Owning a big dog is a huge responsibility that you must not take lightly. The decision to own a big dog will have a huge impact not only on you and your loved ones but also on everyone else in today’s society. If you’re thinking of owning a big dog, think long and hard not only about the decision but also about the consequences of the decision. A dog owner should assume full responsible from the decision, to the type of dog, the number of dogs, the care of the dog for however long that may be. When you own a big dog you will want to be a positive role model of a dog owner and hopefully your dog will also be a positive figure towards big dog ownership.

Many people who grew up around dogs eventually go on to own a dog when they get older and when they have families. However there are some people in society who do not share the same attitude or beliefs about dogs. Many people don’t like how dog’s behave as they smell other dogs, mark territory, get aggressive with others dogs, show pack behavior and leave behind a mess when they have to relieve themselves. There are other people who are terrified or afraid that they may confront an angry big dog while walking, riding or just going about in public places. Other people have cultural and religious beliefs about dogs, others may have had a bad experience with a dog, and some may even have a phobia which makes big dog ownership a negative one.

Big dog ownership is a huge responsibility that has many positive rewards however we cannot ignore the fact that many people have a negative outlook on big dog ownership. Most people who were around dogs when younger still have a positive outlook and go on to own a dog when older. Many people who have not had been around dogs can still encounter positive benefits from dogs and see dog ownership as a positive experience. They can encounter dogs at parks, shows, pet shops, neighborhood, friends, relatives and in general public places.

Most normal pet dogs bring advantages we may not even be aware off. Most big dogs guard there premises with their life. They also do this with members of the household as well. Most big dogs are on duty 24/7 although we may not be aware of this. They are constantly watching out for danger or for the safe return of members of the household. They signal, bark or behave differently when something is about to happen.

Other benefits that dog ownership may bring are for people with illnesses like epileptic fits. Dogs have a heightened sense and can alert the owner that they are about to have a fit. They can also go get assistance for their owner when they are in need of medical assistance via a telephone or through barking and other behaviors. These dogs may not be professionally trained however most dogs have this ability to pick up on things that the human may not.

Guide Dogs for the blind are another way dogs have had a huge impact on a person’s life. A guide dog is a specially trained dog that acts as a sight or mobility aid for the person who may be blind or have other visual impairments. These guide dogs assist the owner in everyday life to obstacles, and other such things which may cause difficulty. They are trained to enable the person to go about their daily life from location to location by various means. Not only does the dog offer mobility they also offer love and a deep companionship and bond that a person without a disability may never understand.

For the normal human who does not have a disability, owning a big dog still has many benefits: Dogs help with loneliness, depression, isolation, stress, anxiety and may other human conditions. Being around a dog or stroking a dog can bring instant calm and happiness. Dogs can also keep us active and fit as we can exercise while giving our pet dog their daily exercise.
Although big dog ownership is a huge responsibility it is quite obvious that the benefits of owning a dog far out way the negative ones.

Did you know your pet dog may be guiding you every minute of your life? Find out what owning a dog can do for you that no human can. For more visit designerdogstop.com/blog designerdogstop.com/blog

Related posts

• Why Do Dogs Bark? (0)
• Which Animals Do You Like? (0)
• What To Do When Dog Barks Are Worse Than Dog Bites (0)
• Watching Birds Eases Isolation (0)
• Training Your Puppy: How to Curb the Barking When He’s ‘Home Alone’ (0)

Tags: loneliness

Whether your dog barks or howls you need to identify why and resolve the problem. Legally your neighbors have a right to peace and quiet.

Below are 7 of the most likely causes and cures:

Separation Anxiety – usually within the first 15 to 20 minutes of separation from their owner dogs will begin to exhibit behaviors such as barking. They may also exhibit pacing, tremors, self-mutilation or excessive biting at body areas like the feet and tail, hiding, and aggression at other animals or people.

Boredom – working dogs such as herding dogs, hound dogs and sporting dogs are bred to do a job and will easily become bore without one. These are typically highly energetic dogs with a need for a great deal of exercise and are best suited with a handler capable of taking them hiking, swimming, running, and playing daily.

Loneliness – some dogs are bred as companions. The Cavalier King Charles was used for curling up in the lap of sick people to keep them warm. Companion dogs have a need to be with their handlers and can become lonely when left at home for extended periods of time.

Communication – barking is a way of communicating with us about their needs. They may be ill, hungry, thirsty, asking to play or in pain. Like us, pain in dogs is not always obvious. Internal pain can easily go undetected unless you make yourself aware of your dog’s habits and communication methods. Different barks can be a signal of different issues. It’s also a way communicate with other neighborhood dogs.

Defending Their Territory - a dog marks his territory to let other animals know when they enter his domain. If a dog sees a person or animal passing by their yard they will bark until the intruder has gone beyond his territory giving him a feeling of success. This reinforces his desire to bark at everyone passing by.

Hunger – dogs of the same size don’t always have the same appetite. You may have to test your dog’s eating habits to determine the correct amount of food to satisfy him. You certainly don’t want your dog to become obese so be sure to balance his appetite with the amount of exercise he gets.

Fear and Phobias – such as thunder or the fireworks on the 4th of July can be frightening to dogs. Barking is their way of letting you know they’re afraid and seeking security. Provide him with a warm, comfortable bed in a dark and quiet corner of the house. They may or may not want your company. Reassure them, in a confident tone of voice, and allow them to stay in the corner for as long as necessary. Soft classical music will help in most cases.

Other Noises – such as sirens, horns, and construction will cause a dog to bark. They believe they’re alerting you to the presence of an intruder.

Indoor dogs – removing the dog’s view of his territory will help. Pull the blinds and move any objects that allow the dog to get near the windows.
Turn on the television, radio, or soothing classical music as a gentle distraction from outside noises and to relax the dog. Leave toys for the dog to chew on and play with while you’re away.

Obedience training - teach the dog to have a positive response to a ringing doorbell and to other signs of intruders.

Each time the doorbell rings make the dog sit and be quiet. Once he has done this for 10 to 20 seconds, reward him with a treat for his good behavior. Never punish the dog for bad behavior. You can ring the doorbell yourself in order to proceed with the training.

When training your dog it’s important that he responds attentively to your commands. When you command him to sit, he should sit with his head forward and not turned to the side to see what’s going on around him.

The Gentle Leader is one of the most popular head collars. It works by applying pressure to the back of the neck, rather than the front, which reduces the dog’s drive to pull forward. This causes the head to go where the rest of the body goes.

Choke collars should never be used. The sharp pull and tightening around the throat can result in a collapsed trachea.

Outdoor dogs - if you have an outdoor dog you will have a much harder time stopping him from barking and getting him a playmate may only result in both dogs barking.

Shock collars must be used carefully to avoid harming the dog. Citronella collars are effective but costly. Both of these methods will work but neither will result in better command of your dog. Obedience training, with you as the handler, is the best way to teach your dog who is in charge and to obey your commands.

Article written by JD Hutchinson
dogbreedcenter.com dogbreedcenter.com

For the Gentle Leader Head Collar and a 190 Day Money Back Guarantee
Visit dogbreedcenter.com/gentle-leader.htm dogbreedcenter.com/gentle-leader.htm

Copyright © 2006 Oh My Barking Dog. This article may be
reprinted on the condition that the writer’s name and web address
are prominently displayed, and left intact.

Related posts

• Why Do Dogs Bark? (0)
• Which Animals Do You Like? (0)
• What To Do When Dog Barks Are Worse Than Dog Bites (0)
• What Are The “Pros And Cons Of Big Dog Ownership?” (0)
• Watching Birds Eases Isolation (0)

Tags: loneliness

Adopting a dog is a big commitment and you need to really think about if you are ready before you start shopping for your new pet. Not only will a dog take up quite a bit of your time but there is a significant financial commitment as well. Here’s some things to consider before adopting a dog.

Do You Have Room For A Dog?

Some dogs need more space than others but all dogs need an area for a bed and maybe even a crate. If you are contemplating a big dog, you might need a fenced in yard or a dog run so he can get enough exercise. Of course, you won’t want your dog to be outside all the time so you need to make sure you have plenty of space inside for your new pet too.

Do You Have Time In Your Schedule For A Dog?

You need to think about how much you are home and when you will be able to let your dog out to do his business or simply to take him for a walk. Aside from daily exercise and feeding, your dog also wants to spend time with you. If you are prone to working late nights and frequent business trips your this could be a problem and your dog could develop some bad habits due to loneliness. It’s not fair to get a dog if you won’t be around for him.

Can Your Family Handle A Dog?

Do you have small children or plan on having them in the near future? Some dogs are not really good with kids so you need to research the type of dog you want carefully. Some smaller dogs are quite fragile and can get hurt easily by well meaning children who are a bit rough and don‘t understand about dogs that are small. Make sure you will be able to supervise if your dog will be around kids.

Are You Ready For The Expense Of A Dog?

Depending on the type of dog you want, you can get one pretty inexpensively at the animal shelter. If you want a purebred dog, it can cost you over $1000 depending on the breed you prefer. But there are many more expenses to dog ownership aside from the initial expense of the dog.
One important expense is to make sure your dog gets the proper veterinary care including checkups, shots, neutering or spaying, flea and tick control, and dental care. Hopefully you will not have to spring for any surgery or emergency vet care but you should be prepared in case you do.

Another big expense is food. Depending on how much your dog eats, food can be a bit expensive because, of course, you want to feed him a good quality food. Additional expenses include:

- Food and water dish

- Collar or harness and leash

- Dog ID tag with owner information

- Dog bed

- Grooming supplies

- Toys and treats

- A good quality crate that is roomy enough for your dog to move around in and comfortable for sleeping

- You should keep your dog inside, but if you can’t a solid windproof and waterproof dog house is a must.

- Dog clothing such as sweaters, booties, rain coats

Lee Dobbins is a pomeranian owner and dog lover. Visit her site pomeranian-pages.com Pomeranian-Pages.com for more pomeranian-pages.com/articles2.html dog care articles and training tips.

Related posts

• Top Ten Coolest Toys and Accessories For Small Dogs (0)
• Top 10 benefits of Natural and Holistic Pet Care (0)
• Thinking Of Getting A Pet? (0)
• My Dog Won’t Stop Digging - What Can I Do? (0)
• How to Stop Your Dog Digging Behavior (0)

Tags: groom, loneliness

Dog day care is growing in popularity. It started in California in 1987 and has been spreading across the country every since. Dog day care centers are all over now. Great way for your dog to spend the day, getting exercise, interaction with other dogs and people. Find out more about dog day care!

I must admit it’s not something I was aware of. Of course, I know about kennels - a place to take your dog if you just can’t take him with you on a trip but not dog day care. Isn’t it child day care? Anyway, one day when I was talking with my son he mentioned he was taking his dog to dog day care the next day. What’s that? Anyway he said he dog loved going there and he even had a dog friend. Well, I had to look into this and so here is what I came up with.

Dog day care is much like day care for children. You drop your dog off in the mornings and pick him up after work. Your dog gets to socialize with other dogs, gets outdoor exercise, have activities, play games like fetch. They even have nap time! They have tug toys, balls and toys to climb on. Some places have couches, chairs and even bean bags for them. They even can attend an obedience class.

These centers are generally in a large open space like a renovated warehouse. They have an area for large dogs and one for small dogs. They will also have a large outdoor area.

Some centers have cameras going that you can get on the internet and see what your dog is doing. Do child care centers have that?

These dog day care centers are great for people who feel guilty about spending so much time away from their dogs. They offer dog owners options giving their dog a day of play rather than boredom and loneliness at home. They get to interact with other dogs, get exercise and have fun.

You know some dogs get so lonely and bored at home alone they get into mischief like chewing on shoes, furniture and whatever they can find. Some dogs suffer from separation anxiety so this would be a great way to help them by giving them dogs to play with and people around.

Check out these factors when choosing a dog day care center.

Are the employees trained?
Some have been trained in dog behavior, first aid and obedience training.

Is the facility clean?
Is there an area specifically for the dogs to potty? How does the center smell?

Is the facility overcrowded?

Is the staff to dog ratio good?
One staff member to every 10-15 dogs is optimun.

Does it look like the staff enjoys the dogs?

Is there a security fence around the outdoor areas?
Are they high enough to prevent dogs from jumping over?

Midday meals?

Do they give medications?

To get in a center your dog needs:

Current vaccinations.

Flea prevention

Sprayed/neutered

Dog must get along with other dogs.

Some centers have other services like overnight boarding, dog training and grooming facilities. Some will even pick your dog up and home and return him at night.

I found cost from $15.00 a day to $35.00 a day plus weekly rates so shop around.

These dog day care centers do provide a safe and healthy atmosphere with lots of interaction with people and other dogs.

Sandy has a web site on small dog breeds with articles on choosing a dog, bringing puppy home, choosing a breeder and vet, hypoallergenic dogs, dog good with children and seniors and articles on a number of small dog breeds.

Related posts

• Working Dog Breeds: The Top Ten Dogs Of This Group (0)
• Training Your Dog For A Happy Healthy Life (0)
• Toy Dog Breeds: The Top Ten Dogs Of This Group (0)
• Toy and Small Dog Clothes (0)
• Top Ten Coolest Toys and Accessories For Small Dogs (0)

Tags: dog breed, dog breeds, dog training, groom, hypoallergenic dog, loneliness

We bought our daughter Julie a St. Bernard five years ago. Each evening “Mackie” climbed up on my lap to take a nap (even after she was full grown)! A couple years later Mackie died of a kidney disease. We buried her under her favorite tree, made a marker, and thanked God for the wonderful gift of Mackie. But each of us experienced grief and pain over the loss of our beloved dog. This article will give you several guidelines to help you experience good grief as you suffer the loss of your pet.

As I share the following guidelines to help you grieve the loss of your pet, please keep in mind that each person’s grief process is as unique as the relationship between that pet and its owner. However, pet grief can be good grief.

1. Just as in the loss of a spouse, parent, child, or other significant person, you must ACKNOWLEDGE THE LOSS of your beloved dog or pet. I know that sounds obvious, but denial is a powerful emotion during times of significant loss. In fact, pretending that you are not hurting during times of significant loss can actually be detrimental to your physical and emotional health. There really is such a thing as “Good Grief.” Grief is a healthy emotional process. Admit that your cherished dog or pet is gone. Don’t let others trivialize the importance of that dog in your life. A couple quotes will show you that we recognized many years ago how important dogs and other pets are to us. For example, Roger Caras once said, “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.” Josh Billings noted, “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” And Will Rogers once quipped, “If there are no dogs in Heaven, then when I die I want to go where they went.”

2. GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO GRIEVE. The fact is that people often invest as much love and affection in a pet as they do in many personal relationships. (Don’t laugh: dogs miss you when you’re gone, dogs never complain about your cooking, dogs don’t criticize your friends, dogs don’t shop, dogs mean it when they kiss you, dogs think you sing great, and a dog’s parents never visit). Other people might scoff, be confused, or misunderstand, especially those who have not experienced a loss of this kind. Don’t worry about what others think or feel; this is a time to be true to yourself. Allow yourself the time and freedom to be sad, to cry, and to miss your friend and companion. Tell yourself it’s OK – because it is. Pet grief can be good grief.

3. THANK GOD FOR THE GIFT OF YOUR PET. God created the animals that become our cherished pets. Good grief comes when we begin to recognize that God is the giver of all good gifts, and dogs are definitely good gifts. Do something symbolic to give thanks and show respect for this wonderful gift from God. Cheri and I buried Mackie and made a makeshift concrete headstone in the ground over her grave. Just the other day my son went out and found the marker in the woods, cleaned it off, and spent a moment remembering Mackie fondly. Pets matter! You can give a donation to an animal shelter in honor of your pet. Other meaningful acts people have shared with me include writing a special poem or story, commissioning a painting of their pet from a photograph, or framing an enlarged photo to hang on the wall. A fairly new phenomenon is the Pet Cemetery, where you can actually bury your pet, place a marker, and bring flowers. The bottom line is this; it was your pet, and it is your pet grief - do something that is meaningful for you. It will make you feel good about yourself and your pet, and it will assist you in bringing good grief to your grief process.

4. SHARE YOUR PAIN. Pet grief hurts. Talk to someone you trust about what you are feeling. Grief is a painful process; don’t go through it alone. Most of us know someone who has experienced the pain of pet loss. Talk to them. There is a healing process (Good Grief) that occurs when we hear ourselves talking about our pain, our grief, our loss. And there is empathy when two people can share similar experiences. It helps to hear someone else say “I know how you feel, I’ve been there too.” It helps to know you are not alone in your feelings. If there is no one you can talk to in your immediate family or circle of friends, consider talking to your pastor, or joining a pet loss support group in your community. Check the internet, and you may be able to find a pet loss “blog” group to join.

5. CELEBRATE YOUR MEMORIES. Pet grief can be good grief. When you think about the relationship you had with your pet, what is it that brings a smile to your face? Think on those things. Get out the pictures of your child and pet dressed alike for Halloween. Or the one of you and your pet covered in soap suds and soaking wet during bath time. Franklin P. Jones says “Anybody who doesn’t know what soap tastes like never washed a dog.” Or remember all the “tricks” your pet used to do just to please you. Recall those winter evenings relaxing together by the fire, or the summer days romping in the park. I remember opening the front door one day and finding my St. Bernard sitting right there, looking up at me, with a huge “bubble” poking out both sides of her mouth – looking like she chewing bubble gum! It’s a scene I will never forget. That’s Good Grief! “We give dog’s time we can spare, space we can spare and love we can spare. And in return, dogs give us their all. It’s the best deal man has ever made” - M. Facklam.

6. BE A VOLUNTEER. Pet grief can consume you if you let it. This is a great opportunity to volunteer some time and energy to help someone else. You can volunteer some time at your local animal shelter. You could help feed the homeless at the local soup kitchen. Be a volunteer at your local church. And the list goes on. Volunteering is a healthy way to give something back to your church or community. Helping your fellow man is a good thing, and it makes you feel good about who you are. It takes your mind off your pet loss and the emptiness you feel, and helps the process of good grief.

7. RELY ON YOUR PERSONAL FAITH. Pet grief is just as real as losing a person. Lean on your spiritual belief system. The scriptures tell us that God loves us and wants to comfort us during times of grief and loss. Does God care about animals? Is God concerned with my pet dying? You bet He is! Does God really care about my pet grief? Absolutely! The Bible says God knows when a sparrow falls out of the sky. And it says every hair on your head is numbered, so He cares about you very much! During this time of grief and loss, reconnect or recommit to your personal faith. Spend some extra time in devotion, worship, meditation, and prayer. God’s comfort and help during this time will help you experience good grief.

8. DON’T REPLACE YOUR PET UNTIL YOU ARE READY. Statistics show that after the loss of a spouse, many people remarry too soon, because of the fear of loneliness. Pet grief can cause the same mistakes. Don’t be too anxious to fill the void left by your precious pet. Remember that every relationship is unique, just as every person and dog are unique. Pet grief can be immense for some, and can take significant time. How soon should you get a new pet? Experts disagree, but estimates range from a few weeks to a year. They do agree, however, that you should be sure you are emotionally ready to explore a totally new relationship before you get a new pet. They also agree that the vast majority of people can and do benefit from getting another pet, as long as they cherish each new pet relationship as unique and special. Do not expect your next pet to be like your last, but love the next one just as much. Each one is a fantastic, life-changing experience. And a part of the process of good grief is to replace that love relationship you had with that dog, with another dog or pet.

We all know that dogs and other pets are not human, but they certainly do bring a great deal of joy and happiness to our lives. (Andy Rooney says “The average dog is a nicer person than the average person.”) The loss of a beloved pet should not be taken lightly or dismissed as unimportant. If you have lost a cherished dog or pet; if you are experiencing Pet Grief; use the suggestions we’ve outlined here to experience good grief, cherish the memories, and prepare yourself for your next awesome pet/owner relationship. Then go out and find that amazing dog or pet that can benefit from the love and affection only you can give.

Danny Presswood, 2006 All rights Reserved.

Danny Presswood is a retired US Army Combat (Airborne) Chaplain. After traveling 17 countries and 10 islands, he and his wife Cheri settled in the wooded Ozarks hills of SW MO. Presently working on his Doctorate, Danny writes the Feature Articles for K-9 Outfitters, A Division of Damascus Road Enterprises, which offers a plethora of AWESOME discount, luxury, unique, and Handmade in the USA Online Pet Supplies. You’ll find K-9 Outfitters at Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com Damascus-Road-Enterprises.com

Related posts

• Why Do Dogs Bark? (0)
• Which Animals Do You Like? (0)
• What To Do When Dog Barks Are Worse Than Dog Bites (0)
• What Are The “Pros And Cons Of Big Dog Ownership?” (0)
• Watching Birds Eases Isolation (0)

Tags: loneliness