Saturday, March 15, 2008

The Benefits of a Lighted Dog Collar

There are few things in this world that can replace the happiness that your dog can give you. They can comfort you when you’re sad or sick and they will never abandon you, no matter what type of person you may be. A pet is one of the most loyal and loving friends that you can ever find and as a result, you want the best for them. You would want to ensure the safety and well being of your dog and one of the best devices that can do that is a lighted dog collar.As its name indicates, this device is a dog collar that is visible in the pitch black black of night. It is made out of a glow-in-the-dark material that allows it to be useful in many situations. A light dog collar is perfect for dogs trained in K9 law enforcement, search and rescue, and is highly recommended by trainers and veterinarians.Since they are illuminated, these collars are guaranteed to keep your dog safe. Dogs can be smart in figuring out how to slip out of the house. If your house is located near a road or in the city, there is a real possibility that a car may hit your dog, especially if it’s nighttime. A lighted dog collar is bright enough to enable a driver to see and avoid hitting your beloved dg.You can find a lighted dog collar in your local pet store or on online pet websites. The cost of this device will vary depending on the brand, color, style, and size that you choose for your dog. Accidents can happen any time, so it is certainly a safe and smart purchase.Aside from safety, this pet gadget also offers you the benefit of identification. A lighted dog collar is not only good for hooking tags on your dog; they can also serve as a description that you can use in case your dog gets lost. They are noticeable enough for people to recall, if they happen to have seen your pooch. This is very valuable, especially if your dog is a mixed breed because mixes are tough to describe.You can also choose a unique collar design for your dog. You can buy a lighted dog collar that has bones around the strip or you can purchase one with a paw print design. This enables you to give your dog a cute or innocent look. Even if style and fashion are not important assets of a dog, they can surely make you smile. But more importantly, the security and safety that a lighted dog collar provides makes everything else just a bonus.

About The Author Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Lighted Dog Collar. Get more information by visiting http://www.petsnewsonline.com/pets--animals/pet-news/the-benefits-of-a-lighted-dog-collar.html.

5 Essential Dog Accessories Shopping Tips

5 Essential Dog Accessories Shopping Tips
We accessorize many things. Cellphones, computers, homes, cars and PDAs are just some of the things that can be accessorized. Some people use accessories to emphasize the beauty of a thing; others use accessories to make things easier to use; still others use accessories to protect an item against harmful elements.

Accessories are not only limited to objects; in fact, there are accessories for living things, dogs for instance. There are a variety of dog accessories available -- ranging from accessories to enhance the appearance of a dog, accessories for pampering dogs and accessories that can both help dog and its owner.

If you're a dog lover, shopping for dog accessories is an important aspect of taking care of your pet. In fact, many dog lovers experience a great deal of satisfaction shopping for their beloved pets in the same way they do when shopping for their loved ones.

With a plethora of dog accessories in the market today, finding and choosing the best dog accessories for your pet can be a bit of a challenge. So here are some shopping tips to keep in mind when you're looking into buying dog accessories for your pooch.

Tip #1: When shopping for a dog collar...

Dog collars range from plain to fancy. However, more than the look of the dog collar, it's important that you choose one that properly fits your dog. The perfect dog collar for your dog is one wherein the space between your dog's neck and the collar is about two fingers wide. Never buy a dog collar based on how it looks. How a dog collar fits your dog should be your top priority.

Tip #2: When shopping for a dog leash...

Many types of dog leashes are available in the market. However, when shopping for a leash for your dog, choose the one that is appropriate to the size of your dog. If you have a big dog, get a dog leash that is wide and strong enough to hold him. In the same manner, don't get a big leash if you have a small dog. When choosing a dog leash, it's always best to go with one that costs a bit higher. Cheap dog leashes usually are of cheap quality.

Tip #3: When shopping for food and water bowls...

Choose food and water bowls that won't easily tip over. If you are considering buying a watering system that gives dogs a supply of drinking water for a longer period of time, choose a size that is appropriate for your dog. Water should always be fresh and clean so make sure that your dog can consume fairly quickly the water in the watering system you are about to purchase.

Tip #4: When shopping for dog toys...

Dogs are playful animals. When shopping for dog toys, consider those that your dog can gnash, chew or bite. Instead of chewing on slippers and shoes, these particular dog toys will encourage your dog to be more behaved. When choosing dog toys for your dog, consider those that are just the right size for him. Avoid dog toys that are too small; your dog may accidentally swallow small dog toys and choke. On the other hand, don't get a dog toy that is too large for your pet that he is unable to lift it.

Tip #5: When shopping for doghouses...

Your dog needs to have his own place outside of your home. A doghouse will protect your pet from the elements. Thus, when shopping for a doghouse, choose the one that is appropriate for your dog's size. The doghouse should be big enough to protect your dog from the harsh rays of the sun, rain and snow as well as be comfortable enough for your dog to live in if you ever leave your dog alone for long periods of time.

About The Author Shannon LueckI have owned dogs for most of my life and can't imagine living without them. I've put together a site with free information about dogs for dog owners. Please visit: http://www.adogownersdogsite.com/Guidelines_for_Choosing

Choosing The Perfect Bed For Your Dog

Anyone with a pet dog knows that these lovable creatures love to curl up snugly or stretch out nonchalantly at their favorite spot and snooze. Right after an energetic game of catch or past feeding time, dogs usually retreat to their own space and sleep to regain their strength and liveliness. Dogs love a warm, comfortable and quiet place to rest. Puppies love to be cuddled and usually dig the couch or his master’s lap when about to nod off into dog dreamland. Thus, it is a necessity to have a nice, comfortable and perfectly-sized bed for your dog. Your doggy will absolutely appreciate their own cozy sleeping and napping spot. Dogs are creatures of habit and will typically sleep at the same spot, so a comfy dog bed at their own corner is a great gift that your dog will be grateful for.

1. Assortments Of Dog Beds

Of course you can create your own dog bed: a wooden box with a pillow or blanket is an easy and inexpensive alternative. There are, however, a huge assortment of dog beds available at pet supply stores that will perfectly suit your dog. Really now, Fido can’t choose a bed for himself so here are some tips that can be useful when buying a dog bed.

2. Pick A Bed That Will Suit Your Dog's Personality And Sleeping Habits

You should know the type of bed your dog would be most comfortable in. dog beds come in many different styles like round nests, donut or cuddler beds, round fluffy balls or pillows, square flat mattresses and sofa shaped beds sized just right for a dog. Does your dog love to curl up into one big fur ball? Then a cuddler, similar to a pillow with sides, would be appropriate. If he’s a sprawling sleeper, a larger mat would be excellent. Some dogs love to sleep on their bellies; a rectangular-style dog bed would be perfect for them.

3. Your Dog's Size

The size of your dog is an important consideration. A small, thinly padded bed would be adequate for toy dogs like Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus. In comparison, Dobermans and Huskies would need larger, heavily padded beds where they can stretch out comfortably. Whatever size your dog is, pick a dog bed that is slightly larger than him. This is to allow room for growth, especially for puppies, and allow room for movement.

4. Easily Washable

Make sure the dog bed is made of removable and washable materials. It will definitely get dirty and smelly, so it is important that you can easily wash it anytime. Make sure too that the material is appropriate for the dog's fur. Look for machine washable bedding if at all possible.

5. Get Cedar

- Look for a dog bed that is filled with cedar: cedar repels fleas - Refillable cedar-filled dog beds will make your pet happier and less stressed - Make sure you don’t have an allergy to cedar

6. Location, Location, Location

Where will you put your dog bed? This is also an important consideration when choosing a bed for your pet so you can pick the right material. Some dog beds are more suitable for an indoor location like in the bedroom or living room instead of outdoors, like in a porch for instance. Climate and local weather are important factors to consider as well. Choose a dog bed that will provide warmth for your dog in winter and air circulation during summer.

7. Quality

Durability is also essential. The dog bed must be able to withstand Fido’s penchant for chewing as well as his sharp claws. As we all know most dogs are messy, so make sure the dog bed you choose is up to the challenge. Pick a dog bed cover that is washable and made from durable fabric. Consider the color and style of the dog bed too. You might want your dog’s bed to complement your walls or furniture. You should know that there are dog beds that can accommodate a variety of your dog’s special needs. Heated dog beds and orthopedic foam dog beds are available and are excellent choices for older and arthritic dogs. Your dog will definitely appreciate his own bed in his own little space. The health and well-being of your dog will depend not only on diet or exercise but also on how much comfortable sleep and rest he gets.

For more great dog bed related articles and resources check out http://dogbedstop.comArticle Source: Dog Articles - Dog Training, Dog Breeds, Dog Health and More

Benefits of a Dog Toy Box

Dog toys are a very important part of owning a dog or puppy. Since dogs enjoy chewing, the purpose of dog toys is to provide your pet with appropriate items to chew so he doesn't chew other things around your home. Also important is that dog toys, such as balls, frisbees, sterilized bones, dog stuffed animals, rope toys, etc., are all helpful in staving off boredom in dogs… an important aspect to help prevent mischief.

In addition to making sure your dog has plenty of different types of toys and bones to keep busy with, another aspect is making sure the dog toys are accessible to him. This may sound simple, but over the course of time the toys often end up under the sofa, out in the yard or otherwise lost around the home. Next thing you know, your dog may be right back to being bored and mischievous, or at the very least, have no toys to play with even though they are "somewhere around here."

The solution? A dog toy box. It doesn't need to be fancy at all… a sturdy plastic one will do. It should be low enough for your dog to reach the toys and should be kept in a central location in your home where your dog spends time. Then, you can occasionally go around the house, picking up all the dog toys and returning them to the box so they are easy for your pet to find (and your home stays tidier too).

Another benefit of the dog toy box is that it creates an additional activity for your pet. Now, he can not only have fun playing with the toys, but can also enjoy the additional stimulation of looking through and taking them out of the box.

For puppies, the toy box is also particularly helpful because you can simply pick up the box and bring the toys easily into the room your puppy will be spending time in. Then there will be no excuse for him to be chewing or stealing other things and with the toys at your fingertips, it's easier to correct and redirect if an inappropriate item is in his mouth.

Another toy tip: rotate the toys occasionally. Instead of keeping the same toys in the box all the time, some of which your pet may have become bored with, you can occasionally go through the toys and put away the ones he hasn't played with in a while. Replace with a few new toys. Then, when he becomes tired of those toys, pull the old ones out of your cabinet and your dog's interest will be renewed. This is a great way to keep your dog interested in the toys, while also saving money by not always having to buy new ones all the time.

With a little creativity and effort on your part, your dog will quickly learn to go to the box when he wants to play with something, helping to stave off boredom and discourage mischief!

Article written by Lori Verni

Lori Verni is a freelance writer, Certified Master Trainer and owner of Best Paw Forward Dog Education in Holly Springs, NC. She also proudly brings you all of the free articles on FreeDogTrainingInfo.com, and has a book available: Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies & Adult Dogs. The book can be purchased at www.FreeDogTrainingInfo.com

Keywords: dog toys, dog beds, dog collars, pet supplies, dog training, dog health

Winter & Orthopedic High Performance Shoes


AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE !OUR SHOES STAY ON !I have seen other shoes as well... what makes yours worth buying over others? THE RUBBER, THE FIT, THE EASE OF USE, THE ONLY ONES THAT STAY ON, FUNCTIONALITY, THE DURABILITY, THE COMFORT LEVEL FOR THE DOG AND THE PEACE OF MIND FOR YOU KNOWING THAT YOU INDEED DID BUY THE BEST WORLDWIDE !!! AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE !OUR SHOES STAY ON !I have seen other shoes as well... what makes yours worth buying over others? THE RUBBER, THE FIT, THE EASE OF USE, THE ONLY ONES THAT STAY ON, FUNCTIONALITY, THE DURABILITY, THE COMFORT LEVEL FOR THE DOG AND THE PEACE OF MIND FOR YOU KNOWING THAT YOU INDEED DID BUY THE BEST WORLDWIDE !!!WHY DOG SHOES ?NEO-PAWS ™ Shoes/dog boots protect against broken glass, burning cigarettes, electrical shock, hot asphalt, allergens, foxtails, burrs, ticks, rocks, metal objects, salt, dirt, mud, snow, ice or any abrasive surface. They protect hardwood floors, leather upholstery, boat seats and swimming pool liners from dog nails.The dog shoes were designed to prevent burning pads and cuts and to comfort hip dysphasia during walks and sporting activities. They also protect against injury from dragging paws. The dog shoes offer shock absorption and prevent dogs from slipping on icy or wet surfaces as well as hardwood and tile floors.NEO-PAWS™ fit any breed or size of dog. So when you're choosing the right shoes (and the left) think .... NEO-PAWS™ !WHY HIGH PERFORMANCE?: These shoes are the ideal rain and snow shoe, as well as being perfect for water sports and protection from wounds caused by dragging paws. They are orthopedic and recommended daily by veterinarians worldwide for paw injuries and to comfort hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy and arthritis . This is the shoe of choice for walks, sporting activities in water and in the winter season.The upper is of a water-resistant neoprene material and the sole is made by an injection molding process which resembles that of a running shoe. The rubber is formed to cover the entire paw area of the shoe and rise around the seams. Heel reinforcement has been added for maximum durability. This process has been developed for your dog's ultimate comfort and protection.If added quality, strength and performance are required, High Performance shoes are the footwear of choice. They are more rugged resulting in a longer life span. A dog does not have to be an athlete to wear the High Performance shoes.Used and recommended by veterinarians. Black only.The shoes are sold in PAIRS = 2 SHOESFront paws and back paws can be different sizes!!The best way to size your dog is to have her step on a piece of paper and then trace around her front paw and then also her back paw. Once you have done that measure the length and width of the oval and that is the size for your dog.Still not sure what size to order for your dog?

Send me an email at cs@lucysdoghouse.net with the breed and size of your dog in lbs.

xs length 1.5" width 1"
xs+ length 1.75" width 1.25"
s length 2" width 1.5"
s+ length 2.25" width 1.75"
m length 2.5" width 2"
m+ length 2.75" width 2.25"
l length 3.25" width 2.5"
l+ length 3.5" width 2.75"
xl length 3.75" width 3"
xl+ length 4" width 3.25"
xxl length 5" width 3.75"

Keywords: pet supplies, dog shoes, dog collars, dog beds, dog toys

Conditioned Response Principle

One of the key principles of dog training is the principle of “conditioned response.” The idea is that you can set up your dog’s environment in such a way that it learns to abandon its destructive behavior through its own mistakes rather than by your instruction. Below are two common examples of problem dog behaviors and how the princple of "conditioned response" can be used to resolve them.1. My dog is digging up my yard. How can I stop this destructive behavior? First, you must purchase some chicken wire from your local hardware store and some styptic powder from you local pet store. Before you begin, you must observe your dog’s favorite digging spots and pinpoint them in your mind. Then, you must remove your dog from the yard, and you must not allow it to watch you as you set up its environment. Cut about a 4 by 4 foot section of chicken wire and plant it under the dirt in all the locations where you dog likes to dig. Once you’re finished, release your dog and wait for the conditioned response. More than likely, your dog will go back to the locations where it dug before and proceed to dig as usual. Except now, it’s going to learn a novel lesson. Namely, that digging is going to cause it serious discomfort and pain. Once your dog associates the condition (digging) with the negative response (pain) it will automatically stop its destructive digging habit. There is, however, one drawback to this technique. If you have an aggressive digger, then you should monitor your dog for any cuts or bruises. That’s where the styptic powder comes in. If you notice a cut in your dog’s paws, gently pour the styptic powder on the cut and allow it to cauterize the bleeding. Within a matter of days, you can conditon your dog to abandon its destructive digging habit by using the principle of "conditioned response."2. My dog chews my furniture, my shoes, and my valuable belongings. What can I do to end this destructive behavior? Go to your local pet store, and purchase a spray bottle of bitter apple. Remove your dog from your house and do not allow it to see you set up its environment. Spray your valuables (i.e. furniture, shoes, and socks) with bitter apple and place them in locations that your dog can easily access. Then allow it to come in and let the trap do the rest. As usual, your dog will go back to its old habit and start to chew its favorite shoe or furniture. But now, it’s going to get a bitter surprise. Your dog will associate the condition (chewing) with the negative response (bad taste) and it will stop its destructive chewing habit. It's important to remember, however, that all dogs need to chew, so you must repeat this process a second time. Now, you must place your dog’s favorite chew toys next to the items that were sprayed with bitter apple. This time, your dog will be reconditioned to chew its own toys rather than your valuable possessions. Thus, by conditioning your dog, you can positively reinforce a good habit (chewing designated toys) over an undesirable one (chewing your valuable possessions). As you can see, by applying the principle of “conditioned response” you can teach your dog exactly what you want without ever getting frustrated with the training process.

About The Author Armen T. Ghazarians offers advice and articles for those interested in training their dogs like the professionals. His blog http://www.newdogtrainingsecrets.com


Keywords: pet meds, dog toys, dog beds, dog collars, pet supplies, dog training, dog bowls

Canine Genius


Named in honor of genius Leonardo da Vinci, Leo marks a renaissance in dog toy design! On its own Leo is a great bouncing, fetching, tugging and challenging treat-dispensing toy. You can also link multiple Leo toys together! When the dog toys are connected, the treats inside can move from one toy to another. Design puzzles specifically for your dog's individual problem-solving level. Completely hollow, and made from a durable and irresistibly chewy space-age material, Leo is loads of fun. Large, medium, and small dogs love playing with Leo! Leo comes in "Regular" for medium to soft chewers, and "Tough" for medium+ chewers.