If you are in the habit of taking your dog off into the back country when hunting or don't own an invisible fence then dog tracking collars are worth looking into. They have the advantage of letting you know where your dog is at all times without having to keep them on a leash or in line of sight.
Most tracking collars have a range of 12 miles when in line of sight and about 7 miles when the terrain is hilly and woody. Using the same technology used in GPS systems, the collar is equipped with a transmitter that connects to the satellite network revolving around the Earth. You hold a receiver that indicates the direction your dog has moved.
The receivers usually have two modes; close range and long range. You use the long range scan when your dog has gotten more than a mile or so away and the short range is best for when you get within barking range. Between the two ranges, you can find your dog even in the thickest brush.
The collars come equipped with either a standard, upright antenna or a low profile antenna. If you plan on using your dogs in deep brush, the low profile antenna is a much better option. If you are tracking a birding dog that stays predominantly in the field, an upright antenna may help you maintain line of sight contact with your dog.
You can find many models, sizes, and styles of dog tracking collars online. Whether you need to keep track of one dog or many, you can get just what you need to make your hunting trips more fun for everyone.
Putting in an electric pet fence is only the first, less important step of using one with your dog. To ensure the success of your new fence, you must plan to spend some serious time training your dog to respond appropriately. The training process isn’t difficult, but it does require consistency and practice.
Introduction
Once your invisible dog fence has been set up and the flags placed, it is time to train your dog. Take your dog out to the yard on a leash. Each time your dog gets close enough to the hidden wire to set off the warning sound on his collar, pull him back with a sharp "NO" command. If, after several repetitions of this discouragement, he continues to move towards the fence, let him get within shock distance.
It is important that the dog feel that by disobeying he creates a negative stimulus, not that your "NO" creates it. It is likely that after a few such shocks your dog will begin to get the picture. Keep this and future training sessions short, no more than 15-20 minutes in length.
Continued training
Once your dog has begun to associate the flag boundary with your "NO", the warning sound and the shock, you can start to remove flags. Remove every other flag, increasing the distance between markers gradually. One set every couple of weeks is normal. If you dog back slides, simply replace the flags and return to the earlier stage of training.
When your dog is consistent about stopping and turning around upon hearing the warning sound, you can take him off his leash. Once again, work with him so that he stops even without the leash holding him back. When the dog responds perfectly to the unseen boundary, you can consider the training complete. Periodic refresher sessions are helpful to most dogs.
The electric pet fence industry is booming. An increasing number of people are using them successfully to keep their pets on their property. Here are the three reasons most cited for installing such a fence.
Esthetics
You invested a nice sum of money to landscape and decorate your yard. Now, you have agreed to have a dog at home. You don’t want to see dog poo everywhere, nor do you want to fence in what took so long to create. You can use an electric pet fence to keep your dog confined to only part of the yard, keeping his mess limited. By using an invisible fence, you maintain the lines and beauty of your yard at the same time.
Safety
If you have a dog, you know how attached you become to your pets. The thought of your pet digging under a traditional fence and getting out into the street makes your stomach drop. Losing a pet is traumatic for the whole household.
An electric pet fence keeps your dog safely inside your yard, without you needing to monitor them the whole time. The collar acts as a disciplinary reinforcement no matter when they go outside. If properly trained, even unusual distractions will not entice your dog beyond their dictated boundaries.
Convenience
If you combine a dog door with an electric pet fence, you have created the perfect situation. You can let your dog come and go when they wish, but still know that they are safe and within your yard. You will have no more getting up to let them out into the yard when they want to do their business or chase a squirrel. Once your dog is properly trained, your life gets much simpler.
Bark collars are a simple piece of technology that work to control your dog’s barking. The basics involve a collar with a sound and vibration sensor that you place upon your dog. When your dog begins to bark the sensor will activate and will curb barking by delivering a negative stimulus. The stimulus can be either a high pitched sound, a spray of citronella or an electric shock. Some collars combine the sound with either of the other options.
To begin it is important to ascertain why your dog is barking. A dog that barks out of boredom can, and should, be trained to stop. A dog that barks from anxiety, however, needs to have their issue confronted. Adding a collar that punishes them for being anxious will only increase their anxiety.
There are some concerns about using an electric shock collar on dogs. Although the barking collars are designed to be safe there are no industry standards. Shock collars should not be used on small or young dogs ever. Citronella collars seem to be extremely effective without any risk and most people tolerate the smell well. Regardless of the collar type, never leave your dog in the collar for more than a few hours.
When using bark collars to discourage barking you need to be an involved participant. Dogs respond best to positive stimulation so a bark collar should probably be reserved for times when you are not at home to discipline your dog yourself. A collar isn’t a substitute for an involved pet owner.
If you want to get a dog, but you have little dog experience the choice might seem daunting. With over 150 breeds to choose from you certainly do not want to bite off more than you can chew as a beginner or your dog might end up running your house hold. Never fear as the ten breeds on this list make excellent choices for doggie beginners.
1. Basset Hound: These droopy-eared, floppy-skinned, medium sized dogs are sweet, gentle, devoted, peaceful and naturally well-behaved. They fit into family life well. Bassets like to do tricks for food and have a deep musical bark. They need moderate exercise and do well in homes or apartments.
2. Cairn Terrier: These small yet stout terriers are spirited, hardy, restless little busybodies. They are alert, loyal, merry, lovable and mischievous just like Toto from the Wizard of Oz, one of the most famous Cairn Terriers. They are easily trained, like to do tricks and naturally patient yet playful with children.
3. Chihuahua: The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with huge, round eyes and erect ears. This breed is courageous, lively, proud and clever. Chihuahuas make excellent companion dogs because they enjoy affection and grow quite attached to their owners. They move very quickly and have plenty of energy yet love to be lap dogs as well.
4. Labrador Retriever: The Labrador Retriever is a large, solid, muscular dog, with a short, water-resistant double coat and webbed feet for swimming. They are loving, affectionate, intelligent, loyal and willing to please. They are the quintessential dog in that they are lively and good-natured and love to play. They also have extremely reliable temperaments and are typically great with kids and other dogs.
5. King Charles Spaniel: This small spaniel has dark round expressive eyes that are large and doll like. The King Charles Spaniel is an eager, affectionate dog who is quite an extrovert. They love to please their people and are intelligent and easy to train. Some say they are naturally well behaved and get along well with other dogs and children.
6. Miniature Schnauzer: These small, squarely-proportioned dog with long heads, bushy beards, mustaches and eyebrows are quite perky and bright-eyed. They are loving, intelligent, energetic, affectionate, and obedient. The Miniature Schnauzer enjoys time and companionship from its owner and does well with children.
7. Papillon: Otherwise known as the butterfly dog because of the long wispy hair on their erect ears, the Papillon is a small dog with a plumed tail and a long silky coat. They are friendly and energetic dogs who are quite hardy for their small size and can exercise for longer than expected time periods. They are gentle, affectionate, lively and vivacious; however, they can be calm and dignified in certain situations. They are steady, obedient and are not yappy dogs despite their small size.
8. Pug: The Pug has a square, thickset, stocky compact, body, with a sleek, soft coat that comes in apricot, fawn, black and silver - all with a short, flat, black muzzle and velvety ears. They are perky, rambunctious, loyal and affectionate. Pugs are clever and mischievous in a playful, happy way. Pugs typically use good manners with company and can be quite sensitive to punishment from their people so harsh punishment is unnecessary.
9. Scottish Terrier: This sturdy little terrier, often called a Scottie Dog, has short legs and a squatty body and is surprisingly strong and agile. Brave and alert, the Scottie is hardy and lovable. They are charming and full of character with playfulness at puppy hood and dignity as adults. People describe the Scottie as a dog that can go anywhere and do anything.
10. Welsh Corgi: The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a long, low dog with large erect ears, a broad flat skull, a fox-like head and an almost non-existent tail. They are hardy, highly intelligent, obedient, protective and devoted dog small to medium sized dogs. Corgis are extremely active and are good with children and inexperienced owners alike.
Dogs are extremely popular in the United States; however, many other cultures have a certain reverence or fondness for the dog as well. Under the Chinese Zodiac there are 12 signs, each of which are represented by an animal and the dog is one of them. The year of the dog cycles around every 12 years with the last being 2006 and the next being 2018.
According to Chinese astrology, a person's destiny can be determined by the position of the major planets at the time of a person's birth along with the positions of the Sun, Moon and comets and the person's time of birth and Zodiac Sign. The system of the twelve-year cycle of animal signs was built from observations of the orbit of the planet Jupiter. Following the orbit of Jupiter around the sun, Chinese astronomers divided the orbit into 12 sections thus representing the 12 years of the Chinese Zodiac. The year of the dog is the 11th position of this zodiac.
The Chinese look upon the dog as representing justice and equality and they feel that dog individuals are the most humanitarian among the signs. Dogs are the givers in life, prepared to sacrifice their own dreams, ambitions and desires for the sake of others. Fiercely loyal to those they love; Dogs are always on the defense when it comes to protecting their family and friends. They have a penchant for championing the underdog. Dogs have a heightened sense of morality or decency and seek balance and fairness in a chaotic world. They denounce injustice and wrongdoing, generously giving useful and effective advice to those around them. Their warmth, empathy and genuine interest in inspiring the confidence of others wins them many close friendships. They will always do their utmost for others, and their dedication can go to the point of sacrifice. Dog people are honest, faithful and sincere and are often the first to speak out against injustice. While dog people are not the most famous for charming a crowd, they are intelligent and make good listeners. They also share the literal characteristics of a dog in that they are loyal, faithful and honest. You can always count on a dog person as they are reliable and will never let you down.
While dogs are truly agreeable companions the news is not always good. When panic strikes a dog person can become aggressive and bark endlessly. They can be judgmental, defensive and picky when rubbed the wrong way. They also tend to take everything seriously; however, the older they get the less seriously they take their own criticism from others. The key to a dog person in conflict is petting and rubbing them the right way. When this is achieved you will have a companion for life in the dog.
The loyal Dog makes a tremendous captain of industry, a priest, an educator, a critic, or a doctor. But whatever his career, it'll have in him a spokesman who is not afraid to speak about what he believes and defend his sense of right and wrong. With their honesty and true moral integrity they soon become pillars of society, respected for their views and trusted by all who come to know them. Other Good career choices for Dogs include: police officer, scientist, counselor, interior designer, professor, politician, priest, nurse, clerk and Judge.
Dogs can be worriers who bring trouble upon themselves. Dogs are introverts who rarely show their feelings and can be quite pessimistic and cynical. Sometimes dogs expect nothing out of life and systematically find fault with everything. The Dog is an introvert who rarely shows his feelings; when he does it's only because he thinks it is absolutely necessary. He's stubborn in the extreme and knows what he wants. Frequently cynical, he is feared for his sharp tongue and his acid and disagreeable remarks. He gives the impression of looking systematically for faults in everything he touches. This is because he is the world's biggest pessimist and expects nothing out of life. Despite these flaws dogs care more about others than they do themselves and can be without money or creature comforts as long as they have their friends and wrongs to right!
Dog fighting is the sadistic practice of pitting two dog-aggressive dogs against each other in a ring to fight until death, or close to death, for the fiscal gain of the dog’s handlers and the spectators of these so-called sporting events. Fighting dogs are beaten, isolated from human interaction, starved and taught to fight. They are force-bred and are used as revenue generators for their handlers and left for dead on the side of the street when they no longer produce revenue. Dog fighting attracts human violence along with illegal firearms, drugs and gambling. Given these factors, the “sport” is illegal in every state in the country and a felony offence in most. Given the penalties involved and than popular opinion denounces dog fighting it is surprising that it is still so popular among certain socioeconomic sub-groups in American culture. Perhaps one reason for this is the difficulty involved with catching and prosecuting dog fighters. While it is not advisable to try and break up a dog fighting ring yourself; there are things you can do to help stop this cruel blood sport.
Dog fighting is an organized support, but it remains underground due to its illegal status. Dog fighting events can be extremely spontaneous and are advertised only through word of mouth or secret communications on social networking sites. Fighting rings are makeshift and comprised of plywood so they are easily broken down if the authorities arrive. Fights are often held in back allies, basements, abandoned buildings or empty fields in remote locations. They are not held in arenas or stadiums where police can easily find and arrest suspects. Because fight locations can change from week to week or even day to day it is important for you to take action immediately.
Do not wait to call the proper authorities until you have more evidence. Do not attempt to investigate at all; simply notify the police, animal control and the local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals if applicable in your area. While you should not take action to stop or investigate a dog fighting ring it will not hurt to be proactive when registering your complaint or tip. Do not let the information you have slip through the cracks. Find all of the appropriate names and numbers of local law enforcement and animal rights groups and keep them on file. When reporting suspicious activity make sure to record the date, time and person you spoke to. Once you have this information make follow up calls as required to encourage the appropriate action or investigation. Be polite, but be firm. Make sure they know you expect a follow up or status update.
While investigation and arrest is up to the proper authorities there are actions you can take at home to help stop this cruel sport or increase the penalties involved. If you live in one of the states where dog fighting is still a misdemeanor, you can write to your state legislators and urge them to make it a felony offense. You can also to write letters to the media to increase public awareness of the dangers of dog fighting and to law enforcement officials or prosecutors and judges to urge them to take the issue seriously. If you need help with sample letters or in organizing petitions there are resources. Try your local ASPCA, Humane Society or any number of local dog rescue groups, especially those who specialize in helping Pit Bull type dogs. They are always pleased to assist when anyone wants to help these abused dogs.
When creating a petition or letter writing campaign always remember to support your position with facts and remain polite. By refraining to resort to personal attacks or frothy emotional appeal you will demonstrate that you are able to make a reasonable argument based on the facts of your case. When attempting to influence policy decisions the old adage that the pen is mightier than the sword is completely appropriate. It is also true that there is strength in numbers so get your friends, family members and co-workers involved in the noble cause of stopping the senseless abuse of innocent dogs.
One of the most rampant kinds of dog aggression is territorial aggression. This is directed most often toward the mailperson, UPS or FedEx person, or the meter reader. After reading this, hopefully you will come to a better understanding of why your dog is territorial, and how you can deal with this issue.
If you look at the history of canines in general, you will learn that dogs used to run in packs, with an established leader. Sometimes a dog with aggressive tendencies will establish themselves as the leader of the house and yard. So, when a stranger comes around they see the need to protect their domain.
In a dog’s eyes, when the mailperson or meter reader comes by the house, the dog will bark as a way of telling them to get away and off the property. As far as Fido is concerned, their barking works. The mailperson approaches, they bark, and the mailperson drops off their load and leaves. Some dogs are even able to figure out if they bark more loudly and aggressively, the mailperson or meter reader leaves even more quickly, which does not help the situation.
Some people want their dogs to be protection dogs, especially if they go out of town often, or if they have had their house robbed in the past. Protection dogs are very helpful, yet if you choose to teach your dog for this use, you also must teach Fido to be exceptionally obedient. You will need to clearly teach your dog when he needs to protect, and when he needs to obey. You don’t want your dog being so overly protective when you have guests over that you need to put them in the basement or outside.
Perfect examples of protection dogs are those serving in the police force. They are specifically trained when they need to be aggressive toward “bad guys” or when they need can be kind and friendly. For example, a police dog can be taken to schools or places with children, and there is never any concern about the safety and well being of the kids. But then, the police dog is also taught to act on command to help their fellow policeperson catch the perpetrator. This kind of control comes from intense training in obedience so that the dog knows to act on the command of their handler.
Though aggression is usually a harmful and sometimes even dangerous trait in a dog, territorial aggression may be turned for the better as a protection dog. The key is good, solid obedience training; this way, the dog will be able to protect, and yet at the same time they won’t be a threat to friendly people who mean no harm. Be sure to be conscious if your dog begins to show signs of excessive territorial aggression. If you notice this, you will need to take action immediately for the safety of yourself and other people. If you invest the time and money into obedience training, you and your dog will be much better off. Protect your pet by allowing it to protect you!
Seeing eye dogs may just be one of the most important canine jobs in our current society. Their service is invaluable to those in need. With the faithful guidance of these dogs, blind people are able to achieve the dignity and respect they deserve.
How did seeing eye dogs start? The term “seeing eye dogs” began during World War I when Germany began opening seeing eye dog training schools to veterans who were blinded in the war. A woman from Pennsylvania who was living in Switzerland at the time, Dorothy Harrison Eustis, became aware of these schools. She later wrote an article titled, “The Seeing Eye” that appeared in the November 5, 1927 Saturday Evening Post issue. A blind man in Tennessee, Morris Frank, was made aware of the said article, and wrote Mrs. Eustis asking for help. Finally, in Nashville, Tennessee, 1929, Seeing Eye Inc. was born. It later moved to its current location, Morristown, New Jersey, in 1931. The term “seeing eye dog” later became a common name to call dogs who act as eyes for the blind. The term has stuck.
What breeds of dogs are generally seeing eye dogs? Seeing eye dogs are chosen and bred for specific qualities. Some of these traits include intelligence, gentleness, fine health, moderate in size, loving, and a strong desire to please. Because golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, and German shepherds usually possess these qualities, they tend to make excellent companions for the blind.
These dogs must undergo vigorous training, because the lives of their owners, as well as their own may be at stake. They taught to obey the commands of their owner; common directional terms used are “go right,” “go left,” and “go forward.” These dogs are also taught something called “intelligent disobedience.” This mainly applies only to situations where harm would befall the owner or the dog if they obeyed the command. Most training eye dog institutions require a training period for the owners so that they can learn the commands the dog knows, as well as simply getting used to having a daily helping hand.
Though dogs are not usually allowed in places such as supermarkets, restaurants, or shopping malls, persons with a seeing eye dog are always allowed to enter by law. It would be downright discriminatory to not allow those with seeing eye dogs on the premises of any locale. People must be aware that when they see a person with a seeing eye dog, they must always ask permission before touching or patting the dog. Also, never assume the owner needs help, but feel free to ask if they need assistance if you feel the need.
Seeing eye dogs have one of the most important jobs in society today. They afford people with a blind disability the chance to be mobile and live out somewhat regular lives. They are kind, diligent, loyal, and extremely loving. They provide care for those who may desire a gentle companion to aide them in their everyday routine. Seeing eye dogs make a difference in people’s lives throughout the world today.
There are thousands of pet training books and materials available in the market today. Are you looking for reliable pet training guides, but don’t have the time to do all the research? Here is a simple list of highly recommended books that deal with various subjects relating to training your dog and developing a happy and successful relationship with your pet.
1. Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems by Cesar Millan with Melissa Jo Peltier. Her is the tagline: “The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems.” What does this book have going for it? Sheer numbers: this book has had over 1,000,000 copies sold worldwide, as well as being deemed a #1 New York Times Best Seller. The author, Cesar Millan, is also known for his educational TV smash hit, The Dog Whisperer, on the National Geographic Channel.
Synopsis: this book is a tangible guide to understanding the primary needs and cares of your pets by creating a healthier relationship between you and your pet in a motivating fashion. This book simply lays out 3 key elements in the lives of dogs: exercise, discipline and affection. Millan’s viewpoint stresses that dogs with problems are a result of owners who have problems. This book ultimately teaches that change will result when the owner develops a better understanding of their “best friend.”
And finally, here is some basic publishing information:
Paperback: 320 pages.
Publisher: Three Rivers Press; 1 Reprint edition (September 18, 2007).
2. The Dog Whisperer: A Compassionate, Nonviolent Approach to Training by Paul Owens with Norma Eckroate. The tagline on the front cover of this book is, “A Compassionate, Nonviolent Approach to Dog Training.” Similar to the previous selection, this book has also has been popular in sales: over 200,000 copies sold.
This book contains 4 parts that are laid out in such a way that allows for easy reference access. The 4 sections include: Basics of Dog-training, Training Essentials, The Lessons, and Problem Behaviors. The Dog Whisperer: A Compassionate, Nonviolent Approach to Training promotes dog training with reward incentives and tender persuasion. Some examples of positive training include: praise, food treats, toys, extra playtime and show of affection. This is simply a stress on substitute behavior; that is, instead of teaching your dog what not to do, teach it instead an allowed alternative.
Again, some basic publishing information:
Paperback: 289 pages.
Publisher: Adams Media Corporation; 2 edition (March 2007).
3. The Dog Listener: Learn How to Communicate with Your Dog for Willing Cooperation by Jan Fennell. Here is the tagline: “Learn How to Communicate With Your Dog for Willing Cooperation.” This book has only two simple sections that are titled as the following: The Dog Listener, and 30-Day Training Guide. Sounds simple enough.
This book essentially focuses on men’s relationship with dogs as two different species. This book communicates there is a lost translation between humans and dogs that must be repaired by stressing the close relationship between man and dog through an examination of the past. The training focus in this book is human’s respect for dogs throughout the training process by bridging the language barrier gap that is communication between you and your dog.
Though this small list has by no means been exhaustive, I hope it has provided you with 3 exceptional, yet simple books to aid you in understanding, loving, and communicating efficiently and effectively with your pet throughout the training process. Enjoy your reading!
This article was sent in from the authors at pet-super-store an online pet shop featuring dog bowls, dog houses and dog steps.
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