How Do No Pull Dog Harnesses Work?

At one time or another, most owners have encountered a dog that likes to pull hard on the lead, rushing off on that daily walk and dragging them along at a rate of knots.

If this sounds familiar and you'd like to rectify this behaviour there are a few things to consider before you buy a walking aid of any description.

A lot of dogs will pull on a lead for two main reasons. Firstly, their arousal and excitement are heightened when they go for a walk. As soon as they get out of the door, they are greeted with an abundance of smells and they are very keen to explore.

No Pull Dog Harness

Secondly, a dog will probably pull more on a lead because they want to achieve equilibrium. Basically, there is a pulling sensation on the lead to bring them back and they just pull harder to go in the direction they want to go.

One solution for a dog that is a little over-enthusiastic is to get a no pull dog harness. This can be a fairly sturdy harness that fits over the chest and torso and has a number of useful features.

· An attachment for the lead in the usual place between the dog's shoulder blades

No Pull Dog Harness

· Another attachment at the front of the harness for training your dog to walk beside you

· A short handle on the back of the harness that helps you manage difficult situations such as when you are bothered by another dog or if you are getting into a car.

The front attachment is the key to how the harness works. If you attach a lead to this metal ring, your dog will be corrected in a side to side motion and not a front to back motion. This means that they won't feel the need to create that equilibrium because any pulling or straying will be halted by pulling them into you rather than pulling them back to you.

Training your dog to walk 'properly' and not pull on the harness can take time and a good deal of patience, depending on the personality and size of the animal. It's important to have some rewards when your dog walks calmly to heel and to pull back on the harness firmly but gently, with an accompanying command when it begins to forget you are there and starts surging forward.

You should be using the harness to stop your dog pulling from the moment you put it on and start out on that first walk. That way it gets to equate the no pull dog harness with walking correctly whilst it is out with you.

Here are a few more tips for encouraging your dog not to pull on the lead:

For your first few times out with the no-pull harness make sure you choose a time when there will be few distractions for the dog so that you can concentrate on the behavior to be corrected.

Don't tug too hard on the harness - keep it firm and give a command when you do so.

Keep the leash shorter than normal but never too tight

Allowing your dog to pull reinforces the pulling behavior so it makes sense to be committed to getting it to walk politely and calmly beside you.

Try some concerted operant conditioning, which simply means that you reward your dog for good behaviors until that behavior is ingrained enough not to require a reward at all. This can be a little doggy treat or simply giving your dog a scratch behind the ear and a bit of fuss.

Above all, find what works for your dog. Just like humans, dogs have their own personalities and peculiarities. What works for one may not have any effect on another. For example, some trainers recommend coming to a stop when the dog begins to pull on the leash and waiting until it returns to your side though there are plenty of owners who will attest that this doesn't work at all.

Getting the right no pull dog harness for your dog is as important as devoting yourself to the training. You need to get something that is comfortable and sturdy and which is easy to put on and take off. If you are going out at night with the dog, then a harness with reflective patches or strips is also important if you want to stay safe and be seen at all times.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?How-Do-No-Pull-Dog-Harnesses-Work?&id=9271665

Winter Weather Tips for Your Pup

It's 2019, you guys! The future is here, and it's gonna be a darn good year. So, Happy New Year to you all, and I'm sure this new and shiny year has exciting and wonderful things in store for everyone! My new year's resolution is to get outside more and appreciate all the seasons, even the colder and wetter ones. So that got me thinking on how to make sure our canine companions could safely and happily enjoy the chillier time of year too.

The coldness of winter weather can be rough on our furry friends, but there are ways to make it safer and more comfortable. Here in Seattle it isn't usually below freezing, but colder weather can still pose dangers for dogs. I put together a little list of some things to be aware of during this cold time of year.

Know your dog's cold-weather limits. Not all dogs have the same tolerance for colder weather. Some are more suited to the cold because of the thickness of their coat, body fat percentage and how active they are. Long-haired and thick-coated dogs tend to stay warmer in cold weather, but they still can be affected by the cold. Dogs with short coats chill down quickly. Also, dogs with short legs feel the cold quickly because of their closeness to the cold ground. Older dogs that suffer from arthritis can slip and fall on ice and injure themselves. Also, dogs with health issues such as diabetes or heart problems tend to have difficulty regulating body temperature.

Your winter walks with your beloved pooch will probably need to be a bit shorter than they are during warmer months. 

Heated Dog Mat

Keep your dog indoors. There are many ways to make sure your pet stays warm during the winter months. Dogs need to stay indoors when they are not out and about on walks with you. Dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia if left outdoors in near-freezing temperatures for too long. When your pet is indoors, be sure they have a cozy place to sleep that stays warm and isn't too drafty. Many dogs love to burrow under blankets and pillows, so adding a blanket to their dog bed is often a good idea.

Dog Fleece Vest

Wrap up in a sweater. Dogs who have shorter coats, are smaller or just get cold easily benefit from wearing a sweater or jacket. Not only are they adorable, but they can help a dog be more comfortable on long walks. Here in Seattle, a dog raincoat is a good idea as well. Keeping dogs dry helps considerably in keeping them warm and happy. I recommend having several jackets or sweaters on hand so that every time you go outside your dog can wear a cozy and dry sweater.

Dog Hoodie

Watch out for puddles. Puddles are dangerous for a couple reasons. In the city they often contain chemicals from vehicles that can be deadly if ingested. Antifreeze is the biggest threat that can be looming in puddles. So keep your dog from drinking out of winter puddles! Water can also chill a pup down quickly. If they walk through puddles and get wet paws, they will get cold much faster.

Booties

Pay attention to cold paws. Cold paws can be very painful for dogs. It can also cause injuries like cracked and bleeding paw pads. If you're walking around on snow or ice it may accumulate between their toes and become painful. Clipping toenails can help to reduce this. Check their paws frequently to be sure they're in good shape. Some owners choose to use booties to protect their dog's paws. They can be very helpful for many dogs. Just be sure they fit correctly.

Sourcce:http://ezinearticles.com/?Winter-Weather-Tips-for-Your-Pup&id=9275397

How Do I Keep My Dog Warm in the Winter?

As the nights draw in and the weather gets colder, you'll want to make sure your dog is kept warm during the winter. Whether they have short hair or long, there's nothing a dog likes more than to snuggle up in a warm place. Don't forget that walk out in the cold either, some dogs don't mind the chilly weather but others need an additional thermal layer just like us humans.

Pajamas

There are many options available when it comes to dog pajamas and they are becoming more popular. This is because they not only look good, but offer an additional layer of warmth depending on the fabric type. Typically, a cotton pajama will provide a thin layer for warmer months and a fleece outfit will offer more warmth in the colder months. Both will have options to cover the front and top of the back and some will also have an all in one or jumpsuit options.

Just make sure that you test products on your pet first to see if they like wearing them. Some dogs will not enjoy the experience of wearing outer garments, so check for signs that your pet is uncomfortable or is trying to remove clothing. If it stresses them out, don't put clothes on them.

Remember that some dogs are not genetically equipped for cold weather and may need an additional layer. However, you need to assess whether it is necessary to add clothing when they are indoors. Try to monitor the temperature of the room where your dog sleeps at night, taking into account the lowest reading. If you feel this reaches an uncomfortable level, then take the necessary action.

Padded and Waterproof Coats

Padded Dog Winter Coat

Whether it's cold outside or the heavens open, dogs like to have protection from the elements. Investing in a padded or waterproof coat for your dog can make their daily walk far more enjoyable and stop you spending loads of time drying them off when you get back home.

Warm Waterproof Dog Coat

Warm, waterproof coats are easy to put on and are usually fitted with Velcro attachments and straps that keep the garment snuggly in place. Coats come in a variety of different colors and designs, which can give your dog a stylish look around town.

Some waterproof coats will also have a fleece lining, which has great thermal properties and, combined with a waterproof outer layer, should keep your dog both warm and dry. Also look for coats that have some protection around the belly and chest area as this reduces splash backs from wet pavements and grass.

Wherever possible, you should also choose a coat that has some reflective piping or strips on the body so other pedestrians and passing traffic can see you more easily. Additional options include LED lit or flashing garments which offer higher visibility.

To find the best fit for any dog coat, you will usually measure your dog from the base of the neck down to the top of the tail and also the chest girth. Most garment suppliers will show these measurements in a size guide - you can then choose accordingly.

Warm Winter Dog Coats

These warm waterproof coats for dogs can be very useful because they help protect them from harsher weather and helps to keep them warm. Most garments these days are also easy to clean in a washing machine or by hand. Always monitor your dog during the walk to make sure that it is not getting too warm. If there are signs of heavy panting or discomfort, simply remove the coat.

Warm Bedding

We all like a comfy corner to bed down in and there are plenty of choices out there for your dog. A lot of dogs will stick to standard rest and sleep routines at certain times of the day or night. This could be on your lap after tea, a bed next to the radiator after a walk or their own bed if there is easy access to that area. Wherever they decide to rest and sleep, you can make a big difference to the comfort of your dog by introducing a heated pet pad when it turns colder.

Heated Pet Mat

This is basically an electric blanket for animals and they provide a safe and comfortable level of heat to the sleeping area and are very economical to run. You just place them under the normal bedding, blanket or sheet and plug them into the nearest socket. When the weather warms up the heat mat can be removed and stored away.

Of course, if your dog is big on chewing and tearing things up then you need to make sure that the electric blanket is securely placed under the bedding or stored out of reach. If your dog chews excessively and there is a real danger that he or she will find and destroy the mat then you should look at other heating options.

Heat Dog Bed Mat

Check regularly for signs of chewing as this can damage the inner coils designed to heat the vinyl fabric. As the dog or cat heat pad is powered by a low 12 volt, it is very unlikely that any chewing through the 12 volt part of the supply would result in a major injury or fatality when there is power flowing through it. A heated dog bed can make a big difference to the comfort of your pet and can also make sure that it sleeps through the night without getting cold at any time. It is a bit like giving your pet a bedmate to cuddle up to and they will usually have an output of between 12 and 24 watts and around 90 - 108 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are also 240 volt products available for both indoor and outdoor use. These can be solid metal heaters that are basically a more solid and higher voltage equivalent to the 12 volt heated mats. There are also underfloor heating products on the market as well as heater boxes which work in the same way as an egg incubator. Which one you choose will depend on a number of different factors and circumstances, including the associated costs and logistics of incorporating different systems into your home or outdoor space.

From a financial perspective, it is relatively cheap to buy products like these. You are then safe in the knowledge that your pet will be warm and comfortable in a number of different environments.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?How-Do-I-Keep-My-Dog-Warm-in-the-Winter?&id=9275274

Introduction To Dog Nail Grinders

If you have a dog, you may have to spend a considerable amount of taking good care of him. You may have to feed him, bath him and walk him on a regular basis. And then there is the most important thing you need to do. We are talking about grinding the nails of your dog so it won't hurt you while playing with you. It is not easy to grind a dog's nails, especially the time of the day when they are hyperactive.

For most people, it's a tiresome and daunting job. If you are finding it hard to carry out this responsibility, you don't need to worry. After all, it may cause a good deal of pain to your dog. Therefore, we suggest that you look for a smart solution to do the job.

There are many solutions out there, but using a dog nail grinder is a great idea. It's easy to use and will be easy on your pet.

What is a Dog Nail Grinder?

Dremel Nail Grinder

Some people use regular nail cutters to trim the nails of their pets. However, they are not a good choice for this purpose. Instead, you need special nail trimmers. They are designed specifically to grind the nails of animals, such as dogs.

Actually, the idea is that you need to trim your dog's nail. If they are overgrown, they may create serious problems. Make sure the job is done quickly without cause any pain to the animal.

So, this is where the dog nail grinders play a great role. They are the right choice as they allow you to cut your dog's nails quickly without hurting their sensitive cuticles. These devices have a lot of rounded grinders that look like the grinders on a common sandpaper. This is why they allow you to do the job pretty quickly.

Now, you might be thinking where you can buy them. The good news is that you don't need to look for them as they are available online on many online stores.

Why should you Use a Dog nail Grinder?

Hertzko Electric Pet Nail Grinder

If you are still thinking why you should opt for a dog claw grinder instead of using a regular nail cutter, do read the reasons given below.

Nail grinders allow a lot better precision while doing the job. These devices are easy to use. This is the reason they can perform the job without hurting your pet.

These trimmers feature special technology that helps you trim the nails safely.

At the end of the job, the nails of your dog will be smooth as the edges of the nails will be cleaner.

A dog nail grinder is an inexpensive choice if you want to trim your dog's nails painlessly.

The Takeaway

Pecute Dog Nail Grinder,

If you are looking for a cheap device to cut the nails of your pet, we suggest that you give a go to a dog nail grinder. This will speed up the process and save you from all the stress involved. These devices feature LED lights that make it easier for you to use them. Hope, the device will help you get the job done the right way.

A good nail grinder is a great choice if you want to grind the nails of your dogs easily.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?Introduction-To-Dog-Nail-Grinders&id=10053104

What You Need to Check When Buying Dog Collars

Buying your dog a new collar isn't a quick decision. While there is nothing stopping you from walking into a local pet shop and buying the first dog collar you see, you may find that you don't end up with the best match for your particular pet.

The first thing you need to know is that there isn't only one type of dog collar. There is a wide variety available and your dog, it's personality and it's walking style will determine which collar is the right match to make walking on a leash that bit easier and ensure that in the event your dog gets out of the yard, they can be identified and returned to you within the shortest period of time.

Leather Padded Dog Collar

The traditional collar is probably the most well-known dog collar which is used by most pet owners throughout the world. These can be made from leather or other durable fabrics and come in a host of colors. 

Dog Collar

They are often used as an everyday type collar which incorporates an id tag, making your pet easily identifiable in the event that they get out and are rescued by a good Samaritan.

Choke Chain

Choke chains are another top choice with dog owners, though not ideal for all dogs. Some dogs are bigger, more aggressive and more dangerous when they leave their own safe haven of their yard and go for a walk. These dogs can be dangerous to other humans and other pets, which is where the choke chain comes in. The chain links through each other with the lead attached to one side. While the dog walks calmly, the collar remains loose, but in the event that they try and run, chase or bite someone, the collar tightens, which stops them in their tracks, basically choking them. While this may sound cruel. If you are trying to handle a large and aggressive dog, this collar can be the one thing that stops the dog from attacking and ensuring that you both get home safely.

Prong Collar

Prong collars are often considered unfair and nasty for the pet, but it can assist in training and helps the dog learn and respond faster to commands. This is not an everyday collar and should only be used during training, once home it should immediately be removed to ensure it doesn't cause any unwelcome damage to the pet now and moving forward.

When it comes to buying a comfortable dog collar, there are a number of factors to take into consideration with the first factor being how comfortable the collar is for your dog. Leather is strong and durable, though it can be quite hard at the start. After it is worn for a few days or weeks it softens up, though it may not be the best choice when it comes to a dog that loves water and is inclined to jump in the swimming pool, lake or river on a daily basis.

The next factor is to identify the quality of the dog collar, while it's important to have a comfortable dog collar that your pet can wear daily, the durability and quality is just as important, ensuring the collar doesn't disintegrate on you and have your dog running off without any notice.

Choose a style you believe suits your pet's personality. Do they deserve studs on their color, reflective strips, what about diamonds? Choose the style you believe your pet will look best in and that you will feel confident with them wearing when out and about.

The final decision is budget. Though never let price be you only deciding factor, but with a budget in mind, you will have the ability to see what is available within your price range and make your decision from there.

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?What-You-Need-to-Check-When-Buying-Dog-Collars&id=9281370

12 foods that are safe for your dog to eat

It is a general rule of thumb amongst dog owners that you should not feed your dog human food. In many cases, that is true; dogs and humans metabolize their foods differently. The result in some cases are foods that prove toxic to canines.

However, some people foods are safe and even healthy for your dog to eat at least occasionally. Check out this list of 12 foods your dog can generally eat without issue. Give them a try, but introduce new foods slowly to avoid stomach upset. By trying new foods, you might provide some needed variety in your dog's diet.

1. Baby carrots

Crunchy vegetables such as baby carrots make for a perfect and healthy snack for your dog. They are low-calorie and chock full of vitamins and nutrients such as fiber, and they keep your dog's teeth nice and clean.

2. Salmon

This particular fish contains essential fatty acids like omega 3s. Cook some bits of fully cooked salmon and add them to your dog's usual food for a shinier, brighter coat and healthier skin.

3. Berries

Berries of any kind – blueberries, strawberries, blackberries – are healthy treat options for your dog. With lots of antioxidant power, these small fruits pack a powerful, healthy punch. Feed berries as treats in small amounts at first to avoid sudden stomach upset. Frozen berries make for sweet, refreshing snacks for your dog in the summertime.

4. Watermelon

This fruit is the definition of a superfood: It has vitamins A, B6 and C, as well as potassium and plenty of water. Just be sure to remove the rind and seeds before you feed this treat to your dog.

5. Pumpkin

Raw or canned pumpkin is a premium source of vitamin A and fiber. It is a perfect topper for your dog's food, especially if he is having gastrointestinal issues.

6. Green beans 

Freshly cooked or canned green beans, as long as they do not contain salt, are a filling, low-calorie snack for your dog. This delicious treat provides plenty of vitamins and iron.

7. Oatmeal

An excellent source of fiber, oatmeal can be an added help for dogs with bowel irregularity issues. Cook the oatmeal thoroughly before serving it to your dog, and do not add any sugar.

8. Apple slices

Take a seedless apple and slice it up to provide a sweet or tart snack for your dog. Apple seeds naturally contain cyanide, so use only seedless apples as treats.

9. Broccoli

Nutrient-rich, broccoli – raw or cooked – is an ideal vegetable to serve as a snack as long as there are no oils or seasonings added. Feed it sparingly though as too much too soon can cause your dog to develop an upset stomach.

10. Rice

Plain white, cooked rice is easy for dogs to digest and can help to settle an upset stomach. It also provides an energy boost through its carbohydrate and lactic acid sources.

11. Peas

Add peas to your dog's food for the perfect little snack. They are full of potassium and phosphorus, nutrients that keep your dog happy and healthy. Offer frozen peas during the warmer weather as a cold, crispy snack.

12. Cheese

In general, cheese is a safe snack for dogs – provided it is given in moderation. Try to use lower or reduced-fat options if you choose to feed your dog this food.

Always view the people food listed here as a treat for your dog and not food to be given in large quantities regularly. Although these are healthy foods, too much of any food will cause stomach upset, so feed in moderation. Check with your veterinarian to make sure you are spicing up your dog's life with the foods that will keep him healthy and happy.

Source: Erin Conley Cain http://pawpulous.com 

Reflective Safety for Dog Walkers

If you plan on walking your dog at night or in inclement weather, it is important that both you and your canine stand out to drivers. It is most difficult to be seen during dusk and dawn, it is at these times you will want to make yourself and your dog a bit more visible. One of the best ways to do this is by wearing reflective clothing such as a reflective running vest and by considering some sort of reflective clothing for your pooch. A reflective collar and/or leash will make it easier to be seen by drivers.

When it comes to reflective leashes and collars, keep in mind that all of them are not created equal. Leashes that have reflective material on both sides instead of just one will create more visibility with the leash shining on both sides. No matter the reflective piece of clothing, keep in mind that a light source is required for the reflective material to work so if you will be walking on an unlit trail without oncoming headlights these will do you no good. Wearable LED lights are recommended for those types of walks.

Other Nighttime Dog Walking Tips:

1. Reliable leash and keep your dog on it at all times.

Reflective Leash

Make sure that the leash you are using is the right size for your dog. Keeping your dog on his/her leash will give you more control should your dog want to take off after something.

2. LED lights

LED Leash

If you plan on walking in an area that doesn't have any light source then wearable LED lights are a must. You can also find LED collars and leashes which means your dog will be visible no matter what.

3. Comfortable walking shoes

Too often we only think about our dogs' comfort and forget about our own. When your feet hurt, your whole body hurts so take care of those feet and let your dog enjoy his/her walk.

4. Always walk on left side of the street, towards oncoming traffic

This allows you visibility to what's coming your way. If you need to move off the road then you can see to do so. Unfortunately, drivers get distracted and may not see you in time.

5. Use sidewalks when available

Basic pedestrian safety, sidewalks are there for a reason. USE THEM!

6. Bring a flashlight

Especially during the winter months, it gets dark sooner so bring along a flashlight in case your walk goes a little longer than planned. A flashlight will also come in handy for finding your dog's droppings for pick-up.

7. Watch out for nocturnal animals

Darkness can bring out a whole new breed of creatures, be prepared. It can be particularly disturbing when you hear something rustling in the distance. Training your dog with a simple command can cue them in that it's time to turn around.

8. Think about your route

Be smart about the path you choose to take when going for a walk with your dog. Taking dark backroads may not be a good idea for nighttime walks but better suited for daylight afternoon walks. Busy roadways with streetlamps probably aren't great for afternoon walks because of all the traffic but with overhead lighting would be perfect for after dark.

9. Plan for the weather

Hot outside? Cold outside? No matter the weather, make sure both you and your dog are dressed appropriately.

10. Be sure your dog has identification

Things happen! That's why it is important for your dog to have an identification tag, just in case he/she does pull loose from the leash or jerks the leash out of your hands. If your dog runs off, don't you want your pooch back? Take the proper precautions!

Source:http://ezinearticles.com/?Reflective-Safety-for-Dog-Walkers&id=9286918