Archive for » March, 2010 «

How Puppies Learn Not to Bite

Why do Puppies Bite?

Puppies naturally use their mouth to chew, play, and explore different objects, including your shoes.  But how do you teach a puppy not to bite?  How do dogs learn to control what is called, mouthy behavior?  It is part of the natural process of a puppy growing up to discover not to bite and it starts with learning from socializing with other dogs and people.

Playtime Teaches Puppies Proper Biting Behavior

If you watch two puppies play they wrestle, chase, and nip at one another.  It is endearing to watch, but if you pay close attention there are dog rules to the socializing.  For instance, no pup bites another pup too hard causing harm during play.  If it does occur, a dog will signify to lower the strength of the bite via a yelp.  It is a sign for the other dog to pay attention and decrease the aggressive behavior.  Afterwards, dogs naturally separate.  Take a breather.  Then find their way back to fooling around with one another.  This encounter is a lesson on how a human may teach a pup not to bite.

How to Teach Your Dog Not to Bite

With the pup scenario above, a bitten pup yelps alarming the other dog to stop with the biting practices.  When you are playing with your own dog, utilize the same technique during playtime.

For instance, every time you play with your pup, and the pup bites your skin too hard, yelp.  Make a noise.  Stop play.  Then, resume play after a few moments.  Repeat the exact action until your dog learns this behavior is not acceptable.  The dog will interpret the halt in play as he/she did something wrong.  The method works.  Your dog learns quickly.  It is solely a matter of remaining consistent on your part.

To learn more about how to teach your puppy not to bite with positive reinforcement check out puppy preschool and puppy kindergarten classes today.

Dog Poison Tip #2

Common Household Products Damage Your Dog’s Health

There are items around or in households that may be lethal to your dog’s health.  Being cautious and aware of what these items are is the first step to protecting your dog’s wellbeing.  For this reason, we are continuing the “Dog Poison” series with this entry.  Here are a few more items to put on your list.  These items need to be stored away properly far from your dog’s reach.

Remove Cleaning Products

If a human ingests a cleaning product, it causes damage.  Thus, why would it would be any different when it comes to your puppy?  Keep all household cleaning products in safekeeping, where your pets will not be able to encounter them.  Remember, some cleaners emit toxic vapors putting your dog in danger.  Check your cleaning labels before using anything in the house.  Make sure it is safe for your pet before applying on furniture and floors.

Check Pesticide Safety

Pesticides may be fatal on your dog.  Be careful when using any sort of pesticide product.  You need to ask a professional or talk to your vet first.  Find out what pesticide is safe to use around pets.  It is better to be sure you utilize a safe product than one that may cause serious illnesses in your precious pup.

These are only a few hazardous products putting your dog’s health at-risk.  To find out more information about what products are safe ask a professional.  Talk to experts in k9 training.  Enroll in a Florida dog obedience training class today.  An experienced instructor will provide ample information on what products are proper to use around pets and what items should be disposed of immediately

Check Out Twitter for Adoptable Pets

“Tweet” about Adoptable Pets

If you want to help spread the word about an adoptable pet, then check out TwitteraCritter.com.  It is a tool to share the news about pets up for adoption. It is a way to help even if you are not in a position to adopt a pet.

How TwitteraCritter Works

First, you must have a Twitter account.  Then go to TwitteraCritter.  Scroll down to the bottom of the page.  Fill out your zip code and choose what type of animal you are looking for in the appropriate spaces.  Search through the results until you find an animal you wish to help.  Once you do, click on the animal’s picture.  The information on the pet will appear including gender, age, and breed.  On the pet’s profile page, there will be a Twitter button stating, “Tweet Me.”

Click on the “Tweet Me” button and that’s it.  You now have added direct link to the adoptable pet on your Twitter feed.  It allows your Twitter followers to see what adoptable pets are available.

Show Support for Animal Shelters via Twitter

This is a great way to be actively involved in helping animal shelters.  It is simple to use.  It reaches numerous people via one method.   And it shows substantial support towards pet adoption encouraging effective results.

If you are someone who adopted a dog, bring your new pup to Florida dog training classes.  We will teach you and your dog how to communicate in a positive manner encouraging a happy, healthy, loving home.