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	<title>Dog Training Tips</title>
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	<description>The best dog training tips online!</description>
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		<title>How to End Problem Dog Growling</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-growling/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-growling/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:09:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[There are some situations in which you want your dog to growl.  If he hears a noise you cannot hear, he growls to alert you to the possibility that trouble is afoot.  If you’re walking, and someone is bothering you, you hope your dog will growl at that scary stranger, and send him running in... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dog-growling/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_906" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 248px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1h"><img class="size-medium wp-image-906 " title="Dog Growling" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/dog-growling-238x300.jpg" alt="Dog Growling" width="238" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Your Dog&#39;s Growling Problems!</p></div>
<p>There are some situations in which you want your dog to growl.  If he hears a noise you cannot hear, he growls to alert you to the possibility that trouble is afoot.  If you’re walking, and someone is bothering you, you hope your dog will growl at that scary stranger, and send him running in the opposite direction.</p>
<p>On the other hand, there are some times when growling is inappropriate.  If your dog growls when it is time to eat, or if he growls to guard his toys or his bed from you; or if he growls at you when you tell him to do something he would rather not do, then that is a problem.</p>
<p>Before we look at how to end problematic growling, let’s take a look at why dogs growl – after all, the first step to solving a problem is to understand it!</p>
<h3>Why Do Dogs Growl?</h3>
<p>Dogs are sentient beings, with a wide range of emotions and feelings.  Growling is a type of vocalization that dogs make to express themselves.   Usually, dogs growl in response to unfamiliar situations or stress, and they also growl as a warning.  They growl if they are angry, and sometimes they growl to assert their dominance over another animal, or over a human they do not respect.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1h">Discover How You Can STOP Your Dog&#8217;s Growling Problems Today!</a></p>
<p>Sometimes, dogs growl while they are playing.  You might have witnessed this if you have played a game of tug with your dog, or seen him playing with other dogs.</p>
<p>In order to understand why your dog is growling, you should look at the whole situation, not just think, “Oh no!  My dog is growling!”  Look at his body language.  Is he looking happy and playful, or is he looking alert, or could he be glaring with his hackles up and his tail held out stiffly behind him?  If you are unfamiliar with dog body language, then you should learn more – the insight you will gain will help you with many situations!</p>
<h3>Ending Problem Growling</h3>
<p>Now that you know that not all growling is bad, you will want to correct any aggression based growling by asserting your position as the alpha.  This does not mean that you want to hit or kick or your dog – you will only make him angrier, and he may bite.</p>
<p>Do not try to assert yourself as alpha in response to a growl.  Instead, consider hiring a dog trainer, or take your dog to obedience classes.  Make the time you spend together positive, and help your dog understand that you are the pack leader.  This helps to alleviate the stress your dog could be feeling, and it can stop problem growling.  You want to look at the forest, not the trees!</p>
<p>Second, every member of your family should be superior to your dog.  He should respond to commands from even the youngest children, and he should do so happily.  Be sure commands are clear and consistent, and eventually, you will have a much happier, better behaved dog on your hands.</p>
<p>Third, be sure that kids respect the dog’s right not to have his hair, ears, or tail pulled.  Kids should know how to approach the dog, and they should never yell at, hit, or kick the dog.  If your kids can’t respect your dog, then it is time to find him a new home where he will be comfortable and happy.</p>
<p>Last, be sure your dog is not growling out of discomfort.  If your dog has a painful, underlying medical condition, he may be growling when he is touched, because touches hurt.  He could even have a neurological condition, particularly if he is elderly.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1h">Discover How You Can STOP Your Dog&#8217;s Growling Problems Today!</a></p>
<p>By understanding why dogs growl, and knowing what to do about it, you can stop your dog from growling for the wrong reasons.  If growling continues, hire a trainer – the problem will stop much more quickly!<br />
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		<title>Why Does My Dog Do That?  Dog Behavior 101</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-behavior-101/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-behavior-101/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Jun 2011 14:13:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Why do dogs have wet noses?  What’s up with those whiskers and wagging tails?  Why does my dog bark or growl?  Why does he sniff other dogs’ behinds, and why does he hump my neighbor’s leg? Dogs are a lot of fun to have around, and they do some pretty funny things.  Let’s take a... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dog-behavior-101/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_895" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/deliciousdogdiet"><img class="size-medium wp-image-895" title="Dog Behavior" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/dog-behavior-300x199.jpg" alt="Dog Behavior" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Get Your Dog to Live Longer and Healthier Lives when You Put Them On A Raw Food Diet</p></div>
<p>Why do dogs have wet noses?  What’s up with those whiskers and wagging tails?  Why does my dog bark or growl?  Why does he sniff other dogs’ behinds, and why does he hump my neighbor’s leg?</p>
<p>Dogs are a lot of fun to have around, and they do some pretty funny things.  Let’s take a look at some common dog behaviors, and answer some common questions.</p>
<h3>Why is My Dog Humping Random Objects?</h3>
<p>Unless your dog is an unneutered male, mating with an intact female in heat, then he or she is engaging in the behavior we call “humping” as a means of domination.  You’ll see male dogs humping each other, females humping females, and females humping males.  This activity is just a means of asserting dominance.  Some dogs hump their toys, and some hump the furniture.  Some hump legs – and when that happens, it’s time to call in the dog trainer!   It’s up to you to decide where to draw the line when it comes to humping.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/deliciousdogdiet">The RAW Dog Food Diet Will Make Your Dog Healthier, Happier And They&#8217;ll Love You All The More For It!</a></p>
<h3>Why Is My Dog Wagging His Tail and Growling?</h3>
<p>Isn’t a wagging tail always a sign of a happy dog?  Not always.  If your dog’s tail is wagging very stiffly at the tip as he is growling, he is giving a stern warning.  If he tucks his tail between his legs and wags it, then he is scared.  If he is wagging and smiling (watch for it!) he is overjoyed about something.</p>
<h3>Should My Dog Have a Wet Nose, or a Dry Nose?</h3>
<p>Dogs cannot sweat, so they cool themselves off by panting, and their nose also gets wet when they’re very hot.  Don’t worry too much about the state of your dog’s nose, unless it is hot and dry, and he is lethargic, or unless he has a case of the sniffles.  If either of these two things happens, your dog could be sick.</p>
<h3>Should I Cut My Dog’s Whiskers?</h3>
<p>The answer: Absolutely not!  Whiskers are very sensitive, and they help a dog to find his way in the world.  Imagine how you would feel if your sense of touch was inhibited for some reason.  Whiskers are part of your dog’s senses, and you should never cut them.</p>
<h3>Why is My Dog Digging?</h3>
<p>Digging is a natural dog behavior.  You can help put a stop to it by giving your dog plenty of things to do, and providing lots of stimulation for her.  You can even create a special place for her to dig.  Remember, punishing a dog for natural behavior is not fair; and, it does not work.  The dog will only continue the behavior when you’re not around to punish him.</p>
<h3>Why is My Dog Eating Poop?</h3>
<p>Poop eating, or coprophagia, is caused by a few different things.  Some dogs eat their own stools because their food has not been completely digested.  Dogs eat poop due to malnourishment, vitamin deficiencies, and internal parasites.</p>
<p>If your dog has a poop eating problem, then you should talk to your vet about it. There are great supplements to stop poop eating,  and if you put your dog on a high quality diet, the behavior should stop.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/deliciousdogdiet">Discover How You Can Start Your Puppy or Your Dog On A Raw Food Diet Today!</a></p>
<p>These are just a few of the things that puzzle us about our dogs and their behavior.  If something seems unusual, check with a dog trainer or vet – soon, you’ll have the answers you are looking for!</p>
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		<title>Training A Puppy: When to Start</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-puppy/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-puppy/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:42:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puppy Help]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Congratulations!  You’ve got a new puppy.  It’s a lot of fun to watch him run and play, and you don’t mind the fact that he is leaping up for attention or nibbling your fingers while you play with him.  He doesn’t make very big messes, and he cries so much when you put him into... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-puppy/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_884" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1"><img class="size-medium wp-image-884" title="Training a Puppy" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/training-a-puppy-300x199.jpg" alt="Training a Puppy" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Learn how to train your dog like a professional trainer. Click here to learn more!</p></div>
<p>Congratulations!  You’ve got a new puppy.  It’s a lot of fun to watch him run and play, and you don’t mind the fact that he is leaping up for attention or nibbling your fingers while you play with him.  He doesn’t make very big messes, and he cries so much when you put him into his crate, that you let him right back out again.</p>
<p>None of these things are too hard to deal with when you’ve got a cute little shaver on your hands, but as the weeks pass, and your puppy gets bigger, all these little problems are magnified, until one day, you find yourself wondering what in the world possessed you when you decided to bring a puppy into your house!</p>
<p>The question is, when should you start training your puppy?  What should you do?  Let’s take a look at a few common dog training issues and address these problems before they start.  Don’t worry – when you do it right, training your puppy is fun and easy for both of you!</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click here to discover how to train your dog like a professional trainer!</a></p>
<h3>When to Start Potty Training and Crate Training</h3>
<p>The first lesson your pup can start to learn (and one of the most important, I might add!) is where and when to go to the bathroom.  Crate training is essential, and if you’re reluctant to try it, you shouldn’t be.  Dogs are denning animals, and they feel safe inside their crates.  Yes, your puppy will cry the first few times he is left alone, but once he realizes that his crate is his, and that he is comfortable and safe in there, he will be very happy to take naps in his bed.</p>
<p><strong><em>How does this relate to potty training your dog?</em></strong> Puppies will not normally soil their bedding.  Be sure your crate is the right size – it should be large enough for him to stretch out comfortably, stand up, and turn around, and no larger.  Never feed or water your puppy in his crate – it is for sleeping.</p>
<p><strong><em>When should I take him out? </em></strong>A very young puppy needs to defecate right after she eats, and she needs to urinate frequently, especially when she has had lots of water to drink, and if she has been playing.</p>
<p>Check with a dog trainer for more tips about crate training and potty training, or buy a good dog training book.  The bottom line is this: your puppy needs a schedule, and he needs to know what to expect.  The crate is not a tool for punishment.  It is a safe space for your pup, and it can help you keep your sanity!</p>
<h3>When to Start Basic Obedience Training</h3>
<p>Your puppy is ready to learn some basics when she is about 8 weeks old – right when you bring her home!  First, you want to have a routine, and you need to understand that dog training is based on behaviors the pup already does.    Second, you want to be sure that the puppy is not getting mixed signals.  Every member of the family needs to be on the same page, and kids who can’t follow this rule should not be allowed to interact with the puppy without close supervision.</p>
<p>Training at a young age is fun and involves baby steps.  Say commands for things your puppy is already doing, as she does it.  For instance, “Sit!”  right when her behind hits the floor.  Do this consistently, and your pup will soon be sitting on command.  The same works for “Lie Down” and even for “Go Potty!”</p>
<p>As for advanced training, you will want to wait until your puppy has had all his vaccinations, and is cleared to socialize with other dogs.  Start with puppy classes, do your homework, and always use positive reinforcement.  Soon, you’ll have a well-mannered dog on your hands, and everyone will wonder where you got the magic touch!</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1"><em>Secrets to Dog Training</em> will teach you how to train your dog like a professional trainer!</a></p>
<p>Remember, stop any problems before they start, and everyone will be happy.  If you need help, contact a dog trainer – and for best results, do it before things get out of hand!</p>
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		<title>Stop Dog Begging: 5 Expert Tips</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-begging/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-begging/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Jun 2011 21:38:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[If you ever made the mistake of giving your dog a single bite of something you were eating, then you have created a monster.  Now, every time you are eating, your dog sites and stares at you with mournful eyes, pretending he has never had a morsel of food in his entire life.  You can’t... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dog-begging/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_866" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/clicker"><img class="size-medium wp-image-866" title="Dog Begging" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/dog-begging-300x253.jpg" alt="Dog Begging" width="300" height="253" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here NOW and Discover How Clicker Training Can Help Stop Your Dog&#39;s Begging Problems!</p></div>
<p>If you ever made the mistake of giving your dog a single bite of something you were eating, then you have created a monster.  Now, every time you are eating, your dog sites and stares at you with mournful eyes, pretending he has never had a morsel of food in his entire life.  You can’t go to the kitchen for a snack without hearing the “tick-tick” of your best friends claws on the tile behind you, and you can forget about hosting a dinner party, because Buddy will be right there, with his best pathetic look on his bewhiskered face, waiting for some chump to drop a bite of steak down his throat.</p>
<h3>Understand Why Dogs Beg</h3>
<p>Before you can stop a dog from begging, you’ll need to understand why she is begging.  The answer?  Dogs know that you feed them, because you do it every day.  They know that is they sit and wait, perhaps with a very cute tilted head or some well-placed blinks, that you will give them their food.</p>
<p>This is great when it’s time for your dog to eat – after all, you probably taught him to sit and wait for his bowl.   Now, your dog simply assumes that any time he assumes the position, he will be fed!</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/clicker">For the best most comprehensive guide to clicker training go check out: Canis Clicker Training</a></p>
<h3>What to Do About Dog Begging</h3>
<p>Before you start, make sure that your dog is not hungry.  He should be provided with his own quality food and water at all times.  Once you are certain that real hunger is not the motivation for the begging, be sure that your whole family is on board with the plan.  When your dog starts to beg, you want to give him zero attention.  Keep eating your food, carrying on your conversation, and acting as though the dog is invisible.</p>
<p>Do NOT tease the dog.  Do not stare at the dog.  Do not even look at the dog.  Don’t say anything to him, and when you’re finished eating, pick up the plates, put them in the sink, and keep pretending that two soulful eyes are not boring into your back.</p>
<p>The fact is, the worst punishment for a dog is being ignored.  Dogs hate to feel ostracized from their packs, and if your whole family continues to ignore the dog any time he is begging, he’ll figure it out and stop.</p>
<p>This will not work if anyone caves in.  If you feed your dog when he is begging, even once, you’ll have to start the whole process all over again.  Any time you are trying to teach your dog not to beg, or any time you are trying to get him to learn anything, for that matter, you must create an environment that sets him up for success, not failure.</p>
<p>If this is not an option, then put your dog somewhere else when it is time to eat.  Ignore any barking or howling, because even negative attention will reinforce his drive to beg.  Keep separating your dog from your family each time you are eating, and soon he will stop believing that he is going to be fed each time you have food.  Eventually, he will get the point, and stop his begging.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/clicker">Discover How Clicker Training Can Help STOP Your Dog&#39;s Begging Problems Now!</a></p>
<p>Remember to be patient!  Depending on your dog’s level of intelligence, and depending on how bad his begging problem is, this process could take anywhere from days to weeks to work.<br />
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		<title>Choosing A Dog Breed</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/choosing-a-dog-breed/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/choosing-a-dog-breed/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Jun 2011 10:02:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Breeds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[You might love the way an Australian Shepherd looks, with his blue eyes and soft merle coat, but would that dog fit in well with your lifestyle?  Maybe you have always wanted a pug, but you’re an avid runner and want your dog to cross the miles with you.  Maybe a pug isn’t the best... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/choosing-a-dog-breed/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_874" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth"><img class="size-medium wp-image-874" title="Choosing A Dog Breed" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/choosing-a-dog-breed-300x195.jpg" alt="Choosing A Dog Breed" width="300" height="195" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">To ensure that your dog lives longer and healthier,  make sure that you check out The ULTIMATE Guide to Dog Health.</p></div>
<p>You might love the way an Australian Shepherd looks, with his blue eyes and soft merle coat, but would that dog fit in well with your lifestyle?  Maybe you have always wanted a pug, but you’re an avid runner and want your dog to cross the miles with you.  Maybe a pug isn’t the best choice for you!  Let’s take a quick look at how to choose the best dog breed for your personality and lifestyle.  Remember – dog ownership is a lifetime bargain!</p>
<h3>Good Apartment Dogs</h3>
<p>If you live in an apartment, and need a quiet pet who will be content to lie at your feet while you watch TV, then you should either adopt an older shelter animal, or choose a breed that loves nothing more than to lounge.  Pugs and pug mixes are great for this – plus, their plush, velvety fur makes them extra huggable.  Better yet, pugs are loveable and they get along with everyone.  On the downside, some dogs with shorter snouts have breathing problems.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Ensure that your dog lives longer and healthier with The ULTIMATE Guide to Dog Health.</a></p>
<p>Small hound breeds, such as beagles and fox hounds, and some terriers, are not well-suited to life in an apartment, unless they are able to run and be themselves for long periods of time each day – although, if you adopt an older dog, you’ll find that he or she is more than content to nap in the comfort of your apartment all day and then take a walk with you after work.</p>
<h3>Good Working Dogs</h3>
<p>Do you need a dog to do a certain job?   If you’re an avid hunter, then look for a good retriever or setter.  Gordon setters, German pointers, Springer Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, and Labrador Retrievers (yellow, chocolate, or black – color doesn’t matter) make great hunting dogs.</p>
<p>If you’re into rally or want your kids to be involved with canine agility, then pick a smart dog with a high play drive.  Poodles (standard or miniature), spaniels, and mixed breeds are amazing agility dogs, and so are various dogs from the herding class.</p>
<p>Some people want a dog who can help them feel safe.  If you want to deal with big EVERYTHING – from lots of drool, to plenty of hair to vacuum up, to big doggie bombs to pick up, then think about getting a Mastiff, a Rottweiler, a Doberman Pinscher,  Irish Wolfhound, or other large breed.  The downside?  These dogs live shorter lives and are susceptible to joint disease and hip dysplasia.  If you’re going to buy a big dog, be sure his parents have certified hips, elbows, hearts, and eyes.</p>
<p>If you want a dog who will act as a great alarm system, and just tell you someone is coming, pick a terrier, poodle, Chihuahua, or other yapper.  Most family dogs do a good job of alerting their people to the presence of a stranger though, so don’t feel as though you’re stuck with only a few options here.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Ensure that your dog lives longer and healthier with The ULTIMATE Guide to Dog Health.</a></p>
<p>By choosing a dog with an activity level to match your own, a size that you can manage, and a personality that you will enjoy, you’re certain to experience all the great things that dog ownership can bring.  Be sure you’re prepared before you bring a puppy or dog home – line up a dog trainer, educate yourself about canine nutrition, and be sure to make veterinary care a priority.<br />
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		<title>Reducing Smelly Dog Farts: Is it Possible?</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-farts/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-farts/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 26 Jun 2011 16:26:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Your Dog's Health]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[There’s a good reason why you can blame it on the dog – dogs fart, just like everyone else.  Unfortunately, some dogs seem to pass more gas than others, and that can make them very unpleasant to live with.  Is there anything you can do about this problem?  The answer is yes!  You can get... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dog-farts/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_833" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/healthydogfood"><img class="size-medium wp-image-833 " title="Dog Farts" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/dog-farts-300x127.jpg" alt="Dog Farts" width="300" height="127" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Reduce Dog Gas with Proper Food. Click Here for Recipes!</p></div>
<p>There’s a good reason why you can blame it on the dog – dogs fart, just like everyone else.  Unfortunately, some dogs seem to pass more gas than others, and that can make them very unpleasant to live with.  Is there anything you can do about this problem?  The answer is yes!  You can get rid of dog gas – and it isn’t that difficult.</p>
<p>When a dog suffers from excess gas, it is very likely that he or she is simply suffering from a dietary imbalance.  Let’s take a look at what causes dog gas.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/healthydogfood">Click here for the BEST recipes to transform your dog into the healthiest he can be.</a></p>
<h3>Why do Dogs Get Gas?</h3>
<p>Nothing can clear a room quite like a noxious dog fart.  It is definitely worth an investment of your time and energy to find out why this gas is happening, and get rid of it quickly.</p>
<ul>
<li>Your dog could be swallowing too much air.  Does she gulp her food down quickly?  If so, you will need to come up with a way to get her to eat slowly.</li>
<li>Are you feeding your dog the best food available?  If you ate cheap fast food every day, the odds are good that you would be looking for someone to blame for your gas – maybe the dog.  If your dog is eating the cheapest brand of grocery store dog food then that could be what is causing the gas.  Switch to a quality dog food, or make your own to get rid of the problem.</li>
<li>Does your dog get into the trash and eat things he should not be eating?  That could be the cause of his gas.  Buy a quality metal trash can with a tight fitting lid, and if your dog spends time outside, be sure he is not finding anything nasty to chew up.</li>
<li>Your dog may have a serious case of intestinal parasites.  Keeping her on a regular worming schedule can keep her healthy and stop gas.  Talk to your vet right away if it has been some time since your dog was wormed.</li>
</ul>
<h3>How to Get Rid of Dog Gas</h3>
<p>Besides feeding your dog the best food available, ensuring he or she is not eating things that will cause gas, and ridding him or her of intestinal parasites, there are a few other things you can do to get rid of your dog’s gas.</p>
<p>First, take a look at nutritional supplements.  Probiotics for dogs help to keep intestinal flora healthy, and improve digestion, which puts an end to gas quickly.  Better yet, your dog will probably feel better once he starts taking the probiotics.</p>
<p>Second, be sure your dog gets lots of exercise.  If you’ve ever had an embarrassing incident at the gym, passing gas while you were running on the treadmill or striking a difficult yoga pose, then you know what we’re talking about.  Moving your body moves gas around – and it works the same way for dogs.  Better to fart outside than in the living room!</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/healthydogfood">Get the BEST recipes to transform your dog into the healthiest he can be.</a></p>
<p>Third, don’t feed your dog junk food.  Invest in quality dog treats, and avoid anything with artificial colors and artificial flavors – this can help cut the gas by leaps and bounds.</p>
<p>Getting rid of dog gas does take a little effort on your part, but it’s worth it.  After all, you want to enjoy the time you and your buddy spend together!<br />
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		<title>Dealing with Aggressive Dogs: 9 Tips that Work</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/aggressive-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/aggressive-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 25 Jun 2011 14:55:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[If the cute puppy you brought home some time ago has turned into an aggressive dog with a big mouth and a scary attitude, then you have a big problem on your hands!  By ending aggressive behavior, you can once again enjoy your relationship with your dog, and prevent dangerous situations from worsening.   Let’s get... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/aggressive-dogs/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_804" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a"><img class="size-medium wp-image-804 " title="Aggressive Dogs" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/aggressive-dogs-300x300.jpg" alt="Aggressive Dogs" width="300" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here to Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Your Dog’s Aggressive Behavior!</p></div>
<p>If the cute puppy you brought home some time ago has turned into an aggressive dog with a big mouth and a scary attitude, then you have a big problem on your hands!  By ending aggressive behavior, you can once again enjoy your relationship with your dog, and prevent dangerous situations from worsening.   Let’s get started.</p>
<h3>Tip One: Dogs Need Leadership</h3>
<p>Dogs need to look up to someone.  In the wild, that someone is their pack leader.  In the home, that someone is you.  Not only should the head of the household be a leader, so should every person in the home.  The dog belongs on the bottom rung of family hierarchy – and while this might sound like a very negative thing, it is not.  Omega dogs are very friendly and easygoing.  They like people, and they get along with other dogs.  Dogs need fair, firm, leadership.  Take your dog to obedience school to do the best you can with this tip.</p>
<h3>Tip Two:  Do Not Put Your Dog in the Wrong Situations</h3>
<p>Aggressive dogs may have been traumatized, abused, or neglected.  They may be aggressive toward other dogs, particularly when it is time to eat or play with certain toys.  Separate dogs like this, and do not put them into a position where they feel the need to act out.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Discover How Dealing with Aggressive Dogs is Easier Than You Think.</a></p>
<h3>Tip Three: Training is Key</h3>
<p>Every dog, from a teacup Chihuahua to a giant mastiff, needs training.  Training teaches dogs that people are alpha figures, and it gives them an opportunity to use their minds.  Do not skip this step, and never allow puppies to do things you don’t want them to do when they’re all grown up.</p>
<h3>Tip Four:  Is Something Bothering Fido?</h3>
<p>Sudden, drastic changes in behavior could have an underlying medical cause, such as a brain tumor or other illness.  If your dog’s behavior has changed suddenly and you can’t figure out why, take him to the vet, ASAP.</p>
<h3>Tip Five:  Alleviate Boredom</h3>
<p>Dogs need something to do.  They need exercise, toys, and things to chew on.  They want our attention, and they need companionship.  Be sure your dog has everything he needs, and always be kind and fair – even when you are laying down the law.</p>
<h3>Tip Six: Avoid Aggression Triggers</h3>
<p>If you know that certain situations set your dog off, simply avoid them.  Putting your dog in stressful situations to try to stop aggression will not work.</p>
<h3>Tip Seven: Food and Exercise</h3>
<p>Your dog should have plenty of high quality food to eat, and she should get plenty of exercise.  If you stayed in one place all the time, and only ate junk food (aka table scraps or the cheapest brand of dog food available) you might feel grouchy, too.</p>
<h3>Tip Eight:  Could Your Dog’s Problem Be Caused By Fear?</h3>
<p>Some dogs are so fearful that they feel trapped in certain situations, and this can cause aggression and fear biting.  Never abuse your dog.   Dogs do not understand hitting, kicking, screaming and yelling, or other negative reinforcements.  By identifying fears and removing them from the equation, you can make your dog happier and healthier.</p>
<h3>Tip Nine: Hire a Professional</h3>
<p>If you are at your wits’ end, then maybe it is time to call in a professional dog trainer.  Do it before your dog attacks someone, or before he harms you or one of your family members.  By bringing in a pro, who has seen all kinds of dogs in all sorts of situations, you can put an end to aggressive behavior.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Discover How to Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Your Dog’s Aggressive Behavior!</a></p>
<p>While some dog behavior problems merely present a nuisance, aggression is different.  It needs to be handled right away – so find out what the problem is, and take steps to solve it.  Everyone will be happier– including your dog.<br />
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		<title>Making Homemade Dog Food: Helpful Hints</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/homemade-dog-food/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/homemade-dog-food/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:29:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Your Dog's Health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directdogs.com/?p=763</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Call it craziness, but you’ve decided to try making homemade food for your dog, instead of feeding him the cheap kibble from the grocery store.  Good for you!  Some of the worst dog foods are filled with empty calories, and they are lacking the nutrition your dog requires to live a long, happy life. Here... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/homemade-dog-food/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_787" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dogvideo"><img class="size-medium wp-image-787" title="Homemade Dog Food" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/homemade-dog-food-300x253.jpg" alt="Homemade Dog Food" width="300" height="253" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Discover the terrifying-truth about commercial dog food that is linked to the deaths of thousands of dogs across the US every single day.</p></div>
<p>Call it craziness, but you’ve decided to try making homemade food for your dog, instead of feeding him the cheap kibble from the grocery store.  Good for you!  Some of the worst dog foods are filled with empty calories, and they are lacking the nutrition your dog requires to live a long, happy life.</p>
<p>Here are just a few tips to help you on your way to making good, wholesome gourmet food for your dog.</p>
<h3>Dogs Have Special Dietary Needs</h3>
<p>In the wild, dogs eat all kinds of things.  Sure, they eat meat, bones, hide and hair from their kills and from the carcasses they scavenge, but they also eat roots, berries, leaves and grasses, and even grubs, insects and birds.  Some wild dogs are even adept at catching fish!</p>
<p>Unfortunately, all but the best commercial dog foods are made with a variety of whole foods.  You’re right to feel leery of some of the cheap foods on grocery store shelves – they are made from scraps and fillers, instead of wholesome, fresh ingredients.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dogvideo">Discover the terrifying-truth about commercial dog food that is linked to the deaths of thousands of dogs across the US every single day.</a></p>
<p>Dogs don’t need anything fancy.  They simply require a balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and starches.  And, like us, they don’t need anything excessive.  They love light flavorings like peanut butter and garlic powder (a little goes a long way), and they enjoy things like carrots, spinach, legumes, and potatoes.</p>
<h3>Balance is Key</h3>
<p>Here is the perfect formula to follow when you are making your own dog food at home.  Forty percent meat, thirty percent “starch”, such as rice or potato, or whole grains like barley, and thirty percent vegetables.  Be sure you cook meats thoroughly to prevent any bacteria or toxins from entering your dog’s digestive tract!</p>
<h3>Use Quality Ingredients</h3>
<p>You probably don’t have access to poultry plant offal or the sludge that some manufacturers collect from slaughterhouses and market as “meat” – and that’s a good thing.  The better quality meat you use in your dogfood, the better your dog will look and feel.  Use good cuts of meat and feed your dog fish on a regular basis.  Salmon and tuna are favorites, and so are mackerel and halibut.</p>
<p>Start with fresh vegetables, and if your dog is not too picky, he or she will probably enjoy some of them raw.  Avoid feeding raw onions to your dog, as these can cause health problems.  If you feed your dog too much broccoli or cabbage, he’ll end up with gas, and if you feed him too much fat, he could end up with loose stools or even suffer from pancreatitis.</p>
<p>Last, but not least, avoid sugary substances.  Dogs can eat things like carrots, apples, and peanut butter in moderation, and they can even eat carob chips or special dog treats made with carob.  Though they might be eager to eat sugar, they don’t need it, and it can lead to health problems.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dogvideo">Commercial Dog Food is Killing Your Dog, Hear What The Experts Have to Say&#8230;</a></p>
<p>Finally, you might want to invest in a good canine cookbook, with recipes for treats, meals, and supplements.  Your dog will thank you!</p>
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		<title>How to Stop a Dog From Digging: Five Tips From Top Trainers</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/how-to-stop-a-dog-from-digging/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/how-to-stop-a-dog-from-digging/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2011 15:21:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directdogs.com/?p=761</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dogs love to dig, and some dogs dig more than others.  This is a natural behavior, and unless you give your dog some positive motivation to stop digging, then he or she will keep on ripping up your flowerbeds and tunneling beneath the neighbor’s fence. Here are five great ways you can put a stop... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/how-to-stop-a-dog-from-digging/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_775" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1e"><img class="size-medium wp-image-775" title="How to Stop a Dog From Digging" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/how-to-stop-a-dog-from-digging-300x300.jpg" alt="How to Stop a Dog From Digging" width="300" height="300" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Check out the ultimate guide to stopping your dog from digging up your lawn, garden and other people&#39;s yards.</p></div>
<p>Dogs love to dig, and some dogs dig more than others.  This is a natural behavior, and unless you give your dog some positive motivation to stop digging, then he or she will keep on ripping up your flowerbeds and tunneling beneath the neighbor’s fence.</p>
<p>Here are five great ways you can put a stop to this nuisance behavior.</p>
<h3>End Boredom</h3>
<p>If your dog has something more exciting to do, he or she will see no reason to dig.  Give your dog toys to play with and dental chews to keep him busy, and be sure to provide him with plenty of exercise each and every day.</p>
<h3>Give Your Dog a Sandbox</h3>
<p>If you have room, create a special area for your dog to dig in.  Hide items of interest inside that area, and be sure that it is much more attractive to him than other places where he normally digs!</p>
<h3>Reinforcement</h3>
<p>Without abusing your dog, try telling her “NO!” every time you see her start to dig, and make the areas where she normally digs off limits to her.  If you combine this tactic with the positive reinforcement a special digging area provides, your dog will probably change her ways very quickly.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1e">Check out the ultimate guide to stopping your dog from digging up your lawn, garden and other people&#8217;s yards.</a></p>
<h3>Get Rid of Favorite Digging Areas</h3>
<p>You can either move your flowers to big ceramic pots, or stop using smelly fertilizers.  You can also put heavy objects on top of favorite digging areas, or invest in a wireless fence system and set the boundaries for the area where your dog digs.  Be sure you give your dog something else to do, to replace the digging behavior, or he will simply find another spot to make craters.</p>
<h3>Try Sprays and Deterrents</h3>
<p>There are many animal deterrents that are designed to make certain parts of your yard unattractive to dogs, and put an end to digging.  Some of these even act as barriers to cats – so if your neighbor’s cat is using your flowerbed for a litterbox, then you might find yourself solving two problems at once.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1e">Learn more about how to STOP a dog from digging once and for all!</a></p>
<p>Remember, dogs love to dig, and the last thing your dog wants to do is make you angry.  By using one of these common sense solutions, or combining them in a way that works well for you, you will be able to enjoy your relationship with your dog more, and end digging for good.</p>
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		<title>Mental Exercises for Dogs: Seven Tips for Brain Stimulation</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/mental-exercises-for-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/mental-exercises-for-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Jun 2011 15:50:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Your Dog's Health]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[You might have heard the old adage:  A busy dog is a good dog.  Is your dog busy?  Or is he bored?  Let’s take a look at seven methods for keeping your dog busy and preventing the destructive behavior that can drive you crazy and ruin your relationship with your canine companion. Tip One:  Try... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/mental-exercises-for-dogs/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_768" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/clicker"><img class="size-medium wp-image-768" title="Mental Exercises for Dogs" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/mental-exercises-for-dogs-300x199.jpg" alt="Mental Exercises for Dogs" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Work Your Dogs Brain with Canis Clicker Training!</p></div>
<p>You might have heard the old adage:  A busy dog is a good dog.  Is your dog busy?  Or is he bored?  Let’s take a look at seven methods for keeping your dog busy and preventing the destructive behavior that can drive you crazy and ruin your relationship with your canine companion.</p>
<h3>Tip One:  Try MENSA for Dogs</h3>
<p>If you have ever found yourself engaged in brain games to stave off boredom, then you’ll be happy to discover that the same thing works for your dog.  Do a quick Google search for canine IQ tests, and get busy!  You might find out that your dog is a lot smarter than you think – but even if that is not the case, you’ll have fun bonding.</p>
<h3>Tip Two: Basic Training is Important</h3>
<p>If you don’t have time to put your dog through obedience training and spend time working on maintaining the skills that are essential knowledge for every well-behaved dog, then you don’t have enough time to have a dog.  Sad, but true!  Spend a few minutes every day going over basic commands.  Make the time you spend together fun and rewarding, and make it a priority.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/clicker">Learn How to Work Your Dogs Brain with Canis Clicker Training!</a></p>
<h3>Tip Three: Problem Solving Skills</h3>
<p>Don’t you love it when you find the solution to a problem?  Great news – so does your dog!  Give her little puzzles to solve.  Hide her toys, and have her find them.  Give her treats frozen in ice cubes, or buy a puzzle toy made just for dogs.  Who knows – you may have a champion on your hands!</p>
<h3>Tip Four: Dogs Need a Job!</h3>
<p>How would you feel, if you lacked productive work, or a sense of engagement in your environment? Pretty bored, huh?  Dogs like to anticipate happy outcomes, and they are happiest when they are doing some activity that they know will result in a reward – even if it’s just verbal praise or some stroking.  Have you ever seen a bored police dog?  The answer is no – he or she is highly engaged in the environment.  Whether your dog’s job is to play ball, help you dig up the flower bed, or fetch various items by name, he or she will be much happier with something to do!</p>
<h3>Tip Five:  Even Old Dogs Love New Tricks!</h3>
<p>Try buying a book or ebook about dog tricks.  Find one that stresses positive training methods, and teach your dog new tricks, step by step.  Dogs can do all kinds of fantastic things – from playing Frisbee to riding a skateboard.  Pick a trick, and put an end to doggie boredom!</p>
<h3>Tip Six:  Breed Specific Intelligence – Your Dog Has Specific Skills!</h3>
<p>Hounds are born to track.  Shepherds love nothing more than to have something to herd – even if it is just a couple of other dogs.  Mutts have different traits, and if you can figure out what their dominant breeding is, then you can probably find out what your dog will be best at.  Give your dog breed-specific tasks to do – he or she will be more responsive, better behaved, and tired when it’s all said and done.</p>
<h3>Tip Seven:  Your Dog Needs Exercise</h3>
<p>Even very old dogs need to go for walks and sniff around.  Dogs need to get exercise, just like we do.  If you can get your dog to play hard for several minutes, you’ll notice that he is much happier and better behaved afterward.  So, whether you go for a jog, or let him loose in the dog park, be sure he gets some time to run every day.   Dogs’ bodies release feel-good chemicals into their brains, just like our bodies do, when we get some exercise!</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/clicker">Learn How to Work Your Dogs Brain with Canis Clicker Training!</a></p>
<p>By keeping your dog active and providing plenty of mental stimulation, you can end destructive behavior and improve your relationship with your dog.  Best of all, everyone involved will enjoy the process!</p>
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		<title>Introducing a New Dog into a Home Where a Dog Already Lives</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/introducing-a-new-dog-into-a-home-where-a-dog-already-lives/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/introducing-a-new-dog-into-a-home-where-a-dog-already-lives/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Dec 2010 21:57:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directdogs.com/?p=558</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Your dog has finally settled comfortably into your household, and you&#8217;re all living together happily. It seems like having a dog is simple, right? So, what do you? Naturally, you go out and get another dog. And now, your new dog will need to find his place in the household social hierarchy. You might have... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/introducing-a-new-dog-into-a-home-where-a-dog-already-lives/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_586" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dogtutor"><img class="size-medium wp-image-586" title="Introducing A New Dog" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/introducing-a-new-dog-300x176.jpg" alt="Introducing A New Dog" width="300" height="176" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Stop your dog from unwanted behaviors such as aggression, digging, barking, whining, pulling on the lead, jumping and more.</p></div>
<p>Your dog has finally settled comfortably into your household, and you&#8217;re all living together happily.  It seems like having a dog is simple, right?  So, what do you?  Naturally, you go out and get another dog.  And now, your new dog will need to find his place in the household social hierarchy.</p>
<p>You might have a difficult time at first, but both dogs should quickly learn they can be friends and not rivals if you follow these tips carefully.</p>
<h3>The Social Dynamics of Getting a New Dog</h3>
<p>The addition of a new dog will inevitably trigger a variety of responses from your first dog.  It&#8217;s not uncommon for even well-adjusted, happy dogs to fall back on their instincts and try to maintain their position within the household pack.  Unfortunately, this response can quickly result in aggressive behavior between the dogs, particularly if the new dog is older and you pay him more attention than your first dog.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dogtutor">Stop your dog from unwanted behaviors such as aggression, digging, barking, whining, pulling on the lead, jumping and more.</a></p>
<p>As soon as three dogs (or two dogs and a human) live in the same household they form a pack.  If you don&#8217;t have control over the pack&#8217;s behavior, the results can be scary.</p>
<p>Although many dogs are not interested in being the pack leader, they can become anxious, nervous or aggressive if they perceive themselves as members of a leaderless pack.  To avoid this situation you need to quickly assert control of your household and be the pack&#8217;s alpha leader.  Make sure each dog understands your leadership role right from the beginning.</p>
<p>You&#8217;ll also need to treat each dog in the same way.  If you dote on your new dog while showing dominance over the original dog, the new dog might be tempted to try to assert his dominance and behave aggressively toward the first dog.</p>
<h3>Making the Introductions</h3>
<p>Never be in a hurry to introduce two dogs.  Instead, keep them separated for as long as you feel is necessary to establish order.  It&#8217;s a good idea to place your original dog in his crate or a separate room while your new dog is becoming acclimated to your house.  Also keep them separate during walks, playtime and training sessions.  You&#8217;ll have far less trouble when they do meet if they both understand you&#8217;re the household&#8217;s alpha leader.</p>
<p>I suggest you introduce the dogs outside, not in the house.  Try to make the introductions with both dogs on their leashes, because you&#8217;ll be able to separate them more easily if aggressive behavior takes place.</p>
<p>Usually the dogs will be happy to get to know each other while on their leashes.  They&#8217;ll also understand the significance of being walked together &#8211; a pack activity where you are the leader.</p>
<p>Assuming the introductions go smoothly, you can then bring both dogs back into your house.  Allow them to get used to each other off their leashes, but make sure you supervise them whenever they are together for the first few days.  Watch carefully for aggressive posturing and other signs of aggression.</p>
<p>If you do see some aggression, don&#8217;t yell or get angry at your dogs.  Yelling could make them even more aggressive if they perceive it as your way of challenging one or both of them for dominance.  Instead, remain calm, separate the dogs and use firm commands to assert your leadership position.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dogtutor">Stop your dog from unwanted behaviors such as aggression, digging, barking, whining, pulling on the lead, jumping and more.</a></p>
<p>Dogs are pack animals and most of them are very social.  Once they become accustomed to each other and sort out their positions in the pack hierarchy, there is an excellent chance your dogs will live together quite happily.  It&#8217;s essential to show them you are the leader and they are part of your pack.</p>
<p>By asserting your leadership, controlling your space and preventing or stopping any aggression, you can avoid problems when you introduce a new dog into your home.</p>
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		<title>Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-in-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-in-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 28 Nov 2010 15:21:05 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Your Dog's Health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directdogs.com/?p=564</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many people think common human psychological problems won&#8217;t occur in their dogs.  But, some dogs clearly exhibit obsessive behaviors.  Seeing one of these dogs will make you realize they can also suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder. The way you handle your dog&#8217;s compulsions, and the things your dog comes to expect in your household, can... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-in-dogs/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_580" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth"><img class="size-medium wp-image-580  " title="Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Dogs" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-in-dogs-300x198.jpg" alt="Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Dogs" width="300" height="198" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here For The Most Comprehensive Guide To Dog Health</p></div>
<p>Many people think common human psychological problems won&#8217;t occur in  their dogs.  But, some dogs clearly exhibit obsessive behaviors.   Seeing one of these dogs will make you realize they can also suffer from  obsessive compulsive disorder.</p>
<p>The way you handle your dog&#8217;s compulsions, and the things your dog  comes to expect in your household, can make all the difference.</p>
<h3>Obsessive Compulsive Disorder &#8211; What It Is</h3>
<p>Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is typically seen in dogs that  are nervous, bored, anxious or stressed.  It is usually characterized by  focused, obsessive, habitual behaviors that are performed repeatedly  for no apparent reason.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Click Here For The Most Comprehensive Guide To Dog Health</a></p>
<p>You may have witnessed one of the ways OCD in dogs can rear its ugly  head &#8211; a dog that licks himself raw when he has an itch, digs holes in  the yard for long periods of time, or chews completely through chew toys  may be suffering from OCD.  The condition can lead to several problems  in addition to potential health issues for your dog.</p>
<p>Property destruction, incessant barking, crying or whining, and  unpredictable aggressive behavior are just some of the problems that  can arise from OCD.</p>
<h3>OCD Caused by Stress</h3>
<p>You&#8217;ll probably need to visit your vet if your dog&#8217;s OCD is being  caused by stress.  Dealing with stress in a dog can be difficult, and  your dog might react aggressively.  You might need medication to deal  with these problems.</p>
<h3>OCD Caused by Boredom</h3>
<p>Several things can be done to reduce your dog&#8217;s boredom if that is  the cause of his OCD.  Begin by giving him more exercise.  The problem  might be as simple as your dog not having enough time outside &#8211; a  situation which can also lead to health issues if you don&#8217;t correct it.</p>
<p>Take him outside, go on extended walks, run him in the yard, play  fetch, or take him to a dog park or doggy day care where he&#8217;ll get  plenty of exercise.  The more of your dog&#8217;s energy you burn off through  healthy, controlled activity, the less he will have to expend on  damaging your possessions.</p>
<h3>OCD Caused by Separation Anxiety</h3>
<p>Separation anxiety is the third common cause of canine OCD.  If your  dog is separated from his family for long periods, and you support  certain of his behaviors in specific ways, he may begin to vent his  anxiety through behavior that can become extremely destructive.</p>
<p>Your dog is probably feeling anxious about your absence if most of  his compulsive behavior occurs while you&#8217;re away.  Resolving his  anxiety can be a lengthy process, but the first step is establishing  your position as your household&#8217;s pack leader.</p>
<p>Once your dog recognizes you&#8217;re his alpha leader, you&#8217;ll be able to  turn your attention to alleviating his anxious feelings when you leave.   Ignore your dog when you come back home, and give him a safe place to  sleep during your absence &#8211; consider using a crate.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Click Here For The Most Comprehensive Guide To Dog Health</a></p>
<h3>Genetics May Be Involved</h3>
<p>There is some dispute about the role a dog&#8217;s breed might play in  obsessive compulsive behaviors, but observations show that some breeds  tend to exhibit obsessive behaviors more often than others.  For  example, shepherds often chase their tails, Bull Terriers frequently  stick their heads under objects, and Doberman Pinschers tend to lick  their skin.</p>
<p>Most of the time, however, by giving your dog the exercise and  attention he needs, by not encouraging his anxious behaviors as you  leave and when you return home, and &#8211; if nothing else works &#8211; by  visiting the vet, you will probably be able to eliminate or at least  reduce your dog&#8217;s OCD.</p>
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		<title>Preventing Dog Rough Play With Children</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/preventing-dog-rough-play-with-children/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/preventing-dog-rough-play-with-children/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 27 Nov 2010 20:15:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directdogs.com/?p=562</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Nothing is quite as frightening as your dog getting too rough with your child.  A parent&#8217;s first reaction to that situation is often a mixture of anger and fear, and the tendency is to yell at the dog to stop him, or even punish him for his actions.  Most of the time, however, your dog... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/preventing-dog-rough-play-with-children/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_573" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a"><img class="size-medium wp-image-573 " title="Dog Rough Play" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/dog-rough-play-300x199.jpg" alt="Dog Rough Play" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here to Learn How to STOP Your Dog Rough Play Problems FOR GOOD!</p></div>
<p>Nothing is quite as frightening as your dog getting too rough with  your child.  A parent&#8217;s first reaction to that situation is often a  mixture of anger and fear, and the tendency is to yell at the dog to  stop him, or even punish him for his actions.  Most of the time,  however, your dog won&#8217;t even realize what he&#8217;s doing wrong.</p>
<p>Dogs are social animals, and one of the ways they interact with other  dogs in their pack is through play.  Children are closer in size to  dogs, so they resemble dogs more than adults do.  Dogs love to play with  children, but they sometimes take it too far and get too rough,  treating the children almost as though they are pack mates.</p>
<p>There are several reasons you need to put a stop to your dog&#8217;s rough play with children.  Yes, your child could be frightened.  But even  worse, he or she could be injured.  And, even if your child isn&#8217;t  injured or frightened, it could happen to someone else&#8217;s child.  Just  visualize your dog meeting and knocking down a child at the dog park,  mistaking the child for another dog to play with.  That child&#8217;s parents  will naturally be extremely upset, and your dog won&#8217;t have any idea of  what he did wrong.  Instead of letting the dog rough play continue, you  need to stop it as quickly as possible.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Click Here to Learn How to STOP Your Dog Rough Play Problems FOR GOOD!</a></p>
<h3>Dealing with the Dog Behaviors That Require Correction</h3>
<p>You&#8217;ll need to correct your dog&#8217;s behavior in general.  You can&#8217;t  simply tell your dog to stop playing roughly with children because he  won&#8217;t understand.  If there&#8217;s anything more dangerous than a dog that  likes to rough house, it&#8217;s a confused dog that likes to rough house.</p>
<p>So, rather than limiting your dog&#8217;s rough play to when he is with  adults (and not letting him play roughly with children), stop the rough  play altogether.  Begin by stopping all similar behavior, including  chewing, mouthing and jumping on people.</p>
<p>These are all behaviors that dogs engage in when they&#8217;re playing  with other dogs.  They&#8217;re acceptable in that context, but they should  not be permitted with people.  The easiest and most effective way to  stop these behaviors is to stop playing with your dog as soon as one of  them occurs.  Don&#8217;t punish your dog because it will probably just  confuse him.</p>
<p>If, however, you&#8217;re able to draw a clear line regarding what is  acceptable and what is not, you&#8217;ll find it much easier to control your  dog&#8217;s behavior.</p>
<h3>Dealing with Children</h3>
<p>If you&#8217;re a parent, you&#8217;ll need to begin dealing with your children  by instructing them to stop playing roughly with your dog.  It can be  difficult to enforce this rule, particularly if your children enjoy  rough housing or wrestling with the dog.  However, it is essential in  order to give your dog consistent boundaries.</p>
<p>You should also maintain a calm but assertive stance with your dog  when your children are nearby.  Your assertion of leadership will help  reduce the likelihood that your dog will become overexcited and too  playful.</p>
<p>Watch your dog carefully whenever you&#8217;re in an open space like your  yard or a dog park.  Train your dog to calm down immediately on your  command.  You can use any word you like, but make sure he understands  and obeys it so you can use it to cut off any problems you see  developing.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Click Here to Learn How to STOP Your Dog Rough Play Problems FOR GOOD!</a></p>
<p>Remember, your dog is not trying to hurt a child when he plays  roughly.  He&#8217;s simply enjoying himself and wants to let the child know  how much fun he&#8217;s having.  It&#8217;s just that you and the child probably  define &#8220;fun&#8221; differently than your energetic dog.</p>
<p>Keep in mind, though, that if the rough behavior does incorporate  some aspect of aggression, you must treat it much more seriously.  Never  permit an aggressive dog to come near children, and obtain the help of  an expert immediately, before something unfortunate happens.</p>
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		<title>Dog Separation Anxiety Solutions</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-separation-anxiety-solutions/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-separation-anxiety-solutions/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Aug 2010 00:27:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://74.86.183.198/~drctdg/?p=50</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dog separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioral problems an owner and his dog can face. It can also be one of the most disastrous. Dog separation anxiety varies in severity, and some dogs have only a mild case, resulting in annoying barking while you&#8217;re leaving home. However, if not addressed promptly and... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dog-separation-anxiety-solutions/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_707" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1g"><img class="size-medium wp-image-707 " title="Dog Separation Anxiety Solutions" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/dog-separation-anxiety-solutions-300x211.jpg" alt="Dog Separation Anxiety Solutions" width="300" height="211" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Your Dog&#39;s Separation Anxiety Problems!</p></div>
<p>Dog separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioral problems an owner and his dog can face.  It can also be one of the most disastrous.  Dog separation anxiety varies in severity, and some dogs have only a mild case, resulting in annoying barking while you&#8217;re leaving home.  However, if not addressed promptly and instead allowed to progress, dog separation anxiety can result in your dog chewing or digging at your furniture, defecating and/or urinating in your home, or barking incessantly for hours when you leave.  Obviously, this is something you want to avoid.</p>
<h3>The Underlying Cause of Dog Separation Anxiety</h3>
<p>We all know dogs are pack animals at heart and are strongly attached to their masters.  When you leave home, your dog doesn&#8217;t like it and can become agitated.  Most of your dog&#8217;s anxiety is triggered by specific actions you take as you&#8217;re getting ready to leave.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1g">Click Here to Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Your Dog&#8217;s Separation Anxiety Problems!</a></p>
<p>Dog separation anxiety can develop for one of two reasons, or both:  you consistently give your dog attention before you leave and as soon as you return; or you follow the same routine whenever you&#8217;re preparing to leave.  These actions become triggers for your dog&#8217;s anxiety, and when repeated often enough, he soon won&#8217;t be able to control either his anxiety or his behavior after you leave.</p>
<h3>Alleviating Dog Separation Anxiety</h3>
<p>Many techniques are available to reduce the separation anxiety your dog experiences when you leave home.  Some are easier than others, but here are some of the easiest.</p>
<p><strong>Change Your &#8220;Leaving Routine&#8221;</strong> &#8211; You can help reduce your dog&#8217;s separation anxiety by changing what you normally do whenever you&#8217;re preparing to leave.  For example, if your dog seems anxious when your alarm clock sounds, he&#8217;s identified that sound with your imminent departure.  So, change your morning routine.  Get up at different times, get dressed earlier or later in the process, grab your keys and hold onto them for a while instead of immediately going out the door.  You get the idea:  small variations in your routine behavior will reduce your dog&#8217;s anxiety.</p>
<p><strong>Don&#8217;t Reinforce Your Dog&#8217;s Anxiety</strong> &#8211; Giving your dog lavish affection or attention before you leave or when you return is only reinforcing the behavior.  You need to break the association between your comings and goings and your dog receiving attention.  Ignore him as you leave and for ten or fifteen minutes after you return.  And stop giving in when he makes forlorn sounds or looks distressed.  You can practice by putting your dog into a crate or a separate room, and then leaving and returning quickly, before his anxiety has a chance to build.  Do this repeatedly.</p>
<p><strong>Gradually Lengthen Your Absence</strong> &#8211; If your dog becomes anxious as soon as you walk out the door, begin by leaving for only a few seconds and then immediately returning.  You can treat dog separation anxiety by changing your dog&#8217;s expectations regarding how long you&#8217;ll be absent and when you&#8217;ll come back.  Once he&#8217;s comfortable that you are coming back each time, gradually lengthen the periods of your absence.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1g">Click Here to Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Your Dog&#8217;s Separation Anxiety Problems!</a></p>
<h3>You&#8217;re Not Being Cruel</h3>
<p>Some people believe these techniques are tantamount to being mean or cruel to your dog.  In reality, though, you&#8217;re helping your dog relax.  You&#8217;re teaching him that you&#8217;ll always come home and there&#8217;s no need for him to feel anxious about being separated from you.  Alleviating dog separation anxiety is good for your dog mentally, but it&#8217;s good for him physically, too.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s important to deal with prolonged, severe dog anxiety problems right away.  Even if your dog simply gets upset when you leave and doesn&#8217;t become destructive, you&#8217;ll reduce his sense of abandonment by teaching him not to associate your comings and goings with your place as his &#8220;pack&#8217;s&#8221; leader and his pack&#8217;s survival.</p>
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		<title>Several Reasons Why Dogs Eat Poop</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/why-dogs-eat-poop/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/why-dogs-eat-poop/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:23:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://74.86.183.198/~drctdg/?p=96</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you’re a canine owner (or ever have been) then you may ask why dogs eat poop. After all, eating poop is nasty, unattractive and pretty much unsafe in a number of ways. Keep in mind that your dog is not alone. Many canine owners say that their dogs eat poop, which causes them lots... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/why-dogs-eat-poop/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_709" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth"><img class="size-medium wp-image-709 " title="Why Dogs Eat Poop" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/why-dogs-eat-poop-300x188.jpg" alt="Why Dogs Eat Poop" width="300" height="188" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Learn How to Deal with Minor Dog Health Problems BEFORE they Become Major Ones!</p></div>
<p>If you’re a canine owner (or ever have been) then you may ask why dogs eat poop. After all, eating poop is nasty, unattractive and pretty much unsafe in a number of ways. Keep in mind that your dog is not alone. Many canine owners say that their dogs eat poop, which causes them lots of stress. Poop eating (also called coprophagia) is a sign that the dog suffers either from deep anxiety issues or nutritional needs.</p>
<h3>The Many Reasons Dogs Eat Poop (In Spite Of The Gross Factor)</h3>
<p>If you’re sickened out by your pet’s behavior of eating poop, you may wonder why he/she would do this. There are several reasons that dogs eat poop (even though humans find it intensely repulsive).</p>
<ol>
<li>They may still be hungry especially if you don’t feed your pet as often as he/she needs to be.</li>
<li>They may be trying to clean their “living” space. If you keep your canine in a dirty area, he/she may be cleaning it to resolve the problem. That means eating their poop among other things.</li>
<li>They may have a health problem that causes him/her not to get the nutrients they need to feel full. They could have parasites or worms that are taking those much needed nutrients away. Thus, the food you give them isn’t doing them much good at all.</li>
<li>They may eat poop to cope with an anxiety… regardless of what it is.</li>
<li>They may be copying you (for when you pick it up to toss it out) or other dogs who they have seen eat poop.</li>
</ol>
<p>No matter the reason why dogs eat poop, you need to know that this is one problem that’s rather simple to solve. How so?</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Learn How to Deal with Minor Dog Health Problems BEFORE they Become Major Ones!</a></p>
<h3>Adjust The Behavior To Stop Your Dog’s Shocking (and Nasty) Habit</h3>
<p>If you’ve seen your dog eat poop, you may want to first rule out any health related issues. This is quite important if it’s a new occurrence. If a dog eats poop, it’s possible that he/she is afflicted with worms or parasites that are not allowing him/her those nutrients he/she needs to survive.  Be sure to take your canine to a vet to determine the cause and be treated (if found to be a medical reason).</p>
<p>If the vet says your canine doesn’t have worms or parasites and there’s no other problems that link eating poop to their health, then it’s time to look at other problems that could be plaguing your canine. After all, you want the answer as to why dogs eat poop, especially your dog.</p>
<p>Here’s a helpful hint: every time your dog poops, clean it up right away. Be sure you check everywhere in your yard (anywhere the dog has access to) and remove all poop from the premises. If your dog isn’t eating poop for health concerns, then it’s obviously a behavioral issue and the best way to handle that is to get rid of the poop (the problem’s source).</p>
<h3>Other Ways To Adjust The Dog’s Behavior</h3>
<p>There are other things that you can do that can help you make your dog stop eating poop. Consider throwing down cayenne pepper or bitter apple to curb your dog’s craving for poop, as these are nasty tasting to your dog.  You can also feed it one spoonful of pumpkin puree each day so that the poop tastes less pleasing. Consider using a water bottle and spraying the water directly on them while using your sharp tone of voice to say, “No” when you see them eating poop.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Learn How to Deal with Minor Dog Health Problems BEFORE they Become Major Ones!</a></p>
<p>Overall, the best way to resolve your dog’s eating poop problem is to remove it altogether. However, if the dog is off his/her leash a lot or you take them to dog parks, then you’ll need to be diligent of your dog’s nasty eating habit. Whatever you do, be consistent in this matter, watch them vigilantly and do not, above anything else, allow them to lick your face.</p>
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		<title>Four Ways To Stop Puppy Chewing</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-puppy-chewing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-puppy-chewing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:22:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Feature Article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Puppy Help]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://74.86.183.198/~drctdg/?p=94</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Are you annoyed by your dog’s chewing habit? If you decide that you’ve had enough of your dog’s chewing habit, you first need to understand that his/her chewing is quite natural. It’s also quite expected especially if you have a puppy. Puppies will chew on things for two reasons. First, they may be bored. Second,... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/stop-puppy-chewing/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_711" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1c"><img class="size-medium wp-image-711 " title="Stop Puppy Chewing" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/stop-puppy-chewing-300x199.jpg" alt="Stop Puppy Chewing" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here Now to Discover How To Stop Puppy Chewing For Good!</p></div>
<p>Are you annoyed by your dog’s chewing habit? If you decide that you’ve had enough of your dog’s chewing habit, you first need to understand that his/her chewing is quite natural. It’s also quite expected especially if you have a puppy. Puppies will chew on things for two reasons. First, they may be bored. Second, they might be teething.  You don’t want to stop the chewing per say but change what reasons they chew for. You want to make sure your puppy has enough to do so that he/she won’t chew up the cushions, carpets, slippers, shoes, etc.</p>
<h3>Why Should You Stop Puppy Chewing</h3>
<p>There are many people who believe that when their canine friend is a puppy, they let them chew on whatever they wish to. After all, puppy chewing is a natural thing, right? Do they yell at their pup, confusing them and creating additional problems down the road? Actually, this where you need to find a middle ground, as you want to show your pup that chewing on things that are yours is not okay and that there are other things he/she can chew on.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1c">Click Here to Discover How To Stop Puppy Chewing For Good!</a></p>
<h3>Four Positive Options To Stop Puppy Chewing Today</h3>
<p>When you’re ready to stop puppy chewing behaviors, there are several things you can do. First, never scold or hit your puppy&#8230; no matter the reason. You may be angry at him/her but you don’t need to direct that anger right at them. This kind of behavior just confuses them and they never find out why you’re mad. Instead, use four positive modifications to stop puppy chewing today.</p>
<p><strong>1 – Adjustment In Behavior</strong></p>
<p>You want to keep your puppy from chewing on things, right? Well, this is when you need to find the right things for your pup to chew on. When you notice your pup is chewing on one of your slippers, find a toy, replace it and praise your puppy when he/she begins chewing on it instead. That reinforces to your pup that the new chew toy is better than the old one.</p>
<p><strong>2 – Have A Busy Schedule For Your Puppy</strong></p>
<p>You certainly don’t want your puppy to get bored since this is a big reason they begin chewing. Thus, you’ll need them to get active. Be sure to give them lots of exercise and play with them when you get home. If you’re going to be away for a time, give them stimulating toys for them to stay active with.</p>
<p><strong>3 – Crate/Room Training</strong></p>
<p>If you notice the puppy is into all your things when you’re away, crate them so that they have limited access to the remaining part of the house. You can always place the pup in a room so that he/she’s got “room” to run around in.</p>
<p><strong>4 – Sprays</strong></p>
<p>If you want to stop puppy chewing on things like your couch or carpet, then you need to use a humane, safe spray such as Cayenne Pepper or Bitter Apple. These things will not taste good to your puppy and, in the long run, they’ll realize that if they chew on these things, they’ll experience the taste. Thus, they’ll never chew on them again.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1c">Click Here to Discover How To Stop Puppy Chewing For Good!</a></p>
<p>Yes, puppy chewing is a normal thing but it should never be done on you or your possessions. If you notice you’re having an issue with puppy chewing, then you can stop it by focusing the attention elsewhere.</p>
<h3>Always Be Consistent</h3>
<p>If you desire to stop puppy chewing, you must make sure you’re consistent with everything you do. If you plan on leaving clothes on the floor, then you don’t want your dog chewing on a sock or slipper. Don’t give them a stuffed toy for a chew toy and expect him/her to stay away from the other stuffed animals. It’s imperative that you lay down austere rules and sticky by them. Before long, chewing will not be a problem any longer.</p>
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		<title>How to Stop a Puppy From Biting</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-a-puppy-from-biting/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-a-puppy-from-biting/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:21:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Puppy Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://74.86.183.198/~drctdg/?p=92</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You know a puppy is one of the cutest animals in the world.  However, if you notice that your puppy is biting, you know that you need to stop this behavior now. If you fail to do so, it can lead to other aggression and dominance issues when he/she gets older. It may look cute... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/stop-a-puppy-from-biting/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_705" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1"><img class="size-medium wp-image-705" title="Stop A Puppy From Biting" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/stop-a-puppy-from-biting-300x199.jpg" alt="Stop A Puppy From Biting" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Puppy Biting Behavior!</p></div>
<p>You know a puppy is one of the cutest animals in the world.  However, if you notice that your puppy is biting, you know that you need to stop this behavior now. If you fail to do so, it can lead to other aggression and dominance issues when he/she gets older. It may look cute now when your puppy nips at something but when he/she’s older, it can be a major problem. This article will teach you a couple of ways to stop a puppy from biting.</p>
<p>The majority of puppies will stop biting while they’re still young. Why? Puppies are usually born in groups and have both brothers and sisters in the litter. They learn very quickly that when they bite, they’ll be bit back. By the time the puppy is eight weeks of age, he/she should know that biting is not a good thing. Of course, the mother doesn’t always get a full eight weeks to stop the puppy biting. This is where you come in.</p>
<h3>The Puppy’s Early Days</h3>
<p>If you choose to bring home a puppy that is not eight weeks old yet or has not learned not to nip, you need to take action now to end this biting behavior. Never – under no circumstances – should you hit your puppy if he/she bites you. By doing this, your puppy will begin to fear you while developing anxieties and phobias that may cause aggression later on.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here to Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Puppy Biting Behavior!</a></p>
<p>If you want to stop a puppy from biting, you need to find out why your dog is biting.  You can do this by encouraging the good behaviors and discouraging the negative ones. Don’t play games with the puppy that can confuse him since this can cause him/her to be aggressive. Don’t play tug of war, wrestling or chase games, as these will lead to puppy nipping.</p>
<p>You always want to be consistent with your puppy especially during training. Do not go soft or let the puppy get away with bad behavior especially if you’re trying to stop puppy biting. Remember that you’re stopping his biting behavior is for your own good.</p>
<h3>Training Your Puppy – Obedience/Socialization Classes</h3>
<p>When you decide you want a puppy, you should ensure that he/she gets obedience classes. These classes will also have a biting inhibition section, which is where the trainers will copy the puppy’s mother’s behavior, teaching your pup not to bite. You also want to socialize your puppy because it helps your dog understand what to do if he/she sees another dog on the street, reducing any aggression that may have come about without socialization/obedience classes.</p>
<h3>Two Methods That Will Make Your Puppy Stop Biting Quickly</h3>
<p><strong>1 – Redirect His/Her Chewing Attention</strong></p>
<p>When you’re trying to stop a puppy from biting, be sure to redirect the pup’s behavior by giving it a bone or chew toy. If you tell your pup “no” in a strong tone, be sure to immediately give him/her a chew toy. They’ll learn quickly that chewing on fingers is a no-no but chewing on the toy is fine.</p>
<p><strong>2 – Make A Hurtful Noise</strong></p>
<p>When your puppy is chewing on your finger or nipping at you, consider making small, hurtful noises each time. The noise you do will be a replica of the noise that puppies make when they get bit. A yip or soft whine will let your puppy know that he/she hurt you. It’ll startle your puppy enough to let go and walk away.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here to Put an End to the Stress and Annoyance of Puppy Biting Behavior!</a></p>
<p>Be sure you train your puppy not to bite especially if you plan to take him/her away at a young age. Keep in mind that puppies should know by 10 weeks of age not to bite. When you break them of the habit now, it makes the next few years with your canine friend less stressful. Plus, you reduce the chances of him/her becoming aggressive later on.</p>
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		<title>Stop Dog Scratching</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-dog-scratching/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-dog-scratching/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:21:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://74.86.183.198/~drctdg/?p=90</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dog owners around the world are looking for ways to stop dog scratching. Regardless of the reason (skin fixation, food allergy, fleas, etc.), continuous dog scratching can cause infections, hot spots and plenty more skin problems that can develop into serious long-term problems if not treated. Six Reasons Dogs Scratch Themselves There are so many... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/stop-dog-scratching/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_713" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth"><img class="size-medium wp-image-713 " title="Stop Dog Scratching" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/stop-dog-scratching-300x282.jpg" alt="Stop Dog Scratching" width="300" height="282" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here to End Your Dog&#39;s Scratching Issues</p></div>
<p>Dog owners around the world are looking for ways to stop dog scratching. Regardless of the reason (skin fixation, food allergy, fleas, etc.), continuous dog scratching can cause infections, hot spots and plenty more skin problems that can develop into serious long-term problems if not treated.</p>
<h3>Six Reasons Dogs Scratch Themselves</h3>
<p>There are so many reasons as to why a dog is scratching himself/herself. If you plan to stop dog scratching, you need to find out why that is. There are six known causes for dog scratching.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Allergies</strong> – Dogs will scratch themselves for any number of allergies such as dust, flea, food, plant and any other allergies that dogs come across. These allergies can cause the dog skin problems, which makes the dog scratch severely.</li>
<li><strong>Environment</strong> – Scratching can also be caused by excessive digging, swimming and outdoor playing.</li>
<li><strong>Infections</strong> – Dogs can also have scratching problems due to bacteria, fungi and yeast infections. If you notice your dog scratching a lot more, be sure you look for spots of red swelling, hairless patches or greasy sores.</li>
<li><strong>Neurogenic</strong> – This condition is caused by a lack of mental stimulation or perhaps separation anxiety. Excessive chewing and licking is a sign of this reason.</li>
<li><strong>Nutritional</strong> – When your dog doesn’t get the right type of nutrients, their skin can go dry, develop aczema or bad hair that causes dryness.</li>
<li><strong>Parasites</strong> – Regardless of what parasite the dog has (fleas, mites, gnats and flies), the dog will scratch to relieve the itch. However, the majority of medications can stop parasites.</li>
</ul>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Click Here to Put an End to Your Dog&#8217;s Scratching Issues</a></p>
<p>As you see, it’s imperative you know why your dog is scratching if you plan on stopping it.</p>
<h3>Time For A Vet Visit</h3>
<p>It’s time to take your canine friend to the vet and determine what’s causing him/her the discomfort. The vet will thoroughly look over your canine. If it’s found your dog has an infection, the vet will order antibiotics, cream or antifungal to deal with it. Allergies will need to be treated with antihistamines and diet changes. Parasites can be dealt with by medications and flea baths.</p>
<h3>How To Deal With Neurogenc Scratching</h3>
<p>When you’re trying to stop dog scratching, you’re going to find that the most difficult is the neurogenic cause. The other issues can be handled by medication and changes in diet and exercise. However, with this cause, you need to figure out why it is your dog is scratching and always feels that urge to scratch.</p>
<p>The first thing you need to determine is whether or not your dog is getting plenty of exercise. Many times the dog is just bored and will develop a tick or itch. If you want to stop dog scratching because of boredom, you need to find ways to change the behavior.  You can do this by putting cayenne pepper or apple spray on the dog’s favorite licking spots.</p>
<p>The vet can also give you a cone that will keep your pet from reaching those favorite itching spots. Once your dog is more active and things are getting back to normal, you can let them do their original activities, remove the cone and spray.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Click Here to Put an End to Your Dog&#8217;s Scratching Issues</a></p>
<p>However, if the dog still scratches himself/herself, then you need to take your canine friend back to the vet to rule out physical ailments. It’s not uncommon for infections to crop up suddenly.</p>
<p>As a dog owner, it’s up to you to pay attention to the reasons why your dog is scratching and, if you want to stop dog scratching, you must be diligent about it and get it looked at right away. Keep in mind that scratching can be, for the most part, easy to stop but you have to take the time to find out why it started in the first place.</p>
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		<title>Four Methods That Can Help You Stop Dog Chasing</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-dog-chasing/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-dog-chasing/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:20:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://74.86.183.198/~drctdg/?p=88</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Does it seem like your dog is chasing anything that moves in its presence? The problem with a dog that chases anything and everything is that your dog puts itself into real danger. After all, a moving car, cat, or squirrel can be harmful to their health. Plus, if you have a dog that is... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/stop-dog-chasing/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_715" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1"><img class="size-medium wp-image-715 " title="Stop Dog Chasing" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/stop-dog-chasing-300x200.jpg" alt="Stop Dog Chasing" width="300" height="200" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here Now to Discover How to Stop Your Dog&#39;s Chasing Problems For Good!</p></div>
<p>Does it seem like your dog is chasing anything that moves in its presence? The problem with a dog that chases anything and everything is that your dog puts itself into real danger. After all, a moving car, cat, or squirrel can be harmful to their health. Plus, if you have a dog that is always on the move and chasing things, a nice, peaceful walk is next to impossible. You certainly don’t want to keep your dog tied up all day and all night; thus, you want to stop dog chasing in its tracks.</p>
<h3>Four Retraining Methods That Can Stop Dog Chasing</h3>
<p>If you notice that your dog has major issues that involve chasing, it would be in your best interest (as well as your dog’s interest) to do some basic retraining. When your dog is fixated on something, retraining your pup will help to lessen the negative behavior. Be sure to use your dog’s leash to keep control over him/her so that he/she stays safe as you train them.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here Now to Discover How to Stop Your Dog&#8217;s Chasing Problems For Good!</a></p>
<p><strong>Keep Focus On You</strong> – When you’re training your pup, you need to make sure that his/her attention is completely on you. Many people tend to forget this but if you want to stop dog chasing, you must show that you’re the alpha male. Thus, when you’re walking your dog, he/she will look at you before moving. Make sure your dog’s attention is on you before you start the walk.</p>
<p><strong>Leash Training</strong> – Does your dog like to pull on his/her leash? Does he/she not put their attention on you? If so, then it’s going to take you some time to show them how to act. To start off, be sure you have them sit and wait for when you begin moving. If you notice they pull, stop them and make them sit next to you. It won’t be long before they associate the leash pulling with stopping.</p>
<p><strong>Have Distractions</strong> – If you want to stop dog chasing when not on the leash, consider using a toy to distract your pup. There are many times where you can avert your dog’s attention, even if he/she is fixated on a particular object, with the toy or another object they get excited about. Be sure they see it and then give it to them.</p>
<p><strong>Avert Tactics</strong> – Another way to stop dog chasing is to avert their attention. With a friend’s help, have them ride a bike or jog…something that will stimulate the dog’s passion to chase. To get the dog to stop chasing, you want the friend to stop by saying in a firm voice, “no” and spray the dog with a bottle of water. Most dogs will learn that catching what they chased is not necessarily a good thing. Keep in mind that this will not work on all dogs, as some may get angry at water bottles.</p>
<h3>Avoid The Extreme Measures To Stop Dog Chasing</h3>
<p>There are some folks who will go to the extreme to stop dog chasing. These extremes come in the form of:</p>
<ul>
<li>Shock collars</li>
<li>Electric fences</li>
<li>Other keep dog in line tools</li>
</ul>
<p>You should never use these for a lot of reasons. However, the most important reason not to use them is that they’re inhumane and not that effective. If you want your dog to stop chasing things, you’ll need the help of an expert.</p>
<p>Your dog chasing cars, animals and other people may be annoying but let them off their leash and it can be incredibly dangerous for them (and you). Stop dog chasing today so that your canine friend is better protected.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here Now to Discover How to Stop Your Dog&#8217;s Chasing Problems For Good!</a></p>
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		<title>Stop Barking Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-barking-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/stop-barking-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:14:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Feature Article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Are you tired of your dog barking? Have you decided that you have got to stop all the barking your dog does? If so, then you have to understand that there is only so much you can do to stop barking dogs. Why? Dogs will bark; that’s what they’re born to do. It doesn’t matter... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/stop-barking-dogs/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_717" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/stop-barking-dogs.jpg"><img class="size-medium wp-image-717" title="Stop Barking Dogs" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/stop-barking-dogs-300x240.jpg" alt="Stop Barking Dogs" width="300" height="240" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Learn How to STOP Your Dog Barking Problems Now!</p></div>
<p>Are you tired of your dog barking? Have you decided that you have got to stop all the barking your dog does? If so, then you have to understand that there is only so much you can do to stop barking dogs. Why? Dogs will bark; that’s what they’re born to do.  It doesn’t matter how much breeding or refining you do, dogs have a natural tendency to speak what they feel and need.  Bear in mind, however, there’s just one canine breed that never barks and that’s the Basenji.</p>
<p>Before you can quiet your dog’s barking, you have to understand all the reasons why your dog barks and what forms of his/her barking you can get under control.</p>
<h3>Why Do Dogs Bark?</h3>
<p>There are a number of reasons why a dog will start barking. Sometimes it’s because they are angry. Other times they bark because they’re excited. They may bark when they’re frightened. Here are some others reasons as to why your dog is barking:</p>
<ul>
<li>Aggravated Barking</li>
<li>Alarm Barking</li>
<li>Attention Seeking Barking</li>
<li>Compulsive Barking</li>
<li>Defensive Barking</li>
<li>Greeting Barking</li>
<li>Injury/Illness Related Barking</li>
</ul>
<p>As you may notice, barking is a big part of your dog’s character. Thus, you cannot stop your dog from barking entirely. They will need to express themselves from time to time, no matter what you do to restrain the behavior.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1b">Learn How to STOP Your Dog Barking Problems Now!</a></p>
<h3>How You Can Stop Barking Dogs</h3>
<p>When you notice your dog hasn’t quieted down his bark, determine why that is. More often than not, the behavior is a bit excessive and you can control it.  If you decide that you can control the barking, you need to first ask yourself the questions below:</p>
<ul>
<li>Why does my dog bark?</li>
<li>What is my dog barking at?</li>
<li>Is there a trigger for my dog’s barking?</li>
</ul>
<p>If you notice that the reason for his/her barking is territorial or they’re worried, you cannot yell at them to make them quit. This will actually cause them to bark even more and could even get them aggressive. Remember your dog will not recognize what you’re trying to say. They may quit barking but the issues of territory still have yet to be resolved.</p>
<p>Rather you need a circumstance in which the dog will not feel so territorial and feel like it needs to defend itself. You can only do this by gaining control over your household. Make sure you’re the alpha leader and prove to your dog that you’re the one who will protect everything. You can also lessen those viewed threats by closing blinds or getting a fence. This keeps them from looking out and seeing things that he/she may think are threats to your household. Never let them have open access to your windows.</p>
<h3>How To Stop A Dog’s Anxiety Barking</h3>
<p>If you notice that the barking is due to anxiety, then you know there’s an underlying cause for it. Dogs will incessantly bark until you come back. The reason this continues is because you reinforced it (perhaps unintentionally) sometime in the past. Upon entering your home, you might pay immediate attention to them. Instead of rewarding their behavior, you need to ignore them for at least 15 minutes; thus, this will stop them from linking your return home with attention.</p>
<p>The final thing you can do to stop barking dogs is to teach them how to be quiet and speak. Be sure to create a command that enables you control over this behavior so that your dog will learn how to control his/her barking (whenever the barking is not necessary). A big benefit to this type of command is that your dog will still bark when there’s an intruder or anything else you feel they need to warn you about.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1b">Learn How to STOP Your Dog Barking Problems Now!</a></p>
<p>Barking dogs are not the blight of your existence or of your community’s. All you need to do is learn how from the get-go to control it, which makes it a safe bet you won’t have neighbors beating on your door to quiet down your dogs.</p>
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		<title>Schutzhund Training</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/schutzhund-training/</link>
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		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:13:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[In the early part of the 20th century, German countrymen came up with a sport called Schutzhund training. This training was (and is) used to test the many different German shepherd breeds to see what potential they have as police dogs. Instead of using the dog’s sheer size to find out if the animal would... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/schutzhund-training/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-720" title="Schutzhund Training" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/schutzhund-training-300x198.jpg" alt="Schutzhund Training" width="300" height="198" />In the early part of the 20th century, German countrymen came up with a sport called Schutzhund training. This training was (and is) used to test the many different German shepherd breeds to see what potential they have as police dogs. Instead of using the dog’s sheer size to find out if the animal would be an effective police dog, trainers use the Schutzhund to narrow down what ones were (are) best suited for police work. Today, it’s not just for German Shepherds but any dog breed that trainers feel makes the grade. However, very few dogs will actually pass the Schutzhund training.</p>
<h3>What You Need To Know About Schutzhund Training – Past To Present</h3>
<p>Schutzhund training is considered to be very inflexible and an exceedingly controlled process that’s changed over the past 100 years.  In fact, dogs are far less abused than in the past (especially when it was first started) but it remains strict in the way animals are evaluated. In the past, the majority of the training that occurred was based solely on a small number of manuals and organized courses. However, today, dog owners have their choice of videos and DVDs to use in the training process.</p>
<p>The training itself tests dogs on certain behaviors that are geared toward four types of police work such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>Protection</li>
<li>Retrieving</li>
<li>Sniffing</li>
<li>Tracking</li>
</ul>
<p>This training will start when the dog is actually a pup (mere weeks old) and will continue for several weeks (maybe months) to make sure that the dog is suited for the work.</p>
<h3>What Makes Up Schutzhund Training</h3>
<p>There are varying aspects to the Schutzhund training and the type of course you use will depend on what videos or obedience program you prefer. Bear in mind, however, most courses will look at the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Clicker Training</li>
<li>Obedience</li>
<li>Protection</li>
<li>Tracking</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>1 – Clicker Training</strong></p>
<p>Some Schutzhund trainers opt not to use clickers but many consider it the universal method to train German Shepherds and many other Schutzhund suitable dog breeds. Work that’s done with a clicker should start when the pup is approximately 10 weeks of age.</p>
<p><strong>2 – Obedience </strong></p>
<p>The first true test of Schutzhund training is the fundamental obedience training, with 10 to 11 commands used for the majority of the programs. These commands include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Sit, down and stand</li>
<li>Focus and attention</li>
<li>Go out</li>
<li>Retrieving</li>
<li>Targeting</li>
<li>Jumping</li>
<li>Heel positioning</li>
<li>Front</li>
<li>Heeling</li>
<li>Motion exercises</li>
<li>Pointing out (of objects)</li>
</ul>
<p>All 11 training points must be mastered before the dog is said to have fully completed the program.</p>
<p><strong>3 – Protection</strong></p>
<p>Canines are also taught to protect (usually has attack dogs, guard dogs or police dogs). They must know and understand certain commands that allow them to recognize a threat and attack it. They can also be trained to protect certain people or objects without being commanded.</p>
<p><strong>4 – Tracking </strong></p>
<p>If a dog is going to be used to track different objects such as bombs, cadavers or drugs, they need to be fully trained in tracking methods.  Dogs used solely for this purpose will be trained in the following obedience training methods:</p>
<ul>
<li>Pointing out objects</li>
<li>Targeting</li>
</ul>
<p>These things will teach the dog to identify certain scents on a target and pursue it until it’s caught or called off.</p>
<p>What the Schutzhund training is supposed to do is give your dog a certain set of skills that will help them accomplish a task efficiently, effectively and rapidly.  Dogs subjected to official training programs might complete the training at a 20 percent or lower rate. Despite the rate, this training is considered just as effective as an obedience routine geared toward dog owners.</p>
<p>If you want to use the Schutzhund training for your canine friend, make sure you do your research on the variety of training courses that are available. Find courses that have fundamental philosophies and a great success rate.</p>
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		<title>How To Stop Your Young or Mature Poodle Biting</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/poodle-biting/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/poodle-biting/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:12:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Behavior]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[A common problem for owners of poodles is biting. The reason the problem persists is that many poodle owners let the behavior occur when the poodles are puppies, while they’re still so cute.  While a poodle puppy can look cute with little bows in his/her hair, they do eventually get bigger.  And when they get... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/poodle-biting/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_723" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a"><img class="size-medium wp-image-723 " title="Poodle Biting" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/poodle-biting-300x225.jpg" alt="Poodle Biting" width="300" height="225" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here to Discover The Best Solution For STOPPING Your Poodle’s Biting Problems FOR GOOD!</p></div>
<p>A common problem for owners of poodles is biting. The reason the problem persists is that many poodle owners let the behavior occur when the poodles are puppies, while they’re still so cute.  While a poodle puppy can look cute with little bows in his/her hair, they do eventually get bigger.  And when they get bigger and don’t have the knowledge not to bite, you’re going to have poodle biting troubles.</p>
<h3>Why Do Poodles Bite</h3>
<p>Many people are under the mistaken impression that poodles compared with other dog breeds bite more often, especially toy poodles. However, poodles that have been trained well will not do any biting whatsoever. If they do bite, it’s just a bit higher than other dog breeds.</p>
<p>Why is it that poodles have a higher bite rate than other dog breeds? Bear in mind that poodles are not bred to do much; they’re mainly good for being a pet. However, poodles are very smart; one of the smartest dog breeds out there. If you combine this intelligence with a lack of instinct, poodles can become obstinate and not respond to necessary commands you give it… if you don’t get them under control.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Click Here to Discover The Best Solution For STOPPING Your Poodle&#8217;s Biting Problems FOR GOOD!</a></p>
<h3>How Can You Stop Poodle Biting</h3>
<p>Poodles are quite smart and, because of that, they can be trained and taught that biting is not allowed socially. Be sure you start training your poodle when he/she is young and have been socialized properly. Puppies should stay with their mothers until they reach eight weeks of age; this ensures that the puppy learns from the mother not to bite and will control the urge to be dominant.</p>
<p>However, after the pup reaches eight weeks of age, he/she should become acquainted with your family and other puppies, if you have any. Be sure to take them to a bite aversion class and puppy day cares. Always be calm toward the dog. Do not ever scold your poodle puppies because they’re too young to know any better and early aggression from you can cause long-term behavior problems.</p>
<p>If your puppy has a poodle biting issue, don’t let it fester. Be sure you give your puppy a toy whenever he/she bites and whimper so that your puppy knows that he/she “hurt” you. After all, whimpering is what other puppies would do if bit.</p>
<h3>How To Deal With Older Dogs and Poodle Biting</h3>
<p>If you’ve got an older-aged poodle who still likes to nip or bite people, then you must get full control over your canine.  Be sure he/she realizes that you’re the alpha leader by controlling the walking and feeding times. Your dog should also know the basic commands. Never let your dog see you back down and blether on those commands. Avoid games such as tug of war or wrestling since this can lead to biting.</p>
<p>If you notice your poodle has aggressive tendencies or anxiety/fear related tendencies, then enroll them in an obedience class so that they can be socialized with other dogs and forced to control those aggression issues. Be sure you hire an expert if the poodle biting issue is still a problem or becomes dangerous.  If you’re really concerned, take your poodle to a vet so that health related problems can be ruled out.</p>
<p>No matter how you take care of poodle biting, be sure he/she knows that it’s not okay to do. And remember… poodle biting is a sign of a deep behavior problem and must be dealt with right away.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Click Here to Discover The Best Solution For STOPPING Your Poodle&#8217;s Biting Problems FOR GOOD!</a></p>
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		<title>Training a Mastiff</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-mastiff/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-mastiff/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:11:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Are you the type of person who wants a big dog? If so, then you’ll want a Mastiff for a canine pet. However, if you don’t get the right kind of mastiff training, you’re going to find that this could-be big, loving canine friend is nothing more than a huge, runaway brick of both muscle... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-mastiff/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
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<p>Are you the type of person who wants a big dog? If so, then you’ll want a Mastiff for a canine pet. However, if you don’t get the right kind of mastiff training, you’re going to find that this could-be big, loving canine friend is nothing more than a huge, runaway brick of both muscle and dog slobber. Thus, if you choose to bring home a mastiff, be sure you have the ability to get him the right mastiff training.</p>
<p>The good thing about mastiffs is that they’re the dog breed that likes to train and are more than willing to make their masters happy. However, training needs to begin early and stay consistent the entire process so that they don’t try to manipulate you.</p>
<h3>Why Are Mastiffs So Special – What You Need To Know About Your Canine Before Training</h3>
<p>What sets these dogs out from every other dog breed?  Bear in mind that these dogs are typically calm and relaxed; yet, they require lots of exercise and they need it regularly… even if they don’t seem like they do. Mastiffs won’t do a lot of jogging or running so you’ll need plenty of time to ensure they get their exercise.</p>
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<p>They also need constant companionship to keep their mild manners, especially as they get older. You can send your dog to any mastiff training you want but it’s not going to do you a bit of good if you’re not home to spend time with him. This dog breed loves companionship, whether it’s in the form of a human or another dog.</p>
<p>Make sure that you’re patient with this dog and have time to spend with them. Mastiffs want to see to it that you’re happy.  However, they can be stubborn, and since they’re big dogs, taking a walk in the park will be no picnic.</p>
<h3>The Basics for Training a Mastiff – What You Need To Know To Make Training Go Smoothly</h3>
<p>Mastiff puppies need to stay with their mothers at least until they’re eight weeks old. The idea is to keep them socialized for as long as possible when they’re young due to their size and temperament.</p>
<p>As mastiffs get older, that level of socialization should be maintained. At least one person needs to stay with the puppy each day until he/she reaches three months old. They should also be introduced to other dogs during this time.</p>
<p>Do not train the mastiff to be your guard dog, as the temperament of this breed cannot be easily controlled should they begin watching for threats. The size of these dogs should be adequate to threaten someone if they’re trying to break in.</p>
<h3>Obedience Training Included In Training a Mastiff</h3>
<p>Obedience training for a mastiff is pretty simple to do but it must begin at an early age… generally when the puppy is 10 to 14 weeks old. This is also the time when the puppy should be housebroken and knows what place it has among the household. You should never be belligerent or violent toward these dogs, as their size can cause them to become dangerous canines… especially as they get older.</p>
<p>Mastiffs, for the most part, don’t do lots of tricks and tend to like relaxing more. Thus, you should teach your mastiff sitting, staying and walking on a leash.  You should also teach them that they should not be chasing things since it can be extremely difficult keeping these dogs under control.</p>
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<p>While you can do the basic mastiff training and get through to your canine friend, you need to remember that you’ll need to be more patient with your dog to enforce those. While you’re training them, be sure you keep them socialized either with your family, your neighbors or with the local dog park.</p>
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		<title>Training a Chihuahua</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-chihuahua/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-chihuahua/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:09:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Many people around the United States own a dog, and many of them own the cute little Chihuahua. The problem with these dogs is the owners. Why is that? Most owners, for whatever reason, automatically assume that Chihuahuas can’t get into much trouble because of their size. Thus, they fail to learn how to properly... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/training-a-chihuahua/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_729" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1"><img class="size-medium wp-image-729 " title="Training a Chihuahua" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/training-a-chihuahua-300x223.jpg" alt="Training a Chihuahua" width="300" height="223" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here NOW and Discover the Secrets to Training a Chihuahua!</p></div>
<p>Many people around the United States own a dog, and many of them own the cute little Chihuahua. The problem with these dogs is the owners. Why is that? Most owners, for whatever reason, automatically assume that Chihuahuas can’t get into much trouble because of their size.  Thus, they fail to learn how to properly train their “cute” canine and are in for a rude awakening down the road.</p>
<p>The reality behind their cute little dog is that it’s a very aggressive breed and is extremely stubborn when it’s commanded to do something. It’s imperative that Chihuahuas are trained early in their canine life.</p>
<h3>Several Reasons You Need Should Train Your Chihuahua</h3>
<p>Most people don’t realize that Chihuahuas have a distinctive temperament. The first thing you should know about them is that they’re just fine being with you and no one else. These dogs, which are considered companion dogs, would rather stick to your hip regardless of where you’re headed. Of course, this can cause them to act dominantly and be aggressive, if they’re not socialized with other dogs appropriately.</p>
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<p>The majority of these dogs will act bigger and tougher than they actually look. While they are a cute dog, they can be dangerous without proper training. This breed can act aloof to strangers, become aggressive with other dogs, snap at children and be jumpy to noises that occur outside. The best part about training a Chihuahua is that these attitudes can be controlled.</p>
<h3>Training a Chihuahua Properly – What You Need To Know To Make Training A Total Success</h3>
<p>Before anything else in training your Chihuahua, you need to show him/her that you’re the boss of the household, not them. Thus, be sure you gain control over it and your pet. If you don’t, your canine friend will believe he/she’s in charge and will do what he/she pleases to show you that. Don’t be caught off guard by its small size.  Thus, establish your boundaries and become the leader… or alpha leadership. Here are some helpful tips that will see you through:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Arriving and Leaving</strong> – Be sure you pay no attention to your dog when you first come in the house and when you leave, as you should only pay heed to him/her in their tranquil state.</li>
<li><strong>Feeding</strong> – Be sure you have set times you feed your animal; never let the dog dictate when to feed him/her.</li>
<li><strong>Jumping (and Your Furniture)</strong> – While it would seem a good idea to let your Chihuahua up wherever he/she pleases, you still want to control their space. Make sure to set boundaries. Don’t talk to these dogs when they bark or whine and be sure you let the dog know just what furniture is okay for them to sit on… if anything.</li>
<li><strong>Walks</strong> – You need to walk your Chihuahua at least two times a day, if not more. Remember that you have to control the pace and direction in which you walk. Do not allow your dog to have any say in this matter.  Above all else when training a Chihuahua, be sure you have leash control.</li>
</ul>
<p>Remember to properly train your Chihuahua… you must be the alpha leader. Be sure your dog knows that you’re in charge and not him/her.</p>
<h3>Give Your Chihuahua Some Mental Stimulation</h3>
<p>You can wear at this dog breed rather quickly but the majority of them don’t get the exercise or mental stimulation they need. Think about it: how many people actually take their Chihuahua out to a park and play fetch with them? Be sure you train your dog with the basic commands of:</p>
<ul>
<li>Fetch</li>
<li>Quiet</li>
<li>Sit</li>
<li>Speak</li>
<li>Stay</li>
</ul>
<p>Anything you feel would be beneficial to your and your pet’s well-being.</p>
<p>The important thing you must learn and know about training a Chihuahua is to lessen the opportunities available for your dog to defy you. You also want reduce the boredom he/she can feel and the energy they have. By doing this, you reduce the bad part of this breed’s character.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here NOW and Discover the Secrets to Training a Chihuahua!</a></p>
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		<title>How to Stop Dogs from Biting</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/how-to-stop-dogs-from-biting/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/how-to-stop-dogs-from-biting/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:08:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Many dog owners have to face the distressing question of how to stop their dogs from biting. It&#8217;s crucial to control that unacceptable behavior early in your dog&#8217;s life. A puppy that bites might merely be annoying, but if your dog bites when he&#8217;s mature, it can be dangerous, not only to strangers but to... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/how-to-stop-dogs-from-biting/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_731" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a"><img class="size-medium wp-image-731 " title="Stop Dogs From Biting" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/stop-dogs-from-biting-300x220.jpg" alt="Stop Dogs From Biting" width="300" height="220" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here to Discover The Best Solution For STOPPING Your Dog&#39;s Biting Problems FOR GOOD!</p></div>
<p>Many dog owners have to face the distressing question of how to stop their dogs from biting.  It&#8217;s crucial to control that unacceptable behavior early in your dog&#8217;s life.  A puppy that bites might merely be annoying, but if your dog bites when he&#8217;s mature, it can be dangerous, not only to strangers but to your family.  No matter how old your dog is, if he bites, take immediate action to stop it.</p>
<h3>How to Stop Your Puppy from Biting</h3>
<p>It&#8217;s easiest to stop this unacceptable behavior at the beginning, while your dog is still a puppy.  A puppy that&#8217;s less than six months old is still in his formative period and he&#8217;s very easy to train.  In fact, this is the most important and effective age for training your dog not to bite.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, many people think when their puppies bite, they&#8217;re just playing or teething, and not trying to hurt someone.  They don&#8217;t realize the puppy is actually learning how to assert his position in the pack by using his teeth to try to be dominant.  Luckily, puppies are extremely open to training.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Click Here to Discover The Best Solution For STOPPING Your Dog&#8217;s Biting Problems FOR GOOD!</a></p>
<p>You can stop your puppy from biting with several different techniques, most of which mimic the way a puppy would be treated by its mother and littermates.  Take your pick from making a whining sound when you&#8217;re bitten, replacing the hand that&#8217;s bitten with a toy, or giving your pup a light pinch on the neck.  Each of these methods can teach your pup that biting people is unacceptable.  If you encounter difficulty while teaching your pup to stop biting, you should either hire a professional trainer or attend obedience classes, because this is a behavior that should be stopped immediately.</p>
<h3>How to Stop a One Year Old Dog from Biting</h3>
<p>A puppy that&#8217;s allowed to nip and bite, showing that he&#8217;s actually in charge of your household, will continue to play bite when he&#8217;s a teenager, when he&#8217;s around one year old.  Several things can actually encourage your dog to bite, including certain ways of playing with him.  Immediately stop playing physical games with your dog:  no tug-of-war, no wrestling and no other dominance-related games.  You should also stop letting your dog have the run of your house.  Give your dog specific boundaries, limit the areas he can roam in, and crate train him if necessary.  In addition, taking a good obedience course can provide a great deal of valuable assistance when you have a teenage dog that bites.</p>
<h3>How to Stop an Older Dog from Biting</h3>
<p>If the biting persists as your dog passes from being a teenager into adulthood, it can develop into a major problem.  He might &#8220;turn&#8221; on you and he&#8217;ll continue to think he&#8217;s the leader of the pack.</p>
<p>Seek professional help immediately if your dog nips or bites someone after he&#8217;s one year old.  The danger is serious, because your dog might decide to assert his dominance by attacking without warning.</p>
<p>Remember, when you&#8217;re learning how to stop dogs from biting, you should start training your dog as early in his life as you can.  Although there are a few exceptions relating to health conditions and mental disorders, in general, a dog that bites as an adult had issues as a puppy that could have been addressed and resolved.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1a">Click Here to Discover The Best Solution For STOPPING Your Dog&#8217;s Biting Problems FOR GOOD!</a></p>
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		<title>Crate Training Tips</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/crate-training-tips/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/crate-training-tips/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 05:08:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[You&#8217;re far from alone if you want to learn how to crate train your dog. Every year, millions of dog owners learn how to crate train their dogs or restrict them to a single room when they leave the house. Crate training can reduce your dog&#8217;s anxiety and decrease the likelihood of destructive behavior and... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/crate-training-tips/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_734" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/housetraining"><img class="size-medium wp-image-734 " title="Crate Training Tips" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/crate-training-tips-300x199.jpg" alt="Crate Training Tips" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Discover How to CRATE TRAIN Your Puppy Now!</p></div>
<p>You&#8217;re far from alone if you want to learn how to crate train your dog.  Every year, millions of dog owners learn how to crate train their dogs or restrict them to a single room when they leave the house.  Crate training can reduce your dog&#8217;s anxiety and decrease the likelihood of destructive behavior and incessant barking.  A crate is also an invaluable tool when you&#8217;re housetraining a new puppy, and it can make life much easier if your dog keeps trying to sleep on your sofa or your bed.</p>
<h3>Your Dog Will Love His Crate</h3>
<p>Whether you&#8217;re simply trying to decide whether a crate is a good idea, or you&#8217;ve taken the next step and you&#8217;re actually learning how to crate train your dog, you&#8217;ll appreciate knowing that most dogs love their crates.  Dogs in the wild seek out small, safe spaces to burrow into and stay safe and warm.  Crates perform that function admirably by giving dogs a safe place they can call their own.  Dogs that have free run of large, open spaces often have difficulty identifying their specific &#8220;home&#8221; or &#8220;den&#8221; within it, and they can become riddled with anxiety trying to maintain control over the entire large area.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/housetraining">Discover How to CRATE TRAIN Your Puppy Now!</a></p>
<h3>How to Crate Train Your Dog</h3>
<p>Crate training is best done when your dog is still a puppy, because a mature dog that has never been crated will probably have some difficulty adjusting to the confined space and may become anxious.  A puppy might be upset too, but he will adapt much more rapidly, and if he&#8217;s never slept in your bed, he probably won&#8217;t have much of anything to remain disturbed about.</p>
<p>During the day, it&#8217;s best to place your dog&#8217;s crate in a room where people can keep your dog company, such as your family room or living room.  It should be placed in your bedroom at night so you&#8217;re present to provide comfort.  After a while, perhaps a month or so, you should be able to leave the crate in the same place all the time, but at the beginning try to stay near your dog&#8217;s crate to keep him calm and feeling safe.</p>
<p>Make sure your dog&#8217;s crate gives him a clean, comfortable place to sleep in and contains a toy and water.  It should be just large enough for him to sleep in and turn around, but not large enough for him to walk around in.  Your dog might soil a crate that&#8217;s too large, because he&#8217;ll still be able to sleep comfortably and cleanly in the unsoiled end.  If he can turn around inside the crate, it&#8217;s big enough, and not cruel or inhumane.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/housetraining">Discover How to CRATE TRAIN Your Puppy Now!</a></p>
<p>Never let your dog out of his crate if he becomes upset during crate training.  That will only teach him that you&#8217;ll let him out and/or give him attention if he acts up.  Instead, only let him out of the crate after he&#8217;s been calm and quiet for at least five minutes.  When you do let him out, praise him lavishly, and give him a treat to let him know he behaved properly.</p>
<p>When you&#8217;re first starting your crate training, leave your puppy inside for only an hour or two at a time.  As he matures, you can gradually lengthen that period to correspond to the hours you&#8217;ll be at work or a full night&#8217;s sleep.</p>
<p>Crate training your dog properly will ensure that he doesn&#8217;t become destructive, anxious, or bark for long periods of time when you leave home.  A puppy will adapt quickly, causing less stress for everyone in your household.</p>
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		<title>Tips on Dog Training</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/tips-on-dog-training/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/tips-on-dog-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:28:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Feature Article]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://74.86.183.198/~drctdg/?p=53</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Some of the most effective dog training tips are the simplest: they help you know where to begin. These tips on dog training teach you to understand what your dog needs from you in a training situation, and then they teach you how to provide it. Many people believe dogs are smarter than they really... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/tips-on-dog-training/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_736" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1"><img class="size-medium wp-image-736 " title="Tips On Dog Training" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/tips-on-dog-training-300x248.jpg" alt="Tips On Dog Training" width="300" height="248" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here Now to Discover the BEST Tips on Dog Training!</p></div>
<p>Some of the most effective dog training tips are the simplest:  they help you know where to begin.  These tips on dog training teach you to understand what your dog needs from you in a training situation, and then they teach you how to provide it.  Many people believe dogs are smarter than they really are.  In reality, your dog simply reacts to you.  He wants to be accepted as a member of your &#8220;pack,&#8221; but he&#8217;s still an animal, and he has animal instincts.</p>
<p>Your dog&#8217;s need for acceptance means the best way to train him is by focusing on changing how he expresses his instincts, not by scolding him or yelling at him.</p>
<h3>Core Dog Training Tips</h3>
<p>Every dog owner should consider a few basic things when training their dog.  Each one can make dog training much easier.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here Now to Discover the BEST Tips on Dog Training!</a></p>
<p><strong>Crate Training</strong> &#8211; Far from being the cruel punishment that many people believe, crate training actually gives your dog a home he can call his own.  You should never confine your dog in a crate to punish him, and at the beginning you should spend time at home with your dog in his crate so that he can get acclimated.  He&#8217;ll soon starting viewing the crate as his own private little den.  Crate training can facilitate housebreaking, reduce barking, and alleviate anxiety issues.</p>
<p><strong>Leash Training</strong> &#8211; If your dog is difficult to walk on a leash, the best thing you can do is teach him how to become controlled and calm.  Once he learns this, he&#8217;ll respond to your commands without becoming overly excited about an upcoming walk.  The owners of most dogs with leash issues give up and let their dogs run and pull whenever they want.  If your dog pulls on his leash, stop walking immediately, then make him sit and wait calmly by your side before you resume.  He&#8217;ll soon learn that pulling on the leash means the walk will stop.</p>
<p><strong>You&#8217;re the Alpha Dog</strong> &#8211; You hold the lead (alpha) position in your household, and the most important dog training tips relate to your position as your dog&#8217;s &#8220;pack&#8221; leader, or the alpha &#8220;dog.&#8221;  Despite what many people think, dog training isn&#8217;t your dog&#8217;s responsibility.  Most of the time, he doesn&#8217;t understand what you&#8217;re saying and he doesn&#8217;t know what you want him to do.  It&#8217;s your job to teach him that you&#8217;re the leader of the pack, and you&#8217;re always in control.  Once he understands he has a subordinate position in the pack, he can relax and follow your commands.</p>
<p><strong>Obedience Training</strong> &#8211; Dog obedience classes are the source of the best tips on dog training that you&#8217;ll ever get.  These helpful classes teach new dog owners how to attain and maintain the alpha leadership position, control their dogs and give them specific, effective commands.  Whether you have a new pup or you&#8217;re having trouble with an older dog, consider enrolling in obedience classes to enhance your dog training at home.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here Now to Discover the BEST Tips on Dog Training!</a></p>
<h3>Consistency is Essential in Dog Training</h3>
<p>Tips on dog training all share one important factor:  the need to be consistent.  Dogs might seem intelligent, and in many ways they are.  However, much of what dogs know is learned in response to consistent repetitions.  For example, if the only time you make your dog sit before going out is when you have some extra time, he&#8217;ll become confused and excited, and he&#8217;ll stop following your commands.  If you want him to sit before letting him out, make him do it each and every time.  Whenever you set a rule, apply it consistently.  Make sure the other people in your household apply it consistently, too.  Effective dog training can be harder on you than it is for your dog, but it&#8217;s always well worth the effort.</p>
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		<title>Dog Obedience Training</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-obedience-training/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-obedience-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:11:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Many people find that dog obedience training is the most important thing they can do when they get a new puppy. It should also be one of the first things you do, because obedience training will teach your dog how to behave in a variety of situations that will almost inevitably come up at some... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dog-obedience-training/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_738" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1"><img class="size-medium wp-image-738 " title="Dog Obedience Training" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/dog-obedience-training-300x190.jpg" alt="Dog Obedience Training" width="300" height="190" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Click Here and Discover Everything About Dog Obedience Training Now!</p></div>
<p>Many people find that dog obedience training is the most important thing they can do when they get a new puppy.  It should also be one of the first things you do, because obedience training will teach your dog how to behave in a variety of situations that will almost inevitably come up at some point during your dog&#8217;s life.  However, some dog owners might not be able to afford formal obedience classes, and others would prefer to train their dogs on their own.  Here is a quick rundown of some of the benefits you can receive from dog obedience training.  Hopefully, it will help you decide whether your dog would benefit too.</p>
<h3>The Benefits of Dog Obedience Training</h3>
<p>Obedience training helps your dog learn to quickly and reliably respond to specific, well-delivered commands.  Never forget that you, the dog owner, are also being trained when your dog is in obedience training.  You need to learn how to give your dog commands properly, and how to properly enforce those commands.  Many owners feel their dog is entirely responsible for whether their training is successful, but that&#8217;s far from the truth.  Your training efforts will be much more effective if you think of dog obedience training as a two-way street.  Some examples are below.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here and Discover Everything About Dog Obedience Training Now!</a></p>
<p><strong>Leadership</strong> &#8211; Obedience training will teach you how to assert your dominance over your dog, so your dog understands you&#8217;re &#8220;the boss&#8221; and must always be listened to.  Alpha leadership is the key to effective training.  Use the training techniques you learn at home in addition to using them in class; your dog will learn much quicker and more easily.</p>
<p><strong>Basic Obedience Commands</strong> &#8211; Dog obedience training helps you teach your dog certain basic commands, such as &#8220;sit,&#8221; &#8220;stay,&#8221; &#8220;heel,&#8221; and &#8220;quiet.&#8221;  Learning these basics will make your dog respond better when it&#8217;s important.  These four basic obedience commands form the cornerstone for every other command you&#8217;ll want to teach your dog later, including tricks.</p>
<p><strong>No Biting and No Inappropriate Barking</strong> &#8211; Biting (always inappropriate) and inappropriate barking are two of the biggest behavioral problems a dog can have.  Dog obedience training can address these specific issues and keep your dog in line.  It&#8217;s particularly important to deal with biting quickly, while your dog is still young.</p>
<p><strong>No More Pulling During Walks</strong> &#8211; If you&#8217;re tired of your dog pulling you down the street, enrolling in a good dog obedience course would be perfect.  You&#8217;ll learn how to effectively control your dog&#8217;s movements, prevent him from pulling or dragging behind, and teach him to walk beside you in a neat and tidy heel.  You can also teach him to sit quietly when needed, as when other dogs pass by or at street corners.</p>
<p>Dog obedience training is essential for many reasons, not the least of which is the way it provides the foundation for your dog&#8217;s behavior at home.  Whether your dog is still a puppy or he&#8217;s an adult that doesn&#8217;t behave properly, consider taking a dog obedience class to get you on the road to good dog behavior.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 20px; color: #0d96e6; font-weight: bold; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1">Click Here and Discover Everything About Dog Obedience Training Now!</a></p>
<h3>You Need to Bring it Home</h3>
<p>Dog obedience training is only the beginning.  Your dog may learn a few basic commands during the classes, but if you&#8217;re not able to bring home what you&#8217;ve learned, you&#8217;ll have a hard time maintaining control.  You&#8217;ll need to be consistent and persistently demonstrate to your dog that you&#8217;re always in charge.  Also, make sure the other members of your household follow along with what you&#8217;ve taught your dog.</p>
<p>Your dog will only do what you or others in your household teach him.  You&#8217;ll need to simultaneously be consistent, reassuring and effective in asserting your commands.  The moment you start giving in or don&#8217;t enforce your commands, your dog will begin to revert to the original behaviors you&#8217;ve worked so hard to eliminate.</p>
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		<title>Dog Health Issues</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-health-issues/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dog-health-issues/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:10:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[More Dog Training Tips, Tricks & Information]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Your Dog's Health]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Pardon the play on words, but dog health issues can be a real issue.  Many potential ailments can catch you and your pup off guard, and if not dealt with quickly and effectively, these health issues can not only be expensive, they might even become emotionally devastating.  Instead of simply reacting to dog health issues... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dog-health-issues/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_741" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth"><img class="size-medium wp-image-741 " title="Dog Health Issues" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/dog-health-issues-300x199.jpg" alt="Dog Health Issues" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Learn How to Deal with Minor Dog Health Problems BEFORE they Become Major Ones!</p></div>
<p>Pardon the play on words, but dog health issues can be a real  issue.  Many potential ailments can catch you and your pup off guard,  and if not dealt with quickly and effectively, these health issues can  not only be expensive, they might even become emotionally devastating.   Instead of simply reacting to dog health issues when they arise, be  proactive and learn what you can do to prevent them from occurring.   There&#8217;s no better way to keep your dog happy and healthy.</p>
<h3>Dogs Have Health Issues, Just Like People</h3>
<p>Just like people, dogs can suffer from a variety of health problems.   And just like infants, dogs are unable to tell you what&#8217;s wrong.  As a  result, dogs frequently suffer in silence until their pain is  substantial enough to require treatment.  Being able to recognize your  dog&#8217;s symptoms is essential, but it&#8217;s also important to know the steps  you can take to prevent dog health issues from occurring in the first  place.</p>
<p><strong>Infections</strong> &#8211; Like people, dogs can experience several types of  infections, including infections of the ears, eyes, skin and even  teeth.  Ear infections, often caused by bacteria or a foreign body  inside the ear, are quite common.  Fortunately, infections are probably  the easiest dog health issues to prevent.  Check your dog&#8217;s ears  regularly for dirt, excess moisture, red spots or swelling, and make  sure you clean his eyes and ears, brush his teeth, and brush his hair  regularly to prevent a bacterial build up.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Click Here to Learn How to Deal with Minor Dog Health Problems BEFORE they Become Major Ones!</a></p>
<p><strong>Allergies</strong> &#8211; Dogs can be allergic to many substances, but flea  allergies are by far the most common.  A flea allergy can cause hot  spots on the skin and lead to skin infections.  Give your dog an  effective but safe flea medication monthly, and ensure that he stays  healthy by taking him to your veterinarian regularly for a physical  examination.  If a dog&#8217;s skin problems lead to ear infections or hot  spots, the underlying problem may really be a food allergy, which is a  more serious issue that should be addressed by your vet.</p>
<p><strong>Canine Diabetes</strong> &#8211; Dog health issues, as alluded to above, can  mirror human health problems in many ways.  Diabetes is a prime  example.  A diet packed with fatty, excessively rich or sugary foods can  potentially lead to pancreatic problems that may ultimately result in  diabetes.  A strict diet limited to commercial dog food and minimal  table scraps can help you avoid canine diabetes.  If your dog develops  diabetes, you&#8217;ll have to take him to the vet regularly.  You might even  have to give him regular insulin shots.</p>
<p><strong>Joint Dysplasia and Arthritis</strong> &#8211; Some dogs are susceptible to problems  in their joints.  Many purebred dogs fall into this category because of  their longer, narrower joints.  However, although purebreds might be  especially susceptible, any dog can develop arthritis or dysplasia.  Be  sure to give your dog the appropriate daily vitamins and minerals, but  also ask your vet to check his joints for degeneration at least  annually.</p>
<p><strong>Obesity</strong> &#8211; Mirroring obesity in people, canine obesity can be deadly.   Caused by overeating and insufficient exercise, obesity is also one of  the most common dog health issues.  While obesity itself typically  does not cause death, the heart disease, skin problems, liver disease  and benign and non-benign growths associated with obesity can be  dangerous if not addressed immediately.  Obesity can be treated by  carefully watching your dog&#8217;s diet and activity levels.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/doghealth">Learn How to Deal with Minor Dog Health Problems BEFORE they Become Major Ones!</a></p>
<p>Many of these health problems can be avoided by ensuring that your  dog eats a healthy diet, gets plenty of exercise and is kept clean and  well-groomed.  Even then, however, make sure to visit your vet at least  once a year, so he or she can check for any potential dog health  issues.  As with people, the sooner you detect a health condition, the  more effectively it can be treated and resolved.</p>
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		<title>Dachshund Puppy Training</title>
		<link>http://www.directdogs.com/dachshund-puppy-training/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directdogs.com/dachshund-puppy-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 00:08:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jack Cohen</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Training Your Dog]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Dachshunds, with their adorable little hot dog-shaped bodies, are one of the cutest dog breeds around. Unfortunately, when you start training one, you might feel differently, because Dachshunds can be downright ornery dogs. But, does Dachshund puppy training require some special type of approach to be able to control their attitude? Let&#8217;s take a look... <a href="http://www.directdogs.com/dachshund-puppy-training/"> [Continue Reading]</a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div id="attachment_743" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 310px"><a href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1g"><img class="size-medium wp-image-743 " title="Dachshund Puppy Training" src="http://www.directdogs.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/dachshund-puppy-training-300x199.jpg" alt="Dachshund Puppy Training" width="300" height="199" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Discover how to STOP your Dachshund&#39;s behavior problems... For Good!</p></div>
<p>Dachshunds, with their adorable little hot dog-shaped bodies, are one of the cutest dog breeds around.  Unfortunately, when you start training one, you might feel differently, because Dachshunds can be downright ornery dogs.  But, does Dachshund puppy training require some special type of approach to be able to control their attitude?  Let&#8217;s take a look at a few things, because these little dogs truly are cute despite some possible training issues.</p>
<h3>Dachshunds are a Different Kind of Dog</h3>
<p>Dachshund puppy training can require a good bit of patience, because the breed includes some of the most independent, stubborn dogs around.  These little guys may be small, but they have fiery wills and they like to make their own decisions.  They like to get want they want, and they&#8217;re really good at waiting you out so they do.</p>
<p>No matter how cute your Dachshund may be, keep telling yourself that he&#8217;s a dog, not a person, and he needs to be treated appropriately.  The instant you start treating him like a little person or giving him special privileges because he&#8217;s so cute, you&#8217;ve given him the upper hand and the training process will be more difficult.</p>
<p>You should always remember that if you don&#8217;t train your Dachshund, you&#8217;re actually putting him in danger.  Dachshunds have strong, willful, independent personalities, and they can get into trouble pretty easily.  Also, their long backs can be injured if they climb or jump up too much.  Fortunately, both those behaviors are trainable.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6;  padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1g">Discover How to STOP your Dachshund&#8217;s Behavior Problems Today!</a></p>
<h3>The Basics of Dachshund Puppy Training</h3>
<p>Make sure to start your Dachshund training while your dog&#8217;s still young, and give him as much exercise as you can right from the beginning.  Dachshunds might be small, but they are bred to be hunting dogs that dig out vermin from the ground.  They&#8217;re energetic little dogs, and when they don&#8217;t have the opportunity to expend that energy, it can come back to haunt you.</p>
<p>The training process will go much easier if your Dachshund gets all the exercise he needs.  Keep in mind, though, that his training still needs to be firm and carefully planned.</p>
<p><strong>Short Training Sessions</strong> &#8211; Dachshund puppy training sessions should be no more than five minutes long.  Once your dog decides he doesn&#8217;t want to listen anymore, the going can get tough, so try to get as much accomplished as you can in short training sessions.  That way, you won&#8217;t give your dog the opportunity to think about whether he wants to pay attention or not.</p>
<p><strong>The Basics </strong>- Every Dachshund should be taught to obey basic commands like &#8220;sit,&#8221; &#8220;stay&#8221; and &#8220;down.&#8221;  Learning the &#8220;down&#8221; command is especially important for a Dachshund.  Because of your Dachshund&#8217;s somewhat fragile, elongated back, jumping and climbing should be restricted as much as possible.  Carry your Dachshund up and down stairs, and teach him early that he&#8217;s not allowed to jump onto your furniture.</p>
<p><strong>Training with a Clicker</strong> &#8211; Dachshund puppy training can be made easier by incorporating clicker training into your sessions.  Although these little guys don&#8217;t have particularly great hearing, they are very responsive to sharp, single sounds like those produced by a clicker.  In addition, clicker training can be done in short bursts that are well-suited to your Dachshund&#8217;s attention span.</p>
<p><strong>Positive Reinforcement</strong> &#8211; Punishment doesn&#8217;t work well with a Dachshund because they have such strong wills.  In fact, excessive punishment can cause them to become stubborn and possibly aggressive.  Instead of punishment, use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior.  Dachshunds love treats and physical attention.</p>
<p style="line-height: 1.4em; font-size: 18px; color: #0d96e6; padding-bottom: 20px;"><a style="color: #0d96e6; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.directdogs.com/go/dog1g">Click Here to Discover How to STOP your Dachshund&#8217;s Behavior Problems Today!</a></p>
<p>Dachshund puppy training can be rewarding but trying.  You&#8217;ll need time, energy and plenty of patience to succeed.  Most importantly, don&#8217;t let your cute little pup get the upper hand!  You&#8217;ll lose the training &#8220;battle&#8221; the moment you give in, and it can be hard to regain command as your dog grows older.</p>
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