There is a difference of opinion among canine experts as to whether bones should be given to a dog raw, cooked, hard, or soft, and even whether they should be given at all. On one point, however, there is total agreement, never give a dog splintering bones from chicken, pork, fowl, and rabbit, (although chicken bones that have been cooked in a pressure cooker until they are very soft can be quite nourishing and safe). A marrow bone is the traditional symbol of a treat for a dog, and he obviously... more
Canine nutrition hasn’t become as laden with diet fads as have human meal planning. But it has accumulated a number of myths which survive the ridicule of the veterinary profession. As you acquire a dog, your more experienced friends will shower you with advice, which may include some of the following affirmations: - “A clove of garlic keeps worms away” Garlic has enjoyed a reputation for centuries in the folk medicine of many cultures as an antiseptic, a treatment for high... more
My family run an animal sanctuary in Birmingham, England. Even though we love what we do, we feel that some people need to realise that a pet should be a long term commitment. They should not be seen as just a bit of fun which they can then get rid of when they get bored. Many people arrive at the animal sanctuary with their pets, which are mainly dogs, with many excuses as to why they are no longer able to look after or care for them. I am sure many of their reasons are valid but am also... more
Dogs have inherent wild characteristics, often being aggressive and barking unnecessarily. Some dog owners are frustrated with the situation and frequently smack their dog or banish it to the backyard. However, treating pets in such a way conjures an image of terror in their minds, and they start fearing their owner. All this can be avoided in the first place through proper dog training. Dog training refers to training your dog to be obedient, adhering to all your commands in a jovial manner.... more
Some people get worried and excited when their dog is off-leash and he’s done something that requires you to correct him. Because the owner is both worried and excited, they move fast toward the dog, concerned that the dog might run off before they can correct him. However, if you’ve done your long-line work properly and you’ve laid a solid foundation for your off leash training, there really isn’t any reason for you to worry that your dog will run off. So, what does... more
Canine training is the same as for all animals, you communicate to your dog what you want him to do; when the dog has performed as desired, you reward him. You immediately repeat the exercise a few times and review it frequently until the dog’s response to the command is practically automatic. But of course it isn’t quite as simple as it sounds. In the first place, communications with your dog are limited. Sometimes you can demonstrate the action you want him to perform. Sometimes... more
Just as you relish having your own room where you can enjoy a moment of solace, your dog likes having its own room, too. Dogs still retain a few of their ancient characteristics, and would love to have some kind of a den a little, cozy place of their own. Some people may have an aversion to dog crates, since they believe that it’s much of a cage. However, dog crates offer a superlative home for your dog where it can feel safe and secure. Dog crates come in a variety of styles and... more
1. Correct the dog any time he has an accident in the house. Keep him confined to either a crate, or a dog run outside when you can’t supervise him. 2. Praise the dog anytime he eliminates outside. 3. Establish a specific spot, and a command you repeat (such as “Get busy!”) while you’re waiting for him to eliminate outside. 4. Set up a rigorous feeding and watering schedule, and take him out immediately after he does both. 5. Use an odor neutralizer, such as a product... more
A dog owner named Beth writes: Dear Mr. Katz, I have two cocker spaniels that are one year apart. The red and white female (Cassie)is almost two and spayed. The buff male (Peanut) is just one 1 years old and neutered. Peanut was rescued from a cocker shelter in October of 1999. He is incredibly devoted, a very good listener and quick learner. He is the ideal dog as he is very eager to please. Cassie on the other hand is the most independent and stubborn dog I have ever encountered (you’ve... more
There is a plethora of dog gifts available in the marketplace, with each gift type celebrating a different breed of dogs – man’s faithful companion. You would be overwhelmed by the sheer variety of gifts and the fact that you could easily find a gift pertinent to any dog breed on earth. The simplest of such gifts can be a canine care guidebook strictly specific to a particular dog breed of your choice. Another viable dog gift can be a set of canine feeding bowls or a comprehensive... more