[VIDEO] How Your Dog Can Protect You Before You're Born

Do you know that your dog or cat can protect you from diseases even before you are born? Here is a video that explains (along with some adorable animation) how this happens.

According to researchers the drool and dirt brought in by these pets can have a beneficial effect on the unborn baby of the house. The immune system of the baby is still developing while in-utero and having pets around can be beneficial in these times when most western houses are so spick and clean that it misguide their immune system and trains it incorrectly. The result is a lifetime of allergies. See this video to see how this happens.

read more...

Tips To Deal With Your Dog's Behavioral Problems

Dogs have many behavioral problems, it is not related to a specific breed, but they are general problems that are found in many dog breeds.

Here are the most important 12 behavior problems that dogs are facing.

Dog's behavioral problems

1-Digging

All Dogs like digging, but actually you need to let your dog stop doing these actions. You need always Say “no” and refuse letting him digging, you can get him a toy instead. You can make a small trick to let your dog happy. Bring a sandbox and bury in it some toys, then give it to your dog to dig and you will see how happy he will be when he finds his toys.

2-Chewing

Dogs, especially puppies, are always trying to discover the world around them by chewing the things they saw around them, though chewing calm dogs but sometimes they chew wrong things like shoes and sock. They may harm themselves by swallowing socks by mistake. So, you have to buy chew toys and give them to your dog.

Our video here can help you train and redirect your puppy. Follow these tips from expert trainer to rid your dog of this annoying habit.

3-Begging

You have to train your dog to eat either on his crate or to go to a special place to sit while you finish eating. Don’t let your dog sit with you on the table to eat to avoid teaching him begging

4-Not coming when called

Always motivate your dog when she comes to you, whether you called or not. By this way you will train and teach her to come to you when called. Don’t only call her by her name but always follow her name by the command you want like “come” and “here”.

5-Pulling on the leash

What is more important to be done with dogs is to teach them to walk calmly beside you, always keep the leash short and loose. Stop walking when feel it is tight and don’t pull him and he will also stop to see why you are not moving. When your dog returns back to you reward him and start moving again. This way will teach him that pulling gets him nowhere

6-Separation anxiety

You have to train your dog that leaving him home alone is not a big problem. if you found teach your dog that you will always come back home in order not to let him upset. At the beginning don’t leave him more than 5 or 10 minutes and give him a chew toy in order not to feel bored, you can also turn on the TV or the radio to feel that everything is still the same as if you are at home. Always be calm when going out and when returning to let him feel that being alone is not a big deal.

7-Whining for attention

If you pumper your dog while whining so, are teaching her that this way works. You have to ignore her by leaving the room or folding your arms and look away as if you are not listening. Play with her and reward her when she is not whining.

8-Barking at the door

If your dog is barking because he is waiting to be greeted, so you have to teach him to behave well and park by picking a spot within sight of the door and train him to lie down and stay till you say ” go to your spot”. This training will keep your dog calm and learning to stop barking to be greeted

9-Jumping

Dogs used to greet people by jumping, but actually it’s a bad greeting way. If you want to greet a dog so you have to wait till you see his front legs on the ground. You may also ask him to sit, and when he obeys you, go and pet him. You have to teach your dog to control his own emotion by these ways.

10-Biting

Dogs always bite when they are afraid or nervous so, you have to let your dog socialized and get acquainted to people. Always walk with her around to feel safe and trust people

11-Agression

Nervous and afraid dogs are always aggressive, if your dog is a always in a bad mood and nervous temper so, you have to visit a specialized vet who can train your dog to be relaxed and be healthy and to also be able to deal with you calmly. Never leave aggressive dogs with children

Our video here can help you learn how to calm your dog using a few calming signals. Check it out to see if our expert's advice works for you.

12-Barking all the time

Some dogs like to bark at anything and others bark when they feel depressed, don’t shout at your dog when he barks because it may make it worse. Obedience training is the best way to avoid your dog being depressed. It is better to work with a specialized trainer.



Article/image source: urdogs.com
Product endorsement and links are not part of urdogs.com original article. 

read more...

Top 5 Tips For Caring For A Newborn Puppy

Congratulations, you’re a proud new dog owner, and your little bundle of joy is ridiculously cute! Now comes the hard part: learning how to care for a puppy.

If you’ve cared for a dog before, you might think that you already know everything there is to know, but newborn puppies are a bit different. You need to be prepared if you want to help your new friend through the first few weeks of her life.

Here are 5 tips to help both of you survive intact and come out on the other side happy and healthy.

1. Feeding a newborn puppy

Just like with human babies, the mother’s milk contains everything that the newborn needs to survive and grow for the first four weeks. But if mom isn’t around or can’t do it, you need to use a commercial canine milk replacer that has been specifically designed for newborns.

This is incredibly important, because some milk replacers — including cow’s milk — can cause diarrhea. Consult with a vet as soon as possible about how to bottle-feed your pup correctly, because you can hurt her if you do it wrong.

You’ll need to provide these feedings every few hours for the first few weeks. After about a month, you can start transitioning puppies to solid foods by adding water and milk replacer to dry kibble and blending until it reaches the consistency of oatmeal. You can slowly reduce the amount of water and milk replacer you add over the next month until they are able to eat plain kibble at around 7 to 8 weeks.

2. Keeping them warm

Newborn puppies can quickly and easily die of hypothermia if they aren’t kept warm enough. If the mother is there, simply lying next to her should provide enough heat, but if you’re acting as surrogate mother, you’ll need a bit more.

Blankets can help, as can heating pads, but take care that you don’t use something that’s too warm or can burn them. For specific advice, talk to your vet.

3. Helping a new puppy go to the bathroom

Did you know that newborn puppies can’t go on their own? Mother dogs have to help them to urinate and defecate by licking the appropriate areas after the puppies eat.

If no mother dog is around, you’ll need to do this by massaging their urinary and anal regions with a soft cloth that has been dipped in warm water. A vet can show you the proper way to do this until your puppy is able to go on her own at about a month old. Then you’ll have to start worrying about house training!

4. The first vet appointment

A big part of caring for your newborn puppy is ensuring he gets the help he needs when he needs it. And as already mentioned, your vet can help train you how to properly feed and assist with elimination. There are a number of reasons why you might need to call your vet immediately about your puppy. If he’s vomiting, coughing, crying nonstop, has nasal discharge, can’t go to the bathroom with help, experiences diarrhea, or just isn’t eating or gaining weight, you need to see a professional as soon as possible.

However, if your puppy seems healthy, most vets won’t need to see them until they reach six weeks of age. At that point, you can begin the first round of standard vaccinations and deworming.

5. Training and socialization: what and when?

You might want to crate train your newborn, but it’s not going to do you any good until they’re about 7 to 8 weeks old, can eat solid food, and go to the bathroom on their own. Introduce it to them in the most friendly way possible, offering treats or toys when they go into the crate, and only closing it for a few minutes at a time.

Other kinds of simple training and socialization can begin within the first few weeks, such as you handling the puppy and calling her to you once she begins to explore. You want her to bond with you and get used to your smell, voice, and touch.

It’s also a good idea to introduce others to your new pup around this time. But as she approaches eight weeks, you need to handle socialization carefully, because all puppies go through a “fear” stage. Negative experiences during this time can be incredibly impactful. Take it slow, and follow your puppy’s cues.

Source:http://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/puppies/caring-for-a-newborn-puppy

read more...

Tips on How To Create A Puppy Routine

When you get a new puppy, it’s only natural to want to simply hang out with them and play and cuddle all day. Unfortunately, there are a number of things that you need to do in those first few days and weeks — both to make sure that your new pup stays healthy and to establish good behavior patterns. These things will necessarily include at least these four routines for your pup. Once you have surmounted the obstacles and got your pup into the right routine you'll realize what a favor you've done for yourself and for your dog. Rest assured that the work you put in now will pay off tenfold in the long run.

When your full-grown adult dog is balanced, well-behaved, and the envy of all your Pack Leader neighbors, you’ll be glad you took good care of her right from the beginning.

Getting into a routine

One of the most important things you need to do for your puppy right off the bat is to establish a routine. Though it will be difficult initially for you to decide on a routine that will work for you, your family, and your puppy, don't wait too long to figure it out.

Here are some of the most important things to make sure you have on your puppy schedule:

1.   Feeding

Your new puppy is doing his best to become a full-grown adult dog. But in order to do so, he’s going to need to eat more frequently than an adult. Where you can feed many adult dogs twice a day — or even just once — puppies need to be fed three times a day like people.

Sound like a lot of work? Well, the good news is that you can plan your pup’s meals more or less around your own. The best times to feed him are around 7 in the morning, at noon, and then again at 5. You’ll want to follow this schedule for the first 3 to 4 months of your pup’s life. Then you can switch to twice-a-day feedings unless your vet recommends continuing more frequent meals.

Establishing a routine for eating times is especially important. With a set feeding schedule, your puppy will learn when to expect food and will be less likely to beg between designated meal times.
    

2. Potty time

Unless you want to have a big mess on your hands, you need to make sure you’re giving your pup “potty time” every 2-4 hours. Any longer than that and she just won’t be able to hold it. Putting a set time (and place) to this activity also teaches her that this isn’t just something she can do whenever and wherever she feels like it.

    

3. Keywords training

Very young puppies can’t get into any kind of formal training class right away, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be teaching him some basics every day. One thing every pup can start learning: keywords.

Begin with important words like “good,” “bad,” and “no.” Keep these words simple and be consistent with which ones you use. Your dog needs to get used to hearing the same words in order to associate the same meanings with them each time.
    

4. Exercise and play

Starting to think you’re never going to have any fun with your new puppy? Well, you can relax, because it’s also important to build time for exercise and play into your schedule.

Ideally, you want to begin your pup’s day with exercise before she has her first meal. After breakfast, try a pack walk (if she’s too young to go outside, you can do this around the house) followed by some bonding or play time. You’ll repeat this general routine throughout each day. Exercise, meal, exercise, bonding, meal, and so on.

By creating a good schedule for your puppy and starting small with tasks like feeding times, potty times, teaching keywords, and exercising and playing, you will not only save yourself innumerable future headaches, you’ll also ensure that your new bundle of joy grows up to be the best that he can be.

Sourced from: http://www.cesarsway.com/dog-care/puppies/how-to-create-a-puppy-schedule

read more...

10 Reasons Why Having A Dog Is Better Than Having A Boyfriend (Well, most of the time!)

 

Dogs and boyfriends both words exude immense love for their owner/gf however there are several days when a girl would wish to exchange her boyfriend for a cute and loyal dog. Here are the top reasons why having a dog is sometimes better than having a boyfriend/husband ... and even a kid.

1. They'll be there for you

Your little 4 legged friend will remain with you ALL the time... through thick and thin, through bad singing and vomit bouts, through high fevers and romantic make outs. Your pup won't leave your side unless you tell it to. Like a loyal little friend, your dog can always be counted on to be there when you need it the most.

2. They love you, just the way you are.

Whether you look like Lord Voldemort or Dark Vader, your dog doesn't care. What she does care about is how much you love and care for her... and she'll be there always waiting to you give back the love and hugs and slobbery kisses.

 

3. Don't you love those puppy eyes?

After a day of dealing with horrible bosses, snarly traffic jams and double faced friends, here is a face you can absolutely trust. The love in these eyes will make all the troubles go away.

4. A dog is a little baby sans the tantrums and maintenance

Aren't they actually like little babies? Only they won't sulk and pout when they don't get what they want. They are the best little toy for you.

5. A Perfect travel companion

Once you have taken a trip with a dog, you know that she is the perfect travel buddy. She will enjoy the shit out of your road trip.

6. You'll never again worry about spilled food or leftovers

Spilled food? Not a problem for these little lickers! They will wipe all of it all your floor in a matter of minutes.

7. You will never, ever have to worry about the security of your house

Need explaining? Ask my UPS guy.

  

8. Never again worry about missing out on a few gym sessions. 

The little, 4 legged guy at home will make sure you get plenty of exercise.

9. You won't sleep late, ever

 You don't need an alarm clock, you don't need a wake up call. You don't have to worry about missing out gym or office. Your dear doggie has been appointed the official waker-uper of the house.

 10. Prepare to get smothered by love

Once you have a dear doggie at home, you will not need anyone else. She will fill all you waking hours with unconditional, even suffocating love. If you have more than one be prepared to get attacked with loving slobbering tongues and paws that just want to feel your love.

read more...

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR DOGS? These Puppies from All over the World Are The Cutest Thing You'll See Today.

Doggies, just like humans come in all shapes and sizes and breeds and varying level of cuteness and ruggedness. What is constant about them all? They exude loyalty and love. Man's best friends are sheer bundles of joy, who everybody and anybody can't but love.

Do you think you know all about puppy breeds? Think again. Hetalia , a Facebook group has created a list of puppy breeds along with the countries these 4 legged friends hail from.

WARNING: Adorable dogs ahead.

read more...

Adorable Sweatshirts For Your Puppy or Small Doggie

The Doggie Jogging Sweatsuit is a 4 legged one-piece sweatsuit for your dog. Perfect for the dog that needs to lose a few pounds or for the dog that’s training to be the next Rocky Balboa.

Here are my favorite sweatshirts and hoodies:

1. 4-Legged Doggie Jogging Suit W/Hoodie, Grey 

2. Pink and Jean Hoodie Jumpsuit for Small Dogs  

 

 

3. Cozy Sweat Suit for Dogs with Zipper Closure (Grey)

Check Amazon.com for more #merchandisefordogs

read more...

[Video]Russet attempting to get her Christmas present out the door...!

Russet is a 3 year old female English Bulldog. She is single and looking for the right guy (preferably same breed- no chihuahuas please). She enjoys napping, destroying furniture and eating treats. Contact the video publisher via YouTube link if you have a good match in mind.

WATCH VIDEO BELOW ...

read more...

[Video] 9 Dog Facts That Will Make You Live Forever.

If you don't already know these facts, you ought to know them. Some of them are funny too. But they will just make you want to hug your dear 4 legged companion.

WATCH VIDEO BELOW...

read more...

Cynophobia – The Fear of Dogs

Cynophobia (from Greek κύων kýōn, meaning dog and φόβος phóbos, meaning fear)is an unusual fear of dogs. It is a subtype of Zoophobia, or animal phobia. A good 36% of zoophobic people have sought treatment for their fear of dogs and cats. One would think that dogs being arguably the most common pet and a very friendly animal would have fewer humans scared of them, but in fact the number of cynophobic people is pretty high. Though a greater number of animal phobic people have reported to be afraid of snakes and spiders, the fear of dogs amongst the population is a greater reason of concern because the presence of a dog in every person’s daily lives is pretty high. Even these people who are extremely afraid of dogs are forced to deal with them every day in some form(even if by avoidance), because our canine friends are pretty much everywhere.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a Cynophobia are pretty much as expected. When the patient comes in close proximity of a dog or in few cases even when the person sees a photograph or thinks about the dog, a panic attack can get triggered. This may include few or all of the following symptoms:

•     Trembling
•     Palpitations
•     Sweating
•     Nausea
•     Difficulty breathing
•     Increased heart-rate
•     Urge to escape
•     Dizziness
•     Faintness
•     Dry mouth or a choking sensation
•     Emotional distress
•     Light headedness
•     Panic  attacks

 For patients of Cynophobia, the symptoms may occur when they are confronted with a dog, or even when they see a photograph or video of a dog. Sometimes this fear can surface even when the patient is merely thinking about dogs. This can be a real problem and can make life impossible in a world where dogs are considered to be man’s best friend. Treatment should be sought as early as this phobia is recognized or reported. Effective behavioral therapy can ensure that the patient recovers completely and is able to coexist with non-violent and friendly dogs without panicking.  

Treatment

The treatment is approached in either of the two following methods.

Systematic Desensitization Therapy

This kind of therapy aims at helping the patient deal with the fear and the manifestation of the object of fear (irrespective of the manifestation being real or imaginary). The therapist first determines the anxiety level of the patient and then trains and coaches the patient to deal with the seemingly threatening situation through breathing exercises and other techniques that relax their minds and senses. This is continued unless these relaxation techniques are internalized and the patient doesn’t show symptoms of fear when placed in situations where fear was experienced previously.

In Vivo Or Exposure Therapy

As the name indicates this kind of therapy involves exposing the patient to the dog in a controlled and systematic environment. These sessions can all be prolonged or can be increased in time duration increasingly with passing time. Additionally, the sessions can be conducted separately or in a single multi-hour session. The feared stimulus (which in case of Cynophobia, is a dog) is brought in presence of the patient while another person demonstrate a less anxious and more “normal” way of interacting with the dog. This behavior modeling can encourage the patient to gradually lower his or her defenses against the feared animal and start interacting with the dog once the anxiety level decreases significantly. After several sessions, when the therapist is convinced that the patient can be left to his own devices, the patient is encouraged to interact with dogs without the therapist being present.  This therapy has been found to be really effective and as many as 90% patients have shown significant signs of improvement and recovery just after 2-3 net hours of sessions. Patients who may assess themselves to be milder cases of Cynophobia or who are hesitant to seek professional help can start self help treatment. An assistant or a friend can help immensely and starting off with a cute looking, harmless and physically unintimidating dog can be good. Later on the labs can be brought in. Since avoidance itself may help perpetuate or reinforce the fear, the patient is advised to continue interaction with the furry, four legged friend even after therapy has ended. More and more exposure will lead to reduced fear and more self confidence.

Causes

Researchers have indicated that the most typical age of onset of animal phobia is in the early childhood (mostly in the 5-9 years range); however there have been cases when the fear of dogs has developed as late as the age of 20. Interestingly enough, as many as 75%to 90% patients have been found to be female.

There can be three different kinds of triggers for this phobia’s onset.

Direct personal experience: As the name indicates, a personal negative encounter with a dog which led to fear or injury earlier on in life can develop into a lifelong condition of phobia unless treated effectively. This negative encounter can include being brutally attacked (not leading to any injury) or being bitten by a ferocious dog.

Observational experience: Seeing a friend or close relative getting bitten can also cause this kind of fears of canines.

Informational or instructional experience: This refers to an adult’s instructions, a book, a movie or some such experience which instills a debilitating fear of dogs in a young person’s brain. In this scenario the child does not necessarily come in contact with a dog, nor does any physical harm occur (or could have occurred) but the fear and the memory of that fear instills a lifelong phobia of dogs in the mind. This kind of fear is almost exclusively found in young children.

Complications

Though it may seem like a harmless situation, it can have far reaching effects on the patient’s psyche and quality of life. Often exposure to or the possibility of exposure to dogs may incite an anxiety or panic attack and this excessive, unreasonable fear may lead to decreased social life and uncomfortable choices for the patient.

Cynophonia can greatly affect the patient’s daily activities which include social interaction and occupational responsibilities. Avoiding going to a relative who has dogs as pets can lead to estrangement or ill-feeling. Similarly, avoiding clients’ house visits when presented with the possibility of having to face their canine pets can cause the patient to look like a work-shirker. Crossing road (so as to be able to avoid dog parks) and changing routes in order to avoid dogs can cause undue inconvenience.

This phobia can often be overlooked in younger children when parents may chalk it up to “a child being a child” and it is easily concluded that the child will eventually “grow out of it”.

read more...