How to Buy the Best Dog Collar or Harness (Petco)

The video below gives some helpful advice to those wanting to purchase a collar for their dog.

Tips To Make Sure Your Dog's Collar Fits Well

Having a good, strong, and well-fitting collar is incredibly important for your dog for a lot of different reasons. There are times when a dog will take off after another dog, or even a squirrel or other animal, and end up in the middle of a busy street only to get run over by a car because it slipped out of its collar. There are other times when someone may come over to your home, knock on the door and you have to answer it, but without being able to restrain your dog by the collar your dog will get lose to possibly bite someone. Let's take a look at how to buy a dog collar that fits your dog just right for those times when you really need it.

Get A Quality Collar

As you're looking for dog collars, you'll find that there are some fairly inexpensive ones available at your local dollar store or discount store, and you should definitely stay away from these. Many of these inexpensive collars are of poor design and made with inferior materials, that could easily come loose or even fall apart at the most inconvenient or dangerous time for you and your dog. When a dog is trying to get to something, he will pull with all his might, and a cheap collar will be unable take the force, so make sure it is strong and the buckle works perfectly.

Speaking of buckles. A lot of people like to buy the adjustable type collar that can be made larger as your dog grows and that may be fine while it is a puppy. However when you dog has reached it maximum size it is time to buy a good buckle collar. This is a collar that looks like a belt with holes to adjust the size. These collars are much better and much safer for your dog.

Make Sure The Collar Fits Your Dog

Tighten the collar on your dog so that it will not pullover the head. Go ahead and try to pull it off. If you can then it needs to be tighter. A well-fitting collar will not pull over the head and yet you should be able to place two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck.

Getting a good quality collar for your dog is of utmost importance for the safety and health of your best friend. Too many times dogs have broken free from their collars and been hit by cars on busy streets. By taking the time to get a collar that fits your dog properly, spending the money to buy good quality, and testing the strength of the collar, you will go a long ways towards ensuring your dog has a good long and happy life.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Tips-To-Make-Sure-Your-Dogs-Collar-Fits-Well&id=8982215

Three Ways a Dog Can Enhance Your Life and Make You Happier

Most people spend their whole life searching for happiness, when all it takes to feel true joy is the love and faithful companionship of man's best friend. No other relationship is quite the same as the relationship that you have with your dog. Every time they see you, they are completely overcome with joy, delighted to spend even a few minutes in your presence. They are there for you when you are happy, and are also there to pick you up when you are feeling down.

If you have been feeling like something is missing from your life, getting a dog could be the perfect solution. Here are three ways a dog can enhance your life and make you happier:

1. Having a dog means that you will get more exercise. Taking your dog for a walk is not just good exercise for them; it is also good exercise for you. Regular exercise not only helps you get in shape, but can also help boost your mood. In fact, studies have found that exercise is every bit as effective as antidepressants in treating depression. Best of all, when you spend time with your dog enjoying the outdoors, it doesn't feel like exercise at all.

2. Dogs provide companionship when you need it. You never have to worry about your dog already having plans or not wanting to hang out with you. Instead, they are always happy to see you and love nothing more than spending time with you. Whether you lounge on the couch together and watch TV or head out to the park to play fetch, your dog is a wonderful friend to have around.

3. Dogs can help reduce stress. Numerous studies have shown that dogs have a significant impact on stress. In fact, one study even found that the mere presence of the dog in a room significantly lowered stress levels in participants even if they were not directly interacting with the dog. Getting a puppy is a great way to release tension and minimize the impact of life's everyday stress.

These are just a few of the many ways that owning a dog can enhance your life and make you happier. If you are ready to change your life for the better and have the time and energy to commit to owning a pet, getting a puppy or adopting an adult dog from a shelter is a great way to start living the happier, more rewarding life that you deserve.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Three-Ways-a-Dog-Can-Enhance-Your-Life-and-Make-You-Happier&id=9098974

Should You Take Your Puppy To The Dog Park?

If you're trying to go to a dog park, but aren't sure if your puppy is up for it, then you need some advice. There are many things to consider, and that's what this article is all about. Be safe and consider these things before heading out. 

Puppies need to be around 16 weeks or else it could cause problems since a dog won't have a very developed immune system yet. Your puppy should receive it's final vaccines at about 16 weeks of age. Run the idea of going to the dog park by your vet and then you can see if this is a good idea at this time or if you should wait just a little longer for your puppy to become more developed. While your dog may be well taken care of and disease free, other dog owners may not be so mindful of these things. 

Do not wait too long to take your dog out to play at the park. You want to start to socialize your pup, especially if you don't have other dogs in your home. Don't just let your dog run wild when it goes out there, keep a close eye on it. However, if other dogs seem to be a bit too aggressive around your pup, you may want to revisit the park later. The last thing you want is for an older larger dog to scare your pup and then have it associate the park with fear. 

Bring along treats to make sure that this is seen as an experience that is good. After going to the park and showing your dog around, give them a treat. Then if you're able to get it to behave and walk around more you can start to make them have a lot more of an understanding that this is fun and something they can enjoy. Just don't make them beg every single time they're walking around because then they won't get much of an entertaining experience at the park and will focus on you. 

Now of course it is always safer when you bring your puppy out to a dog park if he or she is old enough. There are a lot of things to think through, but it's good to do so because it keeps your pup and the other dogs safe.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Should-You-Take-Your-Puppy-To-The-Dog-Park?&id=9037825

Funny Guilty Dog Videos Compilation 2016 [BEST OF]

They may be naughty, but it's difficult not to smile.

10 Common Mistakes of New Dog Owners

First-time puppy owners are a lot like first-time parents - they're happy about the new arrival, but fearful of making mistakes, and perhaps even a bit intimidated by the responsibility they're about to undertake. Certainly, it is a big responsibility, and it's a given that you'll make mistakes. The key is not to re-invent the wheel.

Dog owners who came before you have already made just about every possible mistake. So, if you understand where they got it wrong, you can avoid common mistakes. Here are 10 of them.

1. Committing Without Thinking

If you're not 100% sure that you're ready to commit to a dog, stop right here and wait until you are ready. A puppy is not something you should buy on impulse. Too many dogs end up in shelters because people decided they weren't ready for a commitment that lasts ten or so years.

2. Putting off Training

"I'll start tomorrow," you think. Then tomorrow comes and goes, and your puppy grows, and next thing you know you have a rambunctious adolescent with a lot of bad habits. The sooner you start obedience training, the better - it's much easier to nip a problem in the bud than to correct it later on.

3. Inconsistency

Train consistently, using the same verbal commands and hand signals all the time. If you vary the method, your dog will become confused.

4. Over-Treating

Puppies will usually eat pretty much anything you offer them, but treats shouldn't just be handed out for no reason. It's best to reserve treats for training sessions - that way, the puppy connects a treat with good behavior, and you have a powerful motivational tool as opposed to something you offer, and your puppy expects, for no particular reason.

5. Poor Socialization

Puppies are meant to remain with the litter for the first eight weeks of life - this is the time when they learn how to be dogs. So, if you're thinking of buying a puppy younger than eight weeks, don't. During this period, a responsible breeder will also make sure that the puppies are frequently handled by humans. Then, once you take your puppy home, it is your job to continue the socialization process, making sure that your puppy is exposed to different people and also to other pets. The more experiences your puppy is exposed to, the more confident he will be.

6. Not Enough Exercise

Puppies and dogs typically have a great deal of energy, and even the laziest dog is going to need daily exercise. A lack of exercise can lead to behavioral problems like destructiveness and excessive barking.

7. Not Enough Mental Stimulation

In addition to exercising your dog's body, it is also important that you exercise his mind. Training provides mental stimulation, as do a variety of toys, and of course playtime with their person.

8. Too Much "Alone" Time

If your puppy is alone for long periods of time, chances are he's missing out on both exercise and mental stimulation. He is also more likely to have accidents in the house, and could also develop behavioral problems or separation anxiety.

9. Not "Puppy-Proofing" the House

You need to puppy-proof the home in much the same way as you would child-proof it. This means making sure that any cleaning products are secured, and electrical cords are out of reach. Make sure to puppy-proof the garage as well - petroleum products and anti-freeze can be deadly.

10. Punishing Undesirable Behavior

It is possible that if you punish your dog for misbehaving, he will learn not to do what you punished him for doing. It is more likely, though, that he'll become afraid of you. Praise and rewards are always more effective ways of training your dog than punishment.

The Final Word

As a new puppy owner, you will make mistakes - it goes with the territory. No one ever raises a puppy, and when that puppy reaches adulthood, says, "I got it exactly right." But now you know the most common mistakes, and they're also the most significant ones. Avoid them, and you'll be well on your way to having a well-adjusted dog.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Most-Common-Mistakes-All-New-Dog-Owners-Make!&id=4047685

Amazing transformation of sick dog who had given up hope

A sad beginning but a great end. It is great to see what a bit of kindness and care can do.

5 Common Foods That Are Dangerous For Dogs

As a dog parent, it's hard for us to say no to our pet whenever he asks for a bite of whatever it is that we're eating. However, it should be any pet owner's responsibility to know which types of food are safe or harmful for canines. Some types of food may simply upset your dog's stomach while some may do more harm. It is highly important to know what common foods may be toxic to your pet - here is a list:

Caffeine

Small amounts of coffee, tea or soda won't do much harm to your furry friend. However, if he gets hold of tea bags or a moderate amount of coffee beans that's when you should be concerned. Caffeine can cause serious health problems in canines, even death especially in small breeds. Heart palpitations, rapid breathing, restlessness and tremors are the first signs of caffeine poisoning in dogs.

Chocolate

Chocolate is another favorite of ours that sadly are harmful to dogs and cats alike. It contains an ingredient similar to caffeine, methylxanthine theobromine, which is highly toxic to pets. A piece or two is safe if ingested by a dog by accident, but can cause diarrhea, hyperactivity, irregular heart beats, vomiting, seizure and even death if consumed in larger volumes (especially dark chocolate).

Grapes or raisins

While it's ideal to feed our dogs with fruits and vegetables, remove grapes and raisins from the list - it is said to lead to acute kidney failure in dogs. It will cause abdominal pain, dehydration, diarrhea, vomiting, tremors and other side effects to your furry friend.

Garlic and onion

While these two are healthy for us, unfortunately they are toxic to canines. Initially, they can cause mouth irritation and stomach problems to canines. If consumed in larger volumes, it can lead to their red blood cells rupturing. Be mindful of the table food you give your pet as most dishes contain these two seasonings.

Bread dough

While baked bread is fairly safe to feed to pets, raw bread dough is dangerous to your furry friend's health. The dough will expand in their stomach because of the moist and warm environment which can lead to bloatedness and a twisted stomach. Dough poisoning symptoms include collapsing, distension of the stomach, vomiting and weakness.

From now on, be sure to keep these 5 foods away from the reach of your pet dog to keep them safe and healthy!

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Common-Foods-That-Are-Dangerous-For-Dogs&id=9742116

Pet Care: All About Heartworms

For me, my dog is my very best friend. He's always there, waiting, and he's so happy to see me. Our relationship is one of the most rewarding in my life. That's why I want to make sure I take care of his health, especially when it comes to easily prevented and highly dangerous conditions like heartworm disease.

Heartworm disease is a parasitic disease that attacks the heart, lungs, and neighboring blood vessels. This results in lung disease, organ damage, and even heart failure. The parasites responsible, the heartworms, can reach up to a foot in length. If left untreated, dogs can play host to several hundred worms.

Dogs are not the only household pet or wild animal susceptible to heartworms. Cats, ferrets, wolves, foxes, coyotes, and even sea lions can play host to these worms. However, these are not optimal hosts, especially cats; in a cat, the worms rarely reach their final mature form.

The damage that mature heartworms do to your dog is irreversible. It remains even after the parasites are removed. The damage can affect your dog's quality of life and shorten his lifespan.

It's therefore very important to prevent heartworms before they can take hold. And even if you are using heartworm prevention, you should still have your pet screened regularly. The sooner an infected animal gets treatment, the better his prognosis will be.

Heartworms are transmitted using mosquitoes as a vector. Once the parasites take root, they reproduce by releasing microscopic immature worms into the host's bloodstream. When a mosquito feeds on an infected animal, it sucks up some of these tiny worms. Once inside the mosquito, heartworms mature into their infectious larval form in about 2 weeks. Then it moves on to another potential host. When that new host is bitten, some of these infectious larvae make their way into the body.

What this means is that heartworm is not directly contagious; other pets living in a home with an infected animal are not at a higher risk simply due to proximity. Heartworm isn't generally a danger to people either, even for people who have weaker immune systems. If your dog does get heartworm, there's no need to separate him from other pets or quarantine him away from your family.

You cannot simply wait out a heartworm infestation. First of all, as mentioned before, heartworms cause lasting damage to vital organs. And the parasites will not simply die off over time. Mature heartworms using a dog as a host have a nearly 7 year lifespan, approaching the lifespan of the canine host.

I love my dog more then I like most people. I want him to stay with me as long as possible, which means avoiding heartworm disease. Preventative treatment is simple and quick; there's no good reason not to do it, and lots of consequences if you don't do it.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Pet-Care:-All-About-Heartworms&id=8912000

7 Essential Ways to Keep Your Dog's Teeth Twinkling and Flourishing

Veterinarians across the globe suggest dog owners to clean the teeth of the dogs on a daily basis. But the problem is that normally dog owners do not follow this advice. The basic problem is that brushing the teeth of the doggy can be inconvenient and difficult for first time dog owners. But it is a must because otherwise build-up of bacteria in the dog's mouth can result in plaque, infections and gum irritation. To keep the gum diseases away from your furry pal it is important to have an alternate plan that can aid in keeping your dog's teeth twinkling and flourishing.

Purchase good dog food

The very first thing that you can do to keep your pet's teeth twinkling and flourishing is by giving him good dog food. There are various benefits of feeding quality food to your tyke including keeping his teeth healthy. There are certain dog foods that consist of whole foods that aid in nourishing his body and keeping his teeth stronger and healthier. But do not ever give him food that has any cereal grains or by-products in it. The reason for that is such food can stick to the dog's teeth. Instead, opt for a food that has been made from vegetables, fruits and meats.

Serve fruits & vegetables for snacks

Dogs love snacks and dog owners love giving them. But there are certain snacks which are not good for the dental health of the dog. This includes food that consists of fats, sugar and cereal grains. Instead of this, you can serve carrots or carrot slices, a chunk of squash or pumpkin that pooches love. The other advantage of these snacks is that they do not stick in the mouth of the pet. These snacks aid in scraping food off the teeth of the dog. Always feed these snacks according to the size of your tyke. The overall quantity of the snacks should not be more than 10% of overall daily calorie intake.

Dried meat treats can be used as a good chew treats

There are several dried meat treats that can act as an excellent chewing option that aid in cleaning the teeth of the dog. You can rest assured that dried tendons, oesophagus, dried beef ears or snouts and even similar pieces are loved by those pets that are picky eaters.

Get chew toys

Getting nylon chew toys or hard rubber can be an excellent option for scraping and cleaning teeth. Give this toy after each meal and encourage your furry pal to chew on it for a while.

Raw bones can scrape teeth clean

Just like good toys, even bones can aid in cleaning the teeth. Get uncooked bones that are large because a small bone can break or splinter, or can get stuck in the mouth of the furry companion or the doggy will try to swallow it whole. Whenever you are giving a bone to chew to your doggy ensure that he does not break it off into pieces. There are certain veterinarians that are against the bone-chewing idea so, do get a second opinion before giving it to your pet.

Never give chew bones made of starches

There are certain chew bones that are made from starches, including rice flours, potato or corn. They tend to be stickier than vegetables or dried meat chews. When your furry pal's teeth scrape up against this sort of stuff. Normally it has an opposite effect as chewing on a cow bone.

Develop a routine for your dog

Even if you find it difficult to brush your dog's teeth after every meal or even every day, inculcate some type of teeth cleaning routine.

Once you follow these suggestions, it will aid in cleaning your dog's teeth at least on a weekly basis. Remember, it is better than nothing.

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Essential-Ways-to-Keep-Your-Dogs-Teeth-Twinkling-and-Flourishing&id=9683136

Big Dogs: Pros and Cons

The American Kennel Club has stated that fewer and fewer people have been registering large dogs. This may be because of the growing migration from rural areas into the city. Big dogs are what most people think of when they think of dogs. These loyal, affectionate companions love to run alongside you in the park, fetch whatever you feel like throwing, and laying with you in front of the television. However, you must actually think it through: is a large dog what you need in your life right now? What are the cons of having a large dog? And finally, can you handle taking care of these gentle beasts' many needs?

Big dogs may look scary, but many are very loyal. A Rottweiler, when trained well, will be superbly protective of their area, but defer to their owner rather than trying to suss out danger for themselves. If you live in the suburbs or on a farm, a large-breed dog may be what you're looking for. They do need plenty of room to run around and exercise in, so reconsider a large dog if you are living in cramped quarters. Sporting breeds need room to run and get depressed if they do not, and most dogs just like to have the freedom that comes with having a big backyard. As briefly mentioned above, many large dogs can become amazing family dogs, and even better watch dogs. Many of these dog breeds are protective of children that they know are part of their family circle.

For the most part, a big dog means a good trainee. They are more than eager to please their masters. It comes with being so loyal! Whether it is "sit", "come", "lay down", or "roll over", large dogs just have a paw up on their smaller counterparts for being the more trainable pet. Most dogs are generally calm and can actually do alright in small living spaces providing they get enough time (an hour or two per day) outside running around. They love to nap on beds and sofas whether with you or without.

Of course, there is a huge variance on the temperament and behavior of large-breed dogs. Make sure to look up and study whatever dog you wish to adopt into your home. Make sure their activity levels, grooming requirements, and living habits suit you, so that you can be a suitable companion to your dog and vice versa.

Before you run out of the house to get yourself a big dog, remember that there are some cons that go with such big pups, too. They cost more: almost everything about them is more expensive than small pups. Veterinary care. Food. Dog toys. The only thing that doesn't cost more is the actual large-breed dog itself, which is usually less expensive than little dog breeds.

You have to make sure that you're ready to train big dogs. Big dogs can present more danger than little ones. Also, their life spans are often quite short. In general, the rule of thumb is "the larger the dog, the shorter the lifespan", unfortunately.

Whether you settle on a Retriever, a Shepherd, a Boxer, or a Rottweiler, remember that any dog may have behavioral problems. Make sure to discipline your dog if it caught chewing on things, barking at people needlessly, or constantly bringing you object to throw for them. You are the boss, and you have to make this known to them.

If, once considering these pros and cons, you decide to go ahead for a large dog, you will find a pet who will be beside you for the rest of their life. They are loyal, and, as huge as they may become, if you get them when they are young they will always be your little puppy. Just don't shy away when it's time to clean up their house-sized poop!

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Big-Dogs:-Pros-and-Cons&id=7204196

Small Dogs: Pros and Cons

You look into the cherishable eyes of a Chihuahua or fall in love with the paltry panting of a Pomeranian. But have you actually considered exactly what it takes to have a small, yappy puppy? It's not all cuddles and precious looks. Of course, even with all the detriments that come with small-breed dogs, one of them may make the perfect pet for you. Here we have a bit of a chat about the pros and cons of owning petite pups.

First of all, small dogs are, of course, petite. They weigh less. You can pick them up, put them in your purse, have them come on an airplane with you, and you can cuddle with them in your bed without it taking up all the space from your significant other. They don't eat much compared to some of the bigger breeds, are easier to groom and care for, and are mostly cheaper when it comes time to take them to the vet. For instance, it costs less to spay or neuter a small dog than it does a large one. Dogs can be lovely bite-sized additions to any family unit.

If you live in an urban neighborhood, a small pet might be your best bet. People who live in apartments or houses with not much of a back or front lawn may do well to adopt a pup who doesn't need that much free time outside. You can also take the little doggies out with you into the city, where many big dogs may not be allowed: on the bus, in a restaurant, or even under your arm when you're shopping. Most small dog types outlive their more gargantuan relatives. Many small-dog breeds live upwards of 13 to 16 years, depending on the breed and from dog to dog. All in all, small dogs are cute and loving in a manner that other, bigger dogs just cannot match.

Of course, there's the other side of the coin, as well. Little dogs tend to yip and bark more. This can cause problems with neighbors and, while you may be able to teach your pup to be quiet, they tend to go right back to barking when you're not around. and can get into more trouble when it comes to sneaking out of their designated areas. It may feel odd to own a pet that, were you to step on it, you would kill it. Even though your pet may be small, it is not generally aware of that fact, and may get you into trouble by portraying boldness even in the face of certain death (e.g. other, bigger dogs). You may have to tug your little guy aside when big dogs come, lest they start a fight they will in no way win. You know what that means, right? That's right. No unleashed walks in public.

There's also the case of what many owners know as "Small Dog Syndrome". Because your pet is so small, it will be natural to coddle it. Some owners even treat the small animals like little children, resisting the notion of scolding the pups if they do something wrong. However, the dog needs to know you are in charge and it must abide by your rules. If you have a dog, even a small one, make sure that it knows you're the boss, or it may begin to exhibit signs of this symptom: it will growl if you approach its food or try to move it when it doesn't want to be moved, and may even snap and bite at the hand that feeds it.

But you love small dogs, so you're willing to make the sacrifice. Well, you may find them a bit difficult to housetrain. They are notorious for having "accidents" in the house (or in your purse, if you're prone to putting them there). Dog training of all types can be difficult for your poor petite pup, as they just don't have it in them to learn.

Make sure to consider both sides of the story before adopting your small pup. They can be rewarding pets to people who live in urban areas, but you must be prepared to be a proper puppy parent when teaching and disciplining them. You will find them all the more loving for your effort.

Training crates for dogs are typically seen as being cruel by some ill informed people. The fact is, not only are they good for your dog, but they can have many different benefits for both the training and safety of your dogs. In this article, we will be talking about some of the main benefits of crate training for your dog.

Benefits Of Crate Training:

1. Bladder Control

Because dogs have a natural instinct to not want to soil where they sleep, it effectively helps a dog to teach his/herself bladder control. This is because when your dog is in his/her crate, they will ultimately learn not to go to the bathroom anywhere but outside. This can help your dog become house trained quickly.

2. Teething

The fact is, a puppy is going to begin teething sooner or later. Nothing is more dangerous than having an unsupervised puppy teething. They can get into all kinds of trouble. Not only are there typically wires around the house, but there are a bunch of other things that the puppy can get his/her paws on. Having your puppy confined to his/her own crate will limit their destruction and potential for choking on something because you know exactly what is in his/her crate. By removing anything dangerous, you can be sure that your puppy is going to be safe.

3. Transportation

The fact is, a dog is a lot safer and more likely to survive an accident inside of his/her crate than they would be if they were not in any type of crate to begin with. Not only is it safer for your dog, but it is also going to be much safer for you and the other passengers in the car. This is because your dog cannot cause an accident when he/she is confined to a crate.

As you can see, there are many different benefits of crate training. A crate is something that should be seen as a good thing for your dog. It can serve many purposes and there are a bunch of different benefits of crate training. The fact is, it is going to keep your dog a lot safer in many different situations. Not to mention, your dog needs a place to call his/her own and to be able to feel safe. The best place for this is a crate. If you are purchasing one, make sure it is big enough for your dog.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?What-Are-The-Benefits-Of-Crate-Training?&id=9055288

Perfect Dogs For Apartments

Apartment dwellers have special concerns when it comes to deciding to be dog owners. For one thing, the smaller space and the lack of a yard means the dog has to be fine with these conditions. This does not necessarily mean that the dog has to be small. For another thing, the dog has to be relatively quiet or it can cause problems with your neighbors over excessive barking.

If you are an apartment dweller or about to be one, do not give up on your desire to have a dog. Here are some suggestions as to the best breeds for your situation.

English Bulldogs

These are perfect for apartments. This breed enjoys relaxing most of the day, so he or she is not likely to cause much of a problem with making noise or with needing to get out frequently to play.

Pomeranians

Pomeranians are the ubiquitous choice for sophisticated cosmopolitan apartment dwellers. They are small, but they are energetic and get bored easily. For this reason, they must be allowed plenty of time outside to get exercise and have playtime.

While the breed can be yappy, there are two aspects to this to keep in mind. First, if the dog is trained properly he or she will not bark at every sound or sight around. Second, in some cases the dog's proclivity for barking at strangers at the door is a good thing. Think of a Pom as a reliable security guard, which is handy if your apartment is in a big city.

Shih Tzu

This little dog needs a lot of pampering and attention, but does not need a lot of space in which to move about. Like the English Bulldog, this breed is content to relax and spend the day resting. They do not require several walks a day to take care of business, either. One or two walks per day is all they really need.

Pugs

Pugs are great loyal dogs that love to be couch potatoes. They will love being with you and in your lap when you want it. They do not require much exercise and simply need potty time a few times a day.

Chihuahua

As with the Pomeranian, they must be trained not to bark a lot, but this tiny breed is an easy apartment fit.

If you live in an apartment give one of these dogs a try.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Perfect-Dogs-For-Apartments&id=9025108

20 Steps Children Should Take Around Dogs

We can never be 100% sure when or if a dog may bite but rather than keep children away from our canine friends, parents would be better off teaching their beloved offspring how to approach (and retreat from) man's best friend safely.

Part of this essential training needs to be about which situations the children really do need to avoid and how they should act and behave around dogs. Together this training will give the kids much greater confidence and a wealth of knowledge about how to safely handle encounters with all manner of these animals. The dogs will find these encounters more enjoyable too!

What Parents Need to Teach Their Children

1. NEVER disturb any dog who is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies
2. NEVER pet a dog, even your own, without letting it see and sniff you first.
3. Children must always ASK PERMISSION from the owner and their parents BEFORE petting any dog.
4. If the owner cannot control the dog and have it SIT nicely for the child to pet, WALK AWAY.
5. NEVER approach a dog who is confined behind a fence, within a car, or on a chain.
6. NEVER TEASE any dog by poking at them through fences or car windows or reaching your arm through to pet them.
7. NEVER approach a strange dog you don't know or a dog who is not with it's owner.
8. NEVER RUN away from a dog that is chasing you. STOP. STAND STILL, REMAIN CALM, ARMS AT YOUR SIDES be quiet and DO NOT SCREAM. Walk away SLOWLY FACING THE DOG BUT NOT STARING AT its eyes.
9. If a dog attacks. "feed it your jacket, a school book, a bicycle, or anything else that you can get between you and the dog.
10. If you are attacked, STOP,CURL UP IN A BALL LIKE A TURTLE, COVER YOUR HEAD WITH YOUR ARMS AND HANDS.
11. DO NOT chase after dogs
12. DO NOT scream and be loud around dog.
13. Children should not stare into the eyes of a dog.
14. If a dog starts to circle you - turn with it, don't let it get behind you.
15. If the dog shows aggressive behavior (I.e. barking or growling) put something between you and the dog - like a a chair.
16. Just because a dog wags it's tail it does not mean it's friendly.
17. ALWAYS ASK the owner of a dog if it is OK to pet their dog.
18. If you are in the area of a stray dog - LEAVE THAT AREA.
19. If a dog approaches you remain calm and motionless. Keep your hands at your side. Speak with a soothing voice.
20. If a dog is injured DO NOT touch or try and help it. Go get an adult.

If you own a dog, but especially a dog that has had even the smallest amount of aggression or protection training it is your moral and legal obligation to make sure that you do everything possible to ensure that your dog is never in a situation where it could bite a child.

Source: http://leerburg.com/kidbites.htm

http://ezinearticles.com/?12-Steps-Children-Should-Take-Around-Dogs&id=9019033

The Right Dog For Your Lifestyle

Dogs make wonderful pets and companions; anyone who loves dogs, want them to be a part of their family. Most of the time, we seek cuteness and a friendly nature when buying a dog. But, today every experienced dog owner will tell you differently. It is best if you choose a dog that fits your lifestyle. Just as every individual is different, dogs are different too. Every breed has certain characteristics which should match to your lifestyle.

Different types of lifestyle-

The geek lifestyle - If you are a person who can just never leave the computer alone for a single minute and loves to play games, it is best you opt for low-maintenance dog. Low-maintenance dogs will happily watch you tap on the keyboard all day and will not complain much. Example - Pugs

Active lifestyle - In case you are a great sports fanatic, love running and live an active life, you need an outdoor dog. It will match your fitness levels and will love to play with you. Example - Golden or Labrador Retrievers

Small children in the family - For a situation like this, it is best to go for a dog that has a record of friendliness with children. They have more patience than other breeds and love playing with them. Example - Spaniels

Small space - If you live in small flat, you would need a small dog, so that the dog does not feel suffocated. It is best to buy small breeds of dogs. Example - Dachshunds

A Big House - If you have a big house, you may want a dog that can guard the house. These dogs have special skills and are trained for this. Example - German Shepherds, Dobermans

Other factors to consider-

One should also consider the following factors before buying a dog-

• The space available for the dog- Dogs love roaming around the house the whole day and just cannot sit idle. Choose a breed according to the space available

• Willingness to spend- If you have a big budget, you can look for big dogs as they have huge appetites, if you have budget constraints it is best to go for small dog

• Time available- If you are buying a dog, you or someone in the family should have time to take it for regular walks, medications and time to train them

Your desire to buy a dog, is just part of the story, the main thing is to get the priorities right. When the breed of dog matches your lifestyle, it is easier for the entire family to enjoy the dog.

Of course another decision to be made is whether you want to start with an adult dog or a puppy.

Your new dog is a member of the family, it is alive and it has feelings. It should be loved and treated fairly. After all, as the old saying goes." Dog is man's best friend!"