Custom Dog Houses

House hunting can leave you feeling like Goldilocks at times. One place has a room too small, the other one is too big. You have needs based on the size of your family and you know what kind of space you are after. You have a plan, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and if there is some extra space, then you have room to expand. Choosing the right size dog house for your pet works in a completely different kind of thought and planning. Some simple tips will assist in finding the perfect size dog house so they can fully enjoy their new home.
Chances are you won't have to worry about some of the issues such as the size of the doors when you're shopping for a home for yourself. The entry way into a dog house is a critical factor and the size of door needs to be chosen to best suit the pet. Obviously it has to be big enough for the dog to get in and out of. However, if it's too big then the dog feels 'exposed' and in cold weather more cold air gets in. The dog can lower its head a bit to get in, but you don't want them feeling like they need to crouch down. This feature is of key importance as the dogs comfort and ease of access will make them feel 'welcome' and limiting the extra space around the entrance serves to keep them insulated and comfortable
Not only the size of your dog today but is the pet full grown? You don't want to have to keep buying dog houses for them so you'll need to make sure you take into account the average size of the breed when they reach adulthood. This may vary as well if the dog is male or female to a slight degree. Having a 'little' extra space is better than trying to cram your dog into something that is too small. It's like us wearing clothes, we can wear something comfortably that may be a little big on us now, but if it's too small, we are uncomfortable all day long. If your dog is a mature, full grown pet than there is less guess work with the interior size. Quite simply they need to be able to walk in, turn around and lie down comfortably.
You will want your dog to feel as 'at home' and comfortable in their new home as you feel in yours. Buying the right size dog house with the right size door will be a benefit to your dog for comfort and for every season.

Summer signals a lot of things for everyone, this includes the family dog as well. Your dog may be included in rides in the vehicle to go to the cottage, to go camping or they may spend hours on end with the kids in the yard. With nice weather means their walks might get a little longer. There is also the possibility that they may need to spend time in the dog hotel. Yes, we're trying to ease the blow of the word 'kennel' and have even gone so far as to refer to it as the 'spa' where she can get a bath, nails clipped and a blow dry as well. Some simple things we try to do to keep our dogs safe and happy like putting a positive twist on the 'kennel' can make the summer months even more enjoyable for your dog.
When your dog is panting they are getting rid of the hot air and taking in cooler air to keep their fur covered bodies as cool as possible. Make sure they have a fresh supply of water, shade and try not to keep them in the car unless you've taken precautions. Crack a window, have water, park in the shade and even look into the fans that you can plug into the lighter to keep the air flowing. It can help but still excessive heat and sun mean the car is not a safe place. If you are on a long trip take food and water and make some stops along the way to insure your pet stays comfortable.
In the yard if there is no shade an idea would be an insulated climate controlled dog house. This can be heated in the winter as well as cooled during the summer. It offers your do the best of both worlds depending on the climate they are exposed to.
Backyard barbeques mean food! Good food for us, but not always good for our pets. Items that are too rich or fatty, items that have bones in them, these can make your dog severely ill. It is in your pet's best interest and yours if you don't want a sick dog on your hands to keep them away from the food.
Walking in the tall grass by the river sounds nice doesn't it? Think again! This is a breeding ground for ticks and mosquitoes and both of these are known carriers of diseases that can harm your pet. There are several medications offered by Veterinarians to help prevent against diseases like heart worm and some will even offer protection against fleas to avoid any infestations in your home. The Vet is also a stop you will need to make if you are boarding. Vaccinations will have to be up to date.
With a long haired breed, consider a shorter style for the summer. A little off the top can keep them a little cooler in the sun and heat. Long matted hair can be a nightmare in the heat, causing skin infections in the humid climates.
The summer can be short in certain areas but with some simple tips and common sense your dog can enjoy it to the fullest.

Therapy Dogs
When all you need is Love
When we think of 'working dogs' our thoughts tend to go to dogs specially trained to assist people who have some kind of limitations or restrictions where a four legged friend can help to make their daily routines much easier or to assist Police, Military, Search and Rescue or be employed to guard and protect. There is another group of working dog with a job no less important but we hear of far less often. They have the job of being a friend, a happy face, giving their unconditional love and comfort. These dogs have the job title: Therapy Dogs. They are introduced into situations where there is extreme stress. An example of this would be after some kind of loss or disaster. A therapy Dog could be in a School, Hospital or brought into a Nursing homes or mental institution.
As Therapy dogs go, there is no profile to dictate the shape, size or strength required. Their function is to provide comfort and having a good temperament, being calm and friendly are the only things needed on their resume. Physical contact is key to their job. Children need to be able to throw their arms around them and hug them, and adults will find them a calming influence just by petting them or having the dog rest their head on their legs and making that physical contact. Small dogs can be lifted up and sit in a persons lap. Some of these dogs may extend their repertoire by performing tricks for their audience or even playing some games.
There is an interesting history on the Therapy Dog dating back to World War II. A young soldier found a small terrier abandoned on a battlefield. She was named Smoky and quickly became a companion to the soldier and his entire division. The dog served a function on day to run a line through 70 feet of pipe responding to his owners, Corporal Wynne's call. This saved his team from moving 40 aircrafts and digging up the runway leaving them in a very vulnerable position. Smoky did this is minutes and became a hero that day.
When Corporal Wynne was hospitalized for jungle fever his pals brought Smoky the hospital and she was an instant hit with all the other patients in the hospital . The doctor in charge; Dr Mayo, allowed Smoky to sleep with the corporal and this began Smoky's working days. She served the remainder of the war and continued her work for a total of 12 years as a Therapy Dog.
Stress can manifest with the loss of a loved one, witnessing something tragic, being involved in something like war, or even when a person is dealing with a sickness or disease. The battle can be easier when they can think more positively or have an outlet for their stress. A gentle, friendly and patient friend can be good medicine. These dogs aren't after a big pay check or some fancy title on their business card... they just want to be a friend and show some love.

Dog Hero's
We will all likely remember stories of the Dogs that served after 9/11 going through the rubble in hopes of finding survivors. More than 350 search and rescue dogs went to work, and like all those eyes watching - they too were hoping for signs of life. This was one of the largest deployments of dogs in US history as well as being the largest inter species cooperative search and rescue efforts. Sadly we all know that despite these teams working around the clock - a grim outcome was sadly to be faced at the site of the World Trade Center.
Dogs have played a role in some amazing heroic actions through the centuries. Going back to 1925 in Nome Alaska a Diphtheria epidemic broke out with the serum to cure 600 miles away on dangerous stretch of land in a blinding blizzard. The town was facing imminent disaster when Leonard Seppala strapped together 20 huskies to ensure the storm and travel some 300 miles where he met with another dog sled team to complete the mission. They were all hero's that saved the town of Nome.
Monks stationed near the Swiss-Italian border wanted to breed a dog that was capable of finding a saving people who lost their way through the difficult pass. They did their job when the St. Bernard breed came into existence. In that area the famous canine that was honoured for saving over 40 lives was Barry. This breed's ability to smell out a human over 2 miles away or buried under 10 feet of snow make this possible.
Stubby, a Pit Bull achieved the rank of Sergeant during World War I after serving in 17 battles. He was the most highly decorated dog in War history. In World War II, a mixed breed named Chips took home a Silver Star and a Purple Heart after serving in 8 different war campaigns.
More recently - in 2001 a Florida women fell behind her house when her Dog had to fight off an Alligator to protect and save her the went for help . Another dog pulling his owner from a burning car or a dog alerting someone to a fire alarm they may not hear, or carbon monoxide detector alarm they may be sleeping through. Just last week in the news a dog trained to service a man who suffered from seizures called 911 for help when his owner was incapacitated and saved his life.
The stories are endless and we will forever hear more and more surprising tales of how these trained and intelligent animals can serve and protect, as well as be a loving and loyal companion.

Guard Dogs
Their Bark May be Worse then their Bite
Guard dogs by definition are dogs that are used guarding property or people against people or even the attack of other animals. They have also been referred to as Watch Dogs or Sentry Dogs and are trained to bark to alert someone to the presences of some form of intruder.
So what characteristics would a 'good' guard dog need? There is a need for them to be 'territorial' and aggressive when the situation dictates. Larger breed dogs with some bulk and stature will be physically stronger and without even using their strength will appear more 'intimidating' in the role of protector. A dog that is courageous and does not give in to a counter attack is also a desired characteristic. You don't want a dog that has a fearless, aggressive bark but runs and hides with their tail between their legs when they are confronted by an intruder.
Some of the dogs that are commonly trained and used for guarding duty include the Mastiff, Bull Mastiff, Dobermans, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, Giant Schnauzer and American Staffordshire and Chow Chows to list just a few of the 'top' candidates. Some dogs like the Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Weimaraner were actually bred as hunting dogs however their size, strength and instincts to be protective of their territory have seen them evolve into the role of Guard Dog quite naturally.
Depending on the employers needs the dogs can be trained to warn, or to restrain the unwanted guests. When it comes to 'warning' I was surprised to find out about other species that actually work incredibly effectively to ALERT someone to the presence of intruders... would you believe that geese will be loud and aggressive when their space is infringed upon. I would not have believed it had I not seen and heard a yard full of geese expressing some concern when a dog came up to their gate. However a yard full of geese may not be practical or work well if the intruder needs to be restrained.
Dogs trained to attack are commonly illegal in many areas so the key function is still as an early warning system. Several species work very effectively to alert their owners with loud threatening sounding barks however are not aggressive and will not likely attack. It is also generally believed that the females whose maternal instincts are thought to make them better to guard people and the males who have a stronger sense of territory are better to guard property.

Mush! Sled Dogs
Sled Dogs are working dogs that endure the extreme cold. Their presence in the Polar Regions was critical for protection, companionship, hunting, trapping and transport of good and transportation as well. Explorers relied on them for transportation across frozen wastelands that stretched for miles. The settlements of people inland; with no access to waterways, relied on them for freight hauling. Dating back to 1873 the Royal Canadian Mounted Police used dog teams to patrol in the northern regions and later the dog teams were used as mail runners as well.
These dogs would require a thick fur coat to tolerate the cold as well as the physical strength to pull the sled and the endurance to travel distances. Several distinct dog breeds are commonly used as sled dogs, however many other any medium-sized breed can be used to pull a sled. The most common purebred dog would be the well-known Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute .
The need has decreased for these Dogs to be used as methods of transport and transportation in most areas, but they are still used for sled racing. This function means that for these working canines speed and endurance play key roles. Driving sled dogs has become a popular winter recreation and sport in North America as well as Europe. This sport has even spread where sledding can be found in such unlikely places as Australia.

Herding Dogs
The desire to work is strong for this group of Dogs. They are full of energy and have a need to constantly be on the 'go'. This level of energy means they are happiest when they are doing what they were 'bred' to go - rounding up something, anything ... could be a herd of sheep or cows, a group of children or even the neighbourhood cats - just keep them working. They can become rather destructive when they grow bored and are not challenged. Really no different than humans, we are typically at our best when we are doing what we feel we are good at and what we get some satisfaction out of.
The term livestock guarding dogs has also been used for this type of working canine. They can be trained to guard goats, cattle or sheep or through the years certain breeds have been used for certain types of livestock. This has resulted in the breed developing some characteristics that give them an edge, a kind of enhanced working ability in protecting their flock from predators and theft.
Many different varieties of dogs have been used for herding purposes including ( but not limited to) the Australian shepherd, German Shepherd, Collies, Border Collies, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdogs and even smaller breeds like the Corgi's. The small breeds are used when they need to stay out of range of being kicked by their herd. Whether large or small these animals have speed and endurance when they need to hold, drive and protect livestock.
Livestock or Herding dogs are introduced to the animals they are to protect as puppies so they "imprint" on the animals. This imprinting occurs between 3 and 16 weeks of age and must be done with the animals they will be protecting as adult dogs. This imprinting is critical because the herding dogs learn to behave in a non-predatory and protective way with the specific animal species they have been raised with. Proper socialization and instinct are the key elements to having an effective herding dog, unlike most working dogs that require training.

FBI dogs
The dogs in the FBI are trained continuously. Even after they have been through an initial intensive training program the FBI employees are kept up with all the latest and greatest training to make sure they can perform their jobs to their fullest potential. The handler of these working dogs is a key element to making sure their up to date with any and all of the training available. With their roles changing as the elements they are faced with change, they need to be set up to locate anything. The dogs and handlers have a close relationship and become members of their family - the trust they have for each other is key to learning on both sides.
At FBI Headquarters they have animals that 'specialize' in different areas. Chemical Explosives Dog is to sniff out bombs, explosion debris, firearms, and ammunition. Other FBI Working Dogs are trained to find drugs, money, and to track people as well. These functions can all be critical in the field and these dogs are a valuable asset to any team they may be a part of.
With the dogs keen sense of smell and their instinctive ability to find things they are doing what they were born to do. Have you ever tried hiding food, a dog treat, or a dog toy on your pet? Something they are not supposed to get into is usually the first thing they find. They are applying these skills in a constructive way and to locate thing in a variety of settings: in the woods or a field, in a suitcase, in a car, on a street, in a closet, under rubble, in the water or under even under the snow too.

This pooch has no idea how famous he is, even on his first day at his new home. The new home and new family are why he was an automatic celebrity. President Obama and family adopted Bo, the Portuguese water dog based on a need for a dog with a coat that would not produce an allergic reaction. This adorable curly haired pooch went to a professional dog trainer in Virginia before he took up residence in the White House. His first day was a news event with reporters and photographers anxious to get images of the new addition.
Bo was purchased from a Texas breeder and this naturally produced some bad reactions. The need for a certain type of dog limited the families search a great deal. The Obama's would have certainly gone to the Human Society or rescue shelter but had to use a reputable breeder and of course - 'pay the price'. Truth is the Dog was actually purchased by Senator Ted Kennedy as a gift for the Obama's. However, after having to choose a breeder pooch, the Obama's are rumored to have made a contribution to the DC Humane Society.
Posing for the camera's and having his official portrait done, the images of the Obama's with their dog Bo certainly give the furry little man in the white house celebrity status.

1. When I am separated from you, it is difficult. I will only live to be about 10-15 years and us Dogs are social animals, so we like to be around you as much as we can.
2. I may not understand your commands right away, but please don't get mad at me. When teaching me things give me some time to understand what it is that you want me to do. Also keep in mind, something may be bothering me. Am I sick? Hungry? Was I in the hot sun too long? Or perhaps I'm just a dog that's full of energy I need to expel or a dog that's old and tired.
3. I trust you completely and unconditionally so please learn that you can trust me too. It makes me feel good to know you trust me too.
4. You have a lot going on in your life, and have you. Remember that and try to give me your time and not lock me away for long periods of time.
5. When you talk to me and your voice is calm or happy it makes me calm and happy. I may not understand what you are saying but I understand your 'tone'
6. I don't like to be hit, and some of us larger dogs could really hurt you if they wanted too, however they make a choice NOT to. So please think of how you are treating me because I will not forget it.
7. Please take care of me when I grow old. I will be there for you every day I am well, and remember that I am just like you and you too, will grow old.
We Dogs need food and shelter but more importantly to be happy and healthy we need you. Everything is easier for us if you are there, because we love you!

Doggie Data

For those that are Dog owners (or parents if you prefer) some of these facts you may not have considered but you will find interesting. For example, it makes perfect sense to learn that individuals that are Pet owners live longer than those that are not. They report less stress in their lives and studies have shown that pet owners suffer fewer heart attacks as well. Hand in hand with this, studies report that 94 percent of pet owners say that their pets make them smile more than once a day.
Our pets truly become members of the family. More than 70 percent of us will sign our pets name on a greeting card and almost 60 percent will include them in the family holiday portrait. Well of course! They are family after all. On the topic of pictures keep in mind that your pet does not shy away from the camera if they are not happy with their hair or makeup or if they are not wearing something they feel good in. Statistics report that almost 40 percent admit to having more photos of their pet than their 'significant other' ... and about 20 percent insist they have more of their spouse or partner than their pet. So what about that other 40 percent ? undecided? No pets? Or were they 'asked' in front of their partner and dodged the question?
In the United States alone there are more than 100 million cats and dogs and pet owners spend more than 5.4 billion dollars on their pets in a given year. Yes, you heard me right that was 5.4 Billion! Pet food constitutes 1.5 billion of this number which is said to be four times more than the amount spent on baby food in a year. Given that dogs have far fewer taste buds than humans they are drawn to their food primarily by the smell. What your dog eats or is willing to eat is largely determined but the human owner and their perceptions of their pets, their food preferences, the setting where they feed the animal and smell and texture of the food. We are the ones that create the overfed fat dog and we are the ones that are supporting this 1.5 billion dollar a year pet food market.
We do it all out of love. We shower them with things that make them feel safe, appreciated and protected by us. It's the least we can do for these four legged friends that help our health and make us smile.

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