Puppy Raising

Guide Dog puppies begin intensive training at the age of about 14 months. Until that time, they live with foster carers called puppy raisers. These families and individuals ensure that our new recruits get the best possible care in a loving home environment. Puppy raisers come from all walks of life. They range from dog lovers who wish to care for a dog but can't provide lifelong care, to families learning to raise a dog before having their own pet. Puppy raisers have one thing in common - they have the opportunity to help change people's lives forever. Their pup may become an invaluable companion to a person with special needs, either as a Guide Dog or a Pets As Therapy dog. Puppy raisers are responsible for feeding, grooming...

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Training the Guide Dog team

Step 3: Training the Guide Dog team Dogs that successfully complete our rigorous training program are matched with a potential client. We make sure that the dog is well-suited to the client's specific lifestyle and travel needs. For example, Beth White does the morning school run with her three children, runs her own massage therapy practice and loves to water ski in her spare time. Beth is also blind. But Beth doesn't let her disability dictate her choices, and she needed a confident, active guide dog to keep up with her busy life. Beth's guide dog Teena is all this and more. Teena is a formidable guide and adapts to whatever situation is demanded of her, from guiding Beth to and from school with the children, the shops, Beth's...

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Guide Dog training

Step 2: Guide Dog training When the pups are about 14 months old, they return to the Guide Dogs Centre. Over two weeks, our instructors carefully assess every puppy on several long walks. Prospective Guide Dogs must be eager to work, with good concentration and initiative. They must also control the temptation to be distracted by other animals. With such stringent standards, not all puppies are suitable for guiding work. Puppies that are unsuitable may become Pets As Therapy dogs - much-loved companions for people who may be disadvantaged due to age, illness or disability. A dog that is unsuitable for either role is offered to its puppy raisers as a pet. Puppies that are selected to become Guide Dogs undergo an intensive five-month...

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Guide Dog Training

Step 1: Puppy raising New puppies arrive at the Guide Dogs Centre at the age of approximately eight weeks. We work with purebred Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Labrador/Golden Retriever crosses. These breeds are calm, loyal and intelligent, and have a proven track record as Guide Dogs. They also come in all shapes and sizes - just like the people who use our services! Our veterinarian checks that the new recruits are confident, responsive and healthy - the qualities of a successful Guide Dog. The pups are then placed with families that have been specially selected by Guide Dogs staff. We call them "puppy raisers". (You can learn more about becoming a puppy raiser here.) Over the next 12 months, these families will provide the...

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Where to find Dog Training Equipment to improve Fido's behavior

Our puppy was a real handful when we first brought him home from the animal shelter, he was six months old and giddy as anything in his new environment. It was obvious that he hadn't been introduced to Dog Training Equipment at any stage of his young life and the concept of Remote Dog Training Collars was completely alien to him. I can't understand why anyone would want to buy a dog and not be prepared to pay for Dog Training Equipment at the same time. Surely they want their dog to be obedient and respond to their command, it seems crazy not use Dog Training Equipment that would help in this area.Our puppy was a real handful when we first brought him home from the animal shelter, he was six months old and giddy as anything in his...

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The Health Benefits of Milk Thistle for Dogs by David Lakins

One of the most popular herbal medicines for dogs is milk thistle. This article covers everything a dog owner needs to know about the properties of milk thistle, including how effective it is, how safe it is, and how it should be administered to pets. As the name suggests, milk thistle derives from a flowering thistle, which is found in Southern Europe, North Africa and parts of the Middle East. The plant is recognisable by the bands of white on its leaves, which is the reason why it is commonly known as milk thistle. The health benefits that can be derived from the thistle have long been known, though they have not been properly understood until recently. Ancient peoples noted the positive effects it had on the liver,...

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Housebreaking Your New Puppy by Jon L Templeton

Puppy Love There are few things in the world cuter than a wriggly little puppy. Their furry little faces, big eyes, and waggling tails make puppies irresistible. People often have no intention of getting a puppy until they see them, and then can't resist taking home the cuddly little balls of fur. When most people get a new puppy, however, they often only imagine the good things--a dog waiting to greet them at the end of the day, playing ball in the park, or going for hikes with their dogs. Many people fail to see the hard work which accompanies raising a polite, well-mannered dog, and housebreaking is often one of the hardest things a dog owner will do. Many people give up their dogs in the first few months because they...

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Protecting Your Animal From Summer Heat by Emily J Jayden

Summer comes right on the dot each year, and everyone welcomes the summer heat and takes to the outdoors to soak up the sunshine and warmth. However, over-exposure to the sun can be bad for your health, including the health of your animals. As much as it is important for you to protect yourself, there is no less importance to protect your pets, too. How Do Animals Adapt Themselves To The Heat? Just like the humans, animals will also find ways to adjust and acclimatized to the weather. During the summer, most warm-blooded animals will pant to lose their bodily heat through evaporation. They cool-off under the shade, or by soaking in pools of water. On the other hand, cold-blooded animals love to bask in the sun to warm...

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Trimming Your Dachshund's Nails By Bob Boylan

I hear it time and again, "I won't trim my dachshund's nails because I can't handle the possibility of hurting him." With a little knowledge and patience, it will be a much less scary process for both of you. Your dog will pick up on your emotions, so the more nervous you are, the more nervous your dog will be. So take a breath, relax, and read this article. One grooming step that all dogs need is to have their nails trimmed regularly. This should be started right away when they are just weeks old. That is the responsibility of the breeder to get them used to the process. Depending on when the breeder will let their puppies go home, their nails should have been trimmed at least two or three times already. If you have found...

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Organic, Homemade Dog Food - Good Food in the Nude

You'd have to be living under a rock if you've missed all of the buzz about organic foods. Even your dog's heard about it. A whole pack of folks believe that pesticides, herbicides, human waste, sewage sludge, radiation, genetic modification, and artificial additives have no place in or on our produce. But what about meat? Did you know that your meat - and the meat that you prepare for your dog - can be organic, too? Organic meat is harvested from animals that have been raised without artificial growth hormones or antibiotics, and have not been fed animal by-products. Organic foods provide no more nutritional value than conventional ones, but their attraction is strictly about what's NOT in them. You'll be paying more for less (about...

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Raw Meat Mix - The Unstew

Raise your paw if you like it raw!  1 lb. raw ground meat 2 cups ground or pureed vegetables 2-4 oz. raw organ meat (liver, gizzards, etc.) half cup apple cider vinegar 2-3 cloves garlic 1 T ground kelp half cup plain yogurt 3 eggs with shells palmful of parsley Mix all ingredients (chop, puree, or leave in large chunks, depending on your dog's preference) and store in the refrigerator or freezer. This mixture should account for 20-40% of your dog's daily diet. The remaining 60-80% of your raw-food-eating dog's daily requirement should consist of raw meat and bones (backs, necks, carcasses). These items should range from $0.00 - $2.00 per pound, depending on how friendly you are with your butcher. In raw conclusion... Of...

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Raw Dog Food, or BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food - or - Bones and Raw Food):

Your dog is a wild animal that has been domesticated (some more than others). And, as with humans, any species' best diet is its native one. And a dog's native diet? MEAT. Additionally, many would attest that raw meat is optimal. Unlike humans, dogs are not generally susceptible to things like salmonella and e-coli. You and I might regularly eat raw meat if our systems could handle it - but we need to cook our meat to kill the bacteria that have the potential to devastate our digestive systems. When meat is cooked, proteins, vitamins, and minerals break down and lose their benefit. Raw meat is also high in moisture - it provides a significant amount of your dog's daily water requirement (and that's great for proper kidney function)....

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Homemade Dog Food Recipes...

What would you prefer? A TV dinner, or a homemade stew made by Mom herself? Most of us have eaten both, and have a preference. I can't speak for your mother's cooking ability, but chances are, she can do a bit better than a frozen brick of kinda-food. This example may make it easier to empathize with your dog when you fill his bowl with nuggets of processed corn meal and he glances up your way that saying, "You've got to be kidding me." Or, maybe your best buddy is more than willing to scarf down anything that hits the bowl. In that case, you might want to ask yourself, "Is conventional dog food the best thing for him?" Your dinner choices might be a no-brainer, but choosing the best option for your pet isn't always that easy. He's...

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How To Stop Dogs Eating Dog Poop

The techniques below have proven to be an effective way to stop dogs eating dog poop. You should try one method or combine a few until you break your dog's habit. Remember that unecessary punishment or getting angry with your dog does not work - for this or any other dog behavior problem. Feed well balanced and nutritious meals. Try feeding twice a day at regular times rather than only once. Always keep your dog's living area clean of feces and provide a few stuffed chew toys to keep them occupied. Be sure to adequately exercise and stimulate your dog - mentally and physically. Teach your dog the basic obedience command "leave it". If you have established yourself as the fair and always consistent leader in your owner-dog relationship,...

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Stop Dogs Eating Dog Poop - Dog Coprophagia

How To Stop Dogs Eating Dog Poop Dog Coprophagia is one dog problem that us dog owners hate. To us it's a filthy habit that just doesn't make any sense. I mean why would our much loved pets eat dog or cat poop when we are feeding them perfectly good meals? Dog Coprophagia (eating feces) is most common in puppies up to a year old, but can occur at any stage throughout a dog's life. For such a wide spread problem there hasn't been much research conducted into how to stop our dogs from eating dog poop. The good news though for us dog lovers is that there are many proven techniques or training methods we can call on to correct this habit. If your puppy or older dog has taken a fancy to eating feces, read on... Why Do Dogs Eat Dog or Cat...

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Why Do Dogs Bark? Stop Your Dog From Barking Now!

To express their needs (being bossy). Some dogs are bred to bark (some terriers and hounds). They are staking out their territory. To alert other members of their pack (that's you and your family) of impending danger. When playing, just through sheer excitement - this is a very common type of puppy barking. Barking at other animals. Depending on where you are in the world, it could be squirrels or possums (I'm in Australia - my dogs go crazy at possums). If they are isolated. Some dogs bark excessively when separated from their pack (you and your family). If they are trapped behind some type of barrier like a fence or window. Just for fun! To express dominance (puppies normally test you out at some stage with a display...

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Training A German Short hair Pointer

As mentioned earlier the German Shorthaired Pointer is very intelligent and takes to training with great enthusiasm and skill. All the basic obedience training commands (sit, stay, down, come...) are picked up easily by GSP's. Be sure to use positive reward based training methods with your Pointer - they certainly don't require (or enjoy) any forceful methods based on intimidation and fear. A couple of training issues you will want to get right with a German Shorthaired Pointer are the "come" command (they love to wander off at the dog park!) and how to walk nicely while on leash. Pointers are very strong so you don't want to get involved in a tug of war with your dog while on leash - no one wins in such a game....

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German Shorthaired Pointer Appearance

The German shorthaired pointer is a medium sized dog of about 21 to 25 inches in height, and weighing about 55 to 70 pounds. The females tend to be a bit smaller than males in most cases. GSP's are athletic and should appear streamlined, with powerful hind muscles that aid in quick pursuit or sudden turns during a hunt. To aid in swimming, the breed also has webbed feet. Shorthaired pointers have long, straight muzzles, and high set, broad ears that flop over close to the head. It is also very common to have a shorthaired pointer's tail docked, though this is now illegal in some countries. One of the most interesting things about a German shorthaired pointer's appearance is its coat, which is dense and sleek, and also comes in many...

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German Shorthaired Pointer Training & Breed Information

a sleek, athletic body and a unique dappled coat, the German shorthaired pointer is an instantly recognizable breed. Wonderful both as family and hunting dogs, this breed has an ancient and rich background, and is a worthwhile study for anyone thinking about getting a dog. The earliest dog that the German shorthaired pointer can be traced to is the Spanish pointer, which was introduced in Germany at some point in the 1600's. From this breed the Germans wanted to create a dog that was excellent at both pointing and retrieving and could traverse land and sea. They were really aiming to create an all-purpose hunting machine. It is not entirely known what breeds were mixed with the Spanish pointer to achieve the German shorthaired pointer...

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German Shepherd Training - They Love It!

German Shepherds grow to be big, strong dogs who can be fairly stubborn and will display dominance if allowed to get away with it. They require a firm, consistent and always fair leader to guide them, and set them up for success. German Shepherd training provides the ideal constructive outlet for all of your GSD's energy and focus. German Shepherd training establishes the boundaries which will help your dog to be a reliable and well respected member of society. German Shepherds love the challenge and mental stimulation they receive from obedience training. From German Shepherd potty training right through to advanced obedience training your GSD will prove to be a great student. You'll find that time spent training your German Shepherd...

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German Shepherd Health

As stated above, a reputable German Shepherd Breeder is real asset when finding your lifelong friend. Over the years the German Shepherd Dog has encountered more than a few health problems. With good management and responsible breeding many of these ailments have been eliminated or reduced. Some problems you should at least be aware of are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and shoulder problems. GSD's are also prone to bloat (gastric torsion), degeneration of the spinal cord, haemophilia and numerous skin allergies. It's also important to keep your German Shepherd's teeth and gums healthy - especially as they get older. ...

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German Shepherd Dogs - The All Important Temperament

Unfortunately the quick growth in popularity of the German Shepherd has led to dogs of widely varying temperaments. At its best the GSD is a wonderful companion for any family. The breed is intelligent, observant, self assured, loyal, courageous, protective and eager to please. To give yourself every chance of bringing a well balanced, good natured GSD into your life it's imperative to find a reputable German Shepherd breeder. A good breeder will sell you quality stock that is both physically and mentally sound. The other factors which will come into play when shaping the temperament and character of your dog are your ability to provide proper puppy socialization and German Shepherd training. Puppy kindergarten classes are a great place...

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German Shepherd Training and Breed Information

German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most sought after companion dogs in the world, and for good reason... GSD's (sometimes called Alsations) were first bred in Germany in the late 1800's. We can thank Captain Max Von Stephanitz for developing this fantastic breed, which has spread to all parts of the globe in recent years. The German Shepherd has proven to be the most versatile of all dog breeds, they are basically good at just about anything!   The GSD's high intelligence, strong athletic physique and silky smooth movement has seen the breed excel at all kinds of duties. German Shepherds are trained and considered invaluable in such jobs as seeing eye dogs, police work, search and rescue, herding, protection, bomb and drug detection...

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How To Choose A Dog Breed

So you're ready to bring a new family member into your household - you've decided to get a dog. You understand what is required to become a responsible dog owner - and are prepared to do it. You're now in the process of choosing a dog breed that will suit your lifestyle, personality and requirements. This is an important long term decision for you and anyone you live with. It pays to put in some research to ensure you reach the right decision. When you visualize the type of dog you picture yourself living with for the next 15 years the dog's breed is just one of the many factors you need to consider. It is a vital piece of the puzzle but merely because you pick out a breed with some qualities you desire does not automatically mean...

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Dog Pregnancy - Giving Birth

Take her temperature periodically. It is normally 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit. Once you see it drop into the 97-99 degrees range, and notice it has been the same consistently for 2 readings taken 12 hours apart, this is when you can be sure the delivery will happen within the next 24 hours. Her labor will go through 3 clear stages. The third stage is repeated with the birth of each puppy: Stage One: She will appear restless and have anxiety. She will often separate herself from any attention. No food will interest her, not even her favorite treats. Take her out to go to the bathroom because it may be her last chance before delivery. Stage Two: Her contractions will have begun. A green sac of fluid will protrude from her vulva. The...

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Signs of Dog Pregnancy

Early signs of dog pregnancy include a decreased appetite, a sudden decrease in activity, nipple growth, and behavioral changes. The decreased appetite is similar to a human's morning sickness. If she feels exhausted more than normal, is far more affectionate than her regular behavior or just wants to be left alone, it is because of the hormonal changes triggered by her pregnancy. The tissue and glands underneath her nipples will swell to make room for her baby's milk. Her pregnancy will last between 60-64 days.   After the first few weeks her appetite will reappear and she will rapidly start gaining weight. Her abdomen will thicken and be firm to the touch. Smaller breeds look larger when pregnant than bigger breeds because...

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Dog Pregnancy Time Line - In Heat

To understand dog pregnancy, you should first get a general comprehension of how her body works. Your dog will experience a heat cycle before she is able to get pregnant. Veterinarians suggest that you do not breed her during her first heat period unless it happens after she is 1 year old. Any earlier would stunt the growth of your young female. Most dogs go into heat 2 times a year, but it is common to skip one on occasion. While in heat she will be able to breed with more than the one male. She will be in heat for 3 weeks and her cycle will arrive every 6-9 months. The first thing you will recognize when your dog goes into heat is a swollen vulva and bloody discharge. Eggs are not released yet in this phase of her heat cycle. Male...

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Puppy House Training - Step by Step Process

This method is for when you are at home with your puppy, follow it as closely as you possibly can. Equipment you'll need:   I prefer to use a good quality crate. Ensure that it is comfortable, safe and the right dimensions for your puppy. You can read a detailed crate training article I wrote here - puppy crate training -or-  You can also set up a small pen area with a comfortable dog bed, fresh water and a couple of chew toys (like a food stuffed kong toy). Do not put a doggy toilet in this pen area. Choose the spot outside where you would like your puppy to go to the toilet (eliminate). Keep your puppy in his/her crate, pen area or even tethered to a chair where you are working. Your puppy cannot have free run of the...

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How To Stop Puppy Biting Problems

There a lots of proven training methods to help correct your puppy's behavioral problems. Before I get into the specific techniques you can use to stop your puppy from biting, always keep these general dog behavior training rules in mind: Puppy socialization and bite inhibition training go hand in hand.  Never slap or hit your puppy in the face. This does not work! Your puppy will just think you are playing or could become afraid of you. This may even lead to some much bigger problems than simple puppy nipping. The general rule to stop puppy biting problems is to always encourage acceptable behavior and always discourage unacceptable behavior. To learn more about this fundamental rule of dog obedience training (including how...

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How To Stop A Puppy From Biting

Managing and controlling puppy biting problems can be a major challenge for us dog lovers. Puppy biting or nipping starts out as a bit of fun, but needs to be controlled quickly to avoid ongoing problems. For most young puppies biting is a perfectly natural and essential phase to go through, especially when they are teething. Puppies love to sink their sharp little fangs into just about anything during this teething stage, including the hands and feet of their owners. In some cases it's like you've brought a snappy alligator into your home, instead of the cuddly little puppy you had hoped for. The good news is that most puppies can be trained to regulate and minimize the biting pretty easily. The sooner you start to educate your...

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