Dog Owners

How to Choose a Dog Obedience School

Every dog owner recognizes the importance of training their pet. From a very early age, dogs, like humans, learn both good and bad habits which will stay with them for the rest of their lives. This being the case, it is very important to choose the right training school to use, as bad experiences early on can have a lifelong effect on your puppy. Poorly run classes can have the exact opposite effect to that which is actually desired, causing behavioral problems which can be difficult to combat and replace.

At what age should the training start? Well, it is best to start training your puppy at 12 weeks, when your puppy is still young and eager to learn. But make sure that they have had all the correct vaccinations, and that it is safe to take them out and about with other dogs.

How should you go about choosing a training school? It is best to take into consideration the recommendations of others, so that you do not have to experience all of the bad training schools yourself. Ask your vet, and get the opinions of other friends who own dogs themselves. Observe these training classes initially and note down any of your thoughts and impressions of them.

What should you look for in a training school? Firstly, both dogs and owners should appear happy and relaxed during the class, there should be minimal tension and frustration. The trainers should be watching the handlers at all times, showing personal interest and even offering individual help if any is needed.

The class should take place at an appropriate venue, one with enough space so that conditions are not cramped. It should also be possible for shyer dogs to have some time away from the class if they begin to feel overwhelmed or scared by the situation at any time.

The class should consist of an appropriate number of animals. Smaller numbers are better, as it allows for individual help to be offered and makes it easier to keep the class calm and under control at all times. Still, there should be enough puppies there so that there is a chance to socialize well, preferably with more than 2 or 3.

All dogs taking part in the class should be of a similar age and level of development. This makes it easier for the trainer to work with the group, as all are at a similar stage of learning.

Harsh methods, such as pulling sharply at the chain or yanking at the puppy, should be avoided at all costs. Employing these methods can make puppies fearful and stunts learning. It also makes it more difficult for you to develop a warm relationship with your puppy.

Choosing the right training school to go to with your puppy is definitely vital. At these places, your dog will learn obedience and manners, as well as having the opportunity to socialize well with other puppies of a similar age. And, you never know, you might make some friends too!

Pit Bull Kennel

A visit to the Pit Bull Kennel

Professional breeders and hobby breeders who place their ads in all-breed dog magazines or especially in Pit Bull-only magazines are very serious about their dogs. And since most breeders are aware of the increasing popularity of online advertisements, many of them nowadays join the information age and set up a website to display their ads.

Whether your main source for finding your perfect puppy is through online or breed-specific magazines, you can find a wide variety of quality Pit Bulls from a reputable and honest breeder.

But what makes for an honest and reputable breeder? The fact is that although a breeder may seem professional and knowledgeable, there is still no guarantee that he or she is a good and honest breeder. Some breeders are only motivated by profit and could not care any less about their dogs. It is up to you to use your instinct and better judgment to determine if the breeder of your choice is honest and trustworthy.

If possible, try to visit the facilities personally so you can take a look around and make your own observation. Watch how the breeders treat their dogs as well as the overall atmosphere of the place. Keep away from Pit Bull breeders who treat their dogs like livestock or fighting animals. Also, if the breeder does not allow visits from prospective buyers, then you are probably better off looking some place else.

Watch out for clues that the breeder is breeding Pit Bulls to use as fighting dogs. These breeders may have their dogs tethered on heavy chains. You may see spring poles, treadmills, and other equipment used for building muscles and strength. This type of equipment, however, is also found in Pit Bull breeders who are not raising fighting dogs. Many show breeders use treadmills to condition their dogs. In addition, many breeders and pet owners have spring poles simply for their dog’s fun and exercise.

Observe the other Pit Bull dogs in the kennel and watch out for any scars, particularly big ones. Old scars on dogs may indicate that they have been used for fighting, although they could also indicate accidents. But finding a lot of dogs with scars, especially around the area of the face strongly suggests either a fighting history, or of a very careless breeder.

Know exactly what you are looking for. Do you want a Pit Bull simply as a companion and a playmate for your kids or one that you can train to be a show dog? Being honest with the breeder about your intentions will get you the Pit Bull that is perfect for you and your family.

Learn everything about Pit Bulls with the NEW: Complete Guide to Owning and Raising Pit Bull Terriers: Pit Bulls Revealed. Pit Bulls Revealed provides an honest, no-holds-barred look into Pit Bull ownership. Discover fascinating facts about the history of the breed, learn which myths are outright lies, discover how to select the ultimate Pit Bull puppy breeder, and much more.

Pit Bulls Revealed is the “ultimate resource” for anyone who is serious about getting answers to all of their Pit Bull questions. As a bonus you get TWO FREE additional handbooks- Pit Bull Training (a great guide) and Pit Bull Snacks (lots of fantastic recipes your dog will love!)


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Purchasing A Show Dog

Purchasing A Show Dog Puppy

It would be hard to tell you exactly what you ought to pay for a dog good enough to show and have some fun with. In addition to the fact that prices vary a great deal in the various breeds, and not taking into consideration the actual worth of a dog because of his good or bad points, there are many other things that enter into the price you must pay for a good dog. Here are a few:

1. How many other good dogs has the seller in his kennel? By selling you the only good one, he may be left without anything to show himself, and if he wants to show, the price may go up.

2. How crowded are the seller’s facilities? If he is overcrowded, he may be willing to sell at a lower price than usual.

3. Can the owner afford to show? If not, he may sell for less in order to give the dog the opportunity to be shown more frequently.

4. How many other persons are interested? Naturally, if several persons express the desire to buy the same dog, the price of that dog might go up.

There have been show dogs which were sold for $50 and even some which sold at about $7,500 or more. But if you know your breed before you start out to buy, you at least will know what you are getting – and remember, the price paid for a dog is not the most important consideration. I once knew a man who thought his dog should win over another simply because he paid more for his dog than did the owner of the other dog.

Also, let me bring up another point. There is one thing you are going to hear frequently, and if you take my advice you won’t pay any attention to it. You’ll hear that in order to win at shows you must be rich or at least employ a professional handler. This talk usually comes from the disgruntled or bad loser. It is not true! And if the dog breeder tries to tell you this when selling you dog at an outrageous price, then walk away!

The advice and helpful hints you will find when doing your research will help you to understand the rules of a dog show, will help you to get your dog entered at a show, and into the ring. You will find all types of information as to how to show it to its best advantage, but remember, the quality of the dog itself is up to you. The price you pay for your dog has no bearing on how well he will score at a show.

Purchasing A Show Dog

Dog Owners Money Saving Tips

Americans spend more than 23 billion dollars annually on pet food, products, services, and veterinary care. There probably are times when you feel like you’re financing the pet industry yourself. Although you won’t want to skimp on your dog’s health or nutritional needs, there are some ways to save money on his care. Whether you have one dog or a dozen, the following techniques will help your pet dollars stretch a little further.

1. One of the nice features of dog shows – besides seeing so many beautiful animals – is the plethora of vendors who set up shop to sell their wares to those who enter and attend the show. The products are often cheaper than products you find in a pet store, so relax and enjoy the show and stock up on pet supplies to save some money.

2. Clip and use store coupons on food and dog items. If you have more coupons than you can use, place extras in the pet aisles of your grocery store or donate them to a local shelter or animal organization.

3. Watch ads in your local newspapers for sales at local pet stores and pet warehouses. You may find buy-one-and-get-one free promotions or even obtain premium food and products at minimal costs.

4. Buy food in larger sizes that are cheaper on an ounce-by-ounce basis.

5. Shop at yard sales and flea markets to find items that your dog can use. You may be lucky enough to find inexpensive carriers, beds, bowls, toys, and other items. Be sure to clean them thoroughly before use.

6. Take advantage of manufacturers’ promotional sales. These often come with added pet products for minimal costs. Although some promotions require you to send away for the products, the cost of postage is less than the cost of the product if you had to buy it.

7. Shop at flea markets for old wooden shipping crates. Line them with blankets for a comfy sleeping spot. And while you’re there, buy old quilts or blankets for your dog’s bedding. Again, wash them thoroughly before use.

8. Purchase dog beds that have washable covers to prevent replacing the beds as often.

9. Save your old towels and blankets for your dog to sleep on.

10. Fill an old pillowcase with a soft piece of foam rubber. Sew the end shut. You will have a comfortable, washable dog bed, and your dog will appreciate having a bed made from something that is yours.

Dog Owners Money Saving Tips

Removing Dog Hair

Do you arrive at the office looking like you rolled over with your dog? Do your dinner guests politely pick dog hair from their food before eating it? Nothing says “I have a dog” more than hair clinging to our clothing, hair wafting through the air in our homes, or hair burrowing into the butter. Frequent vacuuming is one of the best ways to cut down on hair buildup, but if you don’t always have time to drag out the vacuum cleaner, try some of these quick and dirty suggestions for cleaning up the piles of pet hair.

1. To sweep up loose dog hair from hardwood or vinyl floors, use a dampened mop.

2. Wall-to-wall carpeting holds down the hair more than hard-wood or vinyl floors, so adding a carpet to a room may help keep dog hair from wafting through your house.

3. To pick up loose dog hair that is attached to upholstered furniture, wear a dampened rubber glove or use a damp sponge.

4. Use a sticky roller to lift dog hair from fabrics and upholstery. Washable sticky rollers enable you to recycle instead of dispose of the product.

5. Purchase a washable Furniture Magnet Pet Hair Remover to help you wipe off the dog hair from clothing, furniture, or pillows. Place it under your furniture cushions for easy access.

6. To pick up dog hair from your carpet, use a window squeegee.

7. Choose furniture made from smooth fabrics such as leather, faux leather, or other fabric to which loose hair won’t stick as readily.

8. Place a washable towel or blanket over your dog’s favorite sleeping spot to keep hair from clinging to cushions.

9. Use washable window coverings if your dog likes to watch the world go by from the floor in front of a picture window or patio doors.

10. Draperies made of smooth fabrics won’t attract as much hair as heavy textured ones, so if you’re in the market for some new window furnishings, purchase ones that are less likely to become filled with your dog’s hair.

11. Keep a lint brush near your favorite easy chair. Then, after your dog sits on your lap, you can roll off the hair before you get up.

12. Use a feather duster or device to clean between slats of mini-blinds to remove deposited hair.

13. Change the furnace and air conditioner filters more often during shedding season to prevent blockage.

Dog Hair

Pit Bull Rescue

Pit Bulls are in rescue for many reasons. The most common one is simply because their first owners did not think things through properly when they decided to get a Pit Bull. Another reason is that the dog did not get along well with the children or other pets in the house. Some Pit Bulls were rescued from illegal dog-fighting operations and will require extra care and rehabilitation. These dogs need special attention with experienced owners.

There are many Pit Bull rescue groups available that have these pets screened for temperament and health problems. However, just like what you would expect from a good breeder, there are organizations that are very picky about prospective homes for these abandoned dogs. Experienced rescue groups evaluate the needs and special requirements of each dog in their care and help you get a dog that fits well with your situation and lifestyle.

Because most of these dogs in rescue have already been to too many homes, you have to choose one very carefully to make sure that your home will be the one where he can settle in permanently. Contact your local animal shelter and ask to be notified if a Pit Bull should become available.

Find out EVERYTHING you need to know about owning a Pit Bull with the NEW: Complete Guide to Owning and Raising Pit Bull Terriers: Pit Bulls Revealed. Pit Bulls Revealed provides an honest, no-holds-barred look into Pit Bull ownership. Discover fascinating facts about the history of the breed, learn which myths are outright lies, discover how to select the ultimate Pit Bull puppy breeder, and much more.

Pit Bulls Revealed is the “ultimate resource” for anyone who is serious about getting answers to all of their Pit Bull questions. As a bonus you get TWO FREE additional handbooks- Pit Bull Training (a great guide) and Pit Bull Snacks (lots of fantastic recipes your dog will love!)


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