Archive for August, 2009

Dog trackers help dog owners to keep a track of their animal and help in locating a dog that has gone astray, having drifted away outside their nominated safe area. GPS dog tracking is increasingly becoming the most popular products that help dog owners to quickly track their pets and bring them back home safely.

The GPS dog tracking system, which is essentially born out of the Global Positioning System, has been developed and promoted by the US Defence Department. It has the ability to pin point a location with extreme accuracy through its satellite based system.

As per the findings of the Council of Pet Population Study and Policy, only 20 percent of dog owners are able to retrieve their pets. A GPS dog tracking system helps in protecting the pet not being run over by a car or assaulted by other bigger animals by quickly being able to alert the owner so that the pet does not stray further. Most dogs are retrieved by the usage of tags, micro chips or tracking technology. Therefore, it is most essential for most pet owners to invest in a good GPS tracking system as it would only increase his chances of finding his dog. It may apparently seem slightly expensive initially at the time of purchase, but any dog owner who owns a GPS tracking system would vouch for it as it immensely helps in increasing the safety and well being of the pet.

There are generally two unique GPS tracking systems. One of the system works with the help of cellular carrier, transmitting vital inputs about the position of the pet. This helps the owner in tracing his pet through the phone or through the Internet. This technology gets seriously restrained wherever there is no cellular coverage and which would obviously cost more money to keep the services going.

The other GPS tracking system works by using the standard radio waves, which are freely available. However this system is heavily flawed due to simple fact that the transmission inside a given area is highly restricted. The radio waves transmit vital information to a hand held gadget, which in turn exhibits authentic information about the pet.

It is important to note how this satellite technology based global positioning assists in tracking and locating missing dogs. The pet wears a collar where the transmitter is fitted and which sends an alert to the owner, about the pet having strayed from the stipulated safe area. The owner is then able to find the dog via a transmission. The GPS system of dog tracking works almost similar to the automobile tracking system. What it typically does is, it informs the owner of the pet having strayed and then starts sending updates on the dog’s where about till such time the owner has been able to retrieve the animal. In some of the GPS systems you are required to send for assistance through a helpline once the alert has been sounded. It is then the turn of the service representatives to track down the dog and relay back the information to the dog owner.

Ask a pet owner what it is to lose his favorite dog and the importance of keeping his dog safe. It is equally important to find them quickly before they are hit by a running car or attacked by another animal or even may get stolen. With the GPS dog tracking system becoming more and more and popular, it is increasingly becoming affordable too. It can not only save a pet owner ample amount of time and energy and frustration but also heartache. The GPS dog tracking system not only helps pet owners but also benefits society at large by reducing a large population of strays.

But before going in for a purchase of a GPS dog tracking system, it would prudent to do an extensive research. The critical elements that one would require to find out are on the extended battery life, weight, coverage area, waterproofing and ability to manage extreme temperature fluctuations. In case of a small sized dog, it is very important to find out about the weight of the collar, as prolonged use could seriously injure and damage the back and neck of a small dog.

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Real German Shepherd Training

Owning a German Shepherd is a rewarding experience. This dog breed is famous for its intelligence, protective nature and ability to learn many different commands. If you have a german shepherd, the earlier you start the training the better. Like a child, the intelligence is much easier to retain during the puppy phase.

To get the most out of your German Shepherd training you need to find a plan that will work for both you and your pup. First remember the temperament of the breed. These are extremely active dogs who need plenty of exercise.

With a highly intelligent and naturally dominant dog training needs to establish your dominance and control.Your new dog will have to learn the rules. In homes with children it is very important they are also involved in the training so the dog will also recognize their authority.

Professional dog trainers can be hired and take care of all of your training needs. This option is more expensive and easier but will still require plenty of personal interaction with your pup.Training on your own can be a great experience. Remember to be consistent with the training and you will be able to save a lot of money.

Consistency is the major factor for successful training. Hold training session at regular times. Even when your dog seems to ignore the lessons and is misbehaving. Do not let such times discourage you from holding a class. Your role is to establish a natural hierarchy that makes you the leader and your German Shepherd as a follower.

Be firm with your puppy from the moment it first arrives home. Include your children in the training sessions. You need to maintain a same level of firmness during the puppy training. Working together as a family will establish the rules of the “pack” ensuring your pup quickly fits in and understands the rules. Training your pup doesn’t have to be a rough and tough experience. You can be affectionate and loving.

Proper dog training reinforces the necessary roles the dog should learn and maintain. You hard work will pay off and you will have a loving pet who protects your home and family while respecting all of the members and the house rules. Once your pup is demonstrating the proper behavior with out being prompted continue to reward them to reinforce the right behavior.

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Congratulations on selecting that large dog that you have. We must say, large dog breeds are one of our favorites. They offer so much comfort, joy and of course, play time. If you have not gotten a dog yet, then you should really consider the responsibility it is going to put on you. Yes, they are very loving dogs, but are you ready to take a life in your hand and give it the love and attention they deserve? Are you ready to pay for vet bills and buy lots of dog food? Are you ready to take your pet out for walks? The dog is not something you can lock in a room and only play with when you feel like it. Sadly, many individuals have started to do this and that is considered animal abuse, but we will not get into that one right now.

Our favorite breed of dog is the Pit Bull and they always have been, even as a child. In fact, our pit bull was a real life saver, but we are not going to get into that right now.

If you want to see a heroic pit bull, look up Stubby, who was honored in the White House and was the first dog to get a rank in the Military.

What we will tell you is that Stubby, who served his time in WWII and is a Pit Bull was the first dog to earn a rank for the Military. He has also been honored in the White House. For those of you that do not know about his story, we recommend you researching him along with Popsicle. Our Pit Bull, Copper is our best friend.

Another great dog is the German shepherd. We have had a retired police dog who was a German shepherd as a child and must say that she was a lovely dog.

Large dog breeds are a big responsibility and you need to also make sure you have a vet lined up.

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Basics Of Dog Ramps: Why They’re Valuable

The older we get, the more our joints hurt. Climbing and descending stairs, and jumping down from raised heights can slowly take their toll. What’s more, if we suffer from illness, arthritis, or a weight issue, these activities can have an even worse impact on our bodies. To be sure, the things we used to do as children without giving them a second thought now seem to have a punishing effect on us.

Dogs feel the same way and cope with many of the same issues. The problem for them is that they are often expected to continue jumping onto beds, furniture, or into cars long after their joints protest. As a result, it’s not uncommon for our canine companions to pull muscles or suffer lasting discomfort.

Fortunately, we can provide our pooches with relief by investing in a high-quality dog ramp. Below, we’ll describe how they’re used and explain what you should look for when shopping for one.

How They’re Used

During each day, your canine will likely jump onto your couch, bed, and other furniture several times. Plus, if you regularly take him with you on the road, he’ll be expected to jump into your vehicle. Over time, that constant jumping can have a severe impact on his joints.

Also, consider that many breeds are smaller; making those jumps is much harder on their bones and can eventually lead to painful arthritis. And for dogs that are older or suffer from a variety of health issues, making the jumps is nearly impossible without injuring themselves in the process.

A ramp removes the need to jump. They can transform painful climbs into a gentle slope that your pooch can navigate at his own pace. Plus, there’s no need to leave your canine’s joints and bones vulnerable to constant pounding when he jumps off your furniture. A ramp lets him descend easily protecting his joints from harm.

Factors To Consider When Shopping

The three main considerations when buying a dog ramp are strength, portability, and safety. First, it must have the strength to support your pooch’s weight. Some models are designed for small breeds while others are built for larger breeds. The packaging will provide the ramp’s weight capacity, so be sure to look for it.

Second, choose a model that is portable. Chances are, you’ll want to enjoy the flexibility of transporting it easily from one room to another, or to your vehicle. It should have a handle and fold easily for storage.

Third, look for features that help ensure the safety of your canine. For example, a lot of models come with side rails, an anti-skidding feature, and stabilizing latches. Some even have an extra traction feature that prevents a nasty slip from happening during wet weather.

A dog ramp can make life far more comfortable for your pooch. Not only will it protect his joints from discomfort and pain, but it can also help prevent unexpected injuries from poorly-planned jumps.

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Serious Pit Bull Aggressive Dog Behavior

Hello. You have seen the scenario where someone is walking in the park with their cute puppy on a leash. As you walk towards it you can see it’s joy in living each and every second as its tail starts wagging at high speed.

Seconds later, however as you are twenty or thirty meters away you and every one else hears a high pitch yapping and you turn already knowing with horror as you hear the deep throaty roar that that little puppy that you just passed is in some serious trouble. Perhaps even its owner is not able to extricate it from the problem.

There are lots of reasons for bad dog behavior. Some of them logical and some well, not quite as obvious. The dog misbehaving may be a dog that has been ill treated, or it might have a long standing chronic problem like a very bad tooth ache or head ache that it keeps under control until something unleashes it. Or the problem could be partially hereditary as in certain types of dogs being more prone to behavioral problems.

A few weeks ago, as I was petting the head of the dog a few doors down, my neighbor recounted this story about this half puppy half wolf.

About 12 months ago, he had gone inside the house after tying his puppy to the tail of his pickup truck. He estimated it had about 15 feet of slack on its leash. He claims he was only inside about 10 minutes before he heard a shout and the snarl of a pit bull. He ran to his front door and saw this scene.

A Pit Bull Terrier had torn itself loose from its owner and was running full speed at his tied dog. His dog went suddenly silent and ears perked alert as it appeared to test the length on its leash. It backed up quickly towards the car and half sat and waited the second and a half for the pit bull to cross the 40 feet between them.

This all happened at high speed, but when the Pit Bull leaps high for his dog’s throat with uncanny speed, his dog was eerily not there anymore. It was airborne and above the pit bull. As the pit bull landed and simultaneously twisted, my neighbor’s half wolf clamped its jaws on the Pit Bulls neck and held it motionless while the pit Bull shook itself viciously backwards and forwards.

The half puppy did a very adult thing. With astonishing strength it growled and thew the pit bull about 6 feet away.

The pit bull landed and without touching ground ( that’s what witnesses say ) twisted and was airborne across the 10 feet distance. The slightly bigger half wolf puppy crouched and met the pit Bull midair but this time instead of warning it, it snapped its neck and well, that was that.

No one knew how long this had all taken. It seemed to simultaneously happen so fast and then suddenly slow down as if time had been holding its breath. My neighbors big puppy, backed to the beginning of its leash and sat itself down gently, almost as if, all in a days work.

Its not my position to judge as to what was right and wrong about this. We were told however that the pit bull had attacked a youth in the preceding year and that it and or its owner was under some kind of suspension while its case was being decided. Normally, it would have been put down or something, but witnesses didn’t all tell the same story so…

Who knows, sometimes nature itself is the great equalizer. Everyone there was certain as they told the story afterward, that the puppy was a goner. No one had thought that there was quite that much quickness or wolf like strength and self preservation in that quiet puppy.

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My dog and I have a great weekend schedule. First thing each weekend morning we get up, have a snack, grab a latte at the coffee shop on the way, and end up at the dog park. I just love bringing my dog to the park, since it’s pretty obvious that this is one of the highlights of his week.

We both enjoy our weekend routine – my dog gets lots of exercise and socialization, and I enjoy my coffee and do some socialization of my own. It’s a great break for both of us. Unfortunately there are several times during the year that it seems inevitable that my dog would come home with fleas. I wouldn’t really notice at the time, but through the week I’d notice some scratching, and think ‘oh no, fleas again’.

After I started to notice a connection with having fleas and going to the dog park, we stopped going to the dog park. The reaction was not well thought out. After a few months of avoiding the dog park, I seemed to notice that my dog was gaining weight and was generally a bit slower getting off the couch. I was feeling pretty guilty about boycotting the dog park so perhaps my eyes were playing tricks on me. I decided we would go back to the dog park.

I called my dog groomer for advice. How could we enjoy our weekend trips to the dog park and avoid getting fleas? The dog groomer was full of good ideas. She knew that I was a believer in non toxic and organic living so I needed an all natural flea prevention solution. Thankfully, those solutions are pretty common and easy to apply.

I started to feed my dog a wee bit of garlic with his wet food every morning. The groomer told me that in a matter of days the garlic will start to be emitted through my dogs skin and saliva. The smell is imperceptible to humans but acts as a significant flea deterrent. She was right. At least, I have not noticed any fleas after going to the dog park. As an added precaution, I dosed a bandanna in some citronella oil and tied it around my dog’s neck. My dog doesn’t seem to mind the smell and it helps to repel fleas.

Since finding a good solution to keep my dog from picking up fleas in public places, going out for our weekend outings has been much more pleasurable. Not having to worry about bringing fleas home, and especially finding an all natural flea solution has been the best discovery my dog and I have made this summer.

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Natural Dog Shampoo

Most of the time when you need natural dog shampoo, you just pick up what you can find that is inexpensive. Eventually you will come to realize that getting the right shampoo for your dog is just as important for them, as the shampoo you purchase for yourself. Remember, they can have irritating skin, get tangles in their hair, and experience the same symptoms as you. This is why it’s so important to read the labels and find out what’s inside the product. Have you ever heard of parabens?

Did you know that parabens have actually caused dogs to get tumors? Did you know this ingredient has been linked to cancer? They are both facts and it’s definitely not something you want your dog to absorb into their skin. See parabens are used to kill fungus and bacteria in the product itself. While it sounds beneficial, it’s only used in the products to give them a longer shelf life.

So make sure you pay attention to the ingredients for the natural dog shampoo you purchase. If you do see parabens listed, let it sit on the shelf and collect dust. It’s best to use something that has natural ingredients and can actually help the body. In a dog’s case, it not only helps keeps them healthy, it also gives them a shiny looking coat that lets you know he or she is doing well. Just remember, no toxic botanicals and your dog, the environment, and family will be safer.

Nowadays all cleaning products for dogs can be found and manufactured from natural ingredients. Understand this and you will know that your dog will always be comfortable and no pests will bug your friend. You don’t have to go on wondering what harmful chemicals are in dog shampoo. You should always trust natural dog shampoo products and not products that were manufactured with chemicals and processed with chemicals.

Natural dog shampoo is paraben free, and they contain no other chemicals that could dry out your dog’s coat or make it sick. The great thing about natural dog shampoo is the fact that anyone in the family can use it on the dog. You don’t have to worry about the side effects. The other advantage about natural products is that they contain antioxidants that prevent your dog’s skin from drying out and other illnesses.

So stick with natural dog shampoo, because you’re giving your dog the best life they can have each and every day. There are tons of other chemicals out there as well, but we decided to tell you about the most common. Make sure to stay away from fragrances, alcohol, and anything similar. After all, you wouldn’t want to hurt your own skin by using these ingredients, which is why you shouldn’t let your dog use them.

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Indoor pet owners already know how much our little friends depend on us. It can be extremely stressful to both you and your pet if you work outside the home and have to leave your pet home alone for long periods of time. Think about it, what if you couldn’t relieve yourself for eight to ten hour stretches.

Being a pet owner and loving your pet doesn’t mean there won’t be stressful times. How many times have you been interrupted by your little friend because he needs to go out and you had to stop what you were doing to grant his wishes?

There is a way around all these problems. A way that can lead to a better relationship between you and your pet. Yes, a pet door may be the answer to your problems. Just think, if your pet has the means to go out and come in when he pleases you won’t have to worry about coming home and cleaning up a mess he left on the floor. Once he has the freedom to go and come as he needs, interruptions will be a thing of the past.

You may want to install your pet door yourself or get a handyman to do the installation. You can probably do it yourself if you are handy with tools and follow the directions.

There are many varieties of pet doors on the market. You should do your research before jumping in to make a purchase. You will also need to measure your pet for height and width. If you have a puppy, be sure to consider his size when fully grown.

Don’t overlook the difficulty of installation. Sometimes they can be confusing for someone that doesn’t have much experience using the necessary tools and equipment. If you find that you cannot follow the installation instructions or it’s over your head simply have it hired out or perhaps get a friend or neighbor to help.

As with most everything pet doors are designed to fit individual needs and desires. Your final decision should take your own needs into consideration. While doing my homework I found the electronic pet door offered many advantages other types just couldn’t match.

The electronic pet door is activated by a signaling device attached to your pets collar. This gives you the peace of mind of knowing the door remains sealed, keeping out unwanted guests and only opens and closes when your pet approaches it. This also reduces the loss of heating and air conditioning.

After your pet learns to use the pet door, both you and he can enjoy the many benefits your new found freedom brings.

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German Rottweiler pups are born in Germany and American Rottweiler pups are born in the USA. It seems too simple; but really, the Rottweiler canine’s birth origins is the greatest difference between the two of Rottweiler pups. Of course, there are other differences that can be linked to each Rottweiler pup type.

Many Rottweiler Dog Breeders will tell you that there are several ways To tell between Rottweiler pups Born In America and German Rottweiler Puppies For Sale like the body size, head size, bone and temperament of the Rottweiler pups. The major variation is that any German Rottweiler pup after June 1998 has a tail. Besides the tail, the Rottweiler breed standards between United States Born Rottweiler Pups and German Rottweiler Puppies For Sale are fairly similar.

So what is the reason for the belief that German Rottweiler puppies are different from United States Born Rottweiler Pups? The belief lies in the poor breeding programs which have low regard for Rottweiler breed type uniformity, poor planning, and no focus on the Rottweiler breed. Concluding in the proliferation of non-standard Rottweiler breed details such as the different sized heads, elongated bodies, and thin bones.

The German standard (FCI/ADRK) as specified by the organization is as follows: Shoulder height for male Rottweiler dogs is 61 – 68 cm (24.01 – 26.77 inches) with 65 – 66 cm (25.59 – 25.98 inches) being the correct height of a Rottweiler dog. Shoulder height for females is 56 – 63 cm (22.04 – 24.8 inches) with 60 – 61 cm (23.62 – 24.01 inches) being the correct height.

So, what can you do to procure a Rottweiler canine that is similar to the German standard of FCI/ADRK as possible? The first thing, finding out about the family trees of the Rottweiler puppy’s Dam and Sire. Then, is to discover whether the stud dog and brood dog are a good match for each other. Lastly, you can be in close contact with the Rottweiler breeder to anticipate what improvements can be expected in the prospective litter and what unwanted traits will possibly surface.

Although whether the dog is German Rottweiler or an American Rottweiler getting a standard Rottweiler puppy is always a balance of dna, lineage, knowledge, and past breeding results. The Variations between German Rottweiler Puppies For Sale and American Rottweiler Pups By Breeders Of Rottweiler puppies are the breeder’s programs for breeding. The top breeders to search for are those who try to breed for all of the qualities of a Rottweiler pup as stated here.

Whichever type of Rottweiler you purchase, make it a priority to request to inspect certificates of certification and look them over before you purchase or adopt any pup from a Rottweiler breeder. Moreover, take into consideration the breeder’s reputation and track record as a Rottweiler puppy breeder. And again, remember, real difference is that German Rottweiler pups are birthed in Germany and American Rottweiler pups are born in the US.

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If you ever chance upon one of these dogs, youll probably notice its stately demeanor right away. It gives off an air of sleekness and fluid power, while retaining a lively and vigorous outlook on life. The German Shepherd has a long body, that is solid and healthy, radiating health and top form.

When you look upon one of the members of this breed, you are struck right away by their noble demeanor. The German Shepherd is a coolly aloof dog, exuding subtle confidence and poise, and does not make friends with strangers easily. It is straightforward and bold, but is known for its disciplined nature.

This dog is matchless when it comes to guarding, and is a terrifically loyal member of the family once adopted, a perfect selection for families that want a good investment when picking out a dog. As soon as its trust in its owner is established and a firm understanding and relationship is acknowledged, the German Shepherd is quite amiable with children. This dog is the right choice to make if you want an animal that is intelligent, loyal and strong, all at the same time.

The breed was named Deutscher Schferhund, literally translating to “German Shepherd Dog”. It was named for its original purpose of assisting shepherds in herding and protecting sheep. They were bred to preserve traits that assisted in their job of heading sheep and protecting flocks from predators, as this was practical in Germanys local communities, during the 1800s.

Dogs believed to have the traits necessary for herding sheep, like brawn, brains and a good nose would be selected and bred by shepherds. The end resulted in dogs that executed their duties superbly, but varied in outward appearance and skill, depending where they came from and were bred. This was an accepted practice back in the 1800s, in Germanys local communities.

German Shepherds are marked by a willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose. Because of these characteristics that make for a loyal protector and herder, it is also hailed as the worlds leading police, guard and military dog. Not only that, its a loving family companion, herder and show competitor.

The German Shepherd is famous for being a working dog, especially when it comes to tracking down criminals, holding apprehended suspects, and patrols. Theyre also excellent noses, sniffing out narcotics and explosives and aiding in search and rescue missions. Their keen sense of smell and ability to focus regardless of distractions, such as in port hangars or busy shopping districts, sets this dog apart from other animals.

This dogs expression is intelligent, keen and composed, and his coat comes in a wide variety of colors, the most common combinations being tan and black, or red and black. They have a noble, dense outer coat, with a thick undercoat, and a bushy tail that reaches to the hock. Giving off an impression of subtle power and solidity, and being one of the most intelligent, hardworking and agile dogs in the world, the German Shepherd is a wise choice to make when choosing to adopt a pet.

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