A Great Medium Sized Companion - The Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a fun, athletic, water-loving companion. Typically, they are 16 to 19 inches tall and weigh about 35 to 45 pounds. They are a sturdy dog that enjoys playing games and doing activities with the family. As a hunter, they do require a good fence to keep them in, as they will follow their nose and wander away. This breed is very child-friendly, however, it does not like rough and loud play. During these times, it will move to a quieter location and watch the activity until things settle down a bit. If you have a pool, watch out! The Field Spaniel loves water and to play in water. They will be happy to swim with you and the family! They have even been known to play with water in the water dish! An alert dog, the Field Spaniel will let you know when a stranger approaches, but should not be considered a watchdog. They may be aloof with strangers until they see that they are accepted by the family and then join in the fun.

With the typical spaniel coat, many people are concerned with grooming requirements. The Field Spaniel requires the least amount of grooming of all the spaniel breeds. That does not mean, no grooming! They do not have an undercoat, so the only fur is the long outer coat. this should be brushed a couple times a week, just to keep it tangle free and looking nice. The breed does not shed excessively, despite the long coat. Because of the flop over ears, you should check the ears for smells and redness about once a week. Brushing teeth two to three times a week will keep your Field Spaniel in top condition. Toenails may need to be clipped if the dog does not get enough activity to wear the nails down. The breed is an overall healthy breed, without any major medical concerns. The typical lifespan is about 10 to 12 years.

Field Spaniels are intelligent dogs and have an independent streak. This was developed to assist the hunters and allow the dog to perform well in the field. Since the Field Spaniel is now more of a family pet, they need to be socialized early and consistently into the type of companion you want. They enjoy playing, running, swimming, and expending energy with the family. This means that they are probably not a candidate for the apartment dweller. They will enjoy dog parks, where they can run and utilize their hunting instincts. This dog does not do well being in a kennel in the backyard, it requires interaction with people on a regular basis during the day. If left alone, it can become neurotic and destructive to property. A well socialized Field Spaniel is a great family companion.

The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, with lots of energy and loyalty to the family. It also loves water, so be prepared to get wet occasionally. The breed requires less grooming than most spaniels.

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Play Is a Vital Activity for Many Animals!

Cats and dogs are athletic animals with astounding strength and agility. Nature made them into impeccable machines for jumping, bouncing and dashing. Just because they don't have any genuine prey to pursue doesn't mean they can't showcase her internal predator.

Toys and customary recess are a part of furnishing them with a stimulating situation, which fulfills their happiness and health requirements. Play gives them an outlet for their vitality, mental and physical incitement, the chance to fulfill their instinctual chasing drive and an opportunity to bond with their caretaker.

Now, the main questions come about safety.

The safety of our loved ones is as important as fun is; and as is the case with our pets. They go through toys like a starving Velociraptor. So, felt toys are the best solution for this.

The felt equipment is a sort of fabric that is made by rolling and squeezing wool or other reasonable material accompanied by the use of dampness or warmth, which causes the constituent strands to tangle together to make a smooth surface.

Cats and Dogs adore the scent of natural wool and the warm, and love the snuggly feel of these all-natural pet items that are biodegradable and have a long durability.

The best part is that they are mostly made up of household items, which are completely safe and too adorable to play. Here is the list of a few used materials:

• Plastic practice golf balls with holes; 

• Paper bags; 

• Empty cardboard tubes from toilet paper and paper towels; 

• Cardboard boxes; 

• Wool; 

• Sponges and Socks

These things not only provide fun to play but are safe too because of their natural essence. A few benefits are:

• Environmental Benefits: the quality used to craft them is made up of natural, biodegradable, recycled and recyclable materials, which are sustainable as well as certified organic and natural fibers such as wool and cotton.

• Health Benefits: They do not contain high levels of chemicals and toxins, so, if they take it in their mouth, it will not harm them. These are mostly built by artisans and craftsmen, with nontoxic paints, and oils.

How to get the most out of felt toys?

Another major issue that comes to pets is that they easily get bored with their toys. Hence, it is advisable to keep the varieties of them, which includes- one toy to carry, one toy to wrestle with, and one to roll, etc.

The another best part is that they come in varieties of colors and eye-catchy shapes, thus, can make the pets to play for hours, but, be assured that the pets love to play with these felted toys as they may go wild easily. But above all, people should also keep interactive equipment and fun games to enhance their bond with their cats and dogs.

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Dealing With a Dog's Destructive Chewing

It is one of life's greatest joys to know the love and companionship of a dog. They follow you around with deep admiration in their eyes. They get excited when you come home. A lick on the face and the wagging of their tail confirms that you are everything good in the world to them. Such a simple and complete love.

At times, however, living with a dog can also be one of life's greatest frustrations. Dogs chew. It's instinctive to their nature, and until you teach them otherwise, they see no difference between your couch and a chew toy. To them, it all looks like fair game for a chew session.

There are several reasons a dog will chew. You have to understand first why he's chewing before you can determine how best to handle it. A young dog will chew to relieve the pain caused by incoming teeth. This teething phase is usually complete by the age of six months.

But your dog's chewing behavior will not necessarily end once your dog passes the age of six months. A dog's mouth and whiskers are, for all intents and purposes, his hands and fingers. He will use them to explore and understand the world around him. He must have some way to find out what tastes good, what stings, and what bites back.

Grannick's Bitter Apple

You can use deterrent sprays on objects you do not want your dog to chew, but it cannot be your sole means of addressing destructive chewing. Your dog will also need to learn what it is okay to chew. When you catch him chewing something he is not allowed to chew, intervene with a sharp "no" and give him a bone, rawhide or toy that he is allowed to chew. Then praise him. Eventually, he will make the connection that it is okay to choose some things, but not others.

Adult dogs instinctively chew to keep their teeth clean and jaws strong. But sometimes, chewing can become excessive. Some of the top reasons for excessive chewing in dogs are:

Boredom

Lack of exercise

Separation anxiety

Many dogs will chew excessively when they are bored or have pent-up energy. The quickest and most effective defense against chewing from boredom is to give them plenty of exercise. Get outside and take long walks. Let them enjoy playtime with other dogs. Keep your dog's mind engaged through training exercises. Playing fetch and tug with him will help burn off excess energy.

Chewing can be a sign of separation anxiety. One of the best ways to help deal with it is to make sure your dog has plenty of chew toys, bones or rawhide available to him whenever you must leave him. 

We might wish otherwise, but sometimes we must leave our dogs at home for extended periods of time. At least until you get his destructive chewing under control, use a crate or confine him to a small area like a bedroom when you leave. The laundry room is not recommended because there are too many tempting smells to try to taste in there.

Whether he's home alone or you are with him, make sure any shoes and clothing are put away. Shut the closet and bathroom doors. And, most importantly, give him things that he is allowed to chew. You can find many great toys and treats online. By reading buyer reviews, you can determine which toys stand up to aggressive chewing.

Do not give your dog cooked bones or any bones from fowl, such as chicken. These bones are dangerous. They have a tendency to splinter, which can cause harm to your dog's mouth, throat and entire digestive system.

If your dog is eating strange things and nothing you do works to divert his behavior, see your vet. He may be suffering from a nutritional deficiency or a gastrointestinal issue.

If you take care of your dog by giving him lots of exercise and long-lasting, durable toys to chew, you will spend many more of your days enjoying his love and adoration rather than suffering through the frustration of inappropriate chewing.

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Group Classes Or Private Training: Which One Is Best for Dogs?

Every dog owner wants to ensure that his furry pal gets adequate training to become well-behaved and civilized. But the one confusion that always remains in their mind is whether group classes or private training is best for their furry pal. There are certain owners who are lucky to adopt a friendly dog that does not require much instruction beyond the basics. But not all dog owners have that luxury.

Earlier there was a general perception that group classes are the best to train dogs but with time it has been accepted that private training is also a lucrative option to train your furry pal. So which option is the best for your buddy? Let us try to find out the answer to this question by looking at some of the questions and answers posted below:

Is Your Doggy Shy Or Outgoing?

Irrespective of whether your doggy is shy or outgoing, a group class is the best opportunity for him to get along with other people and dogs in a safe space. Dogs usually do not interact with each other until and unless it is a puppy socialization class. During such classes, shy dogs get the chance to be with other people or dogs without worrying about them trespassing his personal space.

If your furry pal is outgoing, he can practice being around people and other dogs without much interaction which would assist in self-control. That being said, if your furry pal is so shy that he cowers behind you, does not take treats, or hides under your chair even after weeks of group classes, then private training would be the best option for him.

How Much Is Your Budget?

If you are looking to save bucks then group training is the best option as there will be around 6 to 8 people-dog pairs in a class, and the cost lowers with the addition of each participant. If you are going to a bigger group training class of six weeks, it might cost you around $120 which means you need to pay $20 per class. While private training would cost you $ 50 to more than $100 per session.

How Flexible Is Your Schedule?

Remember in group classes you need to take your pooch on preset days and time as per the availability of the trainer. If you can adjust to their schedule, it is great. But if you cannot, then private sessions are the best workaround as it provides flexibility to you.

What Do You Want to Teach Your Furry Pal?

If you want to teach the basics or agile skills to your dog, then group classes are the best option. But if you have already imparted the basic training to your tyke and are facing a tough time teaching him loose-leash walking or make him learn recall command then private sessions is the best option. The reason being private sessions can be customized according to the skills to be taught to the dog.

Does Your Pooch Have Any Special Issues?

Group classes are attended to impart general training to the dog. But if your tyke is suffering from separation anxiety, resource building, aggression, etc. then a private session would work out to be the best. Remember, in a group setting it is very difficult for a trainer to look after any advanced issue in the pet.

Always take the guidance of a dog trainer before selecting any of the two options as he knows what is best for your pooch.

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6 Amazing Ways to Get Rid of Fleas and Ticks on Dogs

Fleas and ticks are the nemesis of domesticated dogs all across the world. They not only irritate the canines, but also cause peculiar diseases that can harm your tyke. Even if your furry pal spends most of the time indoors, still there is a potential risk from pathogens that fleas and ticks can carry. Hence, it is important to take these pointers into consideration to get rid of fleas and ticks on dogs:

1. It is very important to groom the pooch and keep him clean and healthy. Remember, canines pick up dirt, debris along with fleas and ticks. When you groom him, there is a window of opportunity to carefully scrutinize for the signs of fleas, ticks or other infestations along with some skin ailments. Utilize a pin brush if you have a long-haired breed and bristle brush for other dog coats. It is important to brush short-haired breeds on a weekly basis, while long-haired breeds like sheepdogs need to be brushed on a daily basis.

2. You can check for ticks on the dog's coat by feeling the bumps. If you find a bump, scrutinize the space for ticks. Even look under the legs, between toes and in the ears of the dog. If you see a tick, put on a pair of gloves and get rid of it. It is recommended to remove the tick using tweezers or a tick remover.

3. While utilizing tweezers, ensure that you hold the tick up, away from the dog swiftly to get rid of the entire tick. It has been observed that sometimes while removing the tick, the head of the pesky parasite can remain attached to the skin of the canine that can lead to infection. 

Hence, while using a tick remover, follow the manufacturer's instruction completely so that you get rid of the whole tick. After taking it out, place it in a small container filled with isopropyl alcohol to preserve the specimen for identification if the tyke develops a tick-borne disease.

4. Flea comb is a tool that can be used to search for fleas on dogs. Run the comb through the fur of the pooch, commencing from the head, working back toward the tail. After a few strokes with the comb, inspect the comb's teeth for fleas. Then dip the comb in soapy water to kill the fleas and then clean it with a rag or cloth. Once you have completed the process to wait for a few minutes and then repeat it. Get rid of the soapy water in the drain and vacuum the area where you combed the doggy.

5. Once the brushing and combing is completed, bath your furry pal. Fill the bottom of the tub with a couple of inches of warm water and then softly lift and place your pooch in the tub. Grasp the pet gently but firmly in the tub thereby praising him. Use a handheld shower nozzle or poured water from a cup to wet the pet, commencing from head and moving towards the tail. Ensure that the water does not enter the canine's eyes or ears. Then apply the dog shampoo on the fur of the pet till the coat is lathered. Rinse the shampoo in the same way as you wet the dog but ensure that the water and shampoo does not enter the eyes or ears. If it is a hot climate, you can even bath your doggy outside, utilizing a garden hose.

6. If you find fleas using a flea comb, utilize a flea and tick shampoo to wash your furry pal. But follow the manufacturer's instruction. Dry the dog's coat using a towel. After the bath, once again brush the coat to keep the fur of the pet from getting matted and to keep his coat shiny.

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What You Need To Know About Dog Walking

If you own a dog, it's recommended that you walk him regularly. According to experts, there are plenty of benefits that come with it. Some of these benefits include:

Benefits of walking him

Bond strengthening: Since you will be alone with him you have quality time together. Experts report that this time is important in forming a deep and trusting relationship with your dog. The time that you spend together with him also plays a vital role in the development of the behavior.

Weight control: Just like humans, dogs are bound to gain plenty of weight when they lead a sedentary lifestyle. If you live in an apartment four-legged friend has little space to exercise; therefore, it gains weight. During the walk, he burns calories thus bringing about weight loss.

Better mental well-being: If you regularly exercise you can bear witness that you feel much better after the exercise. This is because your body releases hormones that improve your mental well-being. This is the same case with your dog. When the dog exercises he feels better about himself thus becoming a better companion.

More exposure: When you walk him you expose him to new people, experiences, and settings. This helps him to learn new things which are crucial for growth.

Decrease loneliness: If you live alone it means that your friend spends most of his time alone. Just like humans, dogs are social beings. When you are walking him you give him company which aids in getting rid of loneliness.

Longer life: Since dogs that exercise are fitter and healthier, they tend to live longer. Since they have longer lives you enjoy the company of your dog for a longer time.

How to walk him

While many people know that they need to walk their dogs, studies show that few dog owners know how to properly do it. To help you out, here are tips on how to properly walk him:

Always keep him on a leash: When he is on a leash you have full control of him and you are the one who dictates the walk-not the dog. The best way of holding the leash is wrapping it around your hand until there is little space between you and him.

Treat him: It's always recommended that you train your dog during the walk. Some of the training that you can expose him to include: walking, sitting and when to pull on the leash. When he behaves the way that you want you should reward him with his favorite treat.

Make the walk comfortable: There is no way that he will enjoy the walk if it's uncomfortable. You should ensure that the leash is made from a comfortable material. Also, ensure that you apply comfortable pressure on him The time that you walk him determines how comfortable the dog will be. For peace of mind avoid walking him at noon as it might be too hot for him.

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Dogs Grooming Basics

Dogs need physical maintenance to look and feel their best. A dog's grooming needs are dependent upon the breed and hair types. If your dog is suffering from a skin, ear or nail issue, follow your veterinarian's instruction regarding grooming.

Following are some dog grooming basics

Hair Brushing 

Most dogs enjoy having their coats brushed, and hair brushing sessions strengthen the bond with your dog, while also maintaining a healthy coat. A dog's brushing needs vary depending on its hair type. select the right tools and follow these. 

* Long-haired dogs usually require daily brushing to prevent matting and tangling of hair. 

* Medium-haired dogs may be prone to matting and tangles and should be brushed at least weekly. 

* Short-haired dogs can typically go up to a month without brushing.

Nail Trimming 

Nail trimming is disliked by dogs and owners alike. Most dogs do not like even having their paws handled and their nails hurt if they are cut too short. Dog owners are also uncomfortable with the process for fear of hurting their dogs. The best thing to do is to learn how to trim nails correctly and exercise caution. You can learn how to do it from your vet but if you're still not confident, it's best to let the experts handle this task.

Bathing 

Most dogs should be bathed on a monthly basis. A tub is usually the easiest place to bathe a dog, though very small dogs can be bathed in a sink. With the help of a hand-held sprayer soak your dog from head to toe with warm water. Avoid the eyes and inside of the ears. Many dogs have water-resistant coats; therefore, a thorough soaking is usually required to penetrate the pet's hair all the way through.

Ear Care 

A dog's ears can be a sanctuary for bacteria and yeast if kept unclean. while some dogs can go their whole lives without ear disease and some require multiple cleanings a day. Dogs with floppy ears or long hair, such as Cocker Spaniels, tend to be vulnerable to ear problems because their ear canals do not get adequate air exposure. Ear problems can also be a sign of allergies. If foul odor is emanating from your dog's ears, your veterinarian will most likely prescribe special ear cleaners and appropriate medications.

Haircuts

 

Dogs with long and abundant hair, such as the Poodles and Shih Tzus, typically need a haircut every two to four weeks, depending on the breed of the dog and the style of the cut. Hair cutting should be left to professional groomers, although some dog owners are able to learn basic maintenance haircutting.

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