10 good facts: January 2013

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Develop A Chainlink Fence

Note the tension bar and bands on the terminal post to the right.

The virtues of a chain-link fence include durability and a long-life span. The chain is tough enough to offer an effective barrier to most animals and intruders, who might go over or under the fence, but not through it. Given a new coat of paint every so often, the metalwork in the fence can last for decades. The best part is that building a fence of this kind may require time and hard work, but it does not demand any special skills.

Instructions

Setting Fence Posts

1. Marking out the terminal posts and gate posts with stakes. Tie lines of twine between the terminal and gate posts, to establish straight, horizontal lines. Walk along these lines with a measuring wheel to determine the distance between the terminal/gate posts.

2. Determine the distance between line posts. Line posts should be planted in equidistant positions, but never more than 10 feet apart. A 35-foot fence line needs a post every eight feet, nine inches, while a 40-foot line has a post every 10 feet. Walk the line with a measuring wheel and drive a stake to mark post placement accordingly.

3. Remove the stakes and dig post holes. Line post holes need a depth equal to 1/3 the height of the fence posts, plus five inches for a foundation. The width needs to be triple the width of the fence post at the top and quadruple the width at the base. For gate posts and terminal posts, widen the hole by an extra two or three inches.

4. Shovel gravel into the bottom five inches of the post hole, creating a foundation. Use this opportunity to establish uniform depth in your post hole by double checking the depth, adding or subtracting gravel to even things out as necessary.

5. Put a fence post into the center of a post hole, adjusting it for straightness with the help of a level, and then have a helper hold the post steady. Mix quick-setting concrete in a bucket and pour it into the hole, filling the hole up to the last few inches from the top. After 10 minutes, the concrete should be solid enough to release the post and move onto the next hole. Repeat for all fence posts.

6. Allow the concrete to cure for two or three days, then fill in the remainder of the post hole with dirt.

Installing the Chain-Link

7. Slide the tension bands down onto the terminal and gate posts. A 4-foot fence requires three bands, a 5-foot fence needs four, and a 6-foot fence demands five bands. Add the rail-brace and then top the post with a post cap, tapping it down with a rubber mallet.

8. Place hoop caps onto the tops of the line posts, tapping them down with a rubber mallet. Slide the fence rails through the hoops, securing them to the terminal or gate posts by threading a bolt through the rail-brace and fastening it with a nut and a wrench.

9. Set up the roll of chain-link mesh so that one end is positioned near a terminal or gate post, and then unroll about a foot of mesh. Run a tension bar through the chain links at that end of the mesh. Fasten the tension bar to the terminal/gate post by looping the tension bands around them, threading a bolt into the band and fastening it with a nut and a wrench.

10. Unroll the chain-link mesh all the way down to the opposite terminal or gate post.

11. Attach the fence spreader to the opposite terminal/gate post by wrapping its chain around it and hooking that chain off to itself. Insert another tension bar into the mesh about 4 or 5 feet down from that post, and hook up the fence spreader's triangle to the chain mesh.

12. Work the lever of the fence spreader to pull and tighten the chain-link mesh. When the links have widened by about 1/4 inch, check them by squeezing them by hand. There should be a little give in the mesh, but not much.

13. Fasten the mesh to the line posts and rails. Tie the mesh to the post with wire, using pliers to manipulate the wire, using as many wire ties for each post as you used tension bands for the terminal/gate posts. Tie the mesh to the rails on either side of the line posts and two or three times between the posts.

14. Insert another tension bar into a position near the terminal/gate post at the unsecured end of the fence. Loop and fasten the tension bands around the bar. Unlock the fence spreader to release the tension and unhook it from the fence. Cut away leftover mesh with wire cutters, and repeat Steps 3 to 8 to fasten a new section of chain-link mesh to the fence line.

Train Dogs To Trace

Train Dogs to Track

Tracking is by far one of the most intense dog sports around the world. A tracking dog is a highly-trained, highly-motivated partner that can sniff out even the faintest of scent trails days or weeks after someone has passed through an area. Tracking takes a good deal of persistence, determination and precision, although training a tracking dog can be simple if done properly.

Instructions

1. Start your tracking program when your puppy is eight to ten weeks old. Puppies are extremely impressionable to scents and training at this age, so proper tracking imprinting is essential.

2. Find a large, open space free of debris to begin your tracking. A large park or empty field works well. Be sure that there are no hazardous objects or roaming animals to disrupt your training.

3. Place your puppy in his kennel on the field so you can lay a scent pad. A scent pad is normally a square of space at the tracking area that you have walked carefully in to widely distribute your scent. Mark off an area approximately 3-by-3 feet by walking firmly over the entire area. Do not wander in and out of the area to avoid confusing your dog with trailing scents.

4. Carry your puppy to the scent pad and set him down, giving him the command you've chosen to track. Toss a few of his favorite treats around the scent pad, encouraging him to pick them up while again giving the command to track. Sniffing around for the treats over the scent pad will not only encourage the pup to put his head down and sniff, but will also reward him for doing so.

5. Fit your dog with her tracking harness. A tracking harness will help distribute the weight of an enthusiastic puller and give you the ability to help control the dog's movement. Attach a long 30-foot tracking lead, keeping it coiled to avoid tangling yourself or the dog while working.

6. Take your puppy back to his kennel and lay a short track. Beginning at the scent pad, lay a straight, even track by shuffling your feet along the ground for 10 to 15 feet. Lay a treat every few inches along the track to give your puppy a reward for sniffing as you did on the scent pad. You can place a few flags along the length of your track to give yourself a visual reminder if necessary.

7. Return your puppy to the scent pad and again give him the command to track, this time encouraging him to follow the track and get the treats. Praise him thoroughly once he reaches the end and picks up all the treats.

8. Repeat this process, extending the tracks and reducing the number of treats until your puppy is tracking properly with just the track command. Add in a turn or two once your dog is tracking an extended straight line with no faults. Track the dog slowly around the turns to avoid run offs or mistakes while working.

Materials Required To Develop A House

Figure out what you'll need to build a house.

While it ultimately depends on the type and style of house being built, you can develop a list of items you will need before you get started. Building a house can be a daunting task. Being as prepared as possible with all the right materials will save you time and money.

Instructions

1. Take a look at your building plan to determine the style of house and how many windows and and doors there are and their measurements.

2. Gather your framing materials--wood boards nailed together or steel re-bar welded together for a concrete frame. Wood boards measuring 2 inches by 4 inches are used most often. They are usually nailed together with 16-penny nails. If a concrete frame is being used, the re-bar is usually No. 3.

3. Build the outer casing of the house; most often, this is fiber board nailed to the outside of the frame. You'll need saws, hammers, nails, levels and chalk line.

4. Consider the materials for the inner workings of the house--plumbing and drainage, electricity and insulation. You would need PVC pipe, faucets, water heaters, toilets, sinks, breaker boxes, wires, outlets, switches, fixtures and rolls of insulation. Tools you'll need include wrenches, screwdrivers, hammers, pipe wrenches, waterproof glue and sealant.

5. Gather wall material--wood, drywall or synthetic materials. You will need such tools as a hammer and nails, mudding knife and a pan.

6. Build the outer skin of your house from wood, vinyl, brick or stone. Tools you need include cement, mortar, staples and a staple gun, and a hammer and nails.

Laws and regulations Of Possessing A Pitbull In California

Some cities require spaying and neutering of pit bulls.

The dangers posed by unwanted and stray pit bulls and pit bull mixes on the street and in animal shelters, along with the attacks by vicious dogs, have prompted California's legislators to focus their attention on restricting pit bull ownership. While most California law does not refer to specific breeds, but rather to vicious animals, some cities have adopted sterilization laws aimed toward pit bull dogs.

Breeding Permit Requirements

The state of California allows its cities to place restrictions on pit bull ownership. The cities can choose to make owners of pit pulls sterilize their pit bulls to prevent reproduction. All pit bull dog owners within a city that has adopted this requirement must adhere to the requirement or obtain and purchase a permit allowing the dog to maintain its reproductive abilities.

Locations with Restrictions

The following areas in California all have regulations pertaining to the sterilization of pit bulls or the housing of vicious dogs: Lake County, Lancaster, Manteca, Naval Base Ventura County, Point Mugu, Point Hueneme, Ripon, Sacramento, Barstow, Gilroy, Lancaster, Manteca, San Bernardino, San Francisco and Sonoma County. Santa Monica specifically names pit bulls in its regulations for owning a vicious dog and requires that the breed be leashed and muzzled if taken out of its pen for any reason.

Exceptions

Permits to exempt sterilization are not granted simply by request. Most sterilization laws for pit bulls in California require specific criteria for gaining a permit. Only show dogs, police dogs and other work dogs that are registered and meet the breed standard set by kennel associations may be considered for a permit.

Violations

Most areas allow owners a 90-day period to comply with the law after it is placed into effect. Those who have not cooperated within the given amount of time can be charged a fine up to $500. If the matter is not addressed, owners may also face a misdemeanor charge.

Cost British Bulldog Young puppies

There are several different ways to price English bulldog puppies.

English bulldogs are not technically the most attractive dogs, but many dog lovers cannot resist their stocky, wrinkly appearance. Despite their protruding teeth and under bite, they have a puppy-like face, and are usually mild-mannered, gentle dogs. Bulldog puppies can cost quite a bit of money if you buy from reputable breeders. If you've recently bred bulldogs, you will want to understand price them correctly, in order to present both fair and competitive prices to customers.

Instructions

1. Add up the money you have put into breeding and raising the bulldog puppies. Most bulldog breeders add the stud fee, veterinarian payments, and the cost of feed and supplies for the puppies into the final cost of the bulldog puppies. Since English bulldogs can't usually breed on their own, and usually require a cesarean section to birth the puppies, high vet bills can make for very high puppy prices.

2. Register your English bulldog puppies. If the parents of the puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club, this means the puppies can be registered also. Many people only want to buy registered dogs, as this assures the future owners that the dog is purebred. Registered dogs are always much more expensive than unregistered dogs. Including the cost of breeding and caring for the puppies, registered English bulldogs are usually priced between $1,000 and $1,500.

3. Sort out puppies in your litter that are show quality dogs. You can do this by learning about the specific appearance and traits the American Kennel Club requires English bulldogs to have. Any puppies that seem to have these characteristics can be sold as show quality, which means they can potentially be shown when they grow up. Show-quality dogs are usually priced higher than "pet-quality" dogs.

4. Research your puppies' bloodlines. If the parents of your puppies have champion show lines, the puppies are probably worth more, and can therefore be sold for a higher price.

5. Sell the puppies with or without breeding rights for the future owners. Many breeders spay or neuter their puppies before they're sold, or require a contract that entails having the puppy fixed. Dogs that are fixed don't cost as much as dogs that can later be bred by their future owners. Usually only show-quality dogs or dogs with champion bloodlines are sold as potential breeding dogs, and this can raise cost of a puppy to between $2,000 and $5,000.

Interesting Details About Dog Young puppies

Often judged unfairly, pit bull puppies can grow up to be wonderful pets.

With their sturdy muscular bodies, squared heads and beady eyes, pit bull puppies capture attention wherever they go. They're loyal, loving and manageable, despite their notorious history and misconceptions about their breed.

Ancestry

Pit bull puppies' ancestors are fighting dogs, descending back to ancient Greece, where they were used by the Molossi tribe in warfare. Their ancestors fought each other in Roman coliseums and later, battled bulls in "baiting" contests in 11th century England. Still illegally fought today, pit bulls arrived in America with English immigrants, becoming all-purpose herding and guard dogs on the western frontier.

Identification

Pit bull puppies may not be true pit bulls at all. Media, legislators and laypeople often mislabel pit bulls, including similar-looking crossbreeds and various similar purebreds (Staffordshire bull terrier, bull terrier and American bulldog) in this category. The purebred American pit bull terrier is recognized by the United Kennel Club and American Dog Breeders Association. These same dogs are registered as American Staffordshire terriers by the American Kennel Club.

Misconceptions

Pit bull puppies are not born with "locking jaws" nor are their jaws the strongest of dog breeds. According to Dr. I. Lehr Brisbin of the University of Georgia, there's no evidence of a locking mechanism in the pit bull jaw. Dr. Brady Barr of National Geographic compared bite pressure per square inch (PSI) between a pit bull, a rottweiler and a German shepherd. The pit bull had the lowest PSI while the rottweiler had the highest on record for any domestic canine.

Loyal and Loving

"Norton," a 5-year-old American Staffordshire terrier, was inducted into the Purina Hall of Fame in 1999 after saving the life of his owner, waking her husband when she went into shock after a spider bite. Pit bulls work as police dogs, customs dogs, drug-enforcement dogs and rescue dogs. When raised and socialized properly, most pit bull puppies grow to be loyal and loving pets, getting along well with children and other animals.

Born Gladiator

With the right training and conditioning, pit bull puppies grow up to be remarkable athletes. Pit bulls reach 8,000 lbs. in weight-pulling contests and excel in agility and flyball sports. Using the spring pole is one of their favorite activities. Leaping into the air and clamping their jaws around hanging objects, they wrestle and play. Some have been noted to hang for hours!

Expert Insight

Diane Jessup, creator of "Fully Bully" magazine and author of numerous books including "The Working Pit Bull," says "Typical American pit bulls are tough and intelligent animals, historically bred for a willingness to test their mettle against larger and stronger animals and against each other....Some dog-on-dog aggression, intelligently handled, is a small price to pay for the attributes of a well-bred bulldog."

Famous Relatives

"Sergeant Stubby" died a hero in1926 and was the most decorated dog in military history. Fighting alongside French soldiers in World War One, he was responsible for the capture of a German spy. "Popsicle" retired from U.S. Customs Service in 2002. His biggest seizure was nearly 140 million dollars worth of cocaine. "Petey" from "Our Gang" and "The Little Rascals," died of old age in 1946. The black ring around his left eye was such an oddity that it was certified by Ripley's Believe It Or Not.

Kelpie Black & Tan Qualities

The Australian kelpie, also known as the black and tan kelpie, barb or Australian sheepdog, originated in Australia about 1870. Although popularly thought to have descended from border collies and wild dingos, the ancestors were most likely an extinct breed known as the Rutherford English North Country collie. Popular in Australia, the breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club but is recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club.

Size

The average Australian kelpie is only 17 to 20 inches tall from the ground to the top of the withers, or the highest point of the dog's shoulders. It weighs from 25 to 50 lbs, according to "The Howell Book of Dogs." Males tend to be larger, heavier and more muscular than females. No matter what the size and weight, kelpies appear like lean athletes, ready to put in a full day's work.

Colors

Although best known in North America for being black and tan, Australian kelpies come in many more colors. These include all red, all black, all blue, all fawn, all cream, red and tan, blue and tan and fawn and tan. Fawn is a blend of red and white hairs, causing a light tan. Blue is a blend of black and white hairs and may appear more gray than blue. Kelpies may sport small white spots on the face and chest. Albinos with pink eyes are discouraged and are disqualified from showing in United Kennel Club events.

Energy

Australian kelpies need constant activity in order to keep them from developing destructive habits. They should never live in apartments. Kelpies need long walks, lots of exercise and interaction with people. Kelpies make great companions for ranchers, farmers, hikers and backpackers. Kelpies, bred with the herding instinct, will round up children and pets as if they were sheep. Cats do not appreciate this, notes "The Howell Book of Dogs."

Grooming

Most Australian kelpies possess short coats which only need brushing twice a week in order to help reduce shedding. Kelpies shed most in fall and spring and may need daily brushing, notes "The Howell Book of Dogs." Some kelpies grow some medium hair on the bellies, tails and back of the hair, but they can be groomed just like short-hairs. When working outside or running frequently on paved roads, dogs may not need their nails clipped. Check paws regularly for overgrown claws. Black and tan kelpies have black claws, which makes bleeding during claw clipping inevitable. Keep styptic powder nearby when clipping claws.

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Raise A German Shepherd Litter

Raise a German Shepherd Litter

German shepherd dogs are by far one of the most well known breeds of dog. They are known for being extremely dedicated, loyal and loving dogs and are known to pass this onto their offspring when properly trained. Raising a litter of German shepherds can be a complex task, but the rewards are well worth the trouble.

Instructions

1. Provide your pregnant German shepherd female with adequate veterinary care well before her puppies are born. A female who is well cared for before whelping a litter will give birth to a much healthier litter of puppies.

2. Set up your whelping area well in advance and keep your female calm during labor. Too much commotion or racket will frighten your German shepherd and can cause her to hold off or delay labor which is unhealthy for her and the puppies.

3. Allow the mother to break the placental sack on each puppy before attempting to handle it. She should also sever the umbilical cords of each puppy herself, but if she doesn’t, tie the cord off approximately three inches from the puppy’s belly with sanitary string and snip the cord gently.

4. Dry each puppy off well with a soft towel and place the puppy back in with the mother. Do not overhandle the pups as the mother may reject them, so allow her plenty of bonding time with the new litter. If you notice any of the puppies are not breathing, use the bulb suction to try and remove the fluid from his lungs.

5. Check in on the mother and new litter occasionally after she’s finished whelping. She will need plenty of quiet time to rest and recuperate after giving birth. Be sure she has plenty to drink while she rests and allow her to eat when she is ready.

6. Monitor the puppies to see if they are all eating well. You should notice each of the puppies nursing every two or three hours, decreasing in frequency as they get older. The pups should be gaining weight well and growing evenly. The puppies will do very little but eat and sleep for the first four weeks or so, and will be relatively inactive.

7. Let the puppies out of the whelping box when they get old enough to start walking around. You can move them to a secure puppy pen as they become more independent and begin exploring the world.

8. Introduce the puppies to softened puppy food at 5 weeks of age and make sure they eat well. They will still be nursing at this time and will most likely make more of a mess than they eat, but it is important that they begin eating.

9. Take the puppies to the vet at 6 weeks of age for their first checkup. The vet will give the puppies their first sets of shots and working treatment. You can request veterinary care history packets from your vet from each puppy so that you can keep record of any health issues or problems.

10. Begin observing and allowing the puppies to explore the outside world once they have had their first set of shots. You will notice that the more dominant puppies will be more outgoing and adventurous and the shy puppies more reserved. You can use this knowledge as the pups grow and develop so that you can place them in the best new homes available.

11. Wean the puppies onto totally solid food by the age of 8 weeks. The pups will be ready to leave for their new homes at this age, and it is vital that they are growing and eating well before they leave your care.

12. Interview potential puppy homes well before letting them go. Make sure that you are comfortable with the new puppy owners before you consider rehoming them. Fill out any required paperwork with the new owners and take pride in knowing you have raised a happy, healthy litter of German shepherd puppies.

Use A Rulemate Bilge Pump

Rule-Mate bilge pumps remove water that accumulates in the bottom of your boat. The pumps can be manual or made automatic with the installation of a flip switch. You should have one or more pumps installed in your boat depending on its size. The larger the boat, the more water that can come in and needs to be removed. Rule-Mate pump installation is challenging, so you should call a professional if you do not have boat repair experience.

Instructions

1. Measure the width, height and depth of the Rule-Mate bilge pump with a tape measure. Draw the measurements on the waterproofed plywood and cut the plywood using the saw.

2. Put a coat of the adhesive sealant on the sides and the edges of the plywood. Attach it to the area where you want to place the Rule-Mate bilge pump. Cover the plywood completely with more sealant using the putty knife. Wait for 48 hours for the adhesive sealant to dry.

3. Check to make sure the sealant is dry. Take the Rule-Mate pump from its mounting base. Use the screws included with the bilge pump to screw the mounting base into the adhesive-covered plywood. Put the pump in the mounting base and click the latches.

4. Find the pump outlet and insert the hose. Run the hose through the discharge hole and then through the hull fitting. The discharge hole needs to be above the waterline to stop water from cycling back through the pump. Make the hose as short and as straight as possible in order for the pump to work best.

5. Weld the in-line fuse holder to the pump's red power lead with the soldering iron. Attach the extension wire to the other terminal of the fuse holder.

6. Fasten the extension wire to one end of the three-pole switch. Secure the switch's center terminal to the boat's common power bus and the pump's black wire to the common ground of the boat.

Risks Of Retracting Barricades

Dog barriers and crates should meet pet-safety standards.

Dog crates, gates or barricades are all useful in helping the dog adjust to a new setting or confining the dog to an area of your home. It is best to use items designed to meet pet-safety standards. Remember that barricades in the car are important to the dog's safety. A barricade between the driver and pet prevents unwanted nuzzles while driving and keeps the dog from flying forward in the case of a sudden stop. A portable dog kennel is also a good alternative.

Collapse of Gate

Select a barrier or a crate for the size dog you have and consider permanent installation if the dog is traveling with you often. Retractable pet barricades, or pressure mounted pet gates, can pop out of a doorway if a dog pushes against it. This might cause injury to the pet that falls with the collapsing gate.

Anxiety

A wire mesh or wooden gate that allows visibility to the blocked off area will reduce anxiety in the dog's reaction to being contained. Isolation from the dog's family will increase anxiety if the pet cannot watch the boundaries. Dogs do have emotions and will pout and then are more likely to disobey or become destructive. Retractable barriers might have a latch that the dog can undo and escape.

Injury

A plastic-coated, heavy-gauge mesh gate mounted with pressure hinges is best. A 36-inch height is recommended. Wooden gates are available, but not a good choice for a dog that chews. The barrier should have a walk-through gate that you and the dog use. The risk of injury increases if a pet tries to open a retractable barrier and gets its paw or head stuck in the barrier.

Distinction Between Whitened & Black Truffles

Densely forested areas make the best truffle-hunting grounds.

Truffles grow underground in densely forested areas of Europe, Asia, North Africa and the Pacific Northwest of the United States. These fungi develop most prolifically on the roots of truffle oaks and germinate randomly, making them difficult to cultivate commercially. Because of their rarity and labor-intensive harvest, truffles are considered a delicacy and, at the time of publication, the priciest specimens commanded a hefty market price of between $6,000 and $10,000 per pound, according to CNNMoney.com. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Hunting Truffles

Dogs are increasingly employed to hunt truffles underground.

Truffles develop around 12 inches below the surface of the ground and thrive in well-drained, limestone-rich soil. The average size of a truffle varies with the variety, but in general they weigh between 0.3 oz and 3.5 oz -- quite a small size for something that needs to be hunted by scent alone. Staying true to tradition, truffle hunters use dogs and "truffle hogs" to sniff out their quarry, although pigs tend to be less willing to relinquish their prize. Increasingly, for reasons of convenience and control, hunters are turning to dog-only truffle hunting teams, mainly using German shepherds, golden retrievers and Belgian shepherd breeds.

White Truffles

Shaved white truffles lend an elegance to any pasta dish.

White truffles occur near the Alps in the Piedmont region of northern Italy, in Croatia and in parts of Oregon. They have an intense aroma created by sulfurous compounds -- nature's way of attracting animals to eat the truffles, thereby spreading the spores. The most expensive of the truffle family, white truffles offer a hint of garlic with their earthy, nutty mushroom flavor. Chefs typically serve them thinly shaved in salads, pasta dishes and risottos.

Black Truffles

Add black truffles to sauces for an incredible depth of flavor.

Aromatic and pungent black truffles are most often found in the southeastern Var and Perigord regions of France. Their scarcity makes them expensive but the depth of their flavor means they last a long time as a little goes a long way. The black truffle has the most potent flavor of all truffles, characterized by its earthy notes. It is most frequently used in sauces, pates and savory pastries.

Truffle Oils

Truffle-flavored olive oils are an affordable luxury.

For most consumers, the cost of actual truffles can be prohibitively high, but truffle oils make an acceptable alternative. In cold preparations, such as salad dressings or oil dips, or to splash on top of soups, truffle oil imparts an exotic flavor to the finished dish. The characteristic earthy flavor of truffles carries over into all of the oils, but distinctions do exist between them: white truffles offer a creamier taste, while their black counterparts are admired for their woodiness. Truffle oils should never be used to fry or grill foods as high heat destroys the prized flavor.

Types Of Dogs Employed For Coon Hunting

Raccoon hunting is a popular sport in some parts of America. And to most coon hunters, using dogs is the only way to do it. The United Kennel Club recognizes seven breeds of coon dogs.

American Black and Tan

The American black and tan is descended from the American Foxhound and the Virginia Foxhound with some bloodhound mixed in. The mostly black coat has tan trim on 10 to 15 percent of the body; a small white patch on the chest is acceptable for the breed standard. The black and tan relies solely on its nose to find the quarry. A typical dog stands 21 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh 40 to 75 pounds.

American Leopard Hound

The American leopard hound, an all-around tree dog, was known as the leopard cur until 2008. The early specimens were brought from Spain to Mexico and then to America for bear hunting. The breed now hunts squirrel, opossum and raccoon. Some are still used to hunt feral hogs. These dogs vary in color and range in from 21 to 27 inches and 35 to 75 pounds.

Bluetick Coonhound

Blueticks were first registered as a separate breed in 1946. The bluetick has a mottled blue coat. This breed also runs between 21 and 27 inches but can get up to 80 pounds. It has a free tongue on the trail, meaning it is very vocal with a squall or chop mouth.

English Coonhound

This breed started as a foxhound, but adapted to American life by learning to hunt raccoon, opossum and cougar. The explorer Hernando DeSoto brought the breed to North American and used it to hunt Indians rather than game. These dogs fall in the same height range as the other breeds. All hound colors are acceptable, though redticked dogs dominate the breed.

Plott Hound

The Plott hound and the American leopard hound are the only coondogs without English ancestry. The Plott breed was started by German Jonathon Plott, who came to America in 1750. The dogs were originally bred for hunting wild boar, but quickly became adept at hunting raccoons. Plott hounds are brindle colored and the same size as the other breeds.

Redbone Coonhound

Any red coondog was originally called a redbone until the 1840s when a breeding campaign was started. Today, these dogs are almost entirely red colored. This breed is the same size as the other breeds, and is considered the best when it comes to trailing game across water.

Walk A Pitbull

Train your pit bull to be obedient.

It is extremely important for pit bull owners to train their dog to walk on a leash. The pit bull is an extremely active breed, which requires long walks on a daily basis. This dog breed also has a reputation for being dog-aggressive and this is due to the fact that the breed was first developed for the purpose of dog fighting. Because of this the pit bull should always be kept on a leash when outside the home. Leash training can also enable the responsible owner to socialize the dog at a young age by exposing him to a variety of new people and dogs.

Instructions

1. Introduce the collar and leash to your pit bull. Allow her to sniff the collar and then place it around the dog's neck with the leash attached. Give the dog some time to get used to the collar if she has never worn one before. Supervise the dog as she walks around dragging the leash. Make sure the leash does not catch on anything.

2. Take your pit bull to the backyard to practice walking on the leash before you go out into the neighborhood. Begin walking and praise your pit bull by rewarding her with a special treat such as a small piece of cheese or chicken whenever they follow you. The dog should always walk slightly behind you, as this will encourage him to see you as his pack leader.

3. Wait until your pit bull is completely relaxed before walking out the front door to go on a walk. Walk out the door first instead of allowing the dog to lead you. Continue to praise your pit bull for walking in the correct position and keep the leash relaxed by holding your hand down by your side. Correct her if she pulls by giving a quick sideways tug on the leash or by turning to walk in the opposite direction. At the end of the walk make the pit bull enter the house last to reinforce that you are the pack leader.

Breed Limitations In Homeowners' Insurance

Dogs identified in a list of restricted breeds may increase premiums charged for homeowners insurance coverage.

More than 4.5 million dog bites occur annually in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and more than 800,000 of these incidents require the bite victim to seek medical attention. The Insurance Information Institute reports that more than half of all dog bites take place on the properties of dog owners. Because of this and the natural aggressive tendencies of certain dog breeds, some homeowner's insurance providers charge higher premiums, require waivers or refuse coverage to homeowners claiming ownership of several breeds of dogs.

Restricted Breeds

The list of dog breeds that may prevent an individual from securing homeowner's insurance includes the following breeds: Akita, Alaskan Malamute, chow chow, Doberman pinscher, German shepherd, American pit bull terrier, Presa Canario, Rottweiler, Siberian husky, Staffordshire bull terrier and wolfdogs, also known as wolf hybrids. Lists of restricted or "dangerous" dogs also include animals that are mixed with any of the aforementioned breeds.

Increased Cost

The increased cost of insurance absorbed by an owner of a dog on a list of restricted breeds may be reflected in a policy in a number of ways. An insurance company may refuse to enter into a contract with a homeowner or choose not to renew an existing policy. An insurer might include a waiver in the policy that would exonerate the insurer of any responsibility for a claim related to the dog. With the waiver in place, the homeowner would be personally liable for costs arising from injuries to humans or damages to property caused by his pet. An insurance company may charge a higher premium for a homeowner if the covered property houses a dog identified on a list of restricted breeds.

Additional Coverage

Most homeowner's insurance policies include coverage for dog bites in an amount between $100,000 and $300,000, according to the Insurance Information Institute. If the cost of a claim exceeds the limit established in the insurance policy, the owner of the pet involved in the biting incident will be liable for the overage regardless of whether the dog's breed is included among those labeled as restricted.

If a homeowner desires a higher coverage amount or if a waiver has been included in a policy precluding any coverage for a dog bite, additional insurance may be obtained with the purchase of an umbrella liability policy.

Umbrella policies provide affordable protection against a broad range of personal liabilities, including dog bites. Insurance companies do not consult a list of dangerous dogs when issuing umbrella policies. The Insurance Information Institute estimates the annual premium for the first million dollars of coverage under an umbrella policy to be between $150 and $300.

Reducing Premiums

A homeowner who owns a dog included in the list of dangerous dogs may be able to reduce his annual insurance premium by completing several tasks. Giving an insurance provider proof that a pet has been spayed or neutered may be meaningful, as dogs that are not neutered have an increased chance of biting.

Attending a certified dog-training program, such as the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizenship Program or a course offered by a local Humane Society, and providing documentation of successful completion of the program may result in lower premiums.

Installing a reliable fence or containment system and offering proof of the installation may lower premiums charged for homeowner's insurance.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Dog Dog houses In Oklahoma

Oklahoma has hundreds of boarding facilities for your furry friend.

If you are a dog owner, you understand the importance of finding a good dog boarding facility where your dogs can stay while you are away on vacation. There are many different types of kennels; some keep your dog busy all day, while others offer extra care for senior dogs. There are hundreds of dog kennels scattered around Oklahoma, so finding one near you should be no problem.

Lucky Dog Lodge

The Lucky Dog Lodge, located in Oklahoma City, is a full-service dog and cat boarding and grooming facility. The Lucky Dog Lodge offers large indoor and outdoor runs or double door suites to its canine guests. Supervised playtime is also optional. Grooming services include bathing, shed control, trimming and nail clipping. The Lucky Dog Lodge also offers doggy day care on weekdays, which includes socialization with other dogs and one-on-one training sessions. The kennel accepts all major credit cards.

420 Northwest 70th Street

Oklahoma City, OK 73116

405-848-5733

luckydoglodge.biz

DeShane Kennels, Inc.

DeShane Kennels has served the Tulsa area since 1953. The kennels offer boarding and grooming for dogs and cats and has 59 indoor and outdoor dog runs. Rates include dry dog food and bedding. Owners must provide written record from there dog's veterinarian of the dog's rabies, distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvovirus and bordatella vaccinations. Reservations are required and DeShane Kennels accepts all major credit cards.

1115 South 129th East Avenue

Tulsa, OK 74108

918-437-3343

deshanekennels.com

Rose Rock Pet Resort

Rose Rock Pet Resort is a boarding facility located on the grounds of Rose Rock Veterinary Hospital in Norman, Okla. Boarded dogs enjoy twice-daily feedings, an afternoon snack, soothing music and soft bedding. Rose Rock Pet Resort offers economy suites, luxury suites and villas, all of which are climate controlled. Employees exercise the dogs outdoors two or three times per day, and additional playtime is available for an extra charge. All owners must provide record of their dog's up-to-date distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parainfluenza, parvovirus, coronavirus, bordatella and rabies vaccinations. Rose Rock accepts cash, VISA, Mastercard, Discover and personal checks.

400 24th Avenue Northwest

Norman, OK 73069

405-321-3361

roserockvethospital.com

Camp Bow Wow - Moore

Camp Bow Wow is a boarding facility offering daycare and boarding in Moore, Okla. Camp Bow Wow offers four large indoor play areas, and four outdoor play areas totaling 4000 square feet. Camp Bow Wow places dogs in "packs" based on their size, personality and age, however each dog gets its own individual cabin. Dogs are kept busy all day with activities such as swimming, hiking and agility, and return to their cabins for meals and to sleep. Camp Bow Wow requires all campers to be spayed or neutered, and up-to-date on rabies, distemper and bordatella vaccinations. Camp Bow Wow also has on-site grooming facilities.

105 Sutton Circle

Moore, OK 73160

405-759-3647

campbowwow.com

Know If A Dog Puppy Is Full Blooded

There is much controversy and confusion over the term ''pit bull.''

There appears to be a lot of confusion and controversy surrounding the pit bull breed. This derives mainly from the fact that the term ''pit bull'' does not refer to a breed of dog alone, but rather to a group of dogs. Three breeds of dogs mainly constitute the pit bull group: the American pit bull terrier, the American Staffordshire terrier and the Staffordshire bull terrier. For a pit bull to be full blooded, it must be a purebred specimen of one of these three breeds.

Instructions

1. Check through the papers that came with your puppy from the breeder. If you own a purebred puppy, it would have come with pedigree papers and registration papers from a reputable kennel club or pedigree service. An American pit bull terrier puppy, for instance, very likely will be registered with the United Kennel Club, whereas Staffordshire bull terrier or American Staffordshire terrier puppies would likely be registered with the American Kennel Club.

2. Look up the standards for the American pit bull terrier, the American Staffordshire terrier and the Staffordshire bull terrier in a good breed book and compare your puppy to them. You may not be able to see particular traits, however, until your pit bull puppy is older and better developed.

3. Have a professional dog breeder who specializes in breeding pit bulls see your puppy and give you an opinion. He should be able to tell if your pit bull may be full blooded. Some veterinarians also may be able to give you an appraisal.

4. Invest in a DNA kit test to see what breeds are detected in your puppy's blood lines. The Wisdom Panel test kit, for instance, can trace your pit bull's ancestry and detect the presence of American Staffordshire terrier and Staffordshire bull terrier components. These tests cannot determine100 percent breed purity, but at least can prove a dog is 75 percent from one specific breed.

Train Men Black Lab

Obedience training a male black lab can be a daunting task. Labradors are notoriously smart. However, they are excitable and energetic as well. Bred as a working dog, they are able to spend hours in the cold and rain hunting. They have a soft mouth, which means they are gentle with things they pick up with their mouths, able to carry retrieved items without biting too hard and damaging their retrieval. Because they are bred for hunting, their energy levels are high. Some owners report that their dogs are hyperactive, when in fact this energy level is normal for the breed. Labradors also have great noses, and are often used in search and rescue work . Their loyalty and willingness to please and ability to think on thier own makes Labradors great service dogs as well.

Instructions

1. Attach the leash to your dog's collar. Hold the leash in your left hand and a treat in your right hand. Stand in front of your dog and show him the treat.Holding the treat slightly above your dog's nose, move the treat horizontally towards his rear end. This will cause the dog to follow the treat with his head. Gravity will help the dog "fall" into a sit position. Praise your dog with a phrase you use every time--something like "Good sit"--and give the treat as a reward. Because of their breeding for retrieval, labs are very oral, which means they love to have things (anything) in their mouth. They are very food motivated, because of that--just about any food treat you pick will motivate your lab to respond in a favorable manner for you.

2. While the dog is sitting, hold the treat in front of your dog's nose once again-- remember that the food is going to motivate your lab. Lower the treat towards the ground, keeping it close to the dog's chest. The dog will follow with her nose, bending down. As your hand gets closer to the floor slowly pull the treat horizontally away from the dog. The dog will reach with her head, causing her to fall into a "down" position. Praise your dog with a "Good down" and give the treat as a reward. It's important to give the treat immediately to your Lab in the beginning. Also, because Labs are so willing to please, it is equally important to give verbal praise as well.

The food will shape the behavior in the beginning but verbal and physical praise are important to Labs and is what will keep the behavior going when treats are not present.

3. Standing next to a sitting dog, give the command "Stay." While doing this, hold your open hand--palm facing the dog moving towards, but not touching, the dog's nose. Count 10 seconds and say "OK--good stay." Allow the dog to get up at this point. Because Labs are so energetic, this could be a more difficult task for your dog. Instead of food for this command you may find it more beneficial to place a tennis ball about 20 feet away and allow your lab to retrieve it after you allow him (not before) to get up from the stay. The tennis ball will serve as the reward for staying. Labs love to retrieve balls so you can also play a game of fetch after all training sessions to release any pent up energy or frustration.

4. Increase the time from 10 seconds to 15 seconds working up to 30 seconds. Begin to take small steps away from the dog while reinforcing that you want him to "stay."

5. Repeat steps 1 through 4 with a minimum of five repetitions in a row. Complete these repetitions two to three times a day.

Train A Blue Heeler Puppy

The Blue Heeler is intelligent, resourceful and very willing to learn.

"Always alert, extremely intelligent, watchful, courageous and trustworthy, with an implicit devotion to duty making it an ideal dog." These are the characteristics that the American Kennel Club (AKC) attributes to the Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler, in the official breed standard. It is your task to assimilate your Blue Heeler puppy into your home and life and to ensure that you offer the training and guidance that will make her a good canine citizen in your community and a loving and trusted companion for you and your family. Seasoned trainers Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson offer techniques for developing basic puppy skills that will get your training program off to a successful start.

Instructions

The "Down" Command

1. Get your puppy accustomed to wearing a collar before introducing a leash. Give her at least a few hours to get used to the collar. You will know she is accustomed to wearing it when she no longer pays it any attention.

2. Position her collar so that the leash attachment ring is in the front, just above her chest.

3. Sit down near your puppy, facing her. Snap a leash onto her collar.

4. Place your foot on her leash to apply a gentle downward pressure. Keep your foot on the leash throughout the training session.

5. Speak the command, "Down."

6. Wait 30 seconds for your puppy to respond to the command. You do not need to repeat the command if she does not lie down.

7. Reposition your foot on the leash, applying slightly more pressure. Wait 30 seconds for your puppy's response. Repeat, taking up a little more slack on the leash each time, until she lies down.

8. Reward her when she lies down by praising her in a soothing voice. Place a treat on the floor in front of her.

9. Practice this routine with your puppy until she will lie down at your command. Gradually increase your distance from her, until you are working without the leash.

Keeping the Leash Slack

10. Take your puppy to a quiet place such as an empty garage, where she will not be distracted by interesting things.

11. Stand about 2 feet in front of your puppy, and snap the leash onto her collar.

12. Gently apply pressure to the leash, pulling it toward you. Keep a steady pressure on the leash. Do not increase or decrease it if she resists you by trying to pull away. Do not move toward her.

13. Wait for the puppy to move toward you.

14. Release the tension on the leash immediately and praise her when the puppy makes a move toward you.

15. Take up the slack on the leash again and wait for her to move toward you.

16. Practice this exercise until she makes the association between a slack leash and your praise.

17.Gradually begin walking, a few steps at a time. If she begins to pull on the leash, stop, remain still and take up the slack on the leash. Wait for her to make the leash slack again by moving toward you. Praise her, release the tension on the leash, and then begin walking again.

Boerboel History

Boerboel History

The Boerboel is a mastiff breed that originated in South Africa. The dogs weigh up to 200 lbs. and grow to be about 28 inches at the shoulder. The breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, which has the breed listed as one of the Unrecognised & Rare Breeds. The Boerboel is a working dog, strong and independent. The Boerboel needs an owner who is familiar with dogs and knows be in control. The Boerboel is very intelligent and will know when it is possible to be the boss instead of the other way around.

Boerboel African Beginnings

As far back as 700 BC, a tribe in northern Africa known as the Cynomones were breeding large dogs used for hunting and to protect them from wild animals. The tribe was nomadic and over time migrated to what is now South Africa and brought their dogs with them. These dogs are thought to have originated in what is now modern day Iran in the days of the Persian Empire.

Boerboel European Beginnings

The Romans also bred large dogs during the time of the Roman Empire. They brought the dogs with them as they conquered most of Europe. Trade began to flourish between Europe and Asia with trade routes going around the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa. In the 1600s, the Dutch East India Company opened a trading post at the southern most part of Africa, and they brought the decedents of the Roman dogs with them. They cross bred their European dogs with the African and these dogs; they were taken to the northern parts of South Africa by the Boers.

Development

The breed developed over time, from the colonial period to the beginning of the 20th century by need, not by any desire to produce a specific breed of dog. The farmers of South Africa bred the dogs for protection. The farmers needed dogs who were bred to be big and fierce.

The 20th Century

Things changed during the 20th century. The dogs were not needed so much for protection, as South Africa became less of a wildness and more and more settled. Up until about 1980, the breed was all but forgotten. It was then that the Boerboelm, which is Dutch for "Boer Business," began to be recognized as a true breed.

Modern Times

From 1980 on, the breed has been taken seriously. Three organizations were formed: the Elite Boerboel Breeders Association of Southern Africa, the Historical Boerboel Association and the South African Boerboel Breeders Association. They established the criteria for breeding that resulted in the Boerboel of today.

Boarding Dog houses Near Westminster Maryland

Many boarding facilities for dogs and cats are located near the rural area of Westminster, Maryland.

The area of Westminster, Maryland, offers a variety of boarding kennels for dogs and cats. Most facilities offer both indoor and outdoor arrangements, so that your four-legged friend will always be comfortable. In addition, many are located on large grounds, so your pet can get exercise, have room to play and experience the comforts of home.

Belquest Boarding Kennels

Belquest Boarding Kennels sits on 18 acres of secluded land to provide your pet with plenty of room to run. This facility features 100 kennels and has staff members who are trained to care for your pet. Certified master groomers are available to cut claws and bathe your pet, as are trainers to teach your pet a trick or two. Supervision is always provided---the owners of Belquest Boarding Kennels live on site.

Belquest Boarding Kennels

18745 Penn Shop Road

Mt. Airy, MD 21771

301-831-7507

http://www.belquest.com/

Airpark Animal Hospital

Dogs and cats receive the comforts of home while at Airpark Animal Hospital. Located in Westminster, cats stay in padded "condos" that are linked to other condos so that sibling felines can still connect with each other, despite being somewhat confined. The climate-controlled dog ward features air-conditioned indoor runs, along with floors that provide heat in the winter. The all the staff at Airpark Animal Hospital are trained and feed pets on a regular schedule, provide exercise and monitor for signs of illness or discomfort. If a pet falls ill while at the hospital, a staff veterinarian can provide immediate care. Pets boarded at the Airpark Animal Hospital can also receive grooming treatments during their stay. Dogs and cats should also be current on all vaccinations.

Airpark Animal Hospital

1000 Littlestown Pike

Westminster, MD 21157

410-848-9188

airparkanimal.com

Camp Yuppy Puppy

An active member of the American Boarding Kennels Association, Camp Yuppy Puppy is located in Uniontown, just minutes away from Westminster. This facility offers both indoor and outdoor runs. The camp also has air conditioning to keep the pets cool during those humid Maryland summers and heaters to keep them warm and toasty when it is chilly outside. The kennels are also covered so that your pooch can enjoy time outside while it's protected from the elements.

Camp Yuppy Puppy

3430 Uniontown Road

Uniontown, MD 21158

410-857-8230

campyuppiepuppy.com

Things To Spray On Carpet To Help Keep Dogs From Urinating

Prevent dogs from urinating on carpets by using repellants.

Dog urine has a nasty smell because of its enzyme, hormone and ammonia composition. Over time, the odor of the urine gets worse and is difficult to remove, especially from carpets. To prevent your dog from urinating on carpets while you train it to urinate outdoors, you may use certain commercial repellants or home remedies. It's important to clean the areas well before you apply any solutions especially if the dog has urinated on the carpets, because dogs tend to return to places that have a urine odor.

Commercial Repellants

The commercial repellants are available in the form of sprays and contain different chemicals or natural compounds such as cayenne pepper that dogs don't like and avoid. If the dog has already soiled the carpet, clean it using an enzymatic cleaner or vinegar and allow the carpets to dry. Spray the repellants generously and reapply as indicated on the label of the product you use.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is not only an effective carpet cleaner and urine odor remover, but it also acts as a repellant. Canines don't like the smell of the acetic acid, which makes up vinegar and are likely to avoid the areas that are sprayed with this solution. Prepare a solution of white vinegar and water in a 1-to-1 concentration and spray it over your carpets and the areas where your dog likes to urinate.

Lemon Juice

Mix lemon juice -- commercial or freshly squeezed -- with water and sprinkle it on your carpets. This smell is pleasant for people, but will keep your dog at bay. The citric acid is also effective if you want to clean and remove urine odor from carpets.

Rubbing Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol, better known as rubbing alcohol, may act as a dog repellant and keep your dog off your carpets. The solution is an effective disinfectant and has antibacterial properties, and its powerful scent is not agreeable for canines. Dilute rubbing alcohol using one part alcohol and one part water and spray it on your carpets. Reapply the mixture weekly or after each cleaning of the carpets.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a natural repellant and contains capsaicum, which irritates the skin and eyes of the pet. Spread some cayenne pepper powder over your carpets. You don't have to use much because canines have a strong sense of smell and can detect the irritating scent immediately. Reapply the powder after each vacuuming to ensure the dog stays away from the carpets.

Ammonia

Ammonia has a powerful smell dogs dislike. However, the smell of ammonia is similar to the dog urine smell you want to cover, so you might want to use this solution if all others fail. Dilute the ammonia with water and spray it over the carpets.

Monday, January 28, 2013

Mange Inside A Dog

Two types of mange affect pit bulls.

Mange is a persistent, contagious skin condition caused by parasitic mites. Two types of mange affect pit bulls, red (demodectic) mange and sarcoptic mange, also known as canine scabies. Red mange isn't contagious to humans, but sarcoptic mange can cause itchy, small red bumps on human skin. Mange is a genetic condition in pit bulls. Both types will get worse if left untreated, compromising a dog's immune system, skin and coat.

Types

Petplace.com states that red mange is classified in two forms, localized and generalized. The localized form of mange generally affects younger pit bulls under age 1, as a result of a temporary illness or stressful condition. The generalized form of mange can occur as an acute illness, and the adult form is more difficult to resolve, with relapses common.

Sarcoptic mange is highly contagious and invades deep into the skin of healthy dogs of all ages. Humans can be affected, but these mites prefer to reproduce and thrive on dogs.

Causes

Vetinfo.com and Petplace.com state that the demodectic mange mites can be carried from a mother dog to her pups genetically. The pups should develop immunity to the parasites, although some pups have a weakened immune system that does not mature. These mites, which live in the hair follicles, attack an adult pit bull, weakened by an underlying health problem such as heartworm, cancer, liver or kidney disease. Sarcoptic mange mites are passed on through contact with other dogs affected with this parasite.

Symptoms

The website Canine Health Care Corner states that the clinical signs of mange mites are patchy hair loss with some lesions and sores, as well as crusting, usually on the neck, elbows, armpits, ears and abdomen. Your pit bull may itch and scratch, causing open sores, ulcerations and bacterial infections. Your veterinarian can make a definitive diagnosis of mange on your pit bull through a skin-scraping microscopic test.

Treatment

As stated by both Vetinfo.com and Petplace.com, if mange is the localized form, your veterinarian will prescribe an antibacterial shampoo to rid the parasites and medication to apply to any open sores. In more accelerated forms of pit bull mange, removal of the parasites may involve a prescribed treatment with a medicated dip such as Amitraz, and an anti-itch medication. Your veterinarian may choose other therapies such as milbemycin and ivermectin, which can be given orally or by injection. Mange is difficult to get rid of, and treatment should be followed faithfully per the instructions of your veterinarian until completed in about three weeks.

Prevention/Solution

To keep your pit bull from contracting mange, avoid contact with infected animals. All pets in the household need to be treated if there is an outbreak and the house cleaned regularly, including vacuuming as well as washing and sanitizing bedding and kennels. Proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle will help your pit bull maintain a strong immune system, a first step in avoiding mange.

Do You Know The Classes Of Dogs Inside A Dog Show

Dogs compete within various classes for awards and recognition.

Dog shows are events in which dogs, along with their owners or handlers, compete for awards and recognition based on various criteria. Judges in dog shows view the dogs and determine which ones receive awards and advance to the next level of competition. Dogs and handlers accumulate "points" from wins, which count toward their quest to become American Kennel Club (AKC) champions. To achieve champion status, AKC says, "It takes fifteen points, including two majors (wins of three, four or five points) awarded by at least three different judges." For the shows, males and females compete separately from each other. Dogs are also separated by breed and class, and there are seven standard dog show classes.

Puppy

The Puppy class is for dogs that are between 6 and 12 months old. Dogs in this class are also not champions, which means they have not yet attained "champion" designation. This is an optional class, which means that a dog show is not required to include the Puppy class.

12-18 Months

The class named 12-18 Months includes dogs that are between 12 and 18 months old. Dogs in this class are also not champions. This is also an optional class.

Novice

The Novice class is another optional class. This class includes dogs that are 6 months old or older. To be eligible for the Novice class, dogs must meet several criteria. Dogs cannot have received three first prizes in the Novice class. Also, a dog that has earned a first prize in Bred by Exhibitor, American-Bred or Open class cannot compete in Novice class. If a dog has earned one or more points toward its championship, it also cannot participate in Novice class.

Amateur-Owner-Handler

Dogs in the Amateur-Owner-Handler class are not champions and are at least 6 months old. The dog's owner must handle the dog in the show. This class excludes participants who have been professional dog handlers and AKC conformation judges, as well as those who have worked as professional dog handlers' assistants. This is also an optional class.

Bred By Exhibitor

The class dubbed Bred By Exhibitor includes dogs that are not champions. As the name implies, the dogs in this class are exhibited by the owner or breeder. Bred By Exhibitor is an optional class.

American-Bred

Dogs in the American-Bred class were born in the United States, and their parents mated in the United States. These dogs have not earned the designation of champions. This is a mandatory class, which means that every dog show must include the American-Bred class.

Open

A dog of any breed that is at least 6 months old can participate in the Open class. This is a mandatory class, which means that every show must include the Open class.

Train A Spitz Puppy

Most Spitz dogs come from Arctic regions.

Spitz puppies are quite intelligent and easy to train. They learn best from consistent training from a young age. There are three types of Spitz, namely Finnish, Japanese and German. Generally, the Japanese Spitz is motivated by human behavior, so how you act will have an effect on training. Sometimes the Finnish Spitz can be stubborn when it comes to training, but they are nevertheless intelligent and learn quickly. The German Spitz is very loving but has a temperamental personality that can act as a hindrance to training.

Instructions

1. Turn your back to the puppy if it does an unwelcome act like bark or jump on people. It may stop the behavior and come toward you.

2. Purchase a crate for your dog that is the right size. Your puppy should not want to go to the bathroom there as long as it is proportional to your dog's size. This will help potty-train it.

3. Take your dog out as often as possible -- after meals, drinks and naps. A puppy can hold it in for half as many hours as it is months old, so a 4-month-old puppy can hold it in for two hours. When you take the dog out, say, "Go potty," and praise the dog with treats with it potties. Don't let the dog walk away from you or ignore you.

4. Enroll the dog in a positive reinforcement obedience class. This will teach your dog to do basic commands like sit and lie down, plus more advanced off-leash commands.

5. Train your dog yourself by repeating the same command like "sit" and praising by saying "well done" and offering treats when the dog does the command. Repetition is key and using the same command each time is essential. Use a tender voice and do not make sessions last too long, as the Spitz can become bored quickly. The Spitz dog tends to respond to admiration more often than disciplinary actions.

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Instructions

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Wednesday, January 30, 2013

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Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Lucky Dog Lodge

DeShane Kennels, Inc.

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Camp Bow Wow - Moore

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The "Down" Command

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