Sunday, April 13, 2008 

How To Stop Your Dog From Biting

Every year well over 4 million people are bitten by dogs. While some of these bites may be minor, others can leave serious injuries or even death. If you own a dog which bites someone, you could find yourself in legal trouble. If it kills someone, you could end up behind bars. While I don't want to scare you away from owning a dog, there are some things you will want to do to make sure your dog doesn't bite you or others.

The first thing you want to do is never approach strange dogs. Even if the dog is behind a fence or tied up, it could see you as being a threat. You should also keep your own dog away from other strange dogs. It could be injured or killed if the strange dog decides to attack it. You should also avoid petting your dog without letting them sniff your hand first so that they know who you are. Under no circumstances should you run from a dog. Dogs are natural predators, and will almost always chase you unless they're trained.

When a dog is eating, sleeping, or caring for its young, it is best not to startle or disturb them. They may snap at or bite you. It may be necessary to neuter your dog if it is going around and getting into fights with other dogs constantly. You can also take your dog around others to keep it from being nervous when in the presence of people it is not familiar with. Dogs should also be trained not to chase anyone. This is one of the most common things which leads to a dog biting someone. You should also give your dog rabies vaccinations, and never allow it to go places without your supervision.

If you should be attacked by a dog, the first thing you want to do is remain calm. If you panic you are likely to make bad decisions. You will also want to wash the wound as soon as possible. Use soap and water and contact your doctor as soon as you can. Contact the animal care agency in your area and let them know that you have been bitten. Describe the dog and where you encountered them. Let them know what direction you think the dog went in.

Being the owner of a dog which likes to bite is a serious issue. You can avoid biting by training the dog while they're young. Once they get older, it will be difficult or impossible to get them to follow your commands, and if they bite somone else, you could be in a lot of trouble.

Michael Colucci is a technical writer for Free Dog Training and Dog Care

A wheelchair-bound owner tries in vain to keep her German shepherd Shep in line. And after years of getting her own way, Lhasa apso Sasha needs to learn who the leader of the pack really is. Can Cesar teach this old dog some new tricks?

 

Meet the Newfoundland Dog

Newfoundland dogs are probably one of the most unique dog breeds around today. The most interesting thing about this dog is that they have webbed toes like a duck. While some dog breeds have some webbing between their toes to help them swim, the Newfoundland dog has toes that are completely webbed. They are fantastic swimmers and I have even heard it said that they have such a strong instinct to save people from drowning that they will drag swimmers out of the water against their will. Not a bad dog to have around when your child refuses to come out of the pool at the end of the day, right?

The origin of the Newfoundland dog is not known with any great certainty, but it is believed that the local dogs of the area, such as the Labrador (which is also a great swimmer) was probably cross bred with Tibetan Mastiffs brought to Canada on British ships in the 1700s, resulting in the large and powerful dog with tremendous swimming ability. They were used to haul in nets full of fish, carry boat lines to shore, retrieving items that fell overboard, and to rescue drowning and shipwreck victims. They also hauled lumber, delivered milk and would pull heavy loads.

When looking at Newfoundland pictures you will notice that they are a massive dog with a large, broad head. They have a wide muzzle that is short and square. They have a unique double coat. The outer coat is flat, oily, and slightly wavy. This is to repel the water and keep them warm and comfortable even in the icy waters. The under coat is thick and also oily. This is to stop any water that got through the outer coat and to help them stay warm. Daily brushing of this thick coat with a hard brush is necessary. They shed heavily twice a year in the spring and in the fall. Avoid bathing unless absolutely necessary, since this will shed the oils that protect them. You may dry shampoo occasionally.

The Newfoundland dogs have an outstanding temperament in that they are good, generous, courageous, intelligent and loyal. They are also very patient and good with guests. They are protective, although they show it by placing themselves between the intruder and their owner instead of barking or growling.

Newfoundland puppies require a lot of food while they are growing into the giant dogs they will become, but only eat about as much as a Labrador when they are fully grown. They are happy to lie around the house, but should be given regular exercise. They especially enjoy the chance to swim and frolic, and should be given that chance frequently. This big dog breed does better in cool climates, and will need plenty of shade and cool water in warmer temperatures. Newfoundland dogs are a very unique breed that may be just what you are looking for.

Breed Information:
Size- Giant
Height- 28 inches
Weight- 140 to 155 pounds
Grooming- Fairly demanding
Exercise- Aquatically demanding
Feeding- Demanding
Temperament- Docile

http://www.big-dog-breeds.com

Miniature pinscher Kiko bullies everyone in the house. Binkey, a young Chihuahua mix born without her two front legs, won't have anything to do with her wheelchair. Writer and director Mike White had no problems controlling the set of his new film Year of the Dog, but at home French bulldogs Tootsie and Ginger are out of control.

 

How To Get Rid of Dog Odor

Although we love our dogs, we don't always love how they smell. If you know or suspect your canine companion has picked up some unpleasant odors, Louise Louis of http://www.ToyBreeds.com offers you some tips on how to restore a fragrant home (and dog).

1. Dry him thoroughly after removing the bad odor.

Many dogs love to swim in whatever water is available. Use towels or a hair dryer on the lowest-heat setting until he's totally dry.

If you need more than water to get him clean, try Listerine or other brand of mouthwash. Put some on a washcloth and clean your dog's coat, then rinse or shampoo off. If that isn't working, add some baking soda to the mix.

2. Check for sticky objects in his coat.

Many dogs get feces or other smelly things stuck in their fur. Especially check his paws and around his anus. It's a good idea to shave his hair in a circle around his anus to minimize that possibility.

3. If his breath is bad, give him Greenies.

These are one of the great dog products and available in any pet store. If your dog is otherwise healthy and just has doggy breath, they'll do the trick.

4. Bathe him regularly especially if he spends much time outside.

Use a gentle shampoo made for dogs and wash him about every six weeks or so. Follow with a nice conditioner or make your own using a little baking soda in lukewarm water.

5. Make sure his diet isn't the problem.

Feed him a balanced, premium dog food that smells good to you and make sure his dog food hasn't spoiled or developed mold. Dog food packaging should indicate its expiration date. Always check at the store before you buy it.

6. Check his ears.

Ear infections are a common cause of bad smells. Make sure he doesn't have any discharges, bad odors or strange colors or insects in his ears. Infections need to be treated by a vet right away.

7. Clean your home and his possessions.

Doggy odors can linger in carpets. You must use an enzyme cleaner like Nature's Miracle if he has a potty accident.

To restore a nice smell in your home, sprinkle baking soda on the carpet and leave overnight before vacuuming in the morning. Also you can use a little baking soda with your laundry power when you wash his bedding and his clothing. Many people like to put a little white vinegar in the rinse water.

P.S. Older dogs and unneutered males tend to smell more strongly.

Louise Louis is a certified canine specialist and creator of the popular website on small dogs, http://www.ToyBreeds.com

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