, plus will take the stress off of you. If you are planning on using a handler be sure to allow time for the dog and handler to work together before the show and ensure that they are just the right match for your dog.

Kelly Marshall
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/top-5-tips-for-showing-your-dog-120876.html

You have just got a new dog, and you would like to train it on your own. However, maybe you haven’t trained a dog before or have had problems in the past training other dogs, so you ask for advice on training equipment or aids. Something that may be suggested to you is that you use an electronic dog collar.

Before you go out and purchase an electronic dog collar, you ought to know what they are and how they work. There are several different kinds of electronic dog collars, and they are used for two main purposes:

1. Controlling barking
2. Containment of a dog

Most dogs bark to a greater or lesser extent. However, how much they bark depends on what kind of breed they are. It is a fact that some dog breeds were specifically designed to be quieter than others. Whilst it is true breeds that were originally bred to guard or keep watch tend to be the dog breeds with a tendency to bark, although this is not an absolute rule.

These dog breeds include: Terriers, Schnauzers, Poodles, Pekinese, Chihuahua, Sheep Dogs, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Dachshund, Irish Setters, and Pugs. Owners may find that some types of dog breeds are less likely to bark. These include Bloodhounds, Golden Retrievers, Newfoundlands, Rottweilers, Boxers, Malamutes, Saint Bernard, Bulldogs, or Afghans. When considering traits such as barking, new owners often fail to consider both training and dog breed when selecting a dog.

So, dog owners who do want too much barking, or who are worried about the neighbours might consider purchasing an electronic dog collar.

The main purpose of the electronic dog collar is to stop a dog from barking. There are two main ways this is achieved:

Firstly, sensors in the dog collar can tell when the dog is barking, and each time that the dog barks, the electronic dog collar emits an ultrasonic noise that dogs can hear but not humans, thus making them stop barking.

The second version of this collar works in a slightly different way, when your dog barks, a spray of citronella, which is both painless and harmless, is released and surprises your dog. The element of surprise is enough to interrupt the dog in mid bark. In a short time, most dogs learns to keep quiet while wearing the collar.

It is generally accepted that there is no traumatising sensation, or unwanted side effects on the dog or his sense of smell. If you want your dog to express himself as before (to guard the house, when you’re staying away or at night, etc) all you have to do is remove the collar.

Another type of electronic dog collar which I would not recommend requires owners to have an electronic fence installed in their garden. Although there are packages that allow you to do this yourself, it can get complicated, so unless you have experience doing that, hire a professional to install it.

Electronic fences are invisible fences that restrain a dog from leaving the property. They have the benefit of being invisible for those people that don’t like the look of fences. When a dog wears an electronic dog collar and goes too close to the outside parameters of the electronic fence, the dog is met by an electric shock.

There are two ways that electronic dog collars are operated, either on their own, or by a remote that is directed at the collar by the owner. These kinds of collars may seem to have been useful in training dogs, but as they involve electric shocks being emitted I do believe they should be used by responsible owners. Although the electric shock they receive is not large, there are still alternatives to teaching a dog not to do something, such as distracting with a noise, such as shaking or dropping an empty plastic bottle half filled with stones.

In summary you should enjoy building a relationship with your dog through training and avoid anything like electric fences that may harm them or make your pet wary or nervous.

Terry King
http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/should-you-use-an-electronic-dog-collar-138363.html

Hi, we are going to fly to europe this summer and are not sure if we should take our dog with us (Great Dane,18 months) or bring her to a well known boarding place. I guess both will be stressfull for her, but I am not sure what she'd like better! What would you do?

I would board her for sure. Or better yet do you have a family member that could care for your dog? That way they could potentially stay in your home keeping your pet in it's own environment.

Europe would be way more stressful due to the plane. Plus you probably will do things where dogs are not always welcome.

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