Aggressive Behaviour in small dogs

Aggressive dogs are a major problem for many pet owners, and a justified cause for concern. Some canine experts refer to aggression in miniature breeds as small dog syndrome, the animal kingdom's version of a Napoleon complex. Unfortunately, many people fail to take this behavior seriously, believing that an aggressive small dog won't be able to cause much harm. Professional dog trainers do take this phenomenon seriously, however, and recommend that dog owners do the same. Fortunately, small dog syndrome can be successfully mitigated with proper training and follow-up.

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When Friendly Fido Bites: Children and Dogs

Although most of the canines you come into contact with are friendly and well-trained, it is important to note that approximately 2 million children are bitten by dogs each year. Unfortunately and surprisingly, most of the dog bite injuries occur when a child is around a dog they are familiar with. This often means that they aren't considered to be dangerous dogs; there is a level of assumed safety with the family dog. However; this is a false sense of security. The first step to safety is precaution- make sure to supervise all interactions between children and canines.

Even the best dog can react quickly and aggressively. Remember that they are animals at the core of things, even though we tend to treat them like a real member of the family. If your child is bitten by a dog, the first thing to do is to tend to the child while making sure the dog is not a danger to anyone else in the area. Injuries from dog bites can be much more dangerous and complex than you might initially think.

The immediate thing is to seek proper medical care. Even if the wounds do not seem like they are terribly serious, have the child examined right away. Dog bite injuries can range from mild to serious, and it's important to have it evaluated as soon as possible. Some bites don't break the skin, but can leave bruises. The bites which do break the skin should be treated with antibacterial ointment, as dogs can have harmful bacteria in their mouths which can lead to serious infections. More severe dog bite injuries may involve broken bones, multiple abrasions or punctures, and should be handled as an emergency by professional medical staff.

Next in the process is to report the dog attack to the local authorities. This may include local animal services, and the police. By reporting the incident, dangerous dogs develop records and can be dealt with accordingly. If you have information from the dog's owner, you can determine if the animal has it's shots current. The owner can provide information about the possible vaccinations the dog may or may not have had, giving you the best options to treat your child.

Children may experience emotional trauma caused by dog attack, and may need psychological counseling after the incident. If the dog bite attack has made a child afraid to go on walks or approach other dogs, or if a child is acting strangely, pursuing professional help is advised. The costs for this would be covered by the settlement reached in the dog bite lawsuit.

While not every dog bite attack requires a personal injury lawyer, it's advisable to consult with a dog attack lawyer to assess your particular case. Every situation is different, and trauma caused by dog attack can affect a child for years to come, depending on the injuries suffered in a canine attack.

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Adding herbs to your dog's diet is good for them

Herbalists and apothecaries have used herbs and plants for centuries. Herbs not only add flavour and colour to our food, they also demonstrate impressive healing and restorative powers.

Indeed herb specialists argue that as a society we grossly underestimate the healing power of herbs - both for humans and our dogs.

What is a herb?

The Concise Oxford English Dictionary defines a herb as any plant in which the seeds, leaves, or flowers can be used to create flavour, scent or medicine. A few can be found in supermarkets but there are thousands more that can be bought as plants or grown from seeds.

Help with digestion

It is often only when heat is applied to herbs that their full aroma is released - aiding the release of saliva, which in turn prepares the stomach for food. Enzymes in saliva trigger the process of digestion and help break down starch and fat.

Without this chain reaction, food isn't processed properly before it reaches the stomach, which can cause problems like irritable bowel, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating and wind.

Herbs that ease digestion include rosemary, thyme, oregano and mint.

Beat the big C

The flavonoids in many herbs ­- including sage, onions, rosemary, thyme, dandelion, chamomile, ginkgo, milk thistle and green tea - are similar to the nutrients available widely in vegetables and fruits and are understood to help prevent cancer and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Leading academics in this field like Dr Winston Craig, who is Professor of Nutrition at Andrews University in the US, have found that these flavonoids allow vitamin C to mop up the free radicals that cause cancer, working more efficiently as an antioxidant.

Help preventing tumours

Herbs, like caraway, dill, spearmint, coriander, rosemary, lavender, sage, lemongrass, thyme, chamomile, basil, mint, rosemary, celery seed, cardamom, fennel and peppermint, contain phytochemicals (terpenoids) that are potent antioxidants which are believed to inhibit tumour growth.

Natural antiseptic qualities

Some herbs, including thyme, sage, and rosemary, are believed to offer antiseptic qualities. Indeed prior to widespread refrigeration large households were known to store cold meats in cellars, wrapped in fresh sage leaves and covered in salt. Fresh game was left to hang with fresh bunches of thyme, because of the herb's perceived antiseptic properties.

Using Herbs for Dogs

You can use fresh or dried herbs by adding a small pinch for small dogs, and a teaspoon for large dogs. Don't overdo it though as excessive use can cause problems. Used in small quantities herbs will give your dogs a boost in their nutrition.

The flavonoids and antioxidants will help your dogs combat some of the diseases associated with aging, including canine cognitive dysfunction and cancer. As noted, however, there are potential downsides and they should be used with care.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Oregano is high in antioxidants and flavonoids and is regarded as an antimicrobial that can be used to help with digestive problems, diarrhea, and gas. For oregano drops made especially for pets, visit oregapet.com.

Rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis)

This is high in iron, calcium, and Vitamin B6. Rosemary has also been shown to act as an antioxidant.

Peppermint (Mentha balsamea)

This aromatic herb helps soothe upset stomachs, reduces gas and nausea, and helps with travel sickness. Current research indicates it may have radio-protective effects and can be used to reduce radiation-induced sickness and mortality in animals undergoing chemotherapy. Beware very high doses. They may result in liver or kidney problems.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

This leafy herb has antiviral, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)

This herb is a source of antioxidants, flavonoids, and vitamins and contains lycopene and carotenes. It is a breath freshener and soothes the stomach. NB: "Spring parsley", which is a member of the carrot family and resembles parsley, is toxic to dogs and cats due to its high levels of furanocoumerin that can cause photosensitisation and ocular toxicity.

All my health content is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own veterinarian or any other health care professional.

*If you have any concerns about your dog's general health, you should contact your vet.

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Basic Dog Trick Tips to Teach Your Dog

The fact is, dogs can be trained even if they are already in the adult stage. Well, experts in dog training have proven it. Take note, dogs constantly learn just like humans do. However, to help your canine friend learn some tricks, it is on your part to teach them or you can hire professional dog trainers to do the task for you. But then again, since they are closer to you, better do it your own way. So how you may ask, read on and learn some of the basic tricks and training tips for dogs.

Basic Dog Training Tips:

Now before you proceed in training your pet dog, you may need to use a leash. This way, you are able to make the canine focus more to what you are teaching. Take into account, you also need to have lots of patience especially at first but you will surely "reap the fruits of your labor" once you see that your dog has learned the tricks you've taught. Here now are the basic tricks.

Sit command - Start by having a few pieces of dog treat in your hands. Hold the treat firmly and let your dog see and smell it but don't let them eat the treat.

The next step is to say the word "sit" clearly and ensure that the kennel hears what you are telling. Once the dog hears the word, it's time to demonstrate it. While holding the dog leash using your left or right hand, use your other hand to gently push the back end of the dog towards the floor or ground. It may take you some time but once the dog sits, you can say, "Good dog or Good boy or girl" and finally give the treat as a reward.

Remember to repeat the "sit command" training sessions until your canine pal obeys as he or she hears the word even after you've stopped giving some treats.

Shake paws command - It is a prerequisite that your pet already knows how to sit as you utter the word so make sure the dog already knows how to sit. Again, to train a dog with this command, you need to have a handful of treats and of course patience.

Now start off by saying the sit command and again, hold the treat tightly on your hand as the dog smells it right on top of his nose without letting him or her munch it. Next is to say the magic word "shake" audibly while you are moving the treat on your hand close to your dog's paws.

Remember, the kennel will sniff the treat and you can wait until he/she puts up his/her paws on to your hands where the treat is. Say "Good dog" and give the reward as the dog's paws touches your palm or hands. Practice the command with your dog with patience as you see the result to be successful.

Take note, you can also apply this kind of training method as you teach your pet how to learn the "high five" or "shake hands" command.

Down command - To teach this trick, it's either you wait for your dog to lie down or you can force his/her front feet in a lie down position. Again, make sure you have the treat tightly clutched on your hands as the dog takes interest on it as you clearly say the word "down" or "lie" or "lie down". The next thing to do after the dog obeys is to praise your canine pet and give the treat. Remember to repeat the command as the dog obeys and accurately follows the position you want to happen.

Bear in mind, there are more dog tricks and training methods which you can learn and apply to teach your canine friend. It's all about researching. Learn the basic steps first before you apply the advance dog tricks. Also, it is advisable that you wean your dog with treats as they learn the tricks so as to let them respond only to your verbal instructions.

Have fun teaching your dog some tricks and surprise your friends as they would see your dog follow what you have just taught.

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How To Get Your Dog Used To The Vets Office

Just as you don't like going to the doctor, your dog doesn't like going to the vet. It's as simple as that. So how can you get your dog used to going to the vets office? These tips may help you get your dog through the door and into the exam room.

Take Some Treats

Give your dog a small treat for being good. Each step along the path will go far in helping your dog to achieve this with success. The treats don't have to be large, just a tidbit will do. Most Vets, as well as the Vet tech and the receptionist, will also give your dog treats.

Pay A Visit Without An Exam

Call ahead to the Vet office and ask if there is a good time to bring your dog in to 'get to know' them. This visit should be just that, a visit. No strings attached, no exam. Hopefully you'll choose a time that isn't too busy and your dog can meet the doctor, visit the exam room and give the place a good sniff over. If your pet is comfortable with this you may be on your way to a great relationship with your Vet.

Massage

Give your pet frequent massages. By touching your pet all over your pet will get used to the Vet and the Vet Tech touching him or her. Be sure to massage the ears and the feet as well so that your Vet and Vet Tech can look into his or her ears and trim toenails with minimal fuss.

Peering Into The Mouth

Your dog may or may not allow you to look into his or her mouth. If he or she doesn't allow you to you might want to try to get him or her used to it so that the Vet can check the teeth and gums. Start by maybe placing a treat on his or her tongue and asking your pet to wait. This may allow you to take a quick look. You might also simply lift the gums and look at his or her teeth. It may take some time but it will help.

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Strengthen The Bond With Your Dog

The relationship an owner has with its dog is a special one. People who do not have dogs cannot understand the love that can exist between a dog and its owner. Truthfully, having a strong bond with a dog is not hard work because they do not understand conditional love like humans do. They love in spite of all mistakes an owner makes. Nevertheless, there are things an owner can do to increase the bond they have with their dog.

It goes without saying that spending time with your dog is crucial to having a strong bond with them. They crave time with their owners. They can go days without seeing an owner, but the moment they see their owners their eyes light up. It is as though they immediately forget about the time they were apart.

Training your dog is another good way to increase the bond with your dog. If the dog is well trained, the owner will feel more comfortable about giving them more freedom to roam and be themselves. And, they will enjoy their time together more. However, if the dog misbehaves the owner will be more inclined to keep the dog leashed up and will be more apt to be frustrated with the dog. This is not a good combination for a positive relationship with the dog.

Playing with your dog is another good way to increase your bond with them. Playing fetch, running in the back yard and wresting are all good activities to do with a dog. They love interacting with their owners this way. And, it will burn off some extra energy as well.

When your dog does misbehave it is important to keep your temper in check. They may very well deserve to be disciplined, but it is not a good idea to be violent towards the animal. Losing your cool and becoming violent can cause great harm in the relationship with your dog.

Communicating clearly with your dog is another good way to increase your bond with them. You will want to be persistent in using your commands and signals with them. With proper training of signals and commands, you will feel confident your dog will obey.

Having a strong bond with your dog is not really a difficult task. In fact, they will probably love you no matter what. But, in order for you to feel the same you need to make sure these steps are followed so you will have a well trained dog that you can build a relationship with.

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Dog Training Can Eliminate Problems

Part of being a responsible dog owner, and in loving your pet, is training your dog. Behavior problems can be reduced or eliminated entirely when a pet owner takes the time to learn proper dog training techniques.

1. Get Advice From Professional Training Sites

Before you begin training your pet, do some research. One excellent way to gain the information you need is to review dog training sites online. There are a multitude of quality dog training sites that offer all the information you need to begin training your dog.

2. Set Realistic Goals

If you bought and brought your dog home two weeks ago, don't expect it to be trained within the month. Proper training means you're giving your pet enough time to adjust to his surroundings and to adjust to you. Once he or she feels comfortable, he or she is more open to dog training.

3. Be Patient

Once you begin training your pet, it's important to be patient. This ties into setting realistic goals. Your dog can be trained, but not all dogs are the same. Some pets learn faster than other pets. Be patient and realize that with persistence, the training will come.

4. Don't Forget About The Rewards

Whenever your dog makes progress, be sure to give a reward. One typical reward is a healthy treat that your dog loves, however an abundance of praise can accomplish the same effect for your dog.

5. Keep Track Of Your Pet's Progress

It's fun to see how far you've come with dog training. The easiest way to do that is to keep track of your pet's progress. Purchase a notebook and maintain a log of what you are training your dog to do. Record the dogs progress as well as whatever he or she has mastered.

6. Don't Forget A Proper Diet And Exercise

A dog is more amenable to training when he or she has been nourished. Don't forget to feed your dog a good diet to keep him or her sharp and alert. In addition, make sure your dog is getting the proper amount of exercise. Just like with humans, a healthy diet and exercise make for a healthy dog who is ready to be trained.

Don't forget to have fun. Dog training is serious, but don't overdo it. Reserve time to get down to business, but be sure there's plenty of time for love and playtime, as well.

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Dog Habits or Behavioral Traits

Domesticated dogs have descended from grey wolves; they are a sub-species of canines and shared many behavioral characteristic of wolves. These behavioral patterns have greatly been influenced by environmental, genetic and situational factors.

Dogs are said to be man's best friend; this is undoubtedly true. The loyalty, affection, trust and care they repose with their human counterparts set many examples even for us to emulate. They are the first animals that shared close contact with humans, becoming tamed in the process and have therefore shared a common environment and lifestyle for many thousands of years.

Research on the lifestyle and habits of wolves' shows that the social unit called the 'pack' is a tightly knit society of individuals, with an Alpha male as the leader of the pack. There may be several packs consisting of younger males and females, pups etc. and it is a strictly linear hierarchy. Dogs are also social animals which helped them succeed in their domestication with humans; they have evolved their social instincts to include humans and seeing them as part of the 'pack', with the owner or the handler adopting the role of the Alpha.

Where hierarchies are present even in the animal world, traits such as 'dominance' and 'submission' come into force. This is an absolutely essential factor for the well-being of the other individuals in the 'pack'.

Behavioral traits

As puppies, dogs play primarily to reinforce behavioral traits in later life. Even at that young age, they engage in both dominant and submissive role plays; the weaker ones are usually dominated by the stronger.

There are many habits or traits that puppies form as they grow up which are reflective of their surroundings and the messages handed down by their owners. However, some common habits can be found among dogs, across most breeds. Understanding their habits and behavior leads to better communicating between humans and their pet dogs.

• Chewing objects - this is generally done by puppies to relieve pain of new teeth breaking in. They can chew anything from shoes to rugs, paper, pens, or just about anything within reach. However, if an adult dog displays such behavior it could be exhibiting signs of anxiety.

• Panting - dogs expel body heat through their mouths and do this to regulate their body temperature. They also pant when in excessive pain. The pads on the feet are the sweat organs.

• Barking - barking when the doorbell rings is announcing a new arrival or excited at the thought of the owner returning. It also sounds as an alarm call to possible danger.

• Jumping up - this enthusiastic display is a welcome sign to indicate happiness or playful behavior; it could also mean an attempt to exert dominance over the person.

• Digging - this is part of the genetic make-up of dogs believed to be a back trace to their ancestry. Dogs in the wild generally dig to hide bones or other stuff or to dig a little hollow to lie down in as protection from the heat. Excessive digging and restlessness can be a sign of some health problem.

• Biting - playful biting is a means of communication to draw attention to their need. Bites could also be part of a reaction to fear or nervousness or increased aggression. This kind of behavior if repeated often needs to be watched.

By understanding these basic needs and helping to establish a firm communication, many of the dog's uncertainties and anxieties can be removed and a healthy relationship created.

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