5 Steps To Preparing Your Puppy For Show Ring Competition

Posted on 05/20/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Thanks to Guest Author Mark Harris for this article

Miniature Schnauzer Pup (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Confucius, the famous ancient Chinese teacher, once mused, “Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.” This is especially true when trying to determine whether or not your dog is show ring quality.

Rottweiler breed competition at the Reliant Arena American Kennel Club World Series Dog Show July 23, 2006. Are we watching the humans or the dogs? (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Just because you purchase a purebred dog from a reputable breeder and register him with the American Kennel Club (AKC), does not mean that he will be a champion in the show ring. The AKC has established standards for the breeds that it recognizes.

For example, the size and shape of your dog’s head, his height, weight, and length proportions, how he walks, and how he stands will all determine whether or not he is meant to display his best traits in the show ring.

The Road from Registration to Show Ring

There is so much more to performing in the show ring than what you see when watching the event on television. If you think your dog has what it takes, then you should start out by following the steps listed here.

AKC REGISTRATION – If your dog is not yet AKC registered, then take care of that first. Although every organization has its own rules and by-laws, eligibility requirements and judging policies, many of them default to AKC regulations.
Česky: Sealyham teriér. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

TRAIN SOONER THAN LATER – Start training as soon as possible. Some AKC events allow dogs to compete as young as 6 months of age. That means training should begin when your puppy is at least 2 to 3 months of age.
English: This picture was photographed by Doug Moore at the Colorado Springs shows in 2007. It’s shows a Silky Terrier getting ready to be presented by its handler. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

TEACH BASIC COMMANDS – At the very least, your puppy should know how to sit, stay, stand, down, come, and also heel when on a leash. Your puppy should have plenty of socialization with humans who pet him.
English: junior handling (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

CHECK YOUR PUPPY OFTEN – Open your puppy’s mouth and look at his teeth. Pull his ears back and look inside them. Also check his feet, legs, tail, and underside. This not only gets him ready for judging in the show ring, but also to be handled by the veterinarian.

PRACTICE YOUR PUPPY’S GAIT – The gait is your puppy’s natural way of walking. While he might be lumbering over his oversized paws now, as he grows you can teach him to gait (which is similar to trotting) at the appropriate speed for inside the show ring.
English: A blue great dane being stacked at a dog show. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Show Ring Competition Clubs and Alternatives

The American Kennel Club website (www.akc.org) offers dog owners the opportunity to search for an agility club that trains and competes in AKC agility-based events. Once a dog owner selects a state, the search results list each club along with its contact person, physical location, website and email address, and club type.

If it turns out that your dog is not a “perfect specimen” and then you can look for a club that offers alternate competitions. There are a lot of dog clubs that are not sponsored by the AKC but still offer high quality competitions open to all dogs.

A Belgian Tervuren going over a jump in an agility competition at the Rose City Classic AKC Show 2007, Portland, Oregon, USA. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Their events include things like obedience, agility, herding, hunting, retrieving, and tracking. Determining which type of competition event is right for your dog will depend less on his breed and more on his personality. Like people, some dogs seem born to do one style of thing over another.

Where to Train for Competition

If you decide to strike out on your own in training, you might consider hiring a handler. Even if you plan to show your own dog, there are plenty of benefits to hiring an outside handler to teach you the basics.

Before hiring someone be sure and check their credentials. After all, they will be responsible teaching you the basics. You will also want to check their references, track records, the types of breeds they worked with in the past, and any titles or other awards won by them or dogs that they trained.

One place that you can train is at the practice ring or other designated practice area. But another place that you can train is your own backyard. For example, all the tools you need to practice agility training are available for purchase if you are willing to make that kind of investment.

Ensuring that your puppy does not escape the back yard takes one more item, and that is a sport dog underground fence. This way when it is time to go off the leash, if your puppy does have a moment of disobedience or decides to chase a squirrel, he will not leave the parameters of your backyard.

Canadian freelancer Mark Harris lives in White Rock, BC with his lovely wife. He usually works out of his home office, but sometimes heads to his local coffee shop for a change of pace. When writing about dogs he often uses the product reviews published on the site www.doggyfence.com to fact check information. In his spare time Mark enjoys kayaking and hiking along Canada’s beautiful western coastline.

Clancy Portrait ©Deena O’Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena

and see the many beautiful dogs, cats and horses I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

Black and White Sunday: Babe in the Woods

Posted on 05/19/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

This is what we saw yesterday just on the other side of the fence bordering our driveway. Precious baby was smaller than our corgi.

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena

Portrait of Peaches, ©Deena O’Daniel

and see the dog, cat and horse portraits I have painted…I think I may have to do a painting of this baby!

How To Correctly Treat Your Pet For Fleas

Posted on 05/16/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid.

Thanks to Guest Author Claire Trent for this article.

Pet care is not only about providing for an animal’s basic needs. The animal must also be loved, and he must be given a good home and a healthy life. Your pet’s health should be one of your priorities, and this includes bringing it to the vet for vaccinations and ensuring that it is protected from pests that can undermine its health. One example of a pest that can be detrimental to a pet’s health is the flea. It feeds on blood, and an infestation can cause all sorts of animal and even human health problems.

Greyscale picture of Robert Hooke’s drawing of a flea in his Micrographia. Magyar: Robert Hooke rajza egy bolháról (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There are all sorts of pet products that help in killing fleas, such as soaps, powders and sprays. Before you buy one, consult your vet first. Find out which product will be best considering the level of flea infestation that your pet is suffering. More importantly, always follow package instructions. Do not douse your pet with chemicals thinking that this will quickly eradicate all those nasty fleas. This can have a serious effect on your animal. Furthermore, only use products on the species recommended. Do not use a flea formula for a dog on a cat because it might kill or cause serious health problems on the feline.

So, what sort of chemicals can you use to treat a flea infestation? Here are two examples.

- Flea soap or shampoo

Washing a dog in a bath tub (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A flea soap or shampoo can be used to quickly reduce the number of fleas on a pet. When you see fleas crawling all over your animal, give your furry friend a bath using medicated soap or shampoo. You’ll notice that this will get rid of a lot of fleas upon rinsing. However, this method does not offer lasting relief. Usually, the effects only last for about a day or two. So, it’s essential to employ other methods that will help keep away the fleas for a longer period.

dog bath

- Flea dip

The term “flea dip” can either refer to the process or the product used for getting rid of fleas. The process, as the term implies, involves dipping or immersing an animal in water that contains a “flea dip” or an insecticide. The main difference between a flea dip and a shampoo is that the former isn’t rinsed. The medicated solution from where the animal was dipped is allowed to dry on the creature’s fur or skin. Flea dip products usually have the same ingredients as shampoos, which can include limonene and pyrethrins. Flea dips are best for dogs because it is doubly hard to bath let alone “dip” a cat in water.

The effect of a flea dip can last to up to two weeks. This means that a lot of chemicals do stay on your pet’s coat or skin. Is this harmful? High exposure can cause serious side effects, such as cell death in primary organs. Hence, use as recommended. If you want to lessen your pet’s and your exposure to harmful chemicals, you can also use organic substances to create your own natural flea dip, such as those that use lemon and rosemary. In addition, never use a flea dip on puppies or kittens without consulting a vet.

Citations:

Reynir Hauksson. “Bath Time…!”. November 22, 2011. Online image. Flickr. May 16, 2013.

Attached Images:

License: Creative Commons image source

Claire Trent is a full-time freelancer who often blogs about pest control in Baltimore. Her topics are usually about bed bugs, rodents, and termites. She hopes that her articles will give people more information about their pest control options.

Wordless Wednesday: Where’s Dakota?

Posted on 05/15/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Where’s Dakota?

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena – You’ll see Dakota’s portrait and many other dogs, cats and horses. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid.

Ear Infections in Dogs and How to Property Clean a Dog’s Ears

Posted on 05/13/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Ear Infections in Dogs and How to Property Clean a Dog’s Ears

Thanks to Kimberly Gauthier of Keep The Tail Wagging, an online magazine for dog lovers.

Through the Lens of Kimberly Gauthier, beach, Mukilteo, Sydney, Rodrigo

When it comes to ear infections in dogs, I have no idea what to look for beyond the following…

Scratching and rubbing of the ears
Shaking their heads
Having a consistent head tilt not brought about by me saying “want a cookie?”

I took Rodrigo and Sydney in (separately) for a possible ear infection, because he was exhibiting all of these traits and our veterinarian commended me on bringing him in early. The doctor smelled his ears and I’m not sure what they smelled like, but I kind of wish I had taken a whiff. From what I’ve read, it’s an abnormal odor and there is some redness and swelling that dog parents can look for; I’ve made a habit of smelling our dogs’ ears so that at least I know what they smell like regularly. Done laughing yet?

Severe otitis externa in a four year old Cocker Spaniel. The ear canal is inflamed and swollen shut, and ceruminous exudate is present. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Blue has yet to have his first infection.

Based on what I know, ear infections are common to dogs with floppy ears. It’s trapping all the yuckiness in there, not letting the ears breath. Okay, Ladies, you’ll understand this example – it’s like when we wear non cotton panties or take too many bubble baths. Got it?

The ear infection that I hear most about from fellow dog parents are caused by bacteria and yeast. Dogs also get ear mites, but our dogs were spared that lovely treat, so I’m going to focus on the yeast infection here.

Use of an otoscope for ear examination in a dog (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Cleaning Your Dogs Ears

If you suspect that your dog has an ear infection, call your vet. You’re going to have to have this treated by a professional, because if you try and treat it at home and it gets worse, then you could end up with a chronic problem that might not go away.

We use an ear cleaner by Life’s Abundance (although we don’t buy their food, we do love their grooming products), but your veterinarian may want to give you a gentler cleanser, because your dog’s ear will be sensitive and painful.

When I was researching how to clean a dog’s ear, I found out that I was doing it wrong…

The Wrong Way to Clean Your Dog’s Ears:

Put the cleanser on a tissue and wipe out the ear canal (this is what I did)

Other Things Not to Do:

Don’t use a Q-Tip. They’ve been saying that humans shouldn’t use them, you definitely don’t want to use them on your dog, because they’ll just push the ear-good down further or you can injure the eardrum.
Don’t use rubbing alcohol or any other solution that my irritate the skin. This seems like a no duh, especially if your dog’s ears are already red and sore, but I’m the dog mom who put Vaseline on my furbaby’s vajayjay.

Right Way to Clean Your Dog’s Ears:

Explanation of where ear-infection ointment should go, for non-acute infections. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Fill the ear canal with the cleaning solution, place a cotton ball over the opening of the ear canal, then gently massage the ear at the base; the cotton ball is supposed to absorb the excess liquid and captures any ear-gook that comes out.
You do this until the cotton ball is clean (no more ear-gook) or until your dog gets fed up and walks away.
Allow the ear to dry (about 10 minutes)
Then administer any medication you veterinarian prescribed (skip this step if you’re just cleaning your dog’s ears and not treating an infection)

Click here for a video showing how to clean your dog’s ears

I tried this with our dogs. They didn’t like it. They weren’t happy with me. Their ears are clean.

Why Did Your Dog Get an Ear Infection

Probably from those ruffians at the dog park; or more likely it came from moisture being trapped in their ear (bathing, swimming) – so definitely clean your dog’s ears after a trip to the beach, a bath or a grooming appointment. If you and your dog are regular beach dwellers, then you may have to get into a strict ear cleaning routine. There’s a dog owner who goes to my vet who has a weekly system that they created (with our vet’s help), because their dog loves to swim in a pond.

Other dog owners aren’t as lucky and a cause can’t easily be identified. It could be food or environmental allergies. Jen who writes My Brown Newfies has been working with her dog, Leroy, on an underlying cause to his allergies by changes to diet. Some dog parents have experienced an amazing turnaround in their dog’s ear issues after switching to a raw food diet.

There’s no easy answer or solution. I’m not 100% on the raw food bandwagon, but I can tell you that we’ve learned so much just by understanding hot and cold foods. Rodrigo was getting a crazy rash on his back and instead of taking him back to the vet for more antibiotics (what are they doing to his liver and kidneys?) I started looking at his foods. We removed lamb from his diet and the rash cleared up.

I would love to hear about your experience with ear infections in dogs? What did you do to help them clear up? Did you have to make a change to your dog’s diet?

This article originally appeared on Keep The Tail Wagging, an online magazine for dog lovers.

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena.

Portrait of Baubles ©Deena O’Daniel

A pet portrait makes the perfect gift for a loved on – or for yourself! 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid.

What Does Your Pet Say About You?

Posted on 05/10/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

What Does Your Pet Say About You? Infographic by PetPremium.com

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted…dogs, cats, horses…what will be next? 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

5 Breeds of Dogs Perfect for Families with Young Children

Posted on 05/09/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. A Pet Portrait makes the perfect gift!

By Guest Author Ron Rutherford

Getting a dog for your family has the making to be one of the best decisions you could possibly make. Dogs offer unconditional love and friendship, and bringing home your child’s first pet will be an unforgettable, scrapbook-worthy moment. While most kids will love any type of dog you decide to bring home, not all breeds love being around small children, and in order to make sure your new family member is just as content with being an added member of your pack, it’s best to choose a breed that will have the patience and energy to reciprocate the love and attention your child gives to it.

Australian Shepherds

Dusty and Tucker Australian Shepherds (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Aussies are known for their intelligence, energy, and loyalty, and because of all these qualities, they make excellent family pets. This type of dog loves to be around people, and unlike other higher maintenance breeds, Australian shepherds won’t ever be too tired or moody to give into your child’s desire to play. There is one thing to look out for, however; because they are herding dogs, they might try to herd the kids and nip at their heels. While this is meant to be out of love and duty, it’s important to discourage this habit from a young age.

Beagles

Beagle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Beagles are a great addition to any family; they’re active enough that they like to get out and play, but they are also content to just be sitting on the couch with the rest of the family. Beagles are good playmates for kids as they have a lot of energy, and they’re small enough that they don’t run the risk of knocking your kids over. They’re very affectionate dogs and generally lack any aggressive traits, but you’ll have to get your kids into the habit of keeping them on the leash or in an enclosed space; beagles are known for taking themselves on walks.

Labs

A chocolate Labrador Retriever. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Famous for their down-to-earth, friendly, and pack-oriented spirit, labs have been the heart of many families for decades. They’re playful, patient, and gentle which are three great traits to look for in any dog that’s going to be around small children. Keep in mind, though, labs are notorious for having a habit of chewing on everything as puppies, but they’re incredibly intelligent and easy to train; if you have the time to put into the proper training, labs are one of the best choices for any family.

Pugs

A female Pug named Vanessa. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Pugs are great with kids because they aren’t overly hyper, rambunctious, or high-strung like other breeds of small dogs, but at the same time, they still love to play and be around the family. Pugs are intelligent and social, and they’ve never been known for their aggression. In fact, you’re much more likely to have to protect your pug from your kids; their facial features protrude out which makes them vulnerable when rough housing, so make sure your kids know how to play nicely.

Mastiffs

Mastiff Esmeralda Krozairs of Kregen (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It might be surprising due to their large size, but mastiffs make great family members. They love being around kids and practice impressive patience when curious kids pull on their ears or tail, and they are also kind and gentle to cats and other small animals. They are extremely territorial and make great watch dogs. However, because they are such giants (they can weigh over 200 pounds), it might be better to wait for this breed until your kids grow out of the toddler stage to ensure that they don’t cause any unintentional accidents.

A family dog in the home is great for many reasons; dogs make great companions for kids, they help kids learn to respect other forms of life, and they add an element of light-heartedness into the household. While any dog properly adjusted and socialized to children can be a success, these five breeds have a solid and long-standing reputation, and when it comes to your children, these breeds have proven to care just as much about them as you do.
Ron Rutherford is a writer with a passion for nature and a soft spot for Thai food. He currently freelances for Havahart Wireless, which specializes in progressive and humane wireless dog fences.

How to Choose a Kid-Friendly Dog

8 Things To consider When Choosing a Family Pet

Wordless Wednesday: Squirrel Terminator!

Posted on 05/08/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Dakota the Official Squirrel Terminator!

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. Dogs, Cats, Horses…but no Squirrels! 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

Why Does Your Pet Dog Constantly Scratch, Bite And Lick Its Fur?

Posted on 05/07/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support Corgiaid.

By Guest Author Valerie Banks

Scratching (Photo credit: ☺ Lee J Haywood)

The nonstop scratching, biting and licking of your pet dog can drive you insane. If it is making you uncomfortable, your pet is experiencing discomfort more than you. The constant scratching, biting and licking are a common behavior in dogs and there are various contributing factors to it. When this behavior persists your pet can develop hot spots that are red, damp and irritated. These hot spots can be found on the chest, hips and even on the head. The more scratching, biting and licking your pet does the more irritated these hot spots can become. As such, determining the cause of your pet’s behavior is necessary to prevent your dog from constantly scratching, biting and licking.

Why Does Your Pet Dog Scratch, Bite And Lick Excessively?

There is a variety of reasons for your pet dog to scratch, bite and lick. They might be bored, but the common causes are allergies and pest infestations. Once you determine the cause of your pet’s behavior, do not hesitate to have your dog treated and take steps to prevent it from occurring again.

Anxiety

Just like humans, dogs can also experience anxiety and they express this through chewing, scratching and licking. These physical responses in your dog can lead to a disorder condition that can result in severe hot spots on their body.

Dog scratching itself. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Dry Skin

Fatty acid deficiencies and changing weather can cause dry skin on dogs. Dry skin is itchy and your pet will not be able to resist scratching and licking.

Allergies

Dogs can also incur allergies and these are often due to food, pollen, mold and insect allergens. Other causes of their allergies are harsh soaps and over the counter pest sprays.

Pests

IMG_0694 (Photo credit: kmac989)

Fleas, ticks, bed bugs and mites can drive your dog crazy and make it scratch, bite and lick all over. Sadly, it is quite difficult to determine if pests are the reason for your pet’s behavior because they are so tiny and go unseen to the naked eye. Nevertheless, these pests and bites from other insects are usually the cause of excessive scratching, biting and licking on dogs.

The Symptoms of Insect Bites on Dogs

More often, pests are the cause of your dog’s erratic behavior. If you are uncertain, you can always look out for these symptoms:

Allergic reactions
Large swollen bumps
Skin irritation
Swelling on ears and eyelids
Swelling of lips or the entire face
Difficulty breathing when the nose or mouth has been bitten
Wheezing
Weak pulse
Weakness
Hives
Unconsciousness
Increased heart rate
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Trembling
Cold extremities

Treating Insect Bites on Your Pet

Insect bites are very uncomfortable to dogs and dangerous too. This is why treating them immediately at home is essential then brought to a vet for medical assistance. Here are a few home remedies -

Aloe Vera - Soothes the pain and burning sensation of the bites

Aloe vera. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Cold Compress - Reduces swelling and pain

Calamine Lotion, Oatmeal or Hydrocortisone Cream - Eases the irritation on the skin

Baking Soda and Water Paste - Helps heal bumps caused by the bite

Baking Soda and Water solution - Reduces swelling and pain

Epsom Salt and Warm Water Mixture - Treats irritated and itchy skin and paws

Witch Hazel – Treats hot spots

After your pet has been treated, you must have your home cleaned properly to remove dust, mites and pests. Have professional pest control treatments applied in your home to prevent pest infestations as well. Ensure that your home maintains a cool temperature and that your pet is bathed and groomed regularly.

Citations:

Click here for some skin remedies for your dog

Photograph by: AuntLaya.

Attached Images:

License: Royalty Free or iStock source: http://mrg.bz/ApC1Ws

This information is provided by Valerie Banks, who is a freelance writer specializing in pet care and natural pest control methods. She also writes about skin allergies on pets and different home remedies for pets, including pest prevention.

How A Dog’s Ear Position Tells You How It’s Feeling

Posted on 05/06/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. A pet portrait makes the perfect gift, and 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

Thanks to Guest Author Susan Wright for this article!

kammla at 3months old (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A dog’s ear position can tell us humans a lot about how he is feeling. Just like humans have body language, so does your dog, and his ears are especially important for relaying important information to us. For example, if his ears are very erect and facing forward, it indicates attention, focus, and interest in the current situation. Dogs will move their ears to the side and back when they are trying to listen to what’s going on around them. Ears held low and back can also be a sign of submission.

A Means of Communication
More important than what a dog’s ear position tells us are the signals that they send to other dogs. Wolves, many thousands of years ago, used these ear signals to communicate with each other, and domestic dogs use them for the same purpose.
Some dogs have less obvious signals because of the shape and position of their ears and we may find them hard to interpret. However, dogs are very astute and are much better at us at reading the body language of fellow canines. Beagles, for instance, have floppy ears, and it can be harder to actually see the subtle movements of the ears. The Shar Pei has tiny folded ears that are held close to the head. With such breeds, you need to look not at the ear flaps, but at the base of the ears where they attach to the head.

Nederlands: Shar-Pei (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Eyes and Tail
Don’t forget that the ears are just one part of how a dog communicates with people and others of his own kind. You need to also look at the rest of his body – his stance, his eyes, and his tail. A direct stare indicates that a dog is confident and assertive, and may even be interpreted as a challenge by other dogs. Dogs that look away and lick their lips are submissive and shy.
Confident dogs also stand erect, with their neck and head held high. On the other hand, if a dog is nervous or anxious, they are likely to cower or even roll onto their back exposing their underbelly.

A Wagging Tail

Tail wagger (Photo credit: photos by blperk)

Many people think that a wagging tail is an indication that a dog is friendly. This isn’t the case; it actually means that the dog is interested in interacting with you. That interaction could be friendly or it could be aggressive. Always interpret tail wagging in conjunction with eyes, ears and body posture.
Dogs learn to interpret the body language of their canine companions when they are puppies, and interacting with their mom and littermates. This is why pups need to stay with their litter until 8 weeks of age; it allows them to best learn canine communication and can improve their interaction with other dogs as they grow up.

Susan Wright is an experienced veterinarian, a electronic dog fence expert, a home owner and a freelance writer. Dr. Wright often shares tips on ways to keep your dog safe when your home or away.

6 Different Types Of Service Dogs

Posted on 05/03/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

Thanks to Guest Author Jessica McNeal for this article.

Service dogs have grown in popularity over the past several years and for good reason. These animals are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with a wide range of disabilities. Whether the dog is guiding people who are blind, pulling a wheelchair for someone or alerting/protecting a person who is having a seizure, these animals are in high demand for the disabled. Wondering what types of service dogs are out there? Here are six different types for your reference.

Hearing dogs

You very well could have seen a trained hearing dog in your past. These dogs are trained for individuals who are deaf or have difficulty hearing and assist them by responding to noices such as knocking, alarms and certain names and will help to alert their human partners of these noises.

Traditional service dogs

The traditional service dog is trained to help individuals using tools such as wheelchairs, crutches, canes and walkers. They can help by picking up any dropped items, turning off light switches and helping individuals carry certain items. You might have also heard of the smaller versions of service dogs, which are referred to as “laptop dogs”. These dogs have the ability to jump up onto counters, retrieve items and then leap directly onto the owner’s laps.

Guide dogs

A blind man is led by a guide dog in Brasília, Brazil. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

This is the oldest type of service dog we’re aware of, the “seeing eye dog”, trained to jump over a variety of obstacles, including overhangs, street crossings, city and county work and public transportation to help those with any trouble seeing.

Dogs for psychiatric disabilities

English: A Psychiatric Service Dog In Training (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It’s no secret that dogs can help significantly with a person’s well being. Whether it’s them getting you out of the house more, having the feeling of companionship or just simply having something that you can take care of and put your focus on. While most dogs provide those qualities above, these service dogs must be trained to do a task directly related to the disability of it’s owner, which means those who are there simply there for companionship or emotional support do not qualify.

Social dogs

Labrdoodle Assistance Dogs (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The social service dog is trained for children with specific social disabilities, such as Autism. These dogs can help children who can’t assume complete responsibility for a working dog, but can greatly benefit from the help of a dog in learning crucial social skills. These dogs help to encourage social interaction between the child and other individuals that they wouldn’t normally be willing to participate in.

Walker or balance dogs

A service dog putting keys into his owner’s hand. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Walker or balance service dogs are generally a larger type breed who have a body weight of half or more of the owner’s body weight. These types of service dogs are trained to help an individual balance in a standing position or to get up and down from a standing position.

With such a wide variety of service dogs and even more types out there beyond the above mentioned, it’s comforting to know that these trained dogs can help with so many different disabilities. Dogs are amazing creatures that should be treasured, and service dogs just go to show how needed these animals truly are.

Attached Images:

License: Creative Commons image source

Jessica McNeal is a freelance writer and dog lover. She loves learning about the capabilities of dogs and how they can be used to help individuals. With her dogs, she makes sure to always clip their rabies tags to them in the event they ever run away or approach individuals who might be unsure of their temperament.

Improve Older Pets’ Quality Of Life With Five Ingredients

Posted on 05/02/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid. A pet portrait makes the perfect gift!

Thanks to Guest Author Jason Kane for this article.

Alfalfa is a good ingredient for dogs to eat

As pets age, it is important to keep an eye on their health. Older dogs and cats can experience a variety of ailments that can be detrimental to their well-being and livelihood including arthritis, diabetes and even cancer. In order to prevent or relieve these and other pet diseases, consider adding the following ingredients to their diets.

Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a flowering, clover-like plant from the pea family. This vitamin-rich plant has been found to have natural pain-relieving agents that can help older pets battling arthritis. It is also helpful in preventing bladder infections and cancer.

Chicken Liver

High in protein and vitamins, chicken liver is a common ingredient in many store-bought pet foods. It provides a good source of vitamin A, which is beneficial to pets’ eye health. In moderation, chicken liver can be served to pets cooked or raw.

Shark Cartilage

PhotonQ-Blue Shark (Photo credit: PhOtOnQuAnTiQuE)

Dogs or cats with joint problems like arthritis can benefit from taking a shark cartilage supplement. Shark cartilage is made from the cartilage tissue of sharks that has been dried and powdered. It has been found to be beneficial to dogs and cats experiencing joint inflammation and can also boost their immune systems. Shark cartilage may also stop the growth of cancerous tumors found on pets, as it is commonly used as an alternative medicine for humans suffering from cancer.

Oyster Shell

English: oyster shell (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

As dogs age or become arthritic, they become more likely to suffer from calcium deficiency. This can lead to brittle bones, hip dysplasia, weak muscles and other problems. One of the best forms of calcium for dogs comes in the form of oyster shell. Adding crushed oyster shell to their diet can offset a high phosphorus intake from a primarily meat diet and aid in pets’ overall bone health.

Blue Green Algae

English: Blue-green algae cultured in specific media. Blue-green algae can be helpful in agriculture as they have the capability to fix atmospheric nitrogen to soil. This nitrogen is helpful to the crops. Blue-green algae is used as a bio-fertilizer. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Considered a super food, blue green algae is an enzyme-rich substance that can add pep to an older pet’s step. While improving a pet’s quality of life, it also helps to build and support a strong immune system, which is increasingly important as pets age.

All these ingredients when included in a well-balanced diet can help older pets age gracefully, and most importantly, healthily. The benefits they provide can improve a dog’s or cat’s golden years, giving them the chance to feel young once again. But as always, be sure to consult a veterinarian before starting any pet on a new supplement or food.

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Jason Kane is a dog lover and avid blogger. Jason gives his two labs NuVet Plus to ensure they’re getting all the vitamins and nutritional supplements that traditional dog food leaves out.

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Posted on 05/01/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

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What Your Dog’s Barks Mean

Posted on 04/30/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid.

Thanks to guest author Becky for this article.

English: Barking Dog (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Barking is a dog’s communication tool and, as we expect a dog to understand our methods of communication, we need to make an effort to understand theirs.

Barking varies in tone, pitch and meaning – when a dog is trying to communicate, it could be a protection of territory, exertion of dominance or an expression of some need, whether it’s anxiety or excitement to play.

A mixed-breed guard dog barking at an intruder (the photographer) in the village of Walnut Grove, Yunnan, PRC. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Here is a basic guide to working out what your dog’s barking means:

2 to 4 rapid barks with pauses in between is the most common form of barking and is known as the classic alarm bark. It could be interpreted as meaning there is a problem approaching and this needs to be looked at.

Continuous rapid barks at a medium pitch is a type of bark which means the dog is on alert because there could be a problem, like someone entering our territory.

Fairly continuous slower barking at a lower pitch suggests that the dog is sensing a problem that is imminent. It could be interpreted as danger being very close and we need to get ready to defend ourselves.
One or two sharp short barks at a high or midrange pitch is widely-regarded as the most ‘normal’ greeting, for example when somebody walks into a room or through the front door. This bark will usually replace the alarm-type bark if the visitor is recognised as non-threatening. It is basically the dog’s way of saying ‘hello!’ and will usually be followed by the dog’s usual greeting practice.
A short, high pitched bark shows surprise and if this is repeated twice it could be interpreted as ‘look!’. If this bark is longer in its calling, it could be a communication to let you know that the dog wants to go out.
One bark at a normal pitch is simply acommunication to let you know that the dog is curious and alert.

Drawn out solitary barks with deliberate pauses in between each one is usually a clear sign that the dog is lonely and would like some companionship.

A medium pitched, stuttered bark when givenwith their front legs flat on the floor and rear held high is usually a sign that the dog wants to play

A short, high-pitched bark or howl could be a response to some sudden pain.

Continuous howls with regular intervals could mean that your dog is suffering from a lot of pain or it could mean that they are scared by something.

Becky loves her dog Ollie and has always wanted to know what his barks mean. She loves treating him and was impressed with the variety of dog beds from www.thestylishdogcompany.com, so she decided to buy one.

Dog Accessories That Will Make Even Paris Hilton’s Chihuahua Go Green With Envy

Posted on 04/29/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

Dog portrait, Pet Portrait, Havanese, Dog

Thanks to Guest Author Jessica Reynolds for this article.

It was love at first sight. I saw his droopy eyes and shining nose and the way he looked at me, I knew it right then that I will be taking him home with me. Before I realized “Toto” became an integral part of my life. He is the charmer and comfort in my life; he is more than a mere dog. No, I didn’t bring him to guard my home from intruder but it was more for the companionship. It is like having a newborn in my hand and I don’t want to go wrong anywhere. So, I went to seek help from our very own savior ‘Google’ to guide me. Voila! I was amazed with the results. Trust me; I didn’t know so many amazing things existed for our pets. Those accessories are surely going to make Toto’s life comfortable and make him look more stylish.

I managed to compile a shortlist thinking it might help other dog lovers too. They are so good that you can even flaunt it in your next kitty-party. Here are some of the popular results I found:

English: My black Shih Tzu, Lily Rose, wearing her lavendar dog dress (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

DogClothes: This is not a matter of only comfort but also necessity. During winter you are not the only one requiring warm clothes. You can buy different types of sweaters, hoodies, shoes and socks for your pet. If you are having a special occasion coming up, you can actually buy formal coats, hats, bows and gown. You can purchase things according to the breed and the gender of the dog.

English: Pink Puppy Designs, http://www.PinkPuppyDesigns.com/ Category:Dog equipment (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Dog Leashes and Collars It is one of the wonderful accessories that can help your dog stand out from the rest of the pets around you. Some pet owners prefer to get the dogs name and address engraved on the collar. This proves beneficial in case your pet gets lost.

Dog Feeding Bowls: There are different types of feeding bowls available for pets. You can choose a raised bowl for your dog so that he doesn’t have to bend for food or a portable dog bowl so that your dog can eat comfortably even while you are traveling. They are easy to pack and are also available in plastic, ceramic and stainless steel.

Dog Toys

English: It is a dog very white Español: Él es un perro muy blanco (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

You can opt from various dog toys available in the market depending on your dog hobbies. For instance, if they are the chewing types you can buy toys they can munch on. If they are playful type then a rope or frisbee would be ideal.

Car CarriersIf you don’t want to leave your pet alone when you go out, you have the option of purchasing car carriers for your pet. They are available in different categories and each having distinct features- dog carrier strollers, dog carrier backpacks, dog travel carrier, folding dog carrier and dog totes. You can choose the one that suits your requirement perfectly.

If you are an avid pet lover and consider them as a part of your family and treat them like a kid, then these accessories are exactly what you require. I am all geared up to give Toto the best treatment and pamper him to the maximum. I am sure he is going to love these accessories, what about your pet? Choose one for them and let them know they are loved.

Today’s article is submitted by Jessica Reynolds. She is a freelance writer who writes on a wide range of topics. She has a sweet pug who she likes to dress up as superheroes; and says he has won numerous dog fancy dress competitions because of his cute and funky outfits.

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New Improved Dog DNA Test Now Covers 200+ Breeds And Varieties

Posted on 04/26/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

New Improved Dog DNA Test Now Covers 200+ Breeds And Varieties (via PR Newswire)

Advanced Science Enables Improved Accuracy and Breed Coverage in Wisdom Panel 2.0® Download image GERMANTOWN, Md., April 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — You think she’s part Boxer, but it’s anyone’s guess why she has herding tendencies. Is your “Labradoodle” really the combination of a purebred Labrador…

Muzzles – Not Always Bad

Posted on 04/25/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many dog, cat and horse portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support Corgiaid!

By Guest Author Susan Wright

German Shephrd with Muzzle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For most people, the idea of a dog muzzle makes them think of dogs that are too aggressive, or of racing greyhounds that have to wear one to protect the lure. Because of that association, it can cause people who see dogs wearing muzzles to feel anxious and avoid them.
However, these contraptions aren’t just for managing aggressive dogs any more. We need to get rid of those negative mental images about dogs that are wearing muzzles and appreciate the benefits of them.
Use When Visiting the Vet

On the way to the vet (Photo credit: Dan Harrelson)

Take into account your veterinarian’s point of view. It’s likely that when your dog visits the vet, he will be scared or anxious. It’s an unfamiliar place with unsettling smells. You may find that your dog is taken out the back of the clinic to have some blood taken, or for some other minor procedure. Under these circumstances, even the best behaved dog may snap out of nervousness, and a soft muzzle will protect your vet and their technicians from injury. Often the presence of a muzzle will help calm an anxious dog down, even if he wasn’t going to snap.

Behavior Modification
Another good use of a muzzle is to keep other dogs safe if a dog is undergoing behavior modification training. Some dogs just don’t like other dogs, but have to learn to tolerate them. At some point, they will need to be relatively close to dogs. During this training, a comfortable basket muzzle will protect nearby canines, if the dog suddenly becomes stressed and feels the need to protect himself.

Handsome pup (Photo credit: corydalus)

Muzzle Training
If your dog has never worn a muzzle, it could cause some anxiety when he first has one put on his face. Making him feel comfortable with a muzzle can make it much less stressful when he does have to wear one. Visiting the vet is nerve wracking enough for your dog without him having to suddenly deal with his mouth being confined. Muzzle training is also a good way to get your dogs to accept general touching and handling around his face and head. Always use positive reinforcement and rewards when training him. Start by stroking your dog’s head and giving him a treat when he stays calm. If he is happy with this, you can then start putting the muzzle on and taking it off immediately, and giving a reward. Over time, gradually increase the amount of time your dog is wearing the muzzle, and if you can’t feed him treats with the muzzle on, and then reward him with cuddles and lots of affection.
Muzzles aren’t cruel or harsh; they serve a very useful purpose. Even if you think your dog will never need one, it’s a good idea to teach him to wear one.

Susan Wright is a trained veterinarian of more than a decade, an invisible fence alternatives expert and a freelance writer. Susan frequently offers tips to help the entire family care for their dog.

Click here to see many types of muzzles

Considerations For Choosing The Right Canine Companion

Posted on 04/23/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many dog, cat and horse portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

By Guest Author Tracey Louis

You’re lonely. Your son or daughter is begging for a puppy and promises to take care of it. Fond memories of your own family pet as a child lead you to want another one as an adult. The reasons for wanting to adopt a dog (or any animal) are many, and pets can add a wonderful dimension to human lives and family dynamics. However, adopting a dog is a long commitment, and while you cannot possibly imagine all the twists and turns your life will take along the way, it is important to anticipate how a dog will (or will not) fit into your life as it evolves. Here are a few lifestyle questions you may not have considered as you think about adding a canine member to your household.

Be Honest, Do You Really Have Time to Exercise A Dog?

All dogs, just like people, need exercise. Yet some breeds and temperaments of dogs will need significantly more exercise than you can possibly imagine. If you are very active and fitness minded, an active dog may be a great addition to your home, and can accompany you on long walks and become an awesome running buddy. However, if you are not an active person, or do not have time to carve out of your day to walk Fido, don’t adopt a high energy dog, or a young dog for that matter. There are dogs that need less physical activity, or consider adopting a senior dog that doesn’t need hours (yes, hours) of exercise. My two dogs are very high energy, and if they do not get ample playtime, walks and runs, they go crazy and can drive me and my husband nuts in the process. Think carefully and honestly about how much and what type of activity you can do regularly with your dog and choose an appropriate companion.

Can you (and Your Neighbors) Handle a Barking Breed?

What happens if your dog is a non-stop vocal dog? Will it drive you crazy? Will it make the neighbors complain and get you into trouble with your HOA? Sometimes quality and consistent dog training can train a dog to bark appropriately. However, training is a significant investment of time and money that you should think about ahead of time. Some dogs are just more vocal, though, like Chatty Kathy at work. “Talking,” aka barking, is hard wired into them. If you know you (or your neighbors) can’t co-exist with a barky companion, you should probably check out breeds that have a lower likelihood of being a constant barker and won’t grate on your nerves.

Will You Have Children Soon?

Kid & dog (Photo credit: Pimoo)

Ok, we don’t have crystal balls to predict the future. However, if the odds are that you will be adding children to your household in the next several years, think ahead to kid-friendly breeds, as well as the potential ways your life and ability to care for your pets will change. For example, I have a 1 ½ year old high energy toddler, a 10 year old, barky, arthritic-yet-endlessly-energetic German Shepherd and a 7 year old high energy mixed breed dog. I didn’t really know whether or not I would have children. If I had known, I would have chosen different dogs. Don’t get me wrong, my dogs are great…but their energy requirements, temperaments and demands make it really, really hard for me to meet their needs at this stage in my family’s life. I try, but fall short. Lower energy, short haired and smaller dogs would have prevented some of the energy drain on me, kept my house cleaner and prevented my toddler from being sent into walls by large bodied, excited dogs making a bee-line to the front door when it’s time for an overdue walk.

By taking time to carefully consider how different dog breeds will (or won’t) fit into your family, you will be doing yourself and your future pet a big favor by consciously choosing a well-suited four-legged addition to your family.

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In addition to being a busy mom that works from home writing about pet friendly lodging at Lake LBJ in the Texas Hill Country, Tracey also rescues and fosters dogs awaiting their forever homes.

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Discover The Best Ways To Deal With Dog Cancer

Posted on 04/22/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid.

Discover The Best Ways To Deal With Dog Cancer (via http://petsnthingsonline.com)

Cancer– is there a word that strikes more dread than this? It is a very real state that we face not only with people but also with our pets. There is still not as much information as we would like to have regarding dog cancer; but experts continue to study and find the most effective ways to deal…

How Do Dogs Just Know?

Posted on 04/19/2013 by Deena O'Daniel

Saint Bernard By Guest Author Jason Balchand

Our St. Bernard, Brandy, was barely three months old when we first brought him home–but already the size of a small dog. I knew the importance of establishing the pack order with myself and my children as pack leaders, and I was always very aware, as Brandy grew, that as docile as he was he could cause injury just standing on someone’s toe.

Brandy was the runt of the litter, and although he was a pure bred Saint he was nowhere near breed standard in appearance and nowhere near as intelligent as you would expect a mountain rescue dog to be. But we all loved him, his wonky legs and the vacant expression when we tried to get him to fetch a ball, he was our Brandy.

Testing My Authority

By the time he was 9 months old he had the weight of a small child and the clumsiness to match, on top of which he was also going through a challenging stage and trying to test my authority. He had started to get a little too boisterous and virtually had to be pinned down to do any dog grooming, and even activities he found pleasurable like going for a walk started to become a chore because he would either try and eat his dog leash or run away when we tried to put a dog collar on him. During this formative time I became tougher on him and we began to make good progress addressing his bad behaviour by rewarding his good behaviour. More patience was needed than normal simply because he wasn’t the brightest dog in the world.

We had often taken Brandy to visit my mother and they got on like a house on fire, but she became ill and a little too frail to handle such a big dog, and this was in the back of my mind on the day my mother visited me. His behaviour was improving steadily, but Brandy still had a habit of leaning against visitors and throwing them off balance. Something my mother, in her frail condition wouldn’t be able to manage. Due to circumstances too detailed to go into, my plan of making sure Brandy was restrained when my mother arrived and allowing him into the room when she was safely seated didn’t happen, and the doorbell rang, my daughter had opened it before I could restrain Brandy. I still remember my mother bracing herself in the doorway when she saw Brandy as I had failed to stop him getting to the door. Then, something amazing happened. He stopped. Right in front of her feet, sniffed her and sat down. She stroked him, an action that would normally get him quite excited and playful, and still he sat. He followed her, slowly into the living room and there he sat, at her feet, for the remainder of her visit that day. At first I thought it was a turning point and that we had finally trained out the bad behaviour but no, for weeks afterwards, he still knocked people over and stood on their feet. But my mother was privy to another side of Brandy, a mature, considerate and knowing dog, who just knew.

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This guest post was written by Jason Balchand. He blogs about dogs and pet care at Online Pet Accessories. If you want to read more head over and read our blog or join us on Facebook.

Please visit my web site at Pet Portraits by Deena and see the many dog, cat and horse portraits I have painted. 10% of proceeds goes to support CorgiAid!

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