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Puppy Socialization

Filed under: Ages & Stages,Dog Life,Dog Training — Chantee Hale on June 10th, 2010

Puppy socialization is the foundation for a lifetime of good dog behavior. A properly socialized puppy will respond to new situations, people, and environments without the fear and aggression that often develops in dogs that are under emotional stress. While the most important period in your puppy’s socialization occurs between 8 and 12 weeks, when the puppy’s mind is going through a fear imprinting stage, good socialization should not end after 12 weeks.

In order to properly socialize your puppy you must make sure to expose him or her to as many healthy new environments and people as you can. Since the point of exposing your puppy is to teach him or her how to handle and react to potentially stressful situations, it is important that you remain in control of the situation, as well as your own reactions and emotions. Even young puppies can sense your emotional responses to stimuli and, like human infants, will react according to the impressions they get from you. Happily greeting strangers as you take your dog for walks, or settling in comfortably with a large group of human friends show your dog how he or she should respond to these new situations as well.

Because of health concerns it may not be safe to socialize your dog through visits to the dog park, or places where other animal’s poop is likely to be found. Instead, substitute controlled play dates with other pups, training and socialization classes, and frequent walks for potentially health-effecting socialization. Taking your pup for frequent car rides and to visit the homes of friends will also help him or her to adapt easier to new environments.

Besides new environments it is essential to familiarize your dog with objects he or she may perceive as threatening or strange. These things may include tall men, hats, umbrellas, loud noises, children, and wheelchairs. Having the individuals possessing potentially frightening characteristics or objects interact positively with your dog, even offering them treats and affection, will help your dog come to love these strange characteristics.

As your puppy grows remember to encourage him or her to enjoy new things, and seek out new experiences and stimuli to expose him or her to. By taking the time to socialize your dog with intention and control you will ensure a happier outlook for your pet and minimize stress and aggressive reactions. Properly socialized puppies often turn into better behaved adult dogs, and will make your dog ownership a joy instead of a headache.

Photo credit manyfires

Is Your Dog’s Food Causing Agression?

Filed under: Dog Behavior,Dog Life — Chantee Hale on May 26th, 2010

Ever wonder why your dog has become more aggressive after eating a piece of meat or high protein dog food? While protein is important for dogs, studies show that some dogs are fed too much protein, causing them to become aggressive. Unless your dog is under a year old, pregnant, nursing, or an actively working dog such as a herding, sled, or hunting dog, a high protein diet is unnecessary and can cause dominance and territorial aggression. While studies have shown that puppies under a year old need a diet with 28% protein content and working dogs require a diet with a protein content of 32%, chances are your dog needs less.

Medical studies have determined that feeding dogs lower protein diets can help curb both dominance and territorial aggression problems. In some studies, besides switching to a lower protein diet, tryptophan was given as a supplement. Additives and fillers have also been shown to have a negative impact on dog aggression. If your dog is displaying aggression consider changing your dog to a lower protein diet, many veterinarians recommend about 18% protein, and choosing premium dog foods with little or no additives and fillers.

Photo credit Brian Ford

Rottweilers Could Hold the Key to Cancer

Filed under: Dog Health — DoggySpace on April 20th, 2010

In a recent video by ABC News; Dr. David Waters believes Rottweilers could hold the key for humans to live with cancer.

The Well Socialized Dog

Filed under: Dog Behavior,Dog Life,Dog Training — Chantee Hale on April 13th, 2010

Some dog experts say that a socializing your dog is just as important as how you feed and shelter him or her. But what does “dog socialization” and being a “well socialized” dog mean, anyways?

Dog socializing is a form of training your dog. When you socialize your dog you teach him or her how to react to external stimuli, from new places, large groups, or an unusual characteristic such as wheelchairs or mustaches on men. While socialization is extremely important during the first year of a puppy’s life, it in no way ends at 12 months of age, and good socialization tactics continue throughout your dog’s lifetime.

While socialization classes can be found, the best kind of socialization training is found in daily life. As you walk your dog, take him or her to the dog park, meet strange people or dogs while on a walk, or host a party, you are providing your dog with the best kind of socialization. But, for socialization to be good and your dog to become “well socialized” you must be in control of the situation, endeavoring to make sure that he or she enjoys the new experience and gets past any initial fearful reactions he or she has, and making sure that your own reactions to the situation show that your are in control, worry free, enjoying yourself, and you feel your pet is safe.

Poorly socialized dogs often react to stimuli by growling, cowering, trying to bite, or other fear-induced behaviors. Not only are these signs that your dog is frightened, but they can be difficult or embarrassing to deal with, or even cause harm. No matter what age your dog is intentional socialization should be as much a part of his or her daily routine as meals and taking walks.

Photo by lleugh

Sandra Bullock and Jessie James’ Split Causes Dog Run Away

Filed under: Celebrity Dogs — Chantee Hale on March 29th, 2010

When Cinnabun, Sandra Bullock and Jesse James’ pit bull pup has gone missing for the second time in two years, according to reports from pet-finding company Home Again. Reports say Cinnabun slipped away when Sandra was moving out of the Long Beach area home she shared with Jesse James. While this is the second time James and Bullock have lost Cinnabun one can’t help but wonder if Sandra wasn’t the only one embarrassed by Jesse James’ reported affair.

One can’t help wondering if celebrity divorces aren’t difficult on the just people involved, but the pets as well. If that’s true maybe the split between Cinnabun’s parents is what caused her to flee her comfy home.

Dog Allergy Symptoms

Filed under: Dog Health — Chantee Hale on March 24th, 2010

Since dog allergies can be caused by a large variety of stimuli, from food products like wheat to airborne allergens like pollen, it can be hard to determine if your pet is suffering from allergies. Since there are four different types of allergens that can cause reactions and discomfort for our dogs, it is best to know the symptoms for each type of allergen.

Dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies, just as humans can. Dog allergy symptoms for inhalants or airborne allergens include: coughing, sneezing, and watery eyes. If your dog is suffering from seasonal allergies talk to your vet about medications, which range from vitamins to antihistamines and steroids, which may help your dog.

Other allergies that may increase during the spring through fall times of year are flea and tick allergies. The symptoms for flea and tick reactions include: biting or gnawing on legs and skin, chewing, hair loss, itching, and inflammation. If your dog displays signs of flea or tick allergies a hypoallergenic tick and flea bath as well as regular topical flea and tick medication may be the best way to help your dog.

Food allergies are a reaction of the immune system to certain food products. They can be either inherited or developed depending on the food product. Diarrhea, ear infections, hair loss, itching, scratching, skin infections, and vomiting are all signs of food allergies. If you believe your dog has food allergies either change the foods they are eating to brands that contain less fillers and more ‘real foods’ or consult your veterinarian.

Contact allergies can also cause your dog discomfort. Items such as detergents or other powders or liquids that come in contact with their skin can cause these allergic reactions: blisters, hives, rashes, and thickening or darkening of the skin. If your dog is displaying symptoms of contact allergies try to determine what he or she is allergic to by eliminating possible allergens one at a time, or have him or her tested by the vet.

Dog Poisoning

Filed under: Dog Health — Chantee Hale on March 24th, 2010

If your dog’s one of the many naturally curious types of hounds, dog poisoning may be a major concern. Poisoning most often happens on accident, as dogs’ small bodies are more susceptible to toxins. Add to the mix that natural sense of curiosity and the desire to taste or ‘mouth’ new objects and you have the perfect case for dog poisoning.

Poisons, or items that are toxic to dogs can be found in a variety of places, not just your average rattrap or jug of chemicals. Poisons that are fatal to dogs can be the avocado on your counter, or the Jasmine plant you just picked up at the nursery. Knowing the chemicals, plants, insects, and foods inhabiting your house that might poison your dog is the key to prevention.

But what do you do if you come home to find that your dog has eaten your beloved Elephant Ear plant, or gotten into a can of chemicals? The first step is to identify the toxic substance your dog has gotten into, as well as any symptoms he or she may have. Armed with this knowledge, call the Poison Control center as well as your dog’s veterinarian. They can assist you in determining the best route to take in handling the situation.

The symptoms of poisoning can be many. Mouth rashes, drooling, lethargy, and skin rashes are some of the less apparent symptoms. Other, more obvious symptoms include seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, staggering, and breathing difficulties. Left untreated poisoning can result in kidney and liver failure, comas, and death.

Dogs who have been poisoned may take up to three days, and sometimes longer, to display the symptoms of poisoning, so it is best to call your vet immediately if you are aware that your dog has ingested or inhaled a poisonous substance, even if her or she hasn’t shown any symptoms yet. With your vet’s help you can lessen the impact poisoning, especially food and plan poisoning, may have on your pet’s long-term health.

Does Obama’s Healthcare Concern Include His Dog?

Filed under: Celebrity Dogs — Chantee Hale on March 22nd, 2010

While Obama struggles to ensure health care for uninsured Americans the question we have to ask ourselves is does Obama’s devotion to health care include the family dog? When the Obama’s were given their Portuguese Water Dog, Bo, did they enroll it in a dog healthcare plan?

Obama’s devotion to health care leaves some dog lovers wondering if he’s as dedicated to the health and long term care of the family dog. If Obama is, Bo is one lucky puppy and the Portuguese Water Dog is sure to be healthy and living fit in its retirement years.

But what health care plan did the Obama’s choose? As HMO’s become a leading way to ensure the long term health of our dogs, the Obama’s presidential seal of approval could help many people with their decision.

Gerard Butler, the Dedicated Doggy Daddy

Filed under: Celebrity Dogs — Chantee Hale on March 17th, 2010

Female fans and doggie fanatics alike find themselves taken with Gerard Butler’s little dog named Lolita, but Gerard’s devotion takes the cake. When a strange mutt encroached upon the little pug in Hollywood last year, sources say Gerard jumped to protect her. While the incident embroiled Butler in a battle of words with the other dog’s owner and left many people confused as to whether the star was being over protective or defending his little lady’s honor one thing is clear: Gerard Butler is one dedicated doggy dad.

Dog Party Hosting Tips for Success

Filed under: Dog Life — Chantee Hale on March 12th, 2010

Hosting a dog party is a wonderful way to not only express your love for your pet, but to share your happiness with others. Like any party, parties for dogs require a lot of planning to go smoothly. Here are some tips for perfect party success:

The first step to party success is location. Finding the right location for the number of dogs and time of year, as well as for your party’s theme is imperative to hosting the perfect party. Consider the time of year, sizes and age of dogs you’re inviting, as well as potential safety concerns, and weather. Some great dog party locations include your own backyard, dog friendly swimming area such as a beach or lake, and doggy parks. Every location offers its own set of entertainment opportunities and challenges.

Now that you have your perfect location it’s time to send out invitations. Before you start inviting all your pup’s DoggySpace pals here are some things to consider:
Size: smaller dogs might not mix well with their bigger pals. For easy celebrations it may be a good idea to stick to doggy pals that are your pet’s size.
Personality: some dogs just aren’t party animals. Excluding dogs you know have social anxiety will save them from an uncomfortable situation.
Manageability: Even though the canine guests will have their own moms and dads there to watch them, as the host you are ultimately responsible for your guests. Don’t invite more dogs than you can handle keeping an eye on, and still have a good time. Between 3 and 8 guests should be plenty for dog-gone good fun.
Special needs: some dogs have special dietary needs or other concerns. Make sure to put a note in the invitation reminding the doggy parents to contact you if they have special dietary needs.

Finding the right doggy treats for your pup guest is easier than it might seem. From ice cream formulated for pets, often available through pet stores or local health food stores, to cookies and cakes baked just for them (available through local canine or pet bakeries) the options are endless. Make sure to order your cake or cookies at least a week beforehand to ensure timely delivery.

Other things you’ll want for your party include:
Plenty of water dishes and food bowls for your canine pets. They’ll get mighty thirsty and hungry with all that playing.
Goodie bags. These should include dog treats, a doggie toy, and baggies for cleaning up after the four legged guests.
Games to entertain your pets friends. Good games for canine parties will get the guests moving, but won’t cause arguments. Agility games are great, indoors or out. If you think your guest dogs can handle the challenge hide-and-seek treat games can also be a big hit. If you choose simpler games like fetch, make sure to provide enough discs or balls for every dog.
Decorations. Decorations can be found at pet supply stores, online, or even at party stores. The best decorations have a dog theme, like Scooby Doo or SuperDog, and are placed in areas where dogs can mouth or choke on them.

Before your party, make sure you remove any valuable items, or dangerous ones (like balloons that can be reached by a jumping dog). Close all gates and doors that might lead to trouble. When your guests arrive hand the mommies and daddies a goodie bag and make sure to point out that it includes clean-up bags as a subtle reminder that your guests need to clean up after themselves.

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