The Basics of Dog Socialization
Dogs must be well socialized from a very early age if they are to accept humans, the domestic environment in which they live and other dogs and animals without any kinds of problem behaviour occurring.
Social contact
Dogs are social creatures. Different breeds of dog enjoy the company of people and other animals to different extents, but all like to live their lives in a pack with others, whether human or canine. If denied social contact, they can become badly behaved or depressed. An undersocialized dog can be difficult to live with, handle and control, and should be properly socialized for the safety and contentment of all concerned.
Human contact
Dogs need to be taught to behave well around all humans. Examples of these include the following:
• Wheelchair users, people with walking sticks or crutches and the elderly.
• Babies, toddlers, timid people and people who are not comfortable around dogs.
• Energetic and noisy children and adults.
• Joggers, cyclists, rollerbladers, skateboarders and people pushing prams.
• People with beards, unusual hairstyles, spectacles, headgear, uniformsor umbrellas.
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Jun 18, 2010 | | Uncategorized
Basic Dog Care
Today, dogs are one of the very well-liked pets. They became a part of the rescue agencies and law enforcement for their invaluable service and dedication to their best friend, the human beings. Taking care of this so-called “best friends” is really important and vital because it involves big responsibility, accountability and commitment. It also involves significant venture of both your time and your money. Here are some general tips that will help you take good care of your dogs:
FOOD
There is a need for you to provide nutritious food and water to meet the daily nutritional needs of your dog. On choosing the right food for your dog, you must pay much attention on the ingredients as well as the nutrients present on that dog food formula. Some inexpensive formula may seem to be light for your pocket but is not healthy for your dog and might precipitate illness due to its artificial ingredients. Many dogs are obese because of the high-corn and low-protein food formulas sold at many food stores. Your veterinarian might recommend a dog food that is nutritious and the proper feeding schedule for your dogs. Usually, dogs are fed once or twice daily.
EXERCISE
Like human beings, regular exercise is important. Daily walks and other kinds of dog exercise provide numerous benefits for dog’s health like weight maintenance, behavioral issues, and muscle strength. It helps to promote loyalty, bonding and connection between the dog and the owner.
SAFE ENVIRONMENT
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Jun 15, 2010 | | Dog Care, Puppy Care
Caring for Dogs on Heat
Almost every six months, a female dog comes in heat. It is a part of female dog’s normal life cycle. At this time, her hormones are organizing and preparing her body to catch the attention of a male dog and get pregnant after mating. A dog that is in heat is impulsive and restless. If you want her to be pregnant and have some puppies, then this is the right time. If breeding is not a priority at this moment, this normal cycle would be a stressor for her and for you as well.
When dogs are in heat, their body is preparing her for mating. Usually, she will get a lot of attention from a male dog due to her distinct scent at that time and her unusual behavior. As pet owner, one must watch his dog closely because she needs help to ward off the advances from other dogs. Certainly, caring a dog that is in heat needs patience and dedication. Here are some ways you can care for your dog:
- Keep your windows, doors and gates close if you are not around. Your dogs might go out and look for a partner without your knowledge.
- Choose car rides rather than walking to any destinations.
- Continue daily walking but choose a well-contained area rather than an open area. Preferably, an area that doesn’t have dogs.
- Encourage and allow her to play and walk in your lawn or backyard but don’t leave hear unattended.
- Never let male dogs invade your house. Some male dogs may climb fences or jump wooden fence. They can even open screened doors.
- Do anything that you can do to sooth her and keep her calm most of the time. A dog that is in heat is very anxious. Avoid activities that will promote agitation on your dog and instruct children to treat her with respect and avoid rough play with them.
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Jun 14, 2010 | | Dog Care, Health
Ringworms on Dogs
Contrary to its name, ringworms are not caused by worms but rather fungus called Dermatophytes which means “plants that live on skin”. Before, people thought that these round lesions are caused by worms hence, the term ringworm was given. It is actually a skin problem usually caused by a plant or skin contact to other dogs either direct or indirect contact. It can also be passed from dogs to cats and from cats to dogs and often from human beings to dogs and vise versa. The spore of the fungus usually lives in the environment for a long time. It can be found in carpets, clothes, beddings, etc and infects your dog when it comes into contact with their skin.
The fungus usually stays in hair follicles near the head, ears, tail and front paws which cause hair shafts to break off. This disease would appear as a circle on the dog’s skin with raised edges. It looks like the hair was removed with a pale spot at the center. Other symptoms would include itchiness, scaling and crusty skin with some redness. A patch that is irregular in shape would mean that two or more lesions joined together. It’s easier to see this disease to younger dogs than that of the adults.
The younger dogs and puppies are more susceptible for infection since their immune system has not fully developed yet. Healthy dogs typically develop resistance to ringworms. Some may be carriers but show no symptoms, then later on infect other animals or even human beings.
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Jun 09, 2010 | | Health