Training the dog to come when it is called

Training a dog to come when it is called is a vital, and potentially life saving, part of any successful dog training program. All properly trained dogs must learn to respond instantly to the owner's voice, and the sooner this lesson is learned the better. The advantages of teaching a dog to come when called are obvious. For starters, coming when called will help you regain control of the dog in case...

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Delight Your Dog With a Natural Dog Treat

Blake Kritzberg


As dog owners become more aware of their pet's nutritional needs, they increasingly recognize the advantage of providing their pets with natural dog treats.
Natural dog treats contain no added chemical preservatives or fillers, leaving your dog with straight nutritional value, nothing more. Natural treats also use the highest grade of edible products and processing techniques to ensure they're even fit for human consumption - which who knows, might help if you ever get stuck in a survival situation with your dog! Let's examine a few commercially-available natural dog treats, and then a few treats you might stumble across in your own back yard.
Commercial Natural Dog Treats
As odd as they sound on first blush, pig ears are a natural favorite for many of our furry friends. They contain a reasonable amount of fat, and dogs find the flavor irresistible (much like some humans and pork rinds). Pig ear treats should be baked instead of chemically processed, and should have no added preservatives or coloring agents. Check your package label carefully.
Greenies are another favorite dog treat -- a unique variety that uses chlorophyll to naturally freshen your dog's breath. Greenies contain no preservatives, artificial flavors or extra coloring. Surprisingly enough, dogs love them, and owners swear by them when it comes to sweetening the breath in a safe and healthy way. Chewing these treats has the added benefit of helping to clean your dog's teeth.
Mother Nature's Own Natural Dog Treats
You might be surprised to realize that natural dog treats exist right in your refrigerator, or in your garden. Carrots, apple slices, and celery are all terrific natural dog treats, providing vitamins without added chemical enhancers. Just give these treats a wash before giving them to your dogs. For an extra-special treat, chop up your fruits or veggies, and mix with a dab of peanut butter and a teaspoon or two of raw oatmeal.
Whether commercially manufactured or straight from the garden, natural dog treats are a great way to give your dogs a dash of extra nutrition without any mysterious extras.
About the author: Blake Kritzberg is proprietor of Poodle-oo, your source for small dog clothes. Stop by for small dog couture and home decor, designer dog collars, and natural gourmet dog treats.

Dog Too Spoiled To Walk On Leash

Dear Mr. Katz: I have a 4 month old female pup, AmStaff Boxer (we think - she was a rescue). She responds well to all training, EXCEPT for walking and heeling. We've practiced the loose-leash turning on a dime technique described in your book and audio tape at length, but she refuses to cooperate. It's not a matter of distraction - when I attempt to train her in this style, she pulls back with all her strength. When the loose leash is snapped, she sits, paws braced, or lays down on her back. These responses are immediate. I've tried instantly righting her, and continuing the training, but she...

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Agility Builds Confidence in Your Dog

Is your dog timid around people or other dogs? Is your dog sensitive to sounds? Agility training can provide the environment and structure to build confidence in your dog. Agility classes are a great place for people to learn about the sport and learn how to train, but the timid dog may take a long time before he is ready to venture from under your chair or off your lap. A timid or shy dog can only learn inside their comfort zone. So, training must begin where they feel safe and behaviors must be taught in very small increments. Home will probably be the best place to train and have learning...

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