Food for a sick dog

Food for a sick dog
What to feed a sick dog

Getting the Right Dog Food for your Sickly Pet

Author: Lindsey Watson

Feeding sick pets can be quite a challenge especially when you do not know the right type of dog food to get. This is because most people are normally scared that they might give the pet something that will worsen their condition. There is however no need to worry; with this guide you will be equipped with the knowledge tips about dog food and the required diet needed to nurse your dog back to health.

It is important to find out exactly what your dog is suffering from before placing it on any diet. This way, you can be able to tell what it needs to bounce back to health and could possibly aggravate its condition. Visit a vet to get professional advice about your pet's condition and what dietary needs it has. It doesn't hurt to turn to the internet when it comes to gathering information about the right type of foods needed to nurse your pet back to health. Remember that sick pets often suffer from reduced appetite and may find most foods bland. Make sure that you look out for nutritious meals which are also enticing enough to allow your pet to eat.

It is a known fact that prevention is better than cure, and it is therefore important to sure that the dog food chosen for your pet is highly nutritious to boost its immune system and offer it protection from other illnesses. You may also want to consider specialist hypoallergenic dog food. However, if it your pet is gravely ill a lot of care, attention and affection should be accorded to your pet to help it bounce back to health faster. The meals fed to your pet should also be well cooked to avoid feeding your pet contaminated food.

The basic dog food diet should include proteins, carbohydrates and fats. It is best to go for low fat and lean protein choices such as hamburger meat. Chopped lean meat and skinless chicken are also good protein choices. Potatoes and rice are good carbohydrate choices for dog food meant for sickly pets. The rule of thumb is to always mix one part of protein with about four parts of carbohydrate food sources. Too much meat in the diet could lead to diarrhea.

Always monitor your pet closely when you change its diet, because the changed diet could aggravate its condition. If there are foods that your dog does not like, come up with creative get it to eat so that it can get the nutrition it needs to bounce back to health. If the vet allows it, medicine can be mixed with dog food so that the pet can consume it without a lot of difficulties.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/getting-the-right-dog-food-for-your-sickly-pet-5843560.html

About the Author

Author Lindsey Watson is a Marketing Executive at a leading UK Digital Agency. Visit http://www.bigfootdigital.co.uk today.

Some Dog Health Problems are Easy to Resolve

Author: Madeleine Innocent

Puppies are generally a delight to have around. As long as you can cope with the chewing up of garments and expensive items, the huge energy and the occasional soiling as they become potty trained.

But that's a small price to pay for the enthusiasm for life they have, for the fun that infectiously oozes from them.

You love him. He loves you. All is well with the world.

Until he falls sick.

Then your world crashes.

The first thing that springs to mind is what caused it? Was it something you did or didn't do? Is it your fault? Were you too vigilant or not vigilant enough? Did you overprotect him or did you let him roam free too much?

Well, chances are that it was your fault.

But only by virtue of the fact you were doing as you were told, probably because you thought someone else knew better than you. Perhaps if you had listened to that little inner voice you sometimes hear, but mostly ignore, which told you different, things may not be this bad.

It's never too late to learn.

And animals have an amazing way of ensuring you do indeed learn, mostly from your mistakes.

So now your puppy has grown up and has a few dog health problems.

The first possible cause to consider it what he is doing every day.

Eating!

What are you feeding him?

Commercial dog food, as most holistic veterinarians have found, is the route cause of many, if not most, dog health problems.

Depending on the country, brand and era or manufacture, most commercial dog food looks something like this:

• low grade meat by-products, often from a rendering plant
• cheap, health lacking filler such as paper, sawdust, sugar, nut shells, melamine
• indigestible isolated and synthetic nutrients
• toxic preservatives not permitted in human food

Sounds pretty unhealthy doesn't it? Even one of those ingredients may be contributing to your dog health problem, but what if he was eating all four?

Although there are as many causes for dog health problems as there are dogs, by far the most common is the food you are feeding him.

By virtue of its daily consumption, healthy dog food, similar to the food his wild cousins eat, will go a long way to making his immune system strong, strong enough to fend off most dog health problems for years.

If you're worried about the expense, don't be. Feeding real food to your dog is as cheap as feeding commercial dog food. It may take a little more time, especially in the early stages as you are finding your feet, but just consider the fortune you save on veterinarian bills! They don't come cheap by any means.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/some-dog-health-problems-are-easy-to-resolve-1627250.html

About the Author

Written by Madeleine Innocent.
Do you want to learn more about natural health, in particular homeopathy? Check out my free ebook ‘Better Health for Dogs’, by clicking on the website link below.
Naturally Healthy Dogs
http://naturallyhealthydogs.com

Stages of Dog Pregnancy

Stages of Dog Pregnancy

Dog Pregnancy - Signs and Care

Author: Wishbone

Being puppy is the cutest stage of a dog, it's so lovely to see how this little innocent angel moving around, learn to play, eat so well, run around and perform his agilities, and become little cute monster that messes things around. Then we will think about health, petsafe and future. There are still terrible canine over-population problems so it is better to be part of solution rather than to be part of the problem. Responsible owners who want to breed their dogs must pass all required registrations, accreditations, health screening, etc.

A female dog, correctly referred to as a bitch, can only become pregnant if she is bred during her heat cycle. The pregnancy generally lasts about two months or 56 to 69 days from the date of the first breeding, although this period may be slightly shorter or longer. Small breeds may deliver a week earlier while large breeds often deliver later. Over ninety-eight percent of all dogs deliver their puppies without assistance or complications.

For the first three weeks or so of pregnancy, you may not notice any changes in the bitch. Some females will become more demanding for attention, their nipples may enlarge slightly, and some may become hungrier. These are not a guarantee of a pregnancy, but are good signs. Bitches can show the same signs during 'false pregnancy,' a hormonal abnormality, which may occur after a bitch has been in heat. Decreased appetite is usually one of the earliest signs that your bitch might be pregnant. Not all females go through this doggie version of "morning sickness", but a small percentage will eat less during the first few weeks of gestation, usually making up for it later in the pregnancy. Further indication is a sudden decrease in activity, the nipple growth is noticeable, breast material will develop beneath the nipples, which will also increase slightly in preparation for eventual milk production. Behavioral changes such as increase in affectionate behavior or an expressed desire to be left alone. But beware, dont give any vitamin supplements in the first month of her pregnancy, the birth defects will be develop from too much vitamins A, D and calcium, all she need is high quality diet. No vaccinations should take place during pregnancy, they may harm the fetus. Vaccinations are prior to breeding. Always visit the vet to consult for her condition, from approximate 21-25 days, endocrinological tests detects pregnant dog hormone, relaxin. Puppies hearth beat can be detected after 25 days using ECG but its difficult to test their number. X-ray can pick up puppy skeleton from around 49 days and can determine the number of siblings, but X-Ray is not advisable to use because of radiation danger and damage.

In fourth week, the increase in appetite and gaining weight are changes of progress signs of pregnancy, the abdomen will thicken, and gentle examination of the belly will reveal a firm, rather than fat feeling to the area. The bitch should continue to have regular, but not strenuous, exercise to help her maintain her muscle tone and not become overweight. Exercise involves a daily run to make sure all her muscles, including her uterine muscles, are in top condition. She really needs enough sleep on her dog crate, at week 7, its advised to increase her meal about 25% and another 25 % on 8th week. Closer to the delivery date, your bitch will probably start to express her nesting instincts, scratching at the floor or in her bed, and displaying signs of increasing restlessness.

During the first stage of labor the cervix begins to dilate and uterine contractions begin. These contractions are painful and perplexing to the dog. She will appear quite uncomfortable and restless - pacing, shivering and panting. She probably will not eat and she may even vomit. Some dogs whine persistently. Others occupy themselves building a nest. Take her temperature rectally twice a day, the normal dog temperature is about 100.3F - 101.3F. It will normally drop to about 98 degrees Fahrenheit, 8 - 24 hours before the onset of labor and she will refuse to eat or drink anything.

During the second stage of labor uterine contractions begin in force. As this stage progresses the placental water sacks break and a straw-colored fluid is passed. Placentas are expelled after each puppy or sporadically during labor. Pups usually appear every half-hour or so after ten to thirty minutes of forceful straining. As the pups deliver, the mother will lick the puppy clean and bite off the umbilical cord. It is important to let the mother do this, if she will, because through this process she bonds with her puppies and learns to recognize them as her own. The rough licking of the mother stimulates the puppies to breathe and improves their circulation.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-pregnancy-signs-and-care-424050.html

About the Author

Hannah Serrano Petsafe | Dog Crates @ America Outdoor

DTC Parkway, Greenwood Vill. Denver Co, 80112

Canine Pregnancy Guide

Author: Rebecca Prescott

In many ways canine pregnancy is not that different from human pregnancy, although it is somewhat shorter, averaging sixty-three days. A dog's diet, as well as their consumption of medicine needs to be monitored during pregnancy, just like a woman's should be, and you may notice changes in your dog's emotions and social behavior. She can even experience morning sickness!

Most dogs will gain 15-25% of their original body weight during pregnancy, although this does depend on the number of puppies they are carrying and some do not put on noticeable weight until the last week before whelping.

Nutritional intake needs to increase during canine pregnancy and lactation; your dog may even double the amount she eats. During lactation she will need a high protein puppy food, and you may want to gradually introduce this during the last two weeks of her pregnancy, or even earlier. If you are concerned about providing the right pregnancy diet to meet your particular dog's needs you should consult your veterinarian.

You should try to avoid nutritional supplements during canine pregnancy, even though these may seem like a good idea. Your dog will naturally produce everything her puppies need to thrive during lactation, and supplements may interfere with this process. This is particularly applicable to calcium supplements. If you use a good quality, high protein dog food, supplements will not be necessary.

A lot of canine medication is safe to use during pregnancy. If you give your dog regular preventative medication for heartworm you should continue this throughout pregnancy and lactation. Some medicines to get rid of other types of parasite, such as hookworms or roundworms, can be used but you should consult your veterinarian before administering these. It is important that your dog does get treatment for these conditions as otherwise she can pass them on to her unborn puppies.

Vaccinations should not be given during canine pregnancy. However, if possible, it is a great idea to have your dog vaccinated just before becoming pregnant as this will ensure she has a high level of antibodies to pass onto her puppies during lactation.

About halfway through her pregnancy you should take your dog to the veterinarian for a wellness check and to confirm the pregnancy. The veterinarian will be able to do this by examining the stomach, but a blood test can be done to provide a conclusive result.

You may want to have a radiograph done three weeks prior to the deliver to count the puppies. Knowing how many puppies to expect will help you to prepare for the delivery. Remember that your dog can become pregnant by more than one male during any one heat stage so you may be surprised at the number of puppies she is going to produce.

During the last three weeks of your dog's pregnancy you may want to isolate her completely from contact with other dogs. This will ensure she does not pick up the herpes virus. While this is usually harmless in adult dogs, it can trigger a miscarriage in your pregnant dog.

You may find she wants to stay close to you during this time anyway. She may dislike being left alone and will probably become more affectionate, if a little irritable. As the delivery date approaches she will start to look for a safe place to give birth, and you should give some thought to where this will be.

As with human pregnancy, it is important to remember that canine pregnancy is a natural process, and your dog has been blessed with the natural ability to carry it through. With a little extra attention to nutrition, and some protection from common diseases, this should be a stress free time for you and your dog.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/canine-pregnancy-guide-131059.html

About the Author

If you'd like more information on nutritional deficiency in pregnant and lactating dogs, click here. Rebecca writes on dog health and other four legged issues.

Dog congestive heart failure

Dog congestive heart failure

Canine Congestive Heart Failure

Author: Joann Henry

Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is a clinical condition which is the final result of severe heart disease. It is usual that when a dog has heart failure, heart disease is also present in the body. However, it is true that in some cases, heart disease can be present, but never lead to congestive heart disease.

When high diastolic pressures in the heart build up into the veins and capillaries, then congestive heart failure can occur, which in turn causes a leakage of fluid out of those vessels.

Heart failure is the end result of many different cardiac and pericardial diseases. These include:

• Decreased myocardial contractibility. This is a weak heart muscle, which is commonly seen with dilated cardiomyopathy.

• Valvular regurgitation. This is a leak in one of the four heart valves, as seen with mitral and tricuspid regurgitation.

• Increased myocardial stiffness, which impairs the heart's ability to fill with blood.

In the beginning, the signs of congestive heart failure can be quite mild and difficult to see. However the symptoms can become more severe in a short space of time. Some of the symptoms to look for are:

• Lack of energy - the dog becomes much less active and tires quickly during the later stages of congestive heart failure;

• Poor appetite;

• Weight loss;

• Heavy breathing - the dog can show signs of difficulty in breathing, panting and coughing whilst resting;

• Coughing;

• Swollen abdomen - the dogs' stomach can enlarge as fluid accumulates in the liver and abdomen; and

• Change of mouth color - the color of the membranes of the mouth can be grayish rather than being a healthy pink color.

The first thing that is needs to be done though, is to manage the clinical signs of congestive heart failure by reducing the formation of edema and effusion and to increase the cardiac output, which is the delivery of blood to the tissues.

There are a wide variety of treatments available for Congestive Heart Failure, depending on the severity of the condition.

One of the most popular drugs used for this disease is Digitalis. This is a medication which belongs to a group called positive inotropic agents which help to increase the concentration of calcium in the heart muscle cells.

Diuretics are also another well known drug used for dogs with this condition. These drugs help to remove built up fluids that occur in the lungs and abdomen.

Monitor your dogs attitude and any changes in appearance when you spend time with your friend. It is essential to keep a diary of anything that varies from "the norm" so that you can show it to your vet. Check your dog on a daily basis for:

- breathing, see if it is heavy or labored;
- loss or reduction of appetite;
- restlessness;
- fainting; and
- profound lethargy.

However, it is important to remember, that canine congestive heart failure is a major disease and it is a necessity to have regular visits to your veterinarian to ensure that your dogs' needs are being met.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/canine-congestive-heart-failure-221554.html

About the Author

Joann Henry operates "Doggie Health Care" http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com, a blog all about our pooches health. Sign up to receive her newsletter, & not only will you get some free tips to keep your dog healthier, but FOR A LIMITED TIME, she'll give you a FREE ebook. http://www.DoggieHealthCare.com

An Owner's Guide to Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs

Author: D Swain

Congestive heart failure in dogs is a very serious condition. It is caused by an abnormality in the structure of function of the heart. There are two forms of this disease.

Forms

In one form of heart failure, the walls of the chambers in the heart thicken. This leads to reduced pumping efficiency. The other form is characterized by the muscles the form the walls stretching thinner. This causes the heart to enlarge.

When your dog's heart enlarges, the left side starts pumping blood less efficiently. This makes the heart work harder to compensate for the decreased efficiency. Once this compensation is no longer enough, dog congestive heart failure results.

Symptoms

As your dog's heart compensates in the early stages of this disease, he will show no symptoms. This can last for months or even years. As the disease progresses, he will begin to drool excessively and get tired very easily. He may pant and cough a lot after exercise, or even while resting. Two other common symptoms of congestive heart failure in dogs includes gray membranes in the mouth and a blueish tongue.

Diagnosis

The main method of diagnosis is an electrocardiogram. This will detect any abnormalities in the heart. Since this condition causes the heart to enlarge, an ultrasound will also be useful. An x-ray of the chest is also commonly done.

Treatment

If your dog is diagnosed with congestive heart failure, you will have to restrict his exercise and sodium intake. He will also need to take medications to increase calcium in the heart muscles. This will help increase pumping efficiency and reduce the heart rate.

Dogs with this condition will also need diuretics. This is due to the fact that the reduced blood flow may cause buildup of fluids in the lungs and abdomen. ACE inhibitors will also help increase efficiency by tightening the blood vessels.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/an-owners-guide-to-congestive-heart-failure-in-dogs-673673.html

About the Author

Congestive heart failure in dogs is a very serious disease. However, there are many more that can affect your dog such as dog valley fever and dog bloat. Dog-illnesses.com provides a wealth of information for dog owners about many different diseases. So, stop by today to learn about some of these diseases that can affect your pet.

Some tips and fun facts on the bichon frise dog

Some tips and fun facts on the bichon frise dog

Fun Facts About Bichon Frise

Author: Kevin Gawricki

Fun Facts About Bichon Frise

By Kevin Gawricki

The Bichon Frise was a favorite in Spain. Becoming the favorite of painters. Goya featured the Bichon in a number of paintings.

Was developed in Mediterranean area.

Made its appearance in Canary Islands under Francis I, patron of Renaissance, but greatest success was in Court of Henry III.

Became favorite of Italian nobility in 14th Century.

Descended from Barbet or Water-Spaniel.

Was used as barter item by sailors.

Kevin is owner of Dog Gone Good Stuff which he founded because of the need for a place that caters specifically to dogs and their owners specific needs. Please feel free to visit Dog Gone Good Stuff for all your dogs needs. Web address www.doggonegoodstuff.com

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/fun-facts-about-bichon-frise-32254.html

About the Author

Care and Grooming for Your Bichon Frise

Author: Elvis Foote

Bichon Frise Care and Grooming

Bichon Frise are a very sociable dog from the time that they are puppies on through adulthood. Bichon Frises have an easy, happy disposition. A Bichon Frisé (French, literally meaning Curly lap dog; often spelled Bichon Frise in English) is a small breed of dog.

The Bichon Frise was developed in the Mediterranean area, when a Barbet (a large water spaniel breed) was crossed with small white lapdogs. The Bichon Frise of today has its descent in the Bichon Tenerife breed line, which found its way to the Mediterranean area, onto the Canary Islands or rather, "the Island of Tenerife

. In the 1980s, the Bichon Frise was part of the "Yuppie Puppies" choice of the majority population, and everyone just HAD to have one. Bichon Frises make an excellent addition to the family. Bichon Frise are affectionate, cuddly and just plain happy to see people.

The disposition of the Bichon Frise is sweet, perky, bouncy, active, and very playful with sporadic bursts of energy that leads them into many unknown adventures--usually beyond the fenced in yard or when they get loose from the leash, even though they are considered to be gentle creatures. Bichon Frises can be hard to house train; crate training may be a successful technique. Bichon Frises can conform to apartment life fairly easily. Bichon Frise also are very intelligent and quick learners.

Bichon Frise, as with many sociable breeds, are not suited to being left alone all day. Bichon Frises have a life span of 12-13 years and have litters of 4-5 pups. An independent dog, the Bichon Frise bond well with adults and children and is also very highly intelligent, affectionate, charming, and self-assured. Serious dog lovers who own, or want to own a Bichon Frise would rather invest their valuable Internet time on a website that truly UNDERSTANDS this amazing breed.

Training

Training must be gentle and firm, with no harsh corrections or scolding. Training the Bichon works well with food treats along with the leash and collar. A crate is usually the best method of training. The puppy should come to see his/her crate as his personal space so avoid using it as discipline for bad behavior to maximize house training potential.

Roughhousing is definitely out with this guy, and play training is in. This breed requires gentle and firm training, as they are so gentle and sensitive that any harsh training or negative corrections will have an opposite effect on the puppy or adult dog. But all trainers/owners will eventually need a collar and leash to begin the training-the many types available will depend on the person doing the training, as each one is a matter of personal preference and what the dog needs.

Some of the training collar tools that are acceptable for the Bichon training, as chain or nylon chokers will matt and tangle in their hair, are the buckle collars, leather-training collars, or even the reversed pinch collars. The head collar is becoming very popular as a training tool for most dogs in training classes. Positive reinforcement and gentle training are the choice training of the day, with kindness, persistence, and patience. As far as training is concerned, this breed often proves to be hard to housebreak, but likes to learn. The Bichon does not require aggressive training, and likes challenges. These dogs need training and exercise at the minimum one walk a day.

Grooming

Grooming requirements are based on coat type and the size of the dog. Grooming is recommended on a daily basis to avoid matting. Professional grooming is recommended every 4 weeks. They are a non-shedding breed that requires daily grooming. They require regular grooming, which can be expensive and/or time-consuming.

Because Bichons are so susceptible to skin problems and allergies, good grooming practices are very important. Like all dogs that require frequent grooming, Bichons should be accustomed to grooming from a young age and care should be taken to keep grooming pleasurable. Anyone considering a Bichon should carefully weigh the amount of time available for grooming, for the coat needs lots of attention.

But good grooming is required once shedding begins, as the undercoat needs to be removed once the weather begins to warm up or excessive shedding will leave piles of hair throughout the home. High on the playfulness range, along with friendliness toward strangers, watchdog ability, and grooming requirements-anyone who purchases the Bichon will be a powder-puff challenge, to say the least.

To keep the Bichons soft white curly coat well cared for takes daily grooming and as the coat is white and non shedding, it also needs regular bathing and trimming. There are two popular Bichon Frise grooming styles: a short, poodle-like coat or a long, puffy coat for a more rounded appearance. For anyone wanting to learn to do the grooming on their own dogs, be prepared to make many mistakes along the way.

Conclusion

With proper attention, the Bichon Frise will develop into a wonderful companion animal. Bichon Frise are a very sociable dog from the time that they are puppies on through adulthood. So instead of wasting hours of your time scouring the Internet for specific info about the Bichon Frise, it's all here in one place. You can find out all you need to know about the Bichon Frise. With thousands of Bichon Frise puppies for sale and hundreds of Bichon Frise dog breeders, you're sure to find the perfect Bichon Frise puppy.

For this and other pet related topics please visit The Shoppbox Ebook Reviews.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/care-and-grooming-for-your-bichon-frise-448889.html

About the Author

married,father of two growing boys. Living in Ontario, Canada.

How to teach your dog its name

How to teach your dog its name

Teaching Your Dog His Name

Author: Lidya NW

Many dog owners tend to think of their dog's name as a "catch-all" command with multiple definitions that vary depending on what they want their dog to do at the moment: "Max!" (Meaning "Come here!"); "Max!" (Meaning "Stop that!"); "Max!" (Meaning "Get down!"); "Max!" (Meaning "Stop barking!"); "Max!" (Meaning "Don't eat that cat poop!). You get the ide

You should not use your dog's name any in another way than a baby's name. For example, if you name a child's name, he might acknowledge that he hears you (should you're lucky), but his doubtless response will be to name again, "What?" He in all probability will not even look up from the video game or no matter else he was doing once you referred to as his name. You will need to follow up with an instruction; tell him what you need: "Bobby! Stop enjoying that sport and do your homework!" (Then he may or might not do as you ask, relying on how well he's been trained.)

Read this lesson first, and then practice it with your dog:

First, load up your pocket (or a bag or pouch) with 20 or so treats.

1. Take your dog to an area the place there received't be numerous distractions.
2. Wait in your dog to look at something other than you, then say his identify (once!).
3. When he seems at you, instantly give him a treat and say "Good!" (Or no matter you've chosen as the first reinforcer, phrase or clicker. We're going to simply use "Good!" in our coaching examples.)
4. Now move a number of steps to another location and again wait for your Dog to be trying away from you.
5. Say your dog's title again and immediately reward him again with the treat and reward when he seems at you.
6. Repeat this course of 5 times. If your Dog was notably distracted earlier than responding to his title, give him additional praise and treats

In case you say his identify and he doesn't look at you, he could also be too distracted. Transfer him a number of paces to a special location and try again.
Say his name. Use an enthusiastic tone of voice. Give rapid rewards if he appears at you.
If he still doesn't respond to his identify, clap your hands, whistle or make some other attention-getting sound. When he seems to be, say his title again and instantly give the rewards. Do this as a last resort. You want him to learn to reply to his name, not the other sounds.

Keep trying, be patient, and remember not to repeat his name. Give immediate rewards when he responds. If you want to become a professional training for your dog I HIGHLY recommend a wonderful resource called Clicker Training check it out!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/teaching-your-dog-his-name-4413191.html

About the Author

L.Nawang

Awesome dog names

Awesome dog names

Dog Names: Finding Unique, Cool, and Funny Dog and Puppy Names

Author: Richard Livitski

Congratulations! After searching long and hard at the shelters, thru the newspaper and even enlisting friends and family in your search, you've found the right dog! So what's next? Giving him/her a proper name of course!

So you think to yourself, just any ol name won't do. It's got to be unique, something different! Well, allow me to give you a few dog naming categories that will hopefully help you to come up with some really novel names for your four legged friend.

First though, when coming up with a name keep in mind a few things to watch out for.

1. Stay away from names that might be potentiallyembarrassing to both you AND your dog. The name "Stinky" might be cute at first, but once the joke gets old, think of how you'll feel a year from now when you have to call "Stinky" home at night. Embarrassing names could also apply to negative words that might rhyme with your dogs name.

2. There's been a tendency in recent years to give dogs human names. Though there's nothing wrong with this, be kind to your pooch and name him after someone you like. Also, if want to name him after someone you know, better check with that person first to see if it's alright. I'm not sure how much your human friend Max will like hearing, "Get off the couch Max!" or worse "We took Max to get fixed today."

3. If possible, keep the name to one or two syllables. Dogs not only learn it quicker, but it makes them easier to train as well.

On with the names!

In this article I've listed just 3 of the many dog name categories that might help you to think a bit outside the box when coming up with great puppy names. They are,

Unique Dog Names: Have you ever considered naming your dog after something that you eat or drink? I'm serious. Allow me to give you just a few examples that will hopefully get your creative juices flowing….

Bon Bon: I can see this as a good name for a small black dog.
Caviar: For a dog with expensive tastes. Maybe a good Poodle name?
Jalapeno: A good name for a dog with a sometimes fiery disposition.
Crouton: Another good name for a small breed. Maybe a Chihuahua?
Latte: Possibly a good name for a black dog.
Kahlua: I can see this name on a brown dog.

As strange as it sounds, many more food and drink related dog names can be as close as your refrigerator, pantry or liquor cabinet!

Cool Dog Names: The dictionary defines the word "cool" as something that's fashionable, or hip. To me, when it comes to dog names, a name that's "cool" is a name that one doesn't normally hear. One that is creative enough to be memorable. And that perhaps matches that particular dogs appearance or disposition.

Here's just a few names from my site that I put into the "cool" dog name category for starters...

Aspen, Azure, Capri, Charisma, Denali, Java, Mahala, Maui, Mignon, Nirvana, Pirouette, Rio, Sahara, Sierra, Taboo, Tiara

Funny Dog Names: By funny, I'm referring to cute dog names that will match it's physical appearance. Here's just a few ideas…

Espresso: For an energetic black dog.
Kisses: For a small affectionate pup.
Brutus: For a BIG dog.
Putt-Putt: For a dog with short legs.

Here's some additional ideas…

Big Dog Names: Barbarian, Big Foot, Butkus, Chewbacca, Genghis, Godzilla, Hummer, Terminator, T-Rex, Tsunami

Small Dog Names: Doodle, Gumball, Kewpie, Laptop, Nibbles, Widget

For additional funny ideas, think opposites! Peanut for a BIG dog, Moose for a small dog.

If you spent as much time as you did when finding the perfect dog, why not spend a little extra time in finding the perfect name? Your dog will thank you for it!

When Richard Livitski isn't busy running around after his own dogs, he's busy searching for more unique and cool dog names for his website www.puppy-names-plus.com where puppy names as well as other helpful dog related topics can be found.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/dog-names-finding-unique-cool-and-funny-dog-and-puppy-names-50734.html

About the Author

Names For Dogs: Choosing The Right Dog Name The First Time

Author: Richard Livitski

After searching long and hard, you've finally found the perfect dog. So what's next?... Finding the perfect names for dogs of course!

Considering that over the course of your puppies lifetime his name will be used over 30,000 times, and that 1 in 5 new dog owners want to change their dogs name in the first year, choosing the right puppy name should be given as much care and thought as you showed when finding your pooch in the first place.

Below I've listed 10 dog naming tips taken from my website to be mindful of when looking for the right name, they are...

1. Avoid names that sound like common commands such as Go, Stay, Sit, etc. This might cause confusion for your puppy when trying to train it.

2. Be mindful that your dog might outgrow it's name. The name Buttercup might be appropriate for a cute puppy, but not when it becomes a full grown Great Dane!

3. Choose a name with one or two syllables. Dogs not only learn it quicker, but it makes them easier to train as well.

4. Watch out for trendy names that might cause embarrassment once the trend is passed. Do you want people to realize from your dog's name that you were once a big fan of Disco?

5. If you've adopted an older dog, it's best to keep her current name so that it doesn't become confused. If for some reason you must change it, consider a name that sounds similar or rhymes.

6. Beware of the common trend to name dogs after people. Though doing so is not a bad thing in itself, if you name your pup after a friend or family member, they might take offense. Although you might think naming your dog Sally after your favorite Aunt is an honor, Aunt Sally might not. Also, be kind to your dog and name her after someone you like.

7. Does the dog name rhyme with something negative? Or maybe with the name of a family member or friend? Once discovered, you might be one of those 1 in 5 people who want to change their dogs name!

8. Stay away from potentially embarrassing names. The name "Pee Wee" might be funny at first, but as the joke gets old, how will you feel in a year or so when you have to call "Pee Wee" home at night?

9. Pick a name that matches your dogs own unique appearance or personality. The name Electra might be a good name for an energetic pooch, but not for one that like's to sleep all day.

10. Ask your dog what he thinks! Since it's going to be his name, you might want to narrow your search down to your own 5 favorite names, then try them out on your dog. You'd be surprised how well he responds to some, yet yawns at others.

Keeping in mind the above tips when searching for dog names will not only ensure a long, happy friendship with your dog, but also help to avoid a mid-life name change.

You see? Choosing the right names for dogs is not only easy, but your dog will love you for it!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/names-for-dogs-choosing-the-right-dog-name-the-first-time-57594.html

About the Author

When Richard Livitski isn't busy running around after his own dogs, he's busy searching for more unique, cool and funny dog names for www.puppy-names-plus.com where dog names as well as other helpful dog related topics can be found.

Wood Dog Kennels- Are they good for your dog

Wood dog kennels- Are they good for your dog

Advantages of Wooden Dog Kennels

Author: Malcolm Nguyen

Are you on the lookout for a great kennel for your dog? Are you trying to work out if you should buy a wooden dog kennels, plastic kennels or a kennel that is made from treated metal? If you are a first time buyer the chances are that you are feeling a bit confused, especially if you have been getting advice from different people who own the various types of kennel. So take a look at some of the advantages of wooden dog kennels and hopefully it should make your life a whole lot easier.

Good quality dog kennels that are made from wood come in at many different styles and sizes which means they are suitable for all dogs. Obviously you will need to pay close attention to the size of kennel that you buy to make sure that your own dog will be able to use it for a long time. Thankfully when you are buying this type of kennel there will be information relating to the side of the kennel telling you how big a dog should be to use that particular product.

One dog kennels also tend to be very easy to assemble and as most people will purchase their kennels in a flat pack you need to know that you can assemble it quickly. Once again you should find information relating to how many people are needed, usually just one or two, to build a kennel before you buy it.

You can then decide if the project is right for you or not. Dog kennels made from wood can also be treated easily using safe painting products so that they are water proof. The roof of the kennel should be covered in a suitable material that will be able to withstand the various elements. All weather protection like this is not expensive and you will find that as long as you check that your kennel does not leak, your dog will be very happy in it.

Depending on the type of wooden dog kennels you are interested in you can find additional extras that you can add on to the kennel. For example if you want your dog to get some exercise you can add a run to the kennel with the minimum of fuss. This is also a good idea if you have more than one dog and you want to make sure that they are comfortable and have enough room in the wooden dog kennels that you are interested in.

By adding dog beds to a wooden kennel you will be making it as warm as cosy as possible and your dog will love you for it. When you have wooden dog kennels that do not let in the wind, rain or sun your dog will want to spend time in there as it will feel very safe and secure. This should always be your aim when you are a dog owner, so make sure that you take your time when searching for a kennel to make the best choice.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/advantages-of-wooden-dog-kennels-5837626.html

About the Author

My dog supplies is an online dog supplies store. Check out why we are a fast growing online dog retailer. We specialize in wooden dog kennel and comfy dog beds. Take one dog kennel today from our vast variety of kennels and take advantage of our money back guarantee service.