Do You Need a Dog Kennel Fence?

There's nothing better then coming home from work only to find that your dog has gotten into yours or your neighbors

trash and has scattered garbage up and down the street. Or even better is finding your favorite lawn chair or a pair

of sandals all chewed up in the backyard. And there is no worse feeling then finding out your dog got out and either

ran away or ran out into the street only to get hit by a car.

If you do not have a fenced yard or your dog easily escapes from your backyard then it may be time to install that

dog kennel fence. Putting one together is not hard and will go along ways towards keeping your four legged friend

safe. In fact if you have a big tree in your backyard you can build your dog kennel around it, giving your dog shade

during the hot summer months.

Fencing for a dog kennel can be bought at any home improvement or pet store and is relatively inexpensive. When you

take the plunge and start planning your dog kennel you will need to lay out the perimeter in your yard. Take

measurements to figure out how much fence will be needed. Dog kennel fence comes in rolls starting at 50 feet up to

100 feet. You will also need to decide how high you want your kennel fence to be. If you have a small dog that

doesn't jump very high then a shorter fence will do. For bigger dogs 5 to 6 foot high fences are needed.

The other thing to think about when buying your material is how smart is your dog. There are dogs out there that can

figure out how to climb a fence and get out of their yard or kennel. If this is something your dog has shown some

ability to do you might consider a dog kennel fence with smaller holes or put a roof over the kennel. A dog kennel

is of little use if your dog can easily get out.

The safety of your dog is the primary reason for building a dog kennel fence, but the peace of mind for you, his

owner, knowing that he is safe when you are not home is also worth a lot.

What are Modular Dog Kennels and Are they Worth a Dime?

What Exactly Are Modular Dog Kennels?

Finding the right dog kennel solution starts with understanding your options.

One popular option among dog owners is purchasing a modular dog kennel.

Modular dog kennels are kennels that are pre-made to specific standards and almost always come in sections you have

to assemble.

Obvious advantages of the modular dog kennel are:

a) Outside and inside construction options.

Modular dog kennels can be set up inside or outside depending on the area you have available for set up.

b) Better materials.

Depending on where you buy from you have a wider range of materials to choose from.

Modular dog kennels are made from chain link, steel wire mesh, high gauge steel, to welded ornamental materials.

c) Stronger construction.

The more elaborate modular dog kennels are available with welded wire mesh and parts to increase strength and

security.

d) You're not limited to one design.

You are able to adjust or modify the kennel panels to create different designs giving you more options on placement

and design.

While not available from every supplier of Modular dog kennels this option is gaining more popularity among dog

owners.

e) Affordable.

If you compare outdoor dog kennels or other options with modular dog kennels you will quickly find the option is

affordable for even the most cash strapped household.

In the end modular dog kennels give you and your dog a lot of flexibility when it comes to your pooches living

space. Whether you plan to set up an inside or outside kennel it will be hard to find a better option than a modular

dog kennel.

How to Tell If Your Dog Is Aging

The usual signs of ageing are:

1) Grey hair around the muzzle.

2) Skin and coat become drier.

3) Movement is slowed. It will take Fido longer to lie down or get up. He doesn't take steps two at a time anymore.

4) Movement can appear stiff, especially after lying down.

5) Hearing and eyesight deteriorate.

6) Teeth show signs of wear and tear.

7) More time is spent sleeping and less in play with you and other dogs.

8) Some dogs become incontinent and some older dogs develop bad smells.

Not a pretty picture but not much unlike our own ageing patterns!

Usually, however, you're aging along with your dog. While Fido may no longer want to go hiking with you, you may

welcome a quieter dog who just wants to watch TV with you.

It's still important to take your dog to the vet at least once a year. Some of the symptoms above can be mitigated

by medication or special diets.

Some of the symptoms above are exaggerated by physical conditions such as arthritis that can be treated. There are a

range of prescription and alternative treatments available to dogs today. There are special diets, there is

acupuncture, there are chiropractic treatments, aromatherapy. Just about any treatment for humans now has a canine

equivalent.

The other good news is that contrary to the old wives tale, you can teach an old dog new tricks. You use the same

techniques that have worked on your dog in the past.

Sometimes older dogs are perceived as being harder to train because their behavior patters are more ingrained. It

may take longer to teach Fido a new trick but your patience will be rewarded.

One other thing - don't let your pet insurance lapse as your dog ages. Most insurance companies have an age cut-off

beyond which they will not accept new policy holders. The most frequent cut-off point is 8-years-old age for small

breed dogs. If you have a decent policy, hangon to it.

Tips For Choosing A Dog Kennel Whilst You're On Holiday

One clear advantage in choosing a dog kennel to board your pet at whilst you are on holiday is that the staff are

trained to find signs of illness that friends and neighbors are not. Some signs of illness are quite difficult to

spot to the untrained eye. These include:

* lethargy - which can be mistaken for simply sleeping
* blood in the urine - it cannot be seen on the grass, and this can be a symptoms of urinary problems
* blood in the stools - most people don't think to check for this, and it can signify serious intestinal problems

Of course, choosing a facility where staff members are knowledgeable of current dog health developments is

important. Veterinarians are a good source of recommendations, and you can always phone the American Boarding

Kennels Association (719-667-1600) to see if a pet care center is accredited with them.

Here are some tips for choosing a dog kennel:

* Visit the prospective kennel. Is it clean, does it smell? Kennels should not smell, and they should not have any

parasites, dirt, or a build up of feces. They should be disinfected regularly, preferably with professional

disinfectants. This is particularly important as there have been outbreaks of an intestinal disease, called

parvovirus, since the late 1970's. Vaccines are available, but the general dog population doesn't yet have an

immunity to it. Sodium hypochloride bleaches at a concentration of 1:30 are effective in killing the virus, and a

boarding facility should be using this type of cleaner during regular, routine cleaning procedures.

* Some dog kennels have a policy where visitors are not allowed in the area where dogs are kept. This is generally

in the best interests of the pets, as people can bring in diseases and bacteria because they don't follow the same

stringent disinfecting that the staff are trained in. Another reason this practice is done is because some pets

react in a fearful or aggressive way toward strangers. This can lead to a dog injuring themselves or developing

intestinal problems. However, if a boarding facility has a 'no visitor' policy where the animals are kept, they

should at least have a viewing window so dog owners can see where their dogs would be housed.

* Phone a boarding kennel first to see if they can take your dog. They may be overbooked, or they may not be able to

take more specialized cases, such as very young puppies, or dogs on particular medications or feeding schedules. If

a facility can take a dog on a special diet, they may ask you to bring in a supply of the food for the duration of

your dog's visit. These sort of details will generally be covered before the time comes to drop off your dog. It's a

good idea to give the kennel your vet's name and phone number.

For more information on dog kennels, click here. Rebecca Prescott presents this site, for all things canine.

Dog Kennels: Select The Right One For Peace Of Mind When You're Out Of Town

For most dog owners, choosing among the many dog kennels that are out there is one of the hardest tasks to do,

especially because you are already faced with the prospect of going away from home without your best pal.

No matter where you decide to leave your dog, no one will be able to take care of them like you can, so you want a

place that is as comfortable and as close to home as possible for your dog.

Remember that some dog kennels are going to be pricier than others, as some of the more expensive facilities

considered "dog boarding spas" will very much cater to your dog's individual needs. Not everyone can afford these

expensive facilities though.

With that in mind, here are some tips to help you find an affordable dog boarding facility that is right for your

pooch…

Requires Vaccinations...

Remember that your dog will be boarded alongside other pets, so it is best to find a facility that requires dogs to

be updated on vaccinations before kenneling. This is to protect your dogs as much as it is to protect the staff. The

two most important vaccinations are rabies and bordetella. The bordetella shot protects dogs from receiving "kennel

cough," a common cold that is passed from dogs who are boarded in close proximity.

Meets Your Dog's Needs...

Unfortunately there are some dog boarding kennels that are just overwhelmed with too many dogs and too little staff.

This means your dog will probably get the basic necessities like being let out to go to the bathroom on a minimal

basis and getting two meals a day. A good facility will make sure your dog receives necessary medications, special

foods for their diet, as well as adequate outdoor time. If you are going out of town and have a new puppy, you may

also want to consider finding a place like a puppy kennel that specifically takes care of puppies or at least a

facility that has adequate staff to watch over a potty training puppy.

A Clean Facility...

One of the most important factors you should look for is a clean facility. This means that the kennels are hosed

down on a regular basis to remove any urine or feces. As well, the facility is cleaned with disinfectants and the

animals are cleaned immediately in the case of an accident. When you stop by to check out the facility, if the

kennels and dogs there don't seem clean, trust your instincts.

Adequate Exercise Facilities...

Many experienced dog owners will tell you that the most frustrating experience with dog kennels is coming home to

find their dog bouncing off the walls. Although they will inevitably be excited to see you, this can also mean that

they didn't receive any exercise while you were gone. While it might be nice to board your pet at a veterinarian's

office because of the comforts of having a pet doctor nearby, many don't have any backyard space for exercising the

dogs.

If your dog has medium to high level exercise needs, you should look for a place that has a fenced in play yard or

one that offers special services for extra prices, like a game of fetch twice a day or an extra walk for fifteen

minutes. Although dog kennels will never be home to your pet, they shouldn't be a traumatizing experience either.

Finding a place that treats your pet right will help you enjoy your time away from home.

The Right House For Your Dog

Dog houses keep you dog warm and sheltered from the elements. You should choose a suitable one for him.

The doghouse should not be too small for your dog and should allow him ample space to stretch in especially when he

sleeps. The space should also allow him to move about freely. It should not also be too large for the dog, since big

spaces have a hard time retaining body heat needed for comfort and warmth especially during cold nights. The rule of

thumb for dog houses is that it should be large enough to allow the dog to stand, lie down comfortably or turn

around with ease.

Insulation for retaining body heat is also an important factor for dog houses. Padding the walls of dog houses work,

but make sure that they adhere properly to the walls for the dog might tear them apart in times of boredom! A

sleeping rug can also be provided, but make sure that it is washable and comfortable at the same time. Dogs

generally do not poop inside the dog houses but some of them do, so before bringing a dog inside the dog house, make

sure that he is properly trained first.

The sleeping quarter of a dog is his own private place in any home. He is protective of it and treats it as his

haven, his safe place and his own private quarter. Although some dogs generally welcome their human friends near

their doghouses, others are simply too defensive of their private quarters so you have to be careful when

approaching them while in it. So try pleasing your dog with his own dog house!

You can find out more about dog care here or you can share your opinions at the world's best homepage.

Choosing a Good Dog Kennel

The winter holidays have arrived and you've booked you and the kids a family holiday abroad, but what about the

dog?! The neighbour surprisingly enough is leaving the same weekend you are, and your parents are out of town. You

obviously don't want to cancel the holiday but you can't leave the dog home alone! The next best thing is a home

away from home, a kennel! Kennels are lovely places to take dogs while you are out of town but you have to beware,

they are not all the perfect place for dogs. Some kennels don't have the appropriate circumstances and may make your

dog feel uncomfortable and unhappy which is something you want to avoid. There are several things to look out for

when choosing a kennel.

There are two certain kinds of kennels, there are "suites" and there are "runs". The suites basically explain

themselves. They are plush luxury kennels where the dogs are fed tip top food, perfect fur beds and a kennel the

size of your back yard! Where as runs are more like the homely type of kennel with a long run at the end of the

kennel giving the dog plenty room to exercise but the kennel itself isn't that large. Most kennels should however

have heating, even if they are inside ones!

You should first try to determine the lifestyle your dog has, if she is spoiled rotten then a suite kennel is the

only way to go, and vice versa. The most important thing about choosing a kennel is your inspection. Plan a surprise

visit when you know that they will be open that way you can see what its really like, meet the staff that would be

looking after your dog and have a look around the living quarters. They should all be heated and adequately lighted.

All the kennels should have a comfortable bed, a space for eating and a space for "littering" and still have plenty

space to walk about. And the most important part of choosing a kennel is making sure that it is clean!

Kennels are great for when you're going away but when you come back you may have another problem on your plate.

Kennel cough! This is a serious issue with a lot of kennels and the issue has been spreading. It is simply a cough

but a highly contagious and uncomfortable one for your dog. Kennels must ensure that all the dogs they accept have

had their recent boosters and jags so that there is very little chance of the dogs catching anything that may be

flying around!

You can easily find a good kennel if you look hard enough, one that will ensure your best friend is carefully and

well looked after. All that's left after that is for you to jump on the plane and enjoy your holiday!

Not all dogs are inside dogs. Some dog owners choose to let their pets live outside. Living outside without a safe,

weather proofed, spacious living area is not only dangerous it can be down right miserable for your dog.

In this article we'll discuss five ways to build your own outdoor dog kennel without breaking the bank to provide

your dog with an enjoyable, safe, weather proofed, outdoor living area.

We have a lot to cover so let's dive right in...

Tip #1: Semi-Homemade Dog Kennel

Many dog owners have found it more cost effective to build onto a smaller pre-made outdoor dog kennel.

Think of it like an addition to your dog's house.

If you plan it correctly starting out with a smaller kennel then adding on by building on to the kennel can save you

money in the long run.

Tip #2: Use Alternate Materials

As far as I know you don't have to use chain link or steel to build an outdoor dog kennel.

Other alternative materials are PVC, wood, and chicken wire.

Use your creativity and look around professional kennels to get ideas for your own kennel system.

Tip #3: Pre-plan for Space and Growth

Giving your dog enough room to move around and get some exercise during the day is essential to a good outdoor dog

kennel set up.

Pre-plan and pre-define how much space you want to use so you know how much material you will need to effectively

cover that space.

The best set ups allow the dog 20-30 feet of running room and are 10-20 feet in width.

Tip #4: Use Nylon Panels to Create Walls

If you decide to use chain link fencing to build your kennel getting some nylon panels for walls and a roof is an

affordable weather proofing solution.

Nylon panels can be washed, they are breathable, and they provide protection from the sun and block the wind better

than an open chain link design.

Tip #5: Designing a Cost Effective Roof

You will find there as many options for putting a roof on your kennel as there are for what to build a kennel out

of.

Three proven roof solutions that are both effective and affordable are:

a) Plywood

b) Tarp

c) Canvas

In the end your outdoor dog kennel set up should be able to withstand the elements, provide your dog a safe place to

sleep (adding a dog house is a good idea), keep your dog safe from strangers and other animals, and unable to

escape. We don't want our best friend to get hit by a car or some other accident.

For more information about outdoor dog kennels try visiting DogKennelsforSale.biz where you will find helpful

information about outdoor dog kennels and other dog kennel options.

How to Build a Chain Link Dog Kennel

For those of us that already own dogs finding a place to keep them can be as easy as a fenced backyard. But what if

the backyard doesn't have a fence or one day your wife and kids come home with a cute puppy but you have no place to

keep the new family addition. Fencing in the entire backyard can be cost prohibitive but keeping the little guy in

the house all the time is not a good idea either, particularly if he grows up to be a big dog. The answer to the

problem may well be to build a chain link dog kennel.

A chain link dog kennel is not difficult to build. Of course before you build your dog kennel you will have to

formulate a plan and decide how big the kennel needs to be. The size of the kennel will depend on the size of the

dog when he is full grown. A small dog will obviously only need a small space but a bigger dog will need plenty of

room to move around, not to mention the size of a shelter or dog house in the kennel. The height of the fence needs

to be considered carefully for bigger dogs because some breeds have the ability to easily jump a four foot fence.

After you decide how big to make your chain link dog kennel the next step is figuring out where you will build it

and what materials you need to build it with. There are different types of chain link fence out there with different

spacing between the wires and different heights that can range from three feet to ten feet. Planning ahead will make

certain that you choose the correct materials before you start building your chain link dog kennel because you don't

want to have to tear it down and start over after you find out you didn't make it big enough for that cute little

puppy that's now over one hundred pounds.

When choosing the posts for your chain link dog kennel you can go with the standard metal posts that most chain link

fences are built with or you can choose landscape timbers. Metal posts will have to be cemented into the ground

which means the kennel will be permanently located in the position you have chosen. Landscape timbers don't

necessarily have to be concreted which gives you the option of moving the kennel or even taking it with you if you

move.

Building your own chain link dog kennel can be done rather quickly and easily if you plan correctly. It is also

cheaper then hiring someone else to build it or buying a pre-built one.

Tips On Crafting A Workable Dog Fence

By the time you "know" that you need a dog containment fence, you're probably late, and your dog has gone loopy and

walkabout. Local leash laws...fines...anxiety over a wandering and potentially "lost family member" are only some of

the key reasons for moving proactively on a fencing for pets game plan.

Designing Plans For Dog Fence Installation. In any "dog run" home and family project, you have four (4) broad

categories of planning to sort out.

1. Measuring For Optimum Size Dog Run. Size matters. Bigger is better. Dogs, from Chihuahuas to Labs, need physical

activity and movement to keep them mentally and physically in balance and happy. Carefully measure, and then set

aside the largest area that your property can yield. Dog run fencing based on meshed easy-to-install deer fencing

opens up seriously large dimensions...meanwhile, smaller more restricted but potentially sturdier dog kennels offer

a smaller-is-best alternative.

2. Identify Food, Water, Weather Protection Needs. Space, layouts, creating overhead sun and weather protection...a

quiet resting zone...food...water bowls...outdoor pet bedding or blankies should all be carefully assessed before

finalizing your outdoor dog fence.

3. Budgets And Costing. You've rejected the low cost single-point cable-and-leash dog run strung between two fixed

points, and is at best a limited dog run option, but costs under $20. The next quality level up are dog run fencing

designs based on impact-resistant deer fencing like plastic materials, giving tremendous flexibility in terms of

up-and-down your property layout, and cost around $1.40 per linear foot, including fencing material, posts, and

ground anchor hardware. Most robust and secure, yet highest cost are chain-metal dog kennel fencing systems,

offering modular panels and integrated access gates.

4. Burrowing Underneath Or "Break Outs" Risks Minimized. By their nature, pet containment fences mean "keeping the

furry guys inside". However...dogs are smart, and with time-on-their-paws they'll instinctively examine every inch

of your perimeter dog fence or dog kennel, in a natural inquisitive "probe" to see if there's a weak spot, where

they might dig under, jump over, or speed dial a locksmith to assist in an escape. Meaning? Think like a dog, walk

every foot of your pet fencing, looking for loose soft ground and especially for pet fencing based on deer fence

enclosures, making sure that your ground anchors along with rocks or other weighty objects properly seal the fence

from a burrowing pet!

Modular Dog Kennels. Bomb-shelter rugged engineering is what families get when constructing a modular dog kennel.

Dog kennel fencing materials can vary, but the accepted "standard" is some form of anodized aluminum chain-metal

fencing. Strong? Virtually impregnable, from the outside or the inside. Aesthetically, a small "down side" factor

with a dog kennel fence is that it "stands out" on your property, and lacks that eco-friendly subtlety of deer

fencing which is virtually invisible except for the entrance gate.

Dog Run Fencing - Creature Comforts. Keeping pets safe, and out of mischief in terms of wandering or safety of

passerby persons, is only a fraction of the planning necessary for a quality pet containment fence. A dog's

age...breed...health...character and personality...and physical sensitivities to heat, cold and water are key

"planning inputs" when determining the size, location and outfitting of dog run fencing.

* Water. Simple, functional gravity-fed large reservoir watering units are a must for a dog run. Clean water, up to

several gallons or more, goes into the reservoir. After each drink, the unit naturally emits replacement water equal

to what your dog has drunk. Reason? Hydraulic pressure.

* Shade And Rain Protection. Any outdoor pet fence must include a shade and rain protection zone...think

dimensionally at around 6-foot square...tarps minimally or a more permanent hard cover construction gives a rest,

sleep and weather protection safety zone.

Get More Pet Fencing Planning Tips And Dog Fence Installation Advice For Your Furry Family Members

Make Your Own Chain Link Dog Kennel

You come home from work one day to find your wife sitting on the couch with two little puppies that have big, brown

sad eyes and your wife saying "but honey, they looked so lonely." You can't tell her she can't have them, but you

don't want them in the house, under your feet constantly and chewing on your poker table. What do you do? You build

a chain link dog kennel in the back yard so everyone will be happy.

Building a chain link dog kennel is not very hard. The first thing you want to do is to decide how big you want the

kennel to be. Will the dogs be small in size, or will they grow into a small version of a Mac truck? Are they small

enough they won't jump over a four foot fence, or will they grow to the size that a four foot fence would be like

stepping over a stick?

You next need to decide what you want to build your chain link dog kennel out of. Chain link fencing no longer comes

in one size fits all. Do you want small holes in the wire, or will large ones be okay? Do you want 100 feet of chain

link fencing or do you want 50 feet? Does it need to be 4 feet high or do you need something taller like 6 feet or

10 feet? Choose your fencing wisely so that you don't find yourself rebuilding your chain link dog kennel six months

down the road.

There are several different kinds of posts that you can use for your chain link dog kennel. Most people prefer to

use landscape timbers because they are sturdier than some boards and don't necessarily have to be concreted in like

the metal poles. If you need posts that are shorter than the standard length of landscape timbers, simply ask the

store to cut them down to size, or measure them and cut them down when you get home.

If you have the time to build your own chain link dog kennel, it can be cheaper than hiring someone to do it or

buying one already made. Just imagine the rewards you may get when you tell your wife "okay, honey, we can keep

them; they do look kind of lonely."

Pekingese History

First of all, you must understand that Pekingese are not dogs! They are a combination of part human, part

aristocrat, perpetual child, and part cat. There is no other breed like them.

You must also understand that if your idea of a pet dog is one who will sit adoringly at your feet (or in your lap),

wait to jump at any command, be available to your every beck and call, the Pekingese is not for you. In most cases,

Pekingese will slowly work their way into your home and before you know it YOU will be at THEIR beck and call. They

will be extremely obedient—not to please you but only because they CHOOSE to please you. They will come and go as

they please because that is what pleases them. They are not being truly disobedient but do so because they can see

no reason to do otherwise. After all, they are special, aren't they?

The Pekingese originated in China over 2000 years ago. Their only function was to carry the robes of the Chinese

Imperial Court . Ownership of this dog was prohibited to any except royalty. During the Great China War of 1860,

Franco-British forces marched on Peking . The invaders looted the summer place, and the Western world made its first

acquaintance with the little Lion Dog of Peking . Five of these little dogs were found in the apartment of the

Emperor's aunt, who had delayed her flight too long and committed suicide when the Palace gates were stormed.

These five little creatures endeared themselves to their captors, who carried them back to England . One was

presented to Queen Victoria and was named "Looty". She lived a life of luxury for ten years in Windsor Palace until

her death in 1872. All modern day Pekingese have descended from these five dogs. All the others were slaughtered so

that no one would lay eyes on them, for to do so in China brought immediate and unmerciful death.

This background give you some idea of why Pekingese think they are a little bit better than anyone or anything else!

It has been so bred into them that they continue this attitude today. So, if you want a whimsical personality, take

delight in their independence, accept the fact that they are the bosses, then a Pekingese is the dog for you.

You are no doubt enthralled by the abundance of coat. While very eye-catching, you will pay the price to keep the

glamour. If you are not prepared to groom at least once or twice a week, or have it professionally done, then this

breed is not for you. The good thing is that they require very little trimming. The hair on the bottom of the feet

covering the pads should be kept short. Also, both the male and female should have the hair neatly trimmed around

the sheath of the male and the vulva of the female. Scissoring is not necessary on any other part of the coat unless

you decide the coat is just too much to handle.

There are several cute cuts that can be done by a professional and which will still leave the dog looking like a

Pekingese. I do not recommend that it should be totally shaved. Of coarse, as in all coated breeds, the length and

quality of the coat will vary. If you buy from a breeder who is primarily producing show quality puppies, your puppy

will have a lot of coat. I certainly recommend that you buy from this type of breeder. Puppies purchased from a pet

store are of questionable parentage and will not mature to look like the Pekingese you see in the show ring. By the

age of nine or ten months you should have some indication of what the coat will be like.

Generally speaking, Pekingese are amiable creatures but will not take kindly to being badgered by children. They are

not mean by nature but will eventually retaliate if someone continues to abuse them. If there are small children in

the family the Pekingese should have a place of their own, such as a crate, to escape to. Cats and Pekingese seem to

have an affinity for each other and will probably become very good friends. It is not recommended that you have an

aggressive dog in the same household as Pekingese will not back down, so matter the size or strength of the other

animal.

Pekingese make good house pets, whereby they will have a domain to rule. Their favorite spot will probably be where

you don't want them, but you will put up with their wishes because you love and admire them. They need daily

exercise but you shouldn't expect them to be boundary trained so you will need a dog proof fence for them. They are

easily trained to the leash and enjoy daily walks. The Pekingese is quite muscular and solidly built with most of

their weight concentrated in the front quarters. For this reason, stairs should be avoided, and they should not be

allowed to jump from high places such as the couch or bed. Since they are a long-backed dog, landing from a height

could cause grave problems.

Pekingese are very tolerant of cold and will often prefer to be outdoors when you think they should be indoors.

However, they are intolerant of heat and you must guard against them becoming over-heated during hot weather. Be

sure they have plenty of fresh water and a cool place to lie. A basement is ideal, but they do not want to be away

from the family. They love to lie on a stone hearth, a cool linoleum floor, or in front of a large floor fan. If you

have a pool or pond in your yard, guard your Pekingese carefully!! They are not good swimmers and once their coat

becomes saturated with water they will surely sink and drown.

Pekingese are really quite free of hereditary problems and if you buy from a reputable breeder should live a long

healthy life of from ten to eighteen years. However, since this is a flat-faced breed you must guard against injury

to the eyes. Because they have no snout to protect the eyes, they can be more easily injured than the eyes of some

other breeds. "Peke proof" your yard. That means no long grass, rose bushes, and low tree branches—anything sharp

they could bump into. Clean the eyes daily with a cotton ball and look for anything out of the ordinary. The first

sign of injury is often watering or blinking.

If not noticed immediately the eye will turn a light blue and you may see a small indentation called an ulcer on the

eyeball. Prompt veterinary attention should be sought so you can properly medicate it. I recommend that you always

have a tube of chloramphenicol eye ointment on hand—injuries have a habit of happening on Sundays and holidays!

Remember, the best remedy is prevention.

Learn About a Dog Trainer

Their are several things to consider when choosing a dog trainer. Whether you are choosing one to train your dog or

considering becoming one yourself, you must consider several key factors. When finding a dog trainer, you must know

what to look for, the basics of certification and licensing, the types of training, and how one becomes a trainer.

When looking at dog trainers, consider the following:

Experience- Be sure the trainer you choose has experience dealing with not only a wide variety of behavioral issues,

but also your breed, specifically. Different breeds require different training styles. While positive reinforcement

will work for every breed, for example, some more independent breeds, like spaniels or terriers, will need more

reinforcement and training time. A trainer who has worked with various breeds, will be able to work with certain

temperaments.

Methods- Read up on the various methods of training. The 3 major categories are jerk and pull, positive

reinforcement, and a subsidiary, clicker training. Rally-O is labeled under positive reinforcement. Make sure you

are comfortable with the way your dog will be trained. If you do not plan on going to the training sessions, make

sure you observe one before you send your dog.

Recommendations- Word of mouth is the best way to get information on a trainer. Ask your local veterinarians,

groomers, and boarding services to recommend a trainer. Ask acquaintances and co-workers what their experiences have

been. Finally, ask the trainer herself to give you referrals.

Location- Do you need a trainer to come to your home? Would you rather send your dog off to a "camp"? Do you want to

enroll in a class? Consider these questions and find a trainer that meets your expectations. Also consider where

your doggy will be trained. Is the middle of a store similar to the dog's natural living arrangements?

Flexibility- Is this trainer willing to meet you and your dog beforehand? Is she willing to work with you one on one

with any problem dog behaviors? Will she tailor sessions around your schedule?

Cost- Be sure the trainer is in your budget. Training can be quite expensive, but can range significantly. The best

value usually comes in bulk sessions. Paying for them one at a time can get expensive.

There are no required licenses or accreditations for dog trainers. The AKC recognizes many trainers as Canine Good

Citizen Licensed, and there are organizations, like unions, for dog trainers. Trainers can also become licensed and

bonded business professionals, but there is no license required for training dogs. Again, the best way to check for

professionalism is to ask for referrals.

Their are numerous ways someone can become a dog trainer. Their are schools, programs, and colleges for trainers.

These all require course work and hands-on training. Few modern day trainers, however, have participated in any

formal class.

The most popular way to become a trainer is to become an apprentice. Find a local trainer that meets all of the

above criteria and is willing to take on a student. Start with some necessary reading like, "Don't Shoot The Dog"

and books that teach background, psychology, and methods.

After you have digested the basic concepts, start watching classes. Gradually, your trainer will ask you to assist

and you will gain knowledge little by little. It may take longer to learn dog socialization and aggression

techniques. A good trainer takes her time and has a lot of experience before she goes out on her own.

No matter whether you are searching for a trainer, or interested in becoming one yourself, do your homework. Know

what to look for, the types of training, and how your trainer works. This checklist will ensure you get what you

want out of the experience.

What Is Kennel Cough

An imprecise term which has been used for a number of diseases in dogs which are characterized by bronchitis and

caused by a variety of infectious agents. Kennel Cough in dogs will stimulate a coarse, dry, hacking cough about 3

to 7 days after the dog is initially infected. It sounds as if the dog needs to "clear it's throat" and the cough

will be triggered by any extra activity or exercise. Many dogs that acquire Kennel Cough will cough every few

minutes, all day long. Their general state of health and alertness will be unaffected; they usually have no rise in

temperature, and do not lose their appetite.

KENNEL COUGH:
It is not an ordinary cough
Contagious
Life threatening
Caused by several infectious agents working together to damage and irritate the lining of the dog's trachea and

upper bronchi.

COMMON CAUSES OF KENNEL COUGH

Bordetella bronchiseptica
Viruses called Parainfluenza-Virus Adenovirus
Organism called Mycoplasma.

HOW DID IT TRANSMIT TO MY DOG?

AIRBORNE (means transmitted through air)
The organisms can be present in the expired air of an infected dog, much the same way that human "colds" are

transmitted. The airborne organisms will be carried in the air in microscopically tiny water vapor or dust

particles. The airborne organisms, if inhaled by a susceptible dog, can attach to the lining of the trachea and

upper airway passages, find a warm, moist surface on which to reside and replicate, and eventually damage the cells

they infect.

About Plastic Dog Kennels

House training a puppy can be quite a challenge. It requires a lot of patience on your part because it won't be easy

at the start. You will be going after your dog and watching every corner he or she goes to to check if that area has

been soiled accidentally. This has been a cause of frustration in most dog owners.

However, house training a puppy can be made easier if you have a dog kennel in your house. You see, dogs are

naturally attracted to den-like environments. Thus, a kennel that allows him to have this den-like feel will give

off the signal that this is the only place for him or her to relieve himself.

There are basically two types of dog kennels: the wire kennel and the plastic kennel. Wire kennels are more

convenient for some dog owners because it has better ventilation and gives a better view of the puppy. Wire kennels

are also easier to clean and maintain, compared to plastic kennels. All you need to do is place it on top of old

newspapers. You don't have to do much scrubbing.

Plastic dog kennels also have its share of positive attributes. For instance, if you travel with your pet

frequently, plastic kennels are required, as per mandated by law.

Plastic dog kennels, some owners believe, also give a greater sense of privacy and security to dogs, as opposed to

wire kennels that leave them very exposed and visible. Your puppy might want to have some alone time sometimes, and

a plastic kennel will fill this need. Some would argue, though, that placing a cloth over a wire kennel will create

the same effect.

When choosing the right kennel for your puppy, you also have to consider the size. The appropriate kennel size is

one that is wide enough for the puppy to roll just a bit and high enough to accommodate his or her height almost

exactly.

You might think that your dog has a pretty cramped space if this is so, but dogs don't really see it that way. In

fact, this is better for them, because it will help teach them that there is one and only one place they can relieve

themselves. If your kennel is too spacious, you dog might just get confused.

When you buy a plastic kennel, remember that you might have to buy another larger one in the future when your puppy

grows larger. If you have a wire kennel, you can just place dividers when the puppy is still small and adjust

accordingly as he or she grows.

In short, wire kennels have a longer use-life compared to plastic dog kennels, which will need to replaced

eventually (if your dog has a tendency to grow big, of course). If you have a toy dog, or a dog that doesn't grow,

then it's okay to use a plastic kennel.

Kennels are useful during the puppy stage not only to teach the dog where to soil, but also to prevent him or her

from chewing off your furniture upholstery, knock your stuff over, and, basically, run madly around the house.

Because puppies generally have uncontrollable behavior, it is good to introduce a sense of privacy at the onset, so

that when they grow, they have a concept of where they are supposed to place themselves for particular activities.

Getting a dog kennel can be a wise choice for home owners, it will also provide a much needed privet space for your

dog, this space will provide the dog with the feeling of security and privacy. Are you going to buy a Dog Kennel, or

are you going to make your own kennel? Visit the Dog Kennel pages at http://dogkennel.zupatips.com

An Outdoor Dog Kennel Can Keep Your Dogs Safe and Secure

Taking care of a dog is hard, taxing work. You have to regularly bathe the dog, keep it up to date on all of its

health requirements, make sure it has plenty of food and water at all times. You also must give your dog an

appropriate place to run around and get its exercise. The best solution is a daily walk with your dog, but having a

safe area for him to run in ensures his needs are met if your time is short.While all of this can be difficult

enough if you have enough room on your property, it can be even more problematic if your land is far too small to

accommodate your dog.

Furthermore, just because you have enough land does not mean you will be able keep your dogs outdoor all of the

time, as wild animals could end up invading your dog's space during the night. If you want to make your life easier

as a dog owner, then purchasing and building an outdoor dog kennel is a must. The outdoor dog kennel is an excellent

addition to your home if you find that there is not much space in your yard, if you live in an area populated by

wild animals like wolves and raccoons or if you own multiple dogs and need a place for them all to reside.

The outdoor dog kennel is primarily constructed of concrete and fencing. This simple design allows you to keep your

dogs of any size tucked neatly into the structure to prevent them from running of or being attacked while you are

not watching them. Furthermore, if you own more than a few dogs, in various neighborhoods, there may be local

ordinances requiring you build an outdoor dog kennel to house them.

For the most part, an outdoor dog kennel is not an expensive structure, but it should provide your dogs with enough

space, safety and security to keep your dogs happy, healthy and safe. If you care about your animals' well being,

then an outdoor dog kennel is definitely a good investment.

Your pet deserves the best! We provide the best information making it easy to select the appropriate dog kennel for

your needs. Dog Kennel

Dog Training: Frequently Asked Questions

I frequently get asked the same questions by different clients all the time. Here are the questions and the

solutions.

Why won't my dog come to me when I call them?

First of dogs with out a fenced in yard are the harder to teach come to, because they do not have enough time off

leash and will not give that up when they are loose. If you give your dog ample exercise off leash in an enclosed

park or some other area on a regular basis then it is no big deal for them to come to you when they are loose

because they are not giving anything up. Also you MUST be exciting no one wants a boring dog and no dog wants a

boring owner. I can teach you 3 tools that will get your dog to come to you first their name means come to me, then

"come" as an emergencies command and then I have a secret weapon that is fool proof.

Why does my dog tear up paper, eat Kleenex and sticks?

When dogs tear things apart or eat strange things it usually an instinctual behavior passed down from the wolves.

Most of the time it comes from when wolves would hunt for food and tearing the meat off the bone is satiating to

them. Kleenex eating is a mystery to my vet and myself. I think it just tastes good. A lot of dogs will sit down and

eat a whole toilet paper roll or Kleenex box. If your dog does this the best advice I can give is to keep these

things out of reach. If they can't reach it they can't chew/eat it!

How to get rid of urine smells in carpet?

There are many different products out there; personally I have not found one that is 100% effective. Natures Miracle

seems to have a good reputation. There are many home remedies like a dilution of vinegar and water to get the smell

out but this solution can also stain many surfaces and carpets so do a small test site first and wait 3-4 days to

see if the color changes. The professional carpet cleaners sometimes guarantee to get the urine smell out of

surfaces, make sure so you're not wasting your money on another useless method.

Why should I get my dog spayed or neutered?

The number one reason is that there are more than 5000 homeless dogs in the metro Atlanta area alone not to mention

the surrounding counties. There are some dogs prone to testicular and other forms of cancer by neutering/spaying

them you could be saving there life in the future. Dogs that are spayed/ neutered seem to have less behavior

problems then dogs that are in tact. The health of the dogs is also better and you will have fewer visits to the

veterinarian.

Where should I get a dog from?

A breeder, a pet store, or rescue group? If you get your dog from a rescue group (Golden Retriever rescue /Lab etc.)

you can get the breed you are looking for and save a life. The humane societies and shelters always have a lot to

choose from. If you must go to a breeder or pet store do some back ground checking and make sure you are not buying

from a puppy mill.

What are some poisonous things I should be aware of around my house and yard?

Some command foods that are poison to dogs are chocolate, grapes and almonds. Just a few teaspoons of anti freeze

can kill a dog in the matter of hours. Pesticides can be very harmful to animals as well rat poisons, bug repellents

and moth ball. Some house plants such as poinsettias and mistletoe, azaleas and tulip bulbs are also poisonous.

The Benefits of Dog Kennel Training

Dog kennel training is controversial in some circles. There are some people who believe that putting a dog in a

kennel is type of punishment that no dog should have to endure. What many of these people may not realize is that

most dogs need a safe a secure place to call there own. So instead of the closet corner, the bottom dresser drawer

or a laundry basket full of clean clothes why not give them a place that is specifically theirs. As long as a dog

kennel is used properly your dog will suffer little harm.

The first thing to understand is that when dog kennel training is to never use the kennel as a place you put your

dog as a punishment if he has done something wrong. It may be tempting to do but you do not want your dog to become

afraid of their kennel. It is also important not to leave your dog in a kennel for more then four hours at a time.

Dogs, much like humans who work in a cube farm, need to get out in the fresh air, run around and take a potty break.

Dogs will also begin to get anxious after about four hours cooped up in a kennel which will have the opposite affect

of what you want to accomplish. The key to successfully kennel training your dog is doing it correctly.

There are many reasons to kennel train a dog. It is important to identify which behavior you are going to be kennel

training your dog for. Does he need to be potty trained or is he chewing up things he shouldn't be? Once you the

problem is known you can tailor the kennel training to fit your needs.

The idea is to make the kennel as homey as possible for your four legged friend. Make sure there is a warm

comfortable pad or blanket to lay on and keep food and most importantly water available. You dogs kennel should be a

place that he can go and feel safe and comfortable, this will make the training go much easier.

Let's look at two areas where dog kennel training works well; chewing and house-breaking.

You should keep chew toys available in your dogs kennel and no where else. If you catch him chewing something he

shouldn't reprimand him firmly but do not yell at him. Show him his chew toy and put him in his kennel.

House-breaking can take a little more work, but using a kennel is a good way to break your dog of his house messing

habits. If he claims his kennel as his refuge he will be like most all other dogs in that he won't go to the

bathroom where he sleeps. When he is in his kennel keep an eye on him and when he starts to get restless let him out

and take him outside to do his business. Praise him once he is done and repeat this process. He will soon learn that

going to the bathroom is an outside activity.

Dog kennel training works well for stubborn or hard to train dogs. If used in the correct way it is a good way to

train you dog to be a well behaved family friend.

131th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

I'd like to adopt or purchase a new dog? Where do I start?

Start by watching the 131th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The entire show is available for sale on DVD

from the Westminster Kennel Club website (you can find the URL at the end of this article).

The show presents competitors from every dog breed for the "Best in Show" title. You'll learn a great deal by just

watching the show and listening to the descriptions of each dog breed as they are systematically presented to the

judges.

There are seven groups of dogs (Sporting, Non-sporting, Working, Herding, Terrier, Hound, and the Toy) being shown

at the Westminister Kennel Club show today, with various entrants within each group. All breeds compete for the

"best of breeds" titles and then the "best of breeds" winners compete to become the "best of groups" winners.

Finally, the "best of groups"winners compete to win the "Best in Show" title.

It's important to note that the judges do not compare one breed with another to make their decisions for the "Best

in Group" and "Best in Show" titles. Instead, the judges look for the dogs that best represent their individual AKC

standards. The dog that best represents the standard for its breed wins the "Best in Show" title.

The following is a list of all the dog groups and the breeds within each dog group:

SPORTING BREEDS

Brittany
Pointer
Pointer (German Shorthaired)
Pointer (German Wirehaired)
Retriever (Chesapeake Bay)
Retriever (Curly-Coated)
Retriever (Flat-Coated)
Retriever (Golden)
Retriever (Labrador)
Retriever (Nova Scotia Duck Tolling)
Setter (English)
Setter (Gordon)
Setter (Irish)
Spaniel (American Water)
Spaniel (Clumber)
Spaniel (Cocker) A.S.C.O.B.
Spaniel (Cocker) Black
Spaniel (Cocker) Parti-Color
Spaniel (English Cocker)
Spaniel (English Springer)
Spaniel (Field)
Spaniel (Irish Water)
Spaniel (Sussex)
Spaniel (Welsh Springer)
Spinone Italiano
Vizsla
Weimaraner
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

NON-SPORTING BREEDS

American Eskimo Dog
Bichons Frises
Boston Terrier
Bulldog
Chinese Shar-Pei
Chow Chow
Dalmatian
Finnish Spitz
French Bulldog
Keeshond
Lhasa Apso
Lowchen
Poodle (Miniature)
Poodle (Standard)
Schipperke
Shiba Inu
Tibetan Spaniel
Tibetan Terrier

WORKING BREEDS

Akita
Alaskan Malamute
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
Bernese Mountain Dog
Black Russian Terrier
Boxer
Bullmastiff
Doberman Pinscher
German Pinscher
Giant Schnauzer
Great Dane
Great Pyrenees
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Komondor
Kuvasz
Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiff
Newfoundland
Portuguese Water Dog
Rottweiler
Samoyed
Siberian Husky
St Bernard
Standard Schnauzer

HERDING BREEDS

Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Shepherd
Bearded Collie
Belgian Malinois
Belgian Sheepdog
Belgian Tervuren
Border Collie
Bouviers des Flandres
Briard
Canaan Dog
Collie (Rough)
Collie (Smooth)
German Shepherd Dog
Old English Sheepdog
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Puli
Shetland Sheepdog
Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)
Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)

TERRIER BREEDS

Airedale Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Australian Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
Border Terrier
Bull Terrier (Colored)
Bull Terrier (White)
Cairn Terrier
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Fox Terrier (Smooth)
Fox Terrier (Wire)
Glen of Imaal Terrier
Irish Terrier
Kerry Blue Terrier
Lakeland Terrier
Manchester Terrier (Standard)
Miniature Bull Terrier
Miniature Schnauzer
Norfolk Terrier
Norwich Terrier
Parson Russell Terrier
Scottish Terrier
Sealyham Terrier
Skye Terrier
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Welsh Terrier
West Highland White Terrier

HOUND BREEDS

Afghan Hound
Basenji
Basset Hound
Beagle
13 In.
Beagle
15 In.
Black and Tan Coonhound
Bloodhound
Borzoi
Dachshund (Longhaired)
Dachshund (Smooth)
Dachshund (Wirehaired)
Foxhound (American)
Foxhound (English)
Harrier
Ibizan Hound
Irish Wolfhound
Norwegian Elkhound
Otterhound
Petits Bassets Griffons Vendeen
Pharaoh Hound
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Saluki
Scottish Deerhound
Whippet

TOY BREEDS

Affenpinscher
Brussels Griffon
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Chihuahua (Long Coat)
Chihuahua (Smooth Coat)
Chinese Crested
English Toy Spaniel (B&PC)
English Toy Spaniel (KC&R) Havanese
Italian Greyhound
Japanese Chin
Maltese
Manchester Terrier (Toy)
Miniature Pinscher
Papillon
Pekingese
Pomeranian
Poodle (Toy)
Pug
Shih Tzu
Silky Terrier
Toy Fox Terrier
Yorkshire Terrier

The 131th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is available for sale on DVD from the Westminster Kennel Club

website at http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org

Armen T. Ghazarians offers advice, information, and articles regarding many aspects of professional dog training for

all those who are not professional dog trainers themselves. For more articles like this one, visit his website at

http://www.newdogtrainingsecrets.com