"Train your dog"

So you just got a new dog and want people to see that it can do more than lick itself (and others) in inappropriate places. Or maybe you’ve finally decided that it’s time to show your old dog who’s boss – the creature wearing your expensive sneakers, not the one pooping on them.

If you don’t have a dog just yet but are planning to get one, keep in mind that while all dogs are trainable, certain dogs are more susceptible to certain types of training. Dobermans are predisposed to be guard dogs, while collies are herding dogs, and setters, pointers, and retrievers are hunting dogs.

Understanding dog behavior

A Tired Dog Is A Good Dog

Give the dog the exercise he needs, and he will spend much of his day resting – not chewing, barking, digging, escaping, or destroying things. Read more…

"Training Your Dog"

Yes, this article is about how to pick the perfect pet dog, but you should also know what you’re in for once you get it. If you don’t want to get a living hell it is important to train and "fix" your pup, and it’s better to get this information sooner than later.

Training

We assume you want a dog because you yearn for the companionship of an animal, not just because you want a new toy (unless it’s a toy dog, which, by definition, absolves you). But getting the dog is only part of the equation. To create a wonderful companion and a happy, healthy dog, you have to put some time into obedience training.

Just as time on the Stairmaster every day makes for a butt you can be proud of, so too will consistent daily obedience training make for a mutt you can be proud of. At the very least, you’ll want to housebreak your pooch. Teaching commands like "sit" and "stay" will make your life a LOT easier. And if you go on to advanced obedience training, you too can have one of those superstar dogs that catches Frisbees and runs obstacle courses when it’s not busy signing autographs. Read more…

"Pick a Pup"

Breeder

Once you’ve determined the right breed for your lifestyle, one possibility is to go through a breeder. You can find breeders by looking in the classified ads in your newspaper (the prices are usually pretty steep, ranging from $100 to $3000, depending on the breed and the quality of the puppies).

Alternatively, you can call the American Kennel Club at 1900-407-PUPS. The breeder reference person will put you in touch with reputable breeders in your area. Then call several breeders and talk with them; they’re a valuable source of information about the breed you’ve chosen.

Breeders are a good route because you’ll get someone who knows all about your breed of dog, so if you have any questions, you’ll have a new friend to ask. Also, breeders generally take very good care of their dogs. So good, in fact, that they’ll usually interview the prospective buyer to make sure that the dog is going to a loving home. The drawback about using a breeder is the price – you can get a puppy for free at a shelter. But if you’re looking for a pretty puppy that you might eventually want to breed or take to dog shows, using a breeder is the way to go. Read more…