Dog Training

Good Manners = Good Dogs [

Dog behavior is a direct reflection of the training it has received. Oftentimes, a poorly trained animal is eventually abandoned or abused, because its owners cannot handle the poor dog behavior. It is necessary to start training dogs as soon as they enter your home to ensure a healthy relationship between you and your dog. Dog training is especially important when adopting an adult dog, since new owners generally have no knowledge of the dog behavior history. Additionally, successful dog training means your dog is less likely to end up a lost pet. Pets generally run away because they have encountered an unfamiliar situation—their fear makes them run even if it is from their own home.

Dog training is not difficult. Many organizations exist that offer pet behavior and obedience training, such as St.Hubert's Dog Training School, which is one of the largest in the country that offers dog training courses for both pet and owner.

Crates Create Household Harmony [ top ]
Housebreaking your dog is crucial for maintaining happiness and sanity in your home. With patience, guidance and perseverance you can properly train your Bo Jangles to follow your rules. Here are simple dog training steps you can take for good dog behavior.

While away at work, a dog crate is the best remedy for preventing misbehavior from your dog. Dogs are den animals by nature; they are more secure in confined areas during the owner's absence. Make sure there is ample room in the crate for your dog to comfortably stand and turn around. Begin by putting Bo Jangles in the crate for short intervals, and slowly increase the time to get him used to the crate. Be sure to allow Bo enough time outside to do his business before you crate him. Don't forget to give Bo a chew toy, a little water depending on the length of your absence and maybe turn on the radio before departing can imporve dog bevavior.  If Bo does have an accident in the house be careful about how you treat the situation. Dogs will not understand punishment after the fact. Most important, be patient and don't give up; your dog training efforts will be rewarded!

Happy Tails: Heartwarming Stories Of Pet Homecomings [ top ]
Niles has a wonderful new home!  Wow! What a neat site! My husband and I have been searching for a small dog to add to our family for a few weeks. I accidentally came across your web site and saw a picture for a cute pug mix. The group with the picture was only miles from my home. We drove down to the shelter right away and I'm happy to say "Niles" has a wonderful new home! You guys are great! –Nancy, pet owner

Lost and Found Again [ top ]
Locating lost pets isn't as easy as posting a sign in your neighborhood.  I lost my dog about 4 hours ago and have already gotten her back thanks to you! She had a license on thank goodness..and the nice woman who found her used it to trace her to me. Your web site allows people to do that...wow! Technology is unbelievable...I can't thank you enough.
--Mary, pet owner

Check our lost and found database for more information on posting found pets and locating lost pets.

Keep Yourself and Your Pet Fit and Healthy [ top ]
Like people, all dogs need some kind of regular daily exercise to keep in shape, so train yourself and your dog to exercise.  When your dog gets anxious and has playful, hyperactive behavior, perhaps its also time for you to take a breather outdoors. Training your dog to walk with you is easier than training yourself to take a stroll outdoors. The amount of exercise your dog needs will vary according to his size and genetics. Here are a few guidelines. Walking your dog is the most common form of exercise. In the city or suburbs, where dogs are indoors most of the time, a walk on a leash several times a day is necessary for sanity, as well as for exercise. Larger and more energetic dogs need longer walks or a free run in a large open space. If it's not possible to run your dog, play fetch, catch or tug of war. Don't exercise any dog strenuously less than two hours after it eats a large meal. Before embarking on a vigorous exercise or training routine, a dog should have a physical exam to rule out cardiac or circulatory problems and skeletal or joint disorders.

Learn some more tips from our animal health and maintenance specialists on pet diets, dog training, lost and found pets, dog behavior, preventative care for dogs and cats as well as how to watch for their symptoms of illness.