Dog Training Video Showcase

Who's Minding the Pet Food Store?

While the ultimate responsibility for ensuring that US pet owners are feeding their pets safe and nutritious foods lies with the Department of Agriculture and the same Food and Drug administration which oversees the safety of human food.

Both of these agencies turn to testing done by the American Feed Control Officials, or AAFCO, to set the standards for what ingredients should be permitted in dog food.

You, as a caring pet owner, will benefit from knowing just how the AAFCO arrives at its recommendations so you are able to then choose the best dog foods for your best friend.

The AAFCO Standards

When it comes to pet food, the AAFCO has created a uniformed model and definition for the ingredients which provides a common understanding of what is in each serving, including a common labeling procedure.

That way there is no confusion and no contradictions between differing brands and types of pet food. This information is provided in an annual publication: the AAFCO Manual.

The AAFCO Statement, also referred to as Nutritional Adequacy, is given to those pet foods that have passed the requirements found in the AAFCO Manual.

This statement is required on all pet foods and helps to ensure that the pet food is safe. Of course, many manufacturers such as those common to the Premium foods will make strides to go above and beyond the standards set forth by AAFCO.

There are generally two types of AAFCO statements:

* Pet foods with a statement such as "Tested%u2026" have seen an actual trial with cats or dogs eating the product and receiving positive results.

* Those foods with a "Formulated" statement have not seen an actual trial but the product has been manufactured to meet the recommendations and the guideline set forth by AAFCO.

To meet the AAFCO guidelines and to receive the AAFCO Statement, pet foods sold on the market have to be graded and judged before distribution.

With AAFCO being the only body to grade and judge the quality of the pet food, it is important to look for the AAFCO statement located on the label.

There are two nutritional profiles used to grade dog food;

Adult maintenance and Growth (used for puppies). With these profiles in mind, AAFCO determines the nutrients that are needed for each category.

The nutrients must meet standards above the minimum requirement and below the maximum requirement as to avoid deficiencies and over-nutrition respectively. These profiles must be defined on the bag.

There is a third profile "Fit for all life stages" which meets stricter requirements and are suitable for both puppies and adults.

The testing protocol that is used by AAFCO has come under fire recently, but the tests used have proven adequate when it comes to determining safe products and products fit for the different nutritional profiles.

Dog food manufacturers follow the findings of these tests in order to deliver quality products to the consumer and, of course, to the dogs which benefit from the information and diet that is provided.

AAFCO's tests are among the most trusted and one of the only tests performed on dog food and pet food overall. They have been followed and used as guidelines since the organization's formation in 1909.

These protocols are enough to determine which foods go to the market and which foods are unfit to feed to our dogs.

Now, the AAFCO tests are for a relatively short amount of time compared to the length of the dog's life span. With this in mind, it is important that other factors are taken into account when deciding the best diet for your pet.

While the AAFCO tests are important and even vital when choosing dog food, also keep in mind that your dog may have specialized requirements and circumstances that will affect the results.

Trial testing in home is also recommended to make certain that your dog is receiving the needed nutrients without the adverse results.

The AAFCO tests do show us the performance of the food being tested, the digestibility of the nutrients in the food and how willing the dogs are to accept the food.

When deficiencies are detected in the AAFCO trials, they are able to be corrected and improved, creating a superior product.

It is important to look for the AAFCO statement when purchasing dog food along with quality ingredients which can be found in Premium foods.

While lower quality foods, those containing corn based feed, or items like bone and meat meal, may pass these tests, owners must understand that AAFCO needs to make sure lower quality and higher quality dog food are suitable for purchase.

So don't settle for the cheapest food with the AAFCO approval statement.

You know your dog better than anyone else, and you know his or her special health and energy requirements.

Give them the best dog foods you can, within your budget.

We'll discuss in much more detail what the various label ingredients on AAFCO foods really mean for your dog, and you'll feel much better when the AAFCO's vigilance is backed up by your own!

Sharda Baker has published several dog ebook and audios, including the internet best selling
"Complete Guide to Your Dog's Nutrition"

Visit the link below now for Sharda's
Special Free Dog Food Report.

Dog Training Aids: Training Your Dog To Become A Dog Citizen

Dogs are human's best companions. They are loyal and are loving creatures who would like to please their wieners most of the time. However, dogs can be quite challenging to train too.

Teaching a dog to become a good citizen requires a lot of patience, creativity and love on the part of the owner.

If you are a first time dog owner and you want to have some really great times with your dog, you need to get the right dog training aids to help you train your dog. With the right dog training aids, you and your dog will be working as a team in no time.

Dog Training Aids: Getting Started

There are so many dog training aids being promoted and sold in the market today. These dog training aids are developed to different purposes so you should be careful when buying training aids. If you are not very familiar with the different dog training aids, it would be a good idea for you to buy a dog training book or CD first and learn how things are done when training your dog.

Aside from buying books and CDs on dog training, it would be best for you to find someone who knows all about dogs and ask for some advice. The breeder of your dog will be able to help you a lot on this matter so give that breeder a call and ask for some advice.

You may also visit the breeder and take a look at the dog training aids that he have. In most cases, breeders also sell dog training aids so you might as well buy some of your dog training aids from the breeder to save time and effort hunting for training aids.

Dog Training: Preparing For Training

You will need to train your dog to obey to your commands. Depending on the type of dog that you have, this task may prove to be quite a challenge. For instance, Labrador retrievers are very intelligent, even tempered and easy to train. In most cases, this type of dog follows instructions.

On the other hand, bulldogs can be quite stubborn and wilful. Yes, bulldogs are very intelligent and lovable but most of the time, they would like to do things their way so you better be prepared.

Buy plenty of toys and treats before you start training your dog. Dogs love treats and they will be more eager to follow your instructions if they know that they will be rewarded for their good deeds.

More Dog Training Explained - Dog Training Is Vital For A Save And Happy Dog

 

Dog Training - Purebred Training

The term 'purebred' is relative. No breed has been so isolated that it's never
mated with another.

But taken over the last hundred years or so, there are populations of Golden
Retriever,

German Shepherds and many others that have bred only with their own kind. As with any inbreeding program, the results tend to produce extremes, both
good and bad.

The bad aspect is that, for technical reasons, genes that lead to undesirable conditions will occur more frequently the narrower the population. Instances of hip dysplasia in

Golden Retrievers are more likely to be passed on if programs are
careless. Fortunately, they rarely are.

The other extreme produces show dogs or simply companions that tend to have a higher capacity for learning and stronger bodies. But even in these 'better' types, training is challenging.

Dog Training - Purebred Training Explained

Along with superior physical capacity comes the confidence to tackle larger obstacles, the need for more interaction, and - there's no other way to put it - a more finicky character. Mutts, on the whole, are more relaxed than purebreds.

As a consequence, be prepared to commit extra time and attention to the standard 'sit', 'stay', 'come' basics. Expect a greater capacity for attention, but also a higher likelihood of wilfulness. Purebreds tend to be more independent.

Both mixed and purebreds love exercise and play. But the purebred will often want to play 'his' way.

Increased repetition and a refusal to compromise will help you maintain and reinforce your alpha (leader) status. Fortunately, as can be seen from show trials on television, purebreds can exhibit a wide variety of complex behavior flawlessly.

That behavior comes, though, from the many hours over many months or years of focused training. A superior potential is just that - a capacity. To bring out that capacity, focus on the dog's strengths.

One well-known woman on the show circuit has trained her companion to perform a complex dance routine lasting several minutes. The dog backs up, shoots through her legs, winds around in a circle, and much more but always in a pattern. Taking what would be random movements and turning them into choreography requires breaking down the routine into short segments.

Focus on a specific training method, say moving backwards as you move forward.

Face the dog, who starts in a sit position. Then 'up' and step forward. Even highly intelligent dogs don't spontaneously back up on command. Encourage the behavior by holding a treat or toy above the head and slightly beyond the eyes, moving forward in steps.

Try one step, then two, then six, then twelve. Repeat the exercise daily until the dog has it completely automated and executes flawlessly.

Accompany your movement with a unique tone and word combination. Praise lavishly
for correct execution and display firm patience, not harsh condemnation, for
errors.

When it comes to training a pure breed dog, consistency will eventually lead to the desired results.


Dog
Training A Purebred Dog - Is there really a difference between training a purebred compared to a mutt? Find Out The Truth Here!

Overview of Different Breeds of Dogs

There are over a hundred registered breeds of dogs. Recognizing the type of the dog is basically associated with its breed.

A purebred animal belongs to a documented and acknowledged group of unmixed lineage. Before a breed of dog is recognized, it must be proven that mating two adult dogs of the same type would have passed on their exact characteristics, both appearance and behavior, to their offspring.

If thinking of adopting or buying a pet dog for yourself, it is important to know which type of dog you want. Here are a few popular dog breeds for your easy reference:

Labrador

Labradors are very outgoing dogs that have yellow, black or brown furs. Labrador are versatile dogs that has a wide rang of functions. Most of them are known as retrievers and are utilized as guide dogs for the blind.

They enjoy holding different objects in their mouth and are prone to chewing things. Labradors are observed to be hypersensitive and have a high regard for their territory.

Their fur is water repellant thus making them perfect for waterfowl hunting. They make an excellent family dog.

German Shepherds

Germans shepherds are also known as Alsatian. Originally, they were intended to aide for a farmer in herding their sheep or cattle.

They are incredibly intelligent and very trainable. Because of their build they are often used as working dogs in the military or police community. Most of them are also guide dogs.

German shepherds are large and strong dogs with varied fur colors. Most come in cream, gray, white or black.

Boxer

Boxers have pointed ears that are tilted forward. They have a distinguishable white underbelly and white parts at the tip of each foot.

These white regions are often called 'flashiness' which sometimes extends to other parts of the body. These usually appear on the shoulders and face. Boxers are playful and an energetic breed.

They are perfect as a pet for children because they have an extended puppy hood, meaning they are not considered as an adult dog until they reach the age of three. Training would not be a problem.

Boxers are known to be obedient and possess a strong personality. It is advisable to train a boxer at an early age. They can sometimes be a substitute as guide dogs or police dogs.

Rotweiller

Rotweillers' origin traced back on ancient times. Their existence has been associated with the Roman Empire as watchers for groups of cattle.

Since then, their incredible strength and intelligence have been recognized. They are used as police dogs and military aides during wars.

Rotweillers are black with tan spots on its cheeks, legs, chest, face and you find tan underneath their tails as well. They are marked with upside down triangles that can be found on the chest area.

Each eyebrows have a unique spot. Rotweillers are intelligent and fearless dogs. You can notice their foreheads getting a little wrinkly when they are alert.

Rotties are very active and playful and are fast on learning tricks.

Poodle

Poodles can be a very good companion and are very loyal to their owners. They belong to a quiet breed of dogs that has a naturally curly fur.

Their color ranges from black, grey, white, blue, apricot or brown. Training a poodle tends to require more effort compared to other breeds.

They are considered a "hypoallergenic" breed. They are very famous for their very nice coats. Maintenance proves to be a tedious job.

Owners have to keep their hair in a manageable length so that matting and tangling is prevented.

Dachshund

Dachshunds are also referred to as sausage dogs because of their elongated built. They have short legs and pointed facial framework.

Chasing and hunting are their favorite past times. Most dachshunds have crooked legs and chest compared to a barrel.

Dachshunds are playful and loyal dogs that loves to chase small animals like birds. Their senses are very keen and well-developed though they often exhibit shyness.

Beagle

Beagles have acquired a strong sense of smell. Because of this quality they are used for hunting animals like rabbits.

They have big ears that are low-set giving them that gentle look. Their furs are commonly white, black, brown or a combination of both.

Beagles are known to be very good tempered. Training might prove to be a tricky task because these dogs are strong willed that makes them quite stubborn. Beagles travel in pack, being a pet dog might cause them to have anxiety.

Above is a simple overview of popular breed of dogs. In choosing a dog for you consider each breeds' physical appearance, temperament and health issues.

Of course, each dog should fit your lifestyle. Remember dogs should be given proper attention and care but in exchange you can have the best companion ever.

Dog Breeds Explained. How To Wash Your Dog

Even if you've got the most easy-care dog in the world, she'll still need some attention to be paid to her appearance every once in a while. 

So it's worth spending a bit of time learning the best techniques for easy, stress-free grooming.

Why Should I Bother Grooming My Dog?

Not so long ago, the average American's approach to canine grooming was somewhat cavalier. Dogs were seen as something that lived in the yard (usually in a dusty, hard-floored kennel), ate whatever was put in their bowls, and existed as a sometime-playmate for the household's children.

Today, we tend to care for our dogs a lot more, and view them more as members of the household than the Thing in the Yard.

Ever since this rise in the estimation of our beloved pooches became widespread, grooming has been increasingly recognized as an important facet of your dog's regular health-care. 

It ensures that any skin-care
problems are minimized (because grooming distributes the natural skin-oils evenly throughout the coat), and assists you in monitoring your dog's overall
condition - if you groom on a regular basis, you can't help but notice the presence of any unusual lumps or bumps.

This preventative action has saved many a canine life. Our dogs can't tell us where it hurts, but taking just a little bit of time every so often to check them over ourselves can save a lot of grief in the long run.

The trick is getting your dog to tolerate (and even enjoy!) the process %u2026

THE FIRST STEP IN THE GROOMING PROCESS

Something that many owners lack experience in is how to wash their dogs. Dry-grooming (brushing and 'buffing' the coat) seems to present little problem for most people; the rot tends to set in when water is introduced to the mix.

Most dogs have a strong dislike of being bathed, and in many cases will become utterly panic-stricken when the tub comes out.

This article is going to deal with the basics of how to wash your dog in a way that'll keep both of you relaxed and happy.

PREPARING YOUR DOG FOR GROOMING

First of all, the absolute most important thing you can do is to accustom your dog to the grooming process. Now, starting this in puppyhood is the ideal way to handle the situation, but of course not all of us have this luxury; if you've got an adult dog, you'll probably need to move a little slower, but you should still start getting her used to being touched and handled
all over as soon as you can.

As your puppy or dog gets used to the sensation of being rubbed and handled, she'll slowly come to enjoy it. Dogs are social creatures
by instinct, and physical affection and contact is a big part of their lives - it shouldn't take long before she begins to trust you, and allows herself to get some pleasure out of your touch.

All you have to do is start rubbing her slowly all over. Fondle her ears, touch her cheeks and neck, rub her back and belly, pick up her paws and - if she'll let you - give each one a gentle squeeze (treating and praising her whenever she lets you do this, since paw touching is generally a pretty big deal for most dogs). If she has a tail, rub it between your fingers; get her to roll over on her back so you can rub and stroke her belly and hocks.

This might not seem like such a big deal, but it's actually a really important part of the grooming process: the more your dog enjoys it, the less stressful the whole event will be for both of you, and so the more often you're likely to groom her - which increases the health benefits for
her.

HOW TO WASH YOUR DOG

Bathing always comes before dry-grooming, since it makes brushing and trimming a lot easier as well as a lot more effective (there's not much point in brushing a tangled, dirty coat!)

You will need some basic tools: a tub, a non-slip mat, a plastic jug, some warm water, a small sponge, and some canine shampoo (not human
shampoo: the pH is all wrong for dogs, and will give her dry and flaky skin.)

Stand her in the tub, on the non-slip mat. If she's a large or unruly dog, you may want to wash her outside to minimize mess - either that, or you can restrain her by tying one end of a light nylon leash to her collar, and the other end to the faucet.

Pour jugs of warm water all over her until she's good and wet. This breaks down the grease in her fur, and ensures a thorough shampooing.

Mix a little shampoo with another jug of warm water, and rub it thoroughly into your dog's fur. Start off with her back and rub it into a
good lather (but don't be too harsh!)

Now you can move on to her head and face. Be very careful here - dogs' eyes are sensitive too, and if you get any water in her ears,
she'll probably get an ear infection. (You can plug her ears with a small twist of cotton wool to help stop this from happening, if you like.)

Remember to clean under her tail before you wash her off - dip the sponge into the shampoo mixture to do this properly.

Now it's time to rinse: using the jug and some clean, warm, shampoo-free water, carefully tip it all over her and use your fingers to help disperse the lather from her coat. Rinse her off thoroughly at least twice, since any residue that remains will irritate her skin.

Now you'll need to dry her off: if she's got short fur, you can use a towel (an old one will do just fine, although big dogs generally
need two); for dogs with longer fur, give her a gentle toweling-off first, and then use a hair dryer to get rid of the last dampness. Be certain that it's set on low heat, and hold it far away from your dog's fur to prevent burning either the skin or the fur.

KEEP YOURSELF CALM

Remember that most dogs have an inherent dislike of being bathed, which can cause anxiety and even outright panic.

Your dog takes a lot of her emotional cues from you, so make sure you act like a good role model for the occasion. Reassure your dog
frequently, keeping your voice well-modulated, low, and even; keep your movements slow and deliberate; praise her lavishly for good behavior, and give
her a couple of treats throughout the process to make it more enjoyable for her.

The more she enjoys the process, the easier it'll be for you!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Grooming your dog is just one tiny aspect of maintaining overall health and happiness. For a complete, encyclopedic survival guide to all aspects of dog health, from preventative care to choosing a vet to doggie First Aid (even the canine Heimlich maneuver!), you should take a look at The Ultimate
Guide to Dog Health.

A survival guide for knowledgeable, effective, and
life-saving dog care, this manual keeps your dog's health and wellbeing firmly within your control - which is exactly where you want it to be.

To be the best and most responsible owner you can be, take a look at The Ultimate Guide to Dog Health.

You can visit the website by clicking on the link below:

http://www.kingdomofpets.com/dog-health/