First Coast Pet

Archive for March, 2009

Dachshunds are an independent breed. Doxies are loving. They like to play. Dachshunds are aggressive.

How can all this be true of one dog breed? Well, it is. They are among the most interesting and complex breeds precisely because they encompass all these attributes and many more besides.

Bred in Germany in the late 1600s to chase vermin, fearless and bold characteristics were selected first and foremost. At the same time, they had to be persisitent, strong-willed and resourceful. It does little good to have legs and feet that are excellent for digging if the dog doesn’t have the spirit of pursuit.

Those attributes have been handed down through the centuries. Most Dachshunds today are pets, not hunters, once attributes are bred in their nature does not change much. What can be considered aggression in one circumstance can be simple courage in another. What can be vaulable persistence in one situation can be considered willfulness in another.

Above all, they are an intelligent breed. Dachshunds individualist character makes them more difficult to take an interst in training. But handled correctly, their smarts allow them to excel in whatever they do.

Keep in mind, too, that independence does not necessarily mean they are uninterested in others. They want to take part in any adventure going on around them and are filled with curiosity. Some breeds are satisified to sit by observing quietly. A Dachshund wants to be participating along with everyone else and in the middle of things.

There are variations within these broad outlines noted.

The Smooth-Coat Dachshund exhibits all the classic behaviors – barking at the least invasion to its territory, leading the pack whenever possible and more. They will be reluctant more often to take a bath and struggle during nail clipping time.

The Wire-Hair type looks and acts like a combination of Doxie and terrier. Terriers, also, are high strung. They love to play and their behavior is not aggressive so much as just forthright.

The Long-Hair Doxie is more like a miniature Irish Setter, though not to that extreme. Even though they enjoy a good romp, they are a little more inclined to watch and wait their turn. Though they take a bit more grooming care, they are among the easier varieties to train.

All Doxie variations are natural diggers. Bred to chase small game, such as badgers, into a den, Doxies like getting into things. Doxies muschular chest and powerful front legs make it pretty easy for them to do just that. Thanks to the streamlined body and smooth, narrow head, getting out isn’t too much more difficult. If you want to keep the lawn or garden intact, don’t allow the dog to roam freely without supervision.

But Dachshunds do need at least moderate exercise in activities where they can work off some of their natural energy. Tunnels in an obstacle course is a good idea for these “gophers”.

They are also loyal and loving. The bond between a Dachshund and the person or family it adopts is unusually strong. They want to be near people and enjoy interaction. As any Doxie owner will be happy to tell you……..

Visit LuvUrDog.com for Tips, Supplies and more, Just for Dog Lover’s

vaccines

Vaccines are an essential tool in keeping your Doxie healthy, but a few do carry some risk of allergic reaction.  Knowing which are vital and which are optional can help improve your odds of doing good without doing harm.

- Rabies

Rabies vaccine is among the most important for your Dachshund, as it is for any dog.Even though the disease is much less common today, the consequences of getting it are still so drastic – often fatal – that most veterinarians still recommend it.

Rabies vaccinations are normally given every year to puppies and every two to three years subsequently.Most states require the vaccine and determine a specific schedule.That is being revised as research now shows that immunization lasts three years or more.See your veterinarian for specific guidelines, but also seek a second or even third opinion and decide accordingly.

Serious side effects from the shot are rare, but may include swelling, hives, fever, or lethargy, along with decreased appetite.

- Canine Distemper

Distemper shots used to be routine.  Today they are still common, but schedules have lengthened.Current research shows that puppies given a series of shots will develop antibodies that last several years.First shots should be given at approximately eight weeks.As with any vaccine, the schedule can deviate from one part of the country to another, since prevalence and the associated risks of the disease vary geographically.See your veterinarian.

- Parvo

A vaccine to protect against the parvovirus is often combined with that for distemper, though it can be given separately.Bear in mind that “combo” shots represent a slightly greater risk of allergic reaction.Combinations also make determining the foundation of any issue more difficult.

In some dogs, the immune system goes into “hyperdrive” and produces swelling of the face, redness of the gums and other manifestations.If a problem occurs, it ordinarily happens within an hour or less, so stay near your vet’s office after any vaccination.Observe your Doxie attentively.Keep Benadryl available and call your vet at the first sign of a reaction.

- Hepatitis

This shot helps protect against infectious canine hepatitis.  Here again, the disease is not common and the shot carries a small risk of allergic reaction.Moreover, the disease is serious enough that owners will want to discuss the subject carefully with their veterinarian and seek a second opinion before deciding.Since a modified live virus is used, kidney infections are possible following the vaccination.

- Lepto

Shots to immunized against the leptospira bacteria used to be routine, and in many areas still are.Keep in mind that this is another vaccine that may cause a reaction and offers only short-lived protection against the disease.Considering the disease itself is uncommon, this vaccine is considered “non-core” by many vets today.

- Bordatella

The Bordatella organism causes a fairly common condition popurlarly known as “kennel cough”.  The name comes from the fact that the organism can be airborne and can spread when dogs are housed close together.It is not a serious condition, but does call for treatment when it arises.

If your Doxie does not come into contact with strange dogs this vaccine is probably not necessary.Exceptions are in areas where the disease has gone unchecked, or when you intend to go on vacation and kennel your Dachshund.

Summary

Vaccines are a low-risk, outstanding way to protect your Dachshund against a wide array of diseases.But “low-risk” doesn’t mean “no risk” and what was once habitual has become a more thoughtful exercise, thanks to improved research.

Paranoia about vaccinations is unsupported.Nonetheless, the risk of disease is not zero, either.However, careful consideration of the benefits and risks will help accentuate your dog’s health.

Just for Dog Lover’s

Like any breed, Doxies are at risk for a number of conditions and diseases.Due to their long bodies and short legs they are most at risk for spinal problems.One of the most common forms is a condition called IVDD (Intervertebral Disk Disease), which is an umbrella term for an abundance of problems.

Vertebrae are the hard bones that make up the spinal column support.  They enclose the spinal cord and are separated by soft tissue called intervertebral discs, which provide a cushion between the bones.IVDD threatens a Dachshund’s health in many different ways.

Excess jumping and other forms of back stress can cause a rupture of one or more discs, usually toward the rear.  IVDD and other back problems occur most frequently by age four but can happen earlier, sometimes as young as two.Simple age can cause the disc to reduce its fluid level, making it less extendible.  That also increases the odds of herniation or rupture.Often the vertebrae become more fragile.

A number of serious possibilities exist if that occurs.

As a portion of the spine loses vital support, the spinal cord can be put in jeopardy.In the event compression happens, paralysis is not far behind.Constriction of spinal fluid can have comparable effect.  Loss of circulation leads to nerve death, since the nerves are cut off from needed nutrition.

Look for any instance of inability to lift the rear end off the ground or lowering near the tail.  Some other signs include weakness in the rear legs or loss of bladder control.

In these extreme incidents, medical care – usually surgery – within 24 hours is critical.  If left untreated, the result is frequently permanent disability.

Even in less severe cases back pain is evident.It can be hard to detect when a dog is in pain but signs include lethargy, difficulty walking up stairs and similar signs in an otherwise active dog.

Treatment with Prednisone (or corticosteroids) is occasionally recommended but entails risks.  Apart from the usual risks of long-term steriod use, it is possible to overdo care.  Lessening pain is desirable, but if it is eliminated the dog can become too active again, leading to more injury.Injections of Adequan can aid in promoting disc healing.

Whether treated with steroids or just Rimadyl, it is advisable to cage your Dachshund or otherwise keep him calm, reducing physical activity.Given the Dachshund’s confident and energetic nature that is difficult, but it is essential.

Do not permit the dog to stand on its hind legs, which compresses the spine.  Don’t allow the dog to jump down stairs.Yard games should be restricted until the dog has completely healed.Always support the complete length of the spine when picking up your Dachshund.

With the right kind of care many Doxies recover completely to lead active, normal, healthy lives.But precise diagnosis as early as possible is essential to improve the odds.

More tips, information and dog supplies can be found at LuvUrDog.com, just for Dog Lover’s

Dachshunds are a naturally feisty breed.Bred to hunt badgers, they had to be resourceful and tough.That assertive nature should not be allowed to turn against you.You must be the alpha dog.

Individual dogs will deviate in degree, of course.There are submissive ones though fewer than other breeds, on average.Some will try to insist on having their own way at all times, much like nearly all terriers.But training can adjust their behavior, especially if you commence when they are young and stay consistent.

Zero tolerance should be the rule for all aggressive conduct, whether toward you, a family member, or strange people and animals.Chewing the lead during training is one mild manifestation.

Discourage it by stepping on the lead close to their head.Then with the other foot, slowly pull the lead down to the ground closer and closer to the collar.Take care not to stress their neck, as they are inclined to spinal problems.When they have released the lead, praise them generously.

To discourage biting or excess barking or snapping a squirt bottle comes in handy.  When your dog shows this behavior, give him a little squirt against the muzzle.Stay away from the eyes.That surprises your dog and it is unpleasant besides.Repeat, when needed, but avoid making it a contest of wills.That only tends to make it seem to the dog that you are a enemy.Being consistently firm is favored to counter-aggression.

If your Dachshund continues, isolate your dog and be ready for some barking.Like spoiled young children, a dog will from time to time try to whine or shout its way out of punishment.Present your dog with rugged chew toys and allow him to work out the aggression on those while he’s in the “time out” box.

Make sure you follow the negative reinforcement with some positive reinforcement.Look for illustrations of good behavior and praise it abundantly.Use a modest number of treats if needed.  The point is to help the dog see for itself the different consequences of its own behavior in terms of your response.Doxies are resourceful.With persistence, they will learn.

For instance, one may become moderately aggressive during fetch, refusing to give up the ball.Try to discern between authentic willfulness and a mere desire to play a different game, tug.  Make the difference clear by using a rope for tug, which they love.

It’s necessary to tread a fine line, though, since tug can lead to encouraging aggression.  Exercising them a little harder than you would a more playful or placid dog will help.Aggression is partially caused by the frustration of repressed energy with no positive outlet.

An assistant can be a big help here.Heave the ball to a partner several feet away, along the ground.Make sure the partner is the first to get the ball when the Doxie gives chase.Repeat the exercise a few times, then allow your Doxie to win.

With patience and a little creativity, you can channel your Doxie’s aggression into more positive directions.

LuvUrDog.com

Dog breeds all differ, just as people differ. Housing your dog depends on many factors, such as your lifestyle, your dog breed and the amount of room you have to spare.

We can start by looking at which dog you have. Housing your dog largely depends on its needs to stay safe warm and dry. Toy breeds by the virtue of their small size, make perfect house pets. Many owners of pet breeds such as terriers, shitzu or maltese are happy all the time provided they are trained well! These little breeds respond well to the home environment, providing they know their place! You’ll find a matt or a dog bed around the size of a cat bed will do for these small breeds. Keeping your dog in a garage or laundry may be ideal provided that your dog feels secure and it feels like it has a small area of its own. Dogs are known for being territorial after all. As for bigger dogs, such as medum sized pointers, boxers and terriers, you will learn that keeping them inside becomes tedious or irritating. Not only for you as owner, but for your dog too. They require the space that outdoor freedom offers them. In addition, you need to think about the size and space you have for housing your dog. If your garage is well aired, cosy and there is not to much clutter, it might be a great place for your dog to live, if however its full of gear and your dog has to live in a corner where it cannot make its own space, it will quickly become fustrated. For those of us that live in areas like apartments and duplex houses (or attatched units) you should be very wary of how your dog will be exposed to the neighours. Many dogs dont take to kindly to being housed where people can annoy them and interrupt them. Youve also got to consider what sort of breed requires what sort of housing to live in. Your breeder will have sussed you out before selling a dog, to see if your lifestyle suits that breed, however people often come across dogs in other circumstances. Be sure to do plenty of research into what your dogs living habits are. A lazy bulldog will surely be happy with a corner of the yard and not much room, but try and keep an active variety or breed like a pointer in a small yard, and you’ll drive the poor dog insane. Working and active breeds must have spacious runs, roomy kennels and should never be kept in tight quarters. If your in this situation, and have a yard space for your dog to be housed and run around in, at all costs ensure that the fence you put up or have, is in good order and is very secure. Consider your dog must not get out, but also consider if anything else can get in. Cats, other dogs & children are known for getting into places where they shouldnt be, and this can lead to trouble! Housing a dog can also have situational requirements. Think about your climate and where you are going to site the kennel. will your pet be cold? Windy? Directly sunny? Consider these factors when moving a kennel in your yard or chosen area. Kennel insulation will be required if the area is prone to frosts or snowfall. Obviously, in this scenario a wolfhound will be happier than a pointer, so apply common sense about the breed your dealing with. Think about hot areas, that can affect a dog really quick. Black paint on that kennel might suit you, but will it be to hot for your dog….? As far as buying a kennel goes nowadays there are great off the shelf items that suit many homes. Moulded polythene ones are popular but watch out if your dog is a chewer! Avoid fibreglass kennels like the plague, as the glass can lead to pain and discomfort for your pet. Wood is ever popular, and looks good and is very dog friendly. If your budget allows, go for a wood kennel!
My best dog housing tips, and some great examples of kennels and enclosure designs can be found at my dog resource page on housing your dog. Check it out, and the rest of my site www.dog-hobbyist.com

The Betta variety of fish are in fact carnivores which exist in the oceans by feeding on tiny insects, the larvae of insects and various sorts of plankton. If you head to the pet outlet, you will see a wide variety of sorts of Betta food. They can live off pellets and flecks as well as food that is frozen or freeze dried. They may not acknowledge new fish food sources straight away, so be sure to insert different foods as well as the foods they are familiar with in order to ensure their remain healthy.

Some of the nutrients that Bettas enjoy are brine shrimp, glass worms or even beef heart but bloodworms can also be utilized as a type of live, frozen or freeze dried solid foods. If you favor nonetheless, both pellets and flakes are available that can provide the nutritional requirements of your betta. In fact, some of these sorts of solid foods are just the live or frozen food that have been ground up and formed into pellets or flecks. Since bettas are used to taking their fish food from the surface of the water you are going to want food that remains on the top of the water rather than settling on the bottom. Most bettas will not eat food that drops which means it just becomes contaminated in the tank.

Bear in mind that some live foods are not able to supply complete nutrition so it is essential to make sure that you cover all these issues in order to ensure that your betta is going to obtain the proper nutrition to be healthy. Betta’s do not call for too much feeding particularly with betta fish food such as pellets and flecks which could lead to too much waste and contamination in the fish tank. When feeding with this form of food, place it in a manner that the fish will be able to notice it and ensure to check back to ensure it has been consumed, but if not, remove it from the fish tank right away to prevent pollution.

There are a number good reasons in using flecks and pellets for fish food when looking after your betta. A number of the foods that are available in the form of pellets or flakes have additives that are fashioned to do various things, such as, increase the color and energy of the fish.  Often medications are arranged in the food as well in order to make it easy to feed to the betta. Bettas can be fussy about the food they take in and there are a few that will not take pellets and will only eat fresh food while others that won’t look at live food.  When you are looking at a new betta, ask what they are feeding on at the store and start out by using this. You can try other betta fish food if you prefer or would preferably have them feed on something other than the fish food that made up their earlier diet by combining the two together, then you improve the chances of it being used.

Carol provides more free and extremely helpful information in her contentrich Betta Fish Spits Out Food blogs as well as her equally content-rich Betta Fish Live Food Site. For More Information About Betta Fish Foods Check http://www.betta-fish-care.tips-inc.com

A betta is a great way to brighten up any room, and they are the perfect companion for those people who do not wish the trouble of other pets, but the most important question is how to go about selecting your Betta fish. Betta fish are vastly assorted, they come in a whole host of colors, from blues and purples to rosy and shades of black.  Male and female bettas have an entirely dissimilar appearance with the male being the brightly colored fish that most individuals associate with betta fish. The females are usually neutral tan and brown but often contain some black and are considerably smaller.

The fins are also distinct between male and female betta fish with females possessing smaller fins while the males have large flowing fins. With all the various colors, male bettas are going to be the fish that the majority people go for when they visit the pet store. There are a couple of aspects to look into when you select a betta fish. These elements are important to ensuring that you get one that is going to furnish you with a beautiful addition to your house.

When considering bettas there are a few things to consider: the foremost is that they are actually swimming about and heedful of their environment. Bettas are territorial so you can’t put 2 of them together in the same fish tank, but you can place them near to one another. These fish should recognize the presence of something near the fish tank or fish tank they are located in and at least investigate.

Color is also a fundamental consideration and the brighter the fish, the better the sign that it is well, so ensure the color is brilliant, and the fins and tail ought to be exposed.  The physical activities the fish execute are also important aspects of choosing one as a good example will be the one one that moves stones, makes bubble nests for their mate so you will have to look for these natural actions.

Being conscious what to look for in a betta is one of the fundamental principles of how to select an excellent example. It is important that the fish is engaged in activities which shows good health, such as gearing up for a mate and making a sound and fortified environment. You wish to see the coupling exhibitions or some of the presentations done in fighting circumstances, which suggest that the fish is interested and conscious. You do not have to choose a fish that appears lethargic, lifeless or does not seem interested in fish food. There ought to be no food in the bowls of healthy betta and they ought to chase after fish food as soon as it is dropped in the bowl. If there looks to be a lot food waste, you may need to think about another fish.

Carol provides more free and extremely helpful information in her contentrich Changing Betta Fish Water blogs as well as her equally content-rich Water Temperature For Betta Fish Site. For More Information About Betta Fish Water Change Check http://www.betta-fish-care.tips-inc.com

There are many obstacles and challenges for dog owners, particularly when it comes to owning puppies and the typical aggressive puppy biting behaviour. This article can assist with this problem and its resolution in as nice a way as possible. Puppy biting normally initiates when playing with your puppy and eventually becomes a habit, at times without your knowledge as to how the habit started.

Puppies are known for the biting stage that they go through. This is due to the fact that they are developing teeth at this stage. They bite humans and just about anything. How to stop puppy biting is the dilemma that many dog owners face. The puppy stage is a stage where the puppy is still learning good and bad. This is the stage where most correction will be beneficial before it develops into a habit. One can get frustrated trying to correct the bad behaviors such as biting but this must be done at this stage.

The faster puppy biting problems are solved the better it will be for further training of your dog. So, how to stop puppies from biting? Is this process hard to do? The answer is no, the process of stopping puppy biting is a trainable task that can be completed easily.

When dealing with puppies and biting you must recall that the puppy has to realize that you are very firm in the need to stop the bad behaviour of puppy biting, regardless of the training method you employ.

One of the best methods and favorites of dog trainers is the best to start with to stop puppy biting. The idea focuses on the guilt approach. If you get a puppy bite make the puppy believe that they have hurt you. This means being vocal and saying ouch. This method works as it is a part of natural behaviour. In group play among puppies when they are biting each other the action only halts when one of the puppies yelps in pain. The technique therefore duplicates the puppies’ natural process of learning. Regardless of whether the bite is painful you have to make it seem that way with the proper reaction. Pulling away quickly and even stopping play and affection for a time period are important. Once practiced, your puppy will fast learn that if they bite then play time and fun come to an end.

Puppy biting? How to stop it? One key part is early detection of the issue. It is easier to stop this negative behaviour when the puppy is young.

Puppy training for biting may be as simple as the change of the attention of the puppy from biting a hand to another object. Chew toys and bones can be used to move the puppy from biting humans to these toys. Making certain they know they are being corrected using a stern voice and redirecting them is important. This may be all that is needed for young puppies to stop this habit before it starts.

This guide includes some of the best tips to stop a puppy from biting that you can quickly employ and do immediately. Enjoy them.

Any additional advice and aid needed to stop puppy biting can be sourced from the Dog Training / Obedience section of DogTrainingComplete.

To utilize more through training for dogs as to stopping puppy biting then go to the Dog Training Product Industry Reports available.

If you want to keep your house clean after deciding to adopt a new puppy, you need to insist on puppy house training rules. Every owner must go through house training with their new puppy. Some puppies learn the process very quickly, while some need more time to catch on. So don’t be frustrated when you are not having that much progress with puppy training at first. If you manage to stay patient and calming your puppy will soon be well on its way to being housebroken.

Look into the Puppy Mind

Understanding how your puppy thinks can make puppy house training much easier. You must realize that the meaning of being clean doesn’t necessarily mean the same thing to you and to your puppy. You think it is important for your puppy to go to a chosen spot in the garden and “go”, but to your pup, what’s important is to relieve himself where the notion takes him. Your puppy’s only concern is to go away from his food and bed which is also the health and safety rule of nature. This means that any place else in your house, away from his bed and food, may be considered appropriate, from behind your couch to the floor in your bedroom. These are perfectly acceptable places for him, but of course not for you – and what you have to do is teach him and guide him to a better spot – the one you have in mind for him!

Anticipation of the Signs

The early warning system of a puppy is not very reliable during his first few weeks, so make sure to work it out as early as possible for both your benefits. Choose a location soon that is close to the puppy’s food, bed, or play area. It will be rewarding to anticipate when your puppy needs to be taken out. Puppies need to relieve themselves frequently particularly after they eat, drink, play or get excited.

You must also learn to read your puppy’s body language and soon you’d realize the tell tale signs that tell you he needs to use the bathroom. Common signs are sniffing around in a persistent manner, circling around a single spot, or holding his tail high. All you should do if this happens is get your dog and go to the area that you have designated as their toilet area.  By doing so, you are well on your way to completing your puppy house training.

Even dogs that have gone through dog training classes will occasionally have small accidents when they are very excited or when greeting friends and family members. This type of response is natural and is called submissive urination.  You shouldn’t treat this differently from regular house training. Although there may be additional accidents, your dog must not be chastised. Punishing a house training pup will only lead to confusion and more make the puppy feel the need to hide when it relieves itself.

Do not shout at your dog when he has an accident due to excitement, instead take a patient approach and work things out with him until the habit is broken. Try to make greetings low key and keep them outside if possible. Greet your dog gently and build up his or her confidence. Don’t make a big deal out of an accident when it occurs. Your dog will soon stop having accidents, and you can congratulate yourself on successfully concluding another round of puppy house training.

When you have a dog you want to make sure they have a nice place to lay their head after a long day of romping outdoors. It is really very important to get one that will be right for them. Some of the dog beds are so stylish and comfortable; you’ll be wondering why there isn’t a larger version available for you! You can buy dog beds for your fashionable pup from a variety of wonderful brands, patterns, shapes, sizes, and color choices that will please even the most discriminating pet parent. Your Pup deserves their very own little place of heaven in your home- a luxury bed that will give them lots of sweet dreams

When you want to buy dog bed one of the first things you need to do is measure your dog so you can be sure to get a bed that is the right size for your pet. First measure them from the tip of their nose to the tip of their tail and then measure from their head to the floor. This will give the exact details of the length and breadth required for your dog bed. If you are looking at a bed with a mattress add at least 12 inches more to your measurements.

As soon as you know what size you need you can look at the various styles. To select a bed from the various styles that are available in the market you need to closely observe their sleeping habits. What is your dogs favorite resting place? what position does your dog sleep in? Does your dog head straight for a soft cushioned spot after a day outdoors? If so he may need a bed with extra support to cushion his joints after a long day at play. Maybe at the end of the day you always find your dog lying on his back on your bed snoozing. If this is the case your pooch may like a soft, roomy place to crash like a lounging bed. If you usually find your dog curled up while sleep your best bet would be a nestling bed. Soft and plush with higher walls or sides for support help your dog feel safe and protected.

When your dog gets older you possibly will have to consider one of the several orthopedic style dog beds since they will provide additional support for those old painful bones. A lot of these options have memory foam that adjusts to the requirements of your dog. Dog beds come in a variety of styles also and it is up to you as to the style you choose. Several of the styles you will get, incorporate dog couches, the traditional round beds, and donut style and slipper versions.

Once you have found out the perfect size and style of bed for your dog you need to consider just a few more things. Will this bed be used outside? Do you need one when travelling? Dog beds come in styles that will stand up to the elements and fold compactly for portability. Next choose what type of filling you want in the bed based on the amount of support your dog needs. Once you have done the homework of checking all that is required then you can look out for the prices. When investing in a dog bed it is important to get one made with quality that will fit your dog and actually be used by your dog. One of the best ways to comparison shop is by shopping online. These online shops have low overhead costs and they do not have to pay for the utilities so they can sell cheap and still manage to make profit. You can also see what is available in the world of dog beds. Who knew there was such variety?

Finally you can choose the pattern of the covering of your dog bed to add final, fun touch and match your décor. Also some companies even offer the option of adding your pet’s name to the bed. While shopping for dog beds like Italian Iron Palace Luxury Pet Bed it is important to take everything into consideration to find the perfect bed that your dog will love. After all you want your dog to rest comfortably so that he can be playful another day.