Making the decision to add a Pit Bull terrier to your household
can be difficult. There are several things that should be taken
into account before you go buy your puppy. You should do some
research into the breed, so that you can learn all about the
personality traits characteristic of Pit Bull terriers. It would
also be beneficial to learn about behavior traits, and proper
care of the dog so that you can be prepared before you bring
your new puppy home. And of course, you must decide if you want
a male or female.

There are many places that one can purchase Pit Bull terriers
from. Probably the best way to find a reputable source would be
through the American Pit Bill Terrier Club. By attending some of
their meetings, and talking to some of the members there, you
can get information on different breeders, and their opinions on
who is the best to purchase from. They are probably already Pit
Bull terrier owners, and should be a good source of information
not only on the best breeder to purchase from, but general tips
about raising a Pit Bull terrier puppy as well.

Your local veterinarian can also be a good source for selecting
a Pit Bull terrier breeder to purchase your puppy from. They
most likely have a lot of contact with local breeders, as they
probably care for their puppies.

If you are interested in a puppy with a pure bloodline, for
example, a dog for breeding purposes, you should probably not
buy your puppy from a pet store. The puppies there are gotten
from several different sources, and it would be very hard to
trace their bloodlines for that reason. The prices at pet shops
are usually higher, and it would be easy for the unsuspecting
shopper to be taken advantage of.

The breeder listings in dog magazines and some newspapers could
also be a good resource. They will help you get in contact with
different breeders so that you can try to make the best
decision. It is important to interview the breeders so that you
can compare them and make the best purchase. You should find out
how long they have been breeding Pit Bulls, what kind of
conditions the puppies are kept in, how they are fed, what kind
of contact they have with other dogs and people, and how they
are cared for in general. If buying from a breeder that has a
business of breeding dogs, you could also check with the Better
Business Bureau to see what kind of complaints have been made
against them if any.

Don’t buy the first Pit Bull terrier puppy you see from the
first breeder you meet. Spend time with several breeders and
puppies so that you can see for yourself the puppy’s individual
personality. You will be much happier in the end by making a
well informed decision in purchasing your Pit Bull terrier
puppy.

So you’ve brought home your new puppy, it’s time to name your new animal friend but you’re running short on ideas. Choosing a name for your dog can be hard if you aren’t feeling very creative, so here we give you a head start with the basics and some great ideas to help you choose the perfect name for your puppy.

Three Basic Dog Name Guidelines

1. Pick a name your dog can easily recognize. Dogs usually respond better to one or two syllable names. If you do want to go for a dramatic and unusual long name, consider whether you can easily shorten it to something a bit simpler for your dog to understand.

2. Avoid dog names that sound like the standard commands of No, Stay, Sit, Come, Down or Fetch. For example “Joe” is probably too close to “No”. It can be difficult for dogs to tell the difference between similar sounding words.

3. Choose a name that’s both easy to call out and one that you are happy calling out. Remember, you will be calling your dog’s name out in public places at times and shouting out “Parsnip” in the local park, may leave you feeling a little embarrassed! You also want a name that will work well when you are straining your voice to call your pet as he disappears into the sunset chasing after a rabbit!

Looking For Dog Name Inspiration

Start with the obvious. Take a long hard look at your new little friend he may be telling you his name without you knowing. Look at his appearance, behavior, personality, and disposition. Names like Spot or Red may come to mind. How about Bandit for a dog who steals things or Rebel for a stubborn dog?

Then look elsewhere for inspiration. You can name your dog after another famous dog, for example Pluto, Pongo, Lassie or Digby. What about your favourite sports, movie, music or comic strip star?

How about choosing a dog name after a member of your family or friend of a figure from history like Napoleon, Alexander the Great or Rasputin? Take a look at your environment or think about your favourite place they will give you more ideas.

Remember, the dog name you choose for your puppy says as much about you as it does about your pet. It shows how you view your dog and your relationship with him. But other people may judge your dog’s character by reference to its name and might therefore react negatively or fearfully to a ‘dominating’ name when meeting it. It is a good idea to use a dog name that conveys the image you want your pet to have.

Also, pick a name that will grow with the pet. For example “Tiny” may be less appropriate for a full-grown dog.

Whichever method you choose, have a good time doing it and choose a name that you will want to keep.

Teaching Your Puppy Its Name

Pick a dog name that pleases you and stick to it. It can be confusing for your puppy if you keep changing your mind. Your dog will learn his or her new name quickly if you use it often. When you call your pet, use his name. Do not say “here puppy”. Calling your pet by his name will help him to become familiar with it and with your voice as well.

If choosing a long name keep in mind the shortened version. A long name will inevitably be shortened, but it may ruin the effect that you were originally looking for.

Above all have fun and choose a name you really like. Your puppy will undoubtedly become your best friend and only you can find just the right name.
About the Author

Richard Cussons is a dog lover with a passion for helping people with their dogs. Discover more about dog names, puppy care and traning at http://www.all-about-puppies.com/dog_names.html.

Have you ever wondered what to do with your pet if you suddenly passed away? Who is going to take care of it? What if it gets sick and needs medical attention? Who is going to pay the medical bills? Who is going to pay for routine shots? These are many questions you may ask yourself in thinking about this confusing topic.

Stated in an article on www.animallaw.info, the Uniform Trust Act of 2000 does not allow you to will property to an animal per se, but it allows you to set up a trust for the continuing care of your pet. The Act itself is an example of the increased recognition of animal interests.

As of right now, there are roughly thirty-one states that now recognize pet trusts. These trusts allow for the owner to name a pet as a beneficiary and to name a trustee to take care of the pet.

Make plans for your pet.

According to an article written by Eileen Ambrose of The Baltimore Sun, it is important that people make plans for what will happen to their pet. And whether they end up creating a pet trust, setting money aside in a will for care or use some other means, the issues owners face will be similar. For instance, pet owners need to find a caretaker and someone to manage the money left behind for the pet’s benefit. Usually the same person handles both roles. Look for someone who is responsible, capable of handling money and likes animals.

Other suggestions in the article encourage you to:

• Name one or two backups in case the trustee cannot fulfill the job.

• Make sure there is enough money to cover pet expenses.

• Write a care plan, basically a memo detailing the veterinarian’s name.

• Include in the care plan the pet’s routine, medications, likes and dislikes.

Drafting a Trust

You will want to include specific information in the trust.

• The name and address of a trustee and an alternate trustee.

• The name and address of the caregiver and an alternate caregiver. (It may be beneficial to name the same person as the trustee and the caregiver)

• Detailed information on the identity of your pet. (microchip or papers)

• The standard living and care you wish for your pet.

• A detailed description of the property that will fund the trust.

• Information on how the remainder of the trust should be distributed once your pet dies.

• Instructions on the final disposition of your pet’s body.

According to an article by Richard Willing of USA Today, the average amount left to pets is about $25,000. It was also stated in the article that according to a 2000 survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association that Americans own roughly 68 million dogs and 73 million cats. The impulse to protect them after one’s demise has always been strong and, for some, overwhelming.

Pete Glocker is employed in the Education and Charitable Services Department at Debt Management Credit Counseling Corp. (“DMCC”), a 501c(3) non-profit charitable organization located in Boca Raton, Florida. Pete graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a BA in Multimedia Journalism and was a web producer Intern for Tribune Interactive products Sun-Sentinel.com and SouthFlorida.com. DMCC provides free financial education, personal budget counseling, and debt management plans to consumers across the United States. Debt management plans offered by DMCC help consumers relieve the stress of excessive debt by reducing credit card interest rates, consolidating and lowering monthly payments, and stopping collection calls and late fees. DMCC financial counselors can be reached for free education materials, budget counseling and debt management plan quotes by calling 800-863-9011 or by visiting http://www.dmcccorp.org Pete Glocker can be reached by email at pete@dmcccorp.org

Having a dog as your companion can be a true joy. However, you don’t want your beloved buddy chewing your new shoes or going to the bathroom in the house. Therefore, you need to create a dog training plan to help your new puppy or dog understand the rules of the house.

What things should you focus on in dog training when you want your dog to understand the expected behaviors and even some fun tricks? Should you take dog training classes or complete dog training all on your own? The answer to these questions is that it depends. Take a look at the following dog training options to determine what type of dog training you want to provide for your canine best friend.

Possible dog training options include: a beginning obedience class that you can take through your local human society, dog supply stores such as PETCO, community recreation departments, and local colleges. These dog training classes can vary in price, time commitment, and personal attention. They are usually affordable and meet once a week at a community park. It is a great way to not only have your dog experience basic dog training, but socialize with other dogs as well.

If you have the financial resources and time you can hire a personal dog trainer. This type of trainer may be necessary if your pooch is having a hard time in basic classes and your dog training efforts aren’t making a difference. Before you invest in a private dog trainer it is important to make an accurate assessment of your dog training methods. Often times a dog that is not following directions is the result of the poor dog training by the dog’s owner.

A private dog trainer might be necessary if you are going to show your dog at dog shows. You can hire a dog trainer/handler or you can become one yourself. If you do, you must know the proper dog training techniques. You don’t want to have Fido jump up on the judges during the competition so he must be trained thoroughly and correctly.

You can also search through dog training books, guides, and various resources. There are products that will help you complete dog training such as special collars and muzzles. You can effectively go through a dog training regime with your canine if you follow these eight dog training tips.

Tip #1: Many people start their dog on the path to dog training success by enrolling them in a basic obedience class. This is a great idea because you will learn how to teach your do basic commands such as “sit”, “stay”, and “heel”.

You can teach these dog training commands by using verbal commands and physical actions. For example, right after you say the word “sit” you gently push your dog’s bottom down onto the ground and put them in the sit position. Immediately say “good” and smile. Give them a tasty treat as well. Basically, you want to do as much as you can to reinforce the action of sitting when you say “sit”.

Tip #2: Dogs act like absorbent sponges when it comes to learning proper behavior and tricks. If you do your job properly then dog training should be a hit. Your dog is ready and eager to learn proper behavior. They want to please you. Therefore, if they aren’t following your instruction it might not be their fault. You might be giving confusing dog training instructions.

Tip #3: Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement and encouragement. Positive reinforcement such as acting excited and petting your dog when they do the right behavior help with your dog training efforts. It is a dogâ™s nature to want to be close to you and make you happy. Showing encouragement and praise will help your dog much farther, much faster in their dog training. Make sure to encourage a dog through each dog training accomplishment, no matter how big or small.

Tip #4: Food is a powerful motivator when it comes to dog training. You will be hard pressed to find a dog that passes up food or a tasty treat. Dogs are always hungry and welcome any situation where food is involved.

Tip #5: Dog training should be a gradual process with regards to skill level and learning more complex commands. Give your dog time to understand new commands. They most likely won’t learn it the first day you teach them. You will have to review the commands and proper behaviors often.

Tip #6: Have dog training sessions at various times throughout the day. Your dog needs periodic training to reinforce the proper behaviors. You dog’s attention span can wane, so make sure to keep the training sessions to five to ten minutes long.

Tip #7: When you first start dog training work in environment that is free from distractions so your dog can focus on their behavior. Once your dog understands the basic commands you can try to use the commands in a busier environment.

One thing you may find is that your dog is distracted and seems to have forgotten the commands. Don’t fret. This can happen because dogs tend to be situational learners and your dog just needs to work on the commands in the busier environment.

Tip #8: Too many treats equals an overweight dog. Dog training is a process that involves tasty treats, but too many of these treats can be a bad idea for your dog’s waistline. Use small treats and wean your dog off treats as they understand the different commands. They will then rely on your praise as the positive reinforcement for each behavior.

These eight dog training tips will set you on the road to happy, healthy, obedient pooch.

Visit the dog products website to research dog breeds & get free tips on dog training, dog health, dog grooming & how to find dog sitters & dog walkers.

While training your dog please remember:

·Do not punish the dog. Punishment is not a training aid. It does little to foster willingness to learn and achieve. Limit yourself to a firm “NO” and to using your hands to block the dog’s negative actions. Refrain from hitting or physically abusing the dog.

·Display extreme levels of patience and persistence – never give up; if you do, you are relinquishing your status as the dominant one. The dog is bound by nature and genetics to test how far he can push you or get away with disobeying you. You must display a stern and stoic attitude and do not pat, praise, or reward the dog if he does not pay attention or refuses to do as you have asked. Only yield once your commands are followed. If you “heel” instead of your “dog” then he will soon know who is the boss.

·Be consistent in your training schedule. Always schedule a class at the same time of the day and for a fixed period –your dog will soon recognize that it is the time to learn and will willingly come forward. During training, both coordination and the trainer’s movements have a direct correlation to the dog’s comprehension. So, if commanded “come”, the dog must be gently guided towards the trainer by a helper or by using a leash so that the pet realizes that “come” means that he must go towards the master.

·Be repetitive with each learning block until the trick/lesson is mastered. Some lessons will be learnt quickly while others will take a while. The pattern is different for different dogs and varies from case to case.

·Use rewards and praise as often as required. Praise should immediately be forthcoming when a dog responds to any command. The pet will associate responding to commands with praise/rewards (treats) and will try and respond quicker to reap his rewards. Once a command/trick has been mastered then the treats can be withdrawn. You will find that obeying a command becomes second nature to your dog.

·Keep the lessons simple. To begin with, the lessons should be fairly easy and such that the dog can complete it within two-three actions. As his level of learning increases the lessons could be more complex. Just as our children go, at first to play school, then to kindergarten, and then to the first grade so also in the case of our pets.

·Respect the intelligence of your pet and allow him to think –use his mind. Give time to your pet to figure out what is asked of him. Do not try and help him complete the set task. If you do so, the pet will allow you to do the work for him. If you display patience, the dog will realize what you need him to do and he will obey you directions.

·Treat the dog as you would a colleague/ student. You must, talk to your dog explain what it is all about. Speaking to the dog while training will ensure that the dog keeps his attention focused on you. He will soon master the different tones used by you to give commands.

·Do not plan long sessions –their attention span is short. Therefore, short lessons are learnt better. It is recommended to have short 10-minute sessions repeated 2-3 times a day.

Whether you are a first time dog owner or a seasoned veteran, your learning never stops as far as it comes to training your dog. Each and every dog presents different training challenges, and the more equipped you are to handle these training issues the more likely you are to prevent any permanent and long term future behavioral problems.

If you are serious about your dog, and want the very best for her/him, then you owe it to your best friend to get a copy of this FREE Dog Training Mini-Course. You can still get it from here:

http://www.dogtrainingmastery.com/Free_Dog_Training/dog-obedience-training.htm

About the Author

Ray Coleiro is the author of the popular book “Dog Training Mastery - An Owner’s Manual!” To learn more about his proven Dog Training methods and life’s work, you can visit
http://www.dogtrainingmastery.com/Dog_Training/dog-training.htm
Note: The author grants permission to you to re-print, pulish or broadcast this article so long as it is un-altered and not edited in any way, and that all links remain present and active.

Turtles make a very interesting pet. And the knowledge about their history and facts about their species make it more interesting for the turtle-keepers.

Following are some of the well-known facts about the turtles:

· If you own a group of turtles as pet, then you may also call them ‘a bale of turtles’!

· Turtles have a habit of shedding their shell, just as snakes do; this skin resembles a burnt leaf. Turtles shed their skins, as they grow bigger.

· The largest recorded turtle in the world is the Leathery Turtle whose shell is up to 2.4 meters long and can weigh up to 860kg.

· It is believed that turtles and tortoises are the oldest forms of reptiles alive today and have changed very little in their 200 million-year history.

· According to natural science and history, turtles and tortoises are the only known reptiles that have a shell built into their skeleton.

· It is a very interesting fact that turtles don’t have teeth, but instead have horny ridges that are serrated and sharp on their upper and lower jaws.

· The Snake-Necked Turtle’s long neck enables them to draw breath at the surface without exposing the rest of the body to predators.

· Some turtles are known to breathe underwater through their bottoms, especially during hibernation.

· One of the most unusual turtles is found in North and Central America and called the Alligator Turtle. It has shield-like scales, similar to an alligator and a special tongue that moves like a worm underwater.

Turtles have a very old history but are known to very much same as they were then. There are many species of turtles based upon their size, color, habitat and living conditions. Some of them are water turtles, mud turtles, Juvenile snappers, soft-shell turtles, etc.

About the Author

Owner of websites of all kinds of subjects
Such as safety www.safetyrus.com and pets such as www.pet-turtles-care.com

Thinking of getting a dog? You know your child wants a dog to play with but did you know that the love and companionship of a dog can have long lasting effects going far beyond their ability to entertain and amuse?

The current research into dog assisted therapy has turned the humble pet dog into an emotional, educational and physical resource. Everything from autism to reading ability has been tested with the use of therapy dogs. Excellent programs exist that have demonstrated a link between the interaction with dogs and improved social and reading skills.

It makes sense that even healthy children may experience benefits from owning a dog. What are some ways dogs affect children emotionally, socially and physically?

Can Your Dog Teach Your Child to Read?

A program was started that introduced the concept of children reading to dogs. The idea was that the child would be calmed by the presence of the dog as well as stimulated by the contact without the pressures of reading to a teacher or a peer.

The children loved the experience and the program creators noted that reading skills, including stuttering, improved. While not all reading problems can be corrected with a dog’s company it is certainly a matter of interest to parents.

Owning a Dog Can REDUCE Allergies

Several pediatric experts have disowned the theory that early exposure to pets is a prime cause of allergies in children. In fact, the PAWSitive Interaction organization arranged a summit that included information suggesting exposure to pets by pregnant women and babies born into households with two or more pets actually had less allergies to the pets and other allergens than children not exposed.

Dogs Improve Social and Emotional Well-being

Anyone who has owned a dog can attest to the relaxing effects of owning a pet. Studies have shown that petting an animal can reduce anxiety and tension. The companionship of a dog can also help children build self-esteem and ease social interactions.

Dogs provide non-judgmental company and unwavering loyalty. To young children facing a world in which they are struggling to find their place a dog can help them develop a sense of themselves while also decreasing feelings of loneliness and encouraging empathy.

Physical Benefits for Children with Dogs

While physical therapies and assistance programs commonly incorporate dogs even healthy children can benefit physically from owning a dog.

Dogs demand a certain amount of physical play and care. Children may be more motivated to be physically active when they are with a dog than without.

While dogs cannot be the only answer to serious conditions, owning a dog can surely provide many benefits to your child when wisely selected and trained to compliment the family’s lifestyle and the child’s personality. Having a devoted dog in the home can contribute to a parent’s efforts to raise their child into a caring and balanced adult.

About The Author

Shannon Emmanuel is a freelance writer and researcher. Her recent book ‘Choose the Best Dog for Your Child’ is now available online at http://best-dog-breed-for-children.com. Find out more before bringing a dog home to your children.

This article is free to reprint with author’s bio and active link included. Do not use in unsolicited email. Author would appreciate notice of publication.

By their very nature, cats are excellent hunters who thoroughly
enjoy stalking their prey. For domesticated cats, their “prey”
can be something as simple as an insect or a wind up toy. But,
is it always healthy and normal for a cat to stalk, or is there
ever a reason to be concerned about a stalking cat?

As I commented even domesticated cats have the natural instinct
to hunt and to stalk. With an indoor cat, stalking generally
speaking is not an indication of hunger. More likely they are
stalking their prey out of curiosity or because they simply need
to add a little excitement to their lives. Hunting and stalking
also helps the cat to get a little exercise and also provides a
release for pent up energy.

For the most part, domesticated cats prefer chasing mice or
other small rodents. Some even enjoy stalking and catching
rabbits and birds and they will spend many hours watching their
prey. A domesticated cat that is well fed will generally just
play with the prey rather than try to eat it. In fact, it is
rare for a well cared for domesticated cat to eat its prey. Many
people think cats are cruel because they play with their prey,
but this is just simply the cat’s way of satisfying its natural
hunting instinct and of getting exercise.

When a cat uses its stalking skill to hunt for prey, it moves
quietly and attracts very little attention. Cats particularly
enjoy stalking in areas with high grass because it helps prevent
their prey from seeing them. This stalking instinct can be more
than a little disturbing for those cat owners who are also bird
lovers. If a cat has a tendency to stalk wild birds that the cat
owner wants to be left alone, it can be a good idea to tie a
bell around the cat’s neck. This will help warn the birds of the
nearby stalking cat although it will of course frustrate the cat
who may try to remove the bell!

Negative Behaviours

Besides destroying the wild bird population with their stalking
and hunting instincts, some cats can begin to exhibit their
stalking behaviours in negative ways. Indoor cats that are the
only cat in the household are most likely to develop negative
stalking behaviours. For example, a cat can learn the patterns
of behaviour of its owner. So, when it hears the owner arrive
home, it might engage in stalking mode and pounce on the owner
and bite them on the ankle when they gets home. This behaviour
is sometimes referred to as predatory-play aggression because it
combines elements of play with elements of predatory behaviour.

When this happens, the owner quite understandably becomes upset.
The owner might tell the cat off or even spray them with water
to attempt to make the cat stop the behaviour. However, this
will rarely succeed in modifying the cat’s behaviour

Modifying Stalking Behaviour

Indoor cats tend to engage predatory-play aggressive behaviour
more than outdoor cats. This is because indoor cats are more
likely to become bored. In addition, outdoor cats have a far
greater number of options for fulfilling their predatory
behaviour. These include stalking small outdoor animals,
insects, and birds.

For the indoor cat, however, buying some toys that the cat can
stalk is a good idea. These give the cat the opportunity to
engage in its natural predatory instincts in a healthy way. The
cat should have access to toys that both involve the owner and
those that do not. Toys that involve the owner help to create a
bond between the pet and its owner. On the other hand, cats also
need to learn how to engage in solitary play and this includes
stalking and other predatory behaviours.

Choosing Toys

Toys that are lightweight and easy to move are the best types of
toys to help the cat engage in its stalking behaviour. Bouncy
toys are also a good choice, as are toys that hand from the top
of doors or from doorknobs. Toys that hang from other items
should be moved around the house, however, to help keep the
cat’s environment different and enriching. Toys can even be
hidden in places such as laundry baskets to add to the
excitement.

Toys that resemble the natural prey of cats, such as mice, are
also good choices. In addition, toys should be large enough to
prevent choking, but small enough to be easily moved by the cat.
The material used to create the toy should also be
indestructible. Otherwise the cat, particularly kittens, will
destroy the toy. This is not only messy, but also poses as a
choking hazard.

A cat that is properly stimulated with toys that allow it to
utilize its stalking skills will be far healthier than one that
is not. In addition, the cat will be far less likely to pounce
on or harm the owner or the owner’s furnishings!

I can’t stress enough how important it is to perform GSD socialization and training
activities early, and often, in your German Shepherd’s life. Go to the park, to as
many dog-friendly stores as possible, on errands, etc. Take your GSD puppy with
you wherever and whenever you can. And when I say take the GSD puppy with you, I
mean take it with you, not leave it in the car while you’re in the store.

GSD socialization will occur whenever your puppy is introduced to new situations,
new people and animals, and new places. They need to actively participate in
socialization for it to really work - that means you must let them safely interact with
new people, places and things.

This is definitely a great step in building the GSD puppies confidence and building a
more stable temperament - more capable of coping with new and unusual
experiences. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and these early GSD
socilization lessons, being around new and different stimuli, will make your adult
German Shepherd much more stable and confident - and this is exactly what you
want.

Your new GSD puppy has spent the first few weeks of it’s life with his mother, litter
mates and breeders family. Your new GSD puppy may have gone on rides to many
new places such as the veterinarian, short shopping errands, and on short training
rides. It has probably heard many different kinds of noises: people, horns of cars,
birds chirping, children, sounds of traffic, etc. If your German Shepherd puppy was
raised in a farm type locale the puppy has probably seen, heard and smelled many
different types of animals, larger farm equipment, etc. Other interesting things to
introduce your puppy to are: slick floors (tile / linoleum), elevators, stairs and
carpeting.

One of your new jobs as the GSD puppy’s new owner is to add to all of those past
experiences with many other new ones. Ask the breeder what kind of socialization
has been done with your puppy and take it from there. The more new and exciting
experiences that your make your GSD a part of, the better. I can’t stress enough how
important it is that you continue to socialize your GSD puppy during the first several
months of its life. Discovery of new experiences and teaching the puppy to deal with
them positively and confidently is highly important.

Many studies have been done that show the critical socialization period for a puppy
is from eight to sixteen weeks of life. During this period it is essential that the
German Shepherd puppy safely and positively experience as many new things as
possible. Some of these experiences will be a little stressful, but you must support
your puppy during these times and encourage them throughout the entire
socialization process.

Here’s a short example of how simple this process can be: Several years ago I was
walking my 10 wk old GSD puppy, Cera, around our block on one windy day. Out of
nowhere a small piece of trash paper blew by both of us, quietly startling her. She
watched the trash as it continued to blow up against the curb, changed direction
and blew closer toward us. Curious, she wanted to check out the new object that
was moving around on the curb in front of us and now moving toward us but unsure
as how exactly to react to the new object.

It was obvious to me that she was curious enough to want to check it out, but also
fearful enough that she wanted to run away from it. I waited to see what she would
do. She watched the object as it moved around, sometimes backing up slightly,
sometimes moving toward it. I allowed her the time to observe the paper and waited
to see exactly what she was going to do about it.

It seemed longer, but I’m sure that it was only a few minutes until she decided to
slowly approach that piece of trash paper. What a brave girl. Eventually she pounced
on the paper and give it a good shake and chewing before I finally took it away from
her! I praised her profusely. Not for tearing up the paper but more importantly for
approaching it after her initial fear response. She met her fear of this new and
strange object face to face and overcame it. In future experiences with new and
strange objects she would now be more confident. Over time and with more and
more positive experiences like this one, Cera grew up to be a very emotionally
strong, good-tempered and confident GSD. As the owner you play a major role in
providing this confidence for your new GSD puppy.

It is extremely important to socialize your German Shepherd starting at as young an
age as possible to make them more comfortable with other people and dogs and
able to feel comfortable and confident in strange environments. Puppy obedience
classes, also referred to as “Puppy Kindergarten”, are an incredible means to
introduce your puppy to the world outside of your home. This is both a prime GSD
socialization experience as well as a wonderful training and bonding opportunity.

Puppy obedience training classes are set up in such a way as to teach the German
Shepherd puppy the actual commands, but also to teach you, the owner, how to
train the puppy specific behaviors and manners, now and in the future. Your dog
will discover the link between your commands and the desired behavior. It is
entirely possible that you can train GSD puppy at home as well but compared to all
the great socialization lessons your GSD puppy can gain from the puppy classes,
there really is no comparison. In fact, I highly recommend it.

The author, a lifelong dog lover and German Shepherd owner, has been a
German Shepherd breeder for over to 15 years. For more information and
articles covering other German Shepherd related topics, feel free to visit:
total-german-shepherd.com

Interested in other purebred dog breeds? Visit: pedigreedpups.com

Exact figures for the UK are uncertain, but it is generally accepted that there are around seven million dogs and nine million cats, which is a 5-year upward spiral for the cats and a slight decline in the number of dogs. This reflects out changing lifestyle with the trend for smaller housing, staying single and both adults fully employed, this would tend to make a cat an easier option.

Approximately 135,000 stray dogs per annum are picked up in the UK. 400 are destroyed every week. In the USA the figures are very different, they have almost 70 million dogs almost twice as many per household as the UK. 8 million to 12 million dogs and cats are euthanised annually. It has been suggested that only 50% of all dogs born in the USA will survive to see their second birthday. This is not because they are not caring or loving owners, but simply because they have no organised program for neutering and spaying.

The USA has many more latchkey dogs than the UK, therefore creating far more unwanted pregnancies. Left to there own devices. two dogs and their offspring can produce 67,000 young over a 6-year period. Two cats and their offspring can produce 420,000 over a 7-year period.

As a practicing behaviourist and obedience trainer, I am often called to discuss whether the owners should spay or neuter. I find in general that my male clients (the human ones) get a pained expression and cross their legs in agitation when the subject of castration arises. They generally have no problem with spaying; it is the castration that causes the concern. Yet the opposite is true from my female clients. Who often tell me that their husbands will not entertain their dog being emasculated. yet the have no problem with the concept themselves.

Myths of Spaying and Neutering

My pet will become fat and lazy:

It is true that in many cases dogs and cats will tend to have a larger appetite after either spaying or neutering. However, we control the intake of food and the amount of exercise, if we allow them to have a sedentary lifestyle, then obesity may be a problem.

It is better to let my pet either mate or have one litter first:
Where this idea comes from I do not know, reproduction is a biological event in cats and dogs and given they are not cognisant they do not yearn for a family in the way humans do. Allowing a male to cover a female does not quench his appetite for sex it actually enhances it. He can subsequently become a serial roamer and a Houdini type escape artist.

Neutering may affect my dog’s emotional identity:
Dogs do not cognitively possess a macho identity. Concerned owners should ask their veterinarian about a product called neuticals. It is an implant available for neutered males “they are artificial gonads”. Some owners believe their pet will miss them! Not something that I would personally have done but there you go it takes all kinds to make a world. It may not surprise you to learn that these are more commonly used in the USA.

I want my dog to be protective in the home:

Spaying and neutering does not affect the natural instinct to guard and protect.

I can’t afford to have my pet spayed or neutered:

Many veterinarians have spay or neuter programs for regular clients. Check your area for low cost spay/neuter centres. Alternatively, adopt from a Rescue Centre, as the pets are often spayed or neutered prior to adoption.

Benefits of Spaying and Neutering Your Dog

Spaying and neutering can make for a better pet and a more affectionate family companion. It is a medical fact that spaying and neutering can prolong the life of a pet and reduce the number of health problems in later life.

Females can benefit from spaying by reducing the incidence of uterine or ovarian cancers; it also prevents dogs from getting uterine infections later in life. An infected uterus called Pyometra, it is a serious and potentially fatal infection.

The heat or season lasts about 3 weeks, and is twice a year for dogs and six times a year for cats. Neutering a male reduces the incidences of prostate and testicular cancer. Male pets are less likely to develop unwanted behaviour’s such as marking of territory, sexual aggression, and mounting.

Males are less likely to escape, roam the neighbourhood, or fight with other dogs. Vets depending on their outlook recommend that dogs are spayed or neutered anywhere between 5 to 14 months of age, before the first oestrus cycle in females and prior to males developing a testosterone related behavioural problem.

I do have some serious reservations: One of the problems that have been discussed within PAACT the Professional Association of Applied Canine Trainers, of which I am a founder member, is the affect of spaying and neutering very early, whilst the dog is still physically and mentally immature.

It is our belief that we are seeing many more cases where the dogs are showing (paedomorphic tendencies), that is puppy like behaviours in adult dogs possibly related to the incidence of early spaying and neutering. Progesterone has a calming effect in both humans and dogs so to remove this before the bitch has had a chance to mature may create similar problems as early castrated males. We have also observed that bitches spayed too early may be far more interesting to intact males; therefore unwanted male attention may cause the dog to become aggressive and protective of her space in later life.

My personal belief is males should not be castrated until they have been cocking their leg for at least one month, and should be at least 10 to 12 months old depending on breed and size,(larger dogs mature later) unless their is medical or serious behavioural issues. In females, it should be after her first season you should wait approx 3 months after finishing the season whilst everything settles down before spaying.

Many vets will neuter a dog before they have cocked their leg, this means that the testosterone burst that occurs at about 10 months will not happen. At this point dogs start to seriously cock their legs and start to mark territory, If you castrate before this the males may continue to squat. in reality the marking may start earlier, but it is distinctive that they now mark by trying to reach as high as possible to spread their scent and cover the smell of other dogs.

The testosterone burst clearly turns on a dormant, hard-wired program that establishes this high cocking behaviour, many hard-wired behaviours are not isolated to just one behaviour and other functions that are not so obvious may be switched on at this time. These may have social functions or psychological effects that aid in the development of the critical periods in your dogs psychological growth. If we switch these off by neutering or spaying early, we may be denying the dog the opportunity to achieve its full adult potential.

My concern with early neutering is borne out of observation, many dogs that have been neutered before the leg cocking stage appear to retain more juvenile characteristics that those that are neutered afterwards. In other words, they retain perpetual puppy like characteristics, whilst this may be endearing in a small dog, who wants a 4-year-old Great Dane who bounces and leaps on you and everything else in sight, and who also shows a low concentration level associated with much younger dogs?

Studies have been done by vets in the States to observe the affect of castration and spaying on a physical level, but I have found none that have been done to observe the effects on a behavioural level. It has been observed that females that show aggressive behaviour to their owners under six months of age then spaying may increase this aggression. This is from the Canine Aggression Workbook by Dr James O’Heare one of the worlds leading authorities on canine aggression

“It would appear that dogs who demonstrate control complex aggression (aka dominance aggression) toward owners prior to 6 months of age are at risk for becoming more aggressive after ovariohysterectomy. If a dog demonstrates a significant propensity to control complex aggression it may be wise to avoid spaying these dogs” James O’Heare” 2003.

This may be related to the production of progesterone a naturally produced calming hormone which is removed through spaying. However, I must point out I am not a Vet or medically qualified, therefore you should always discuss the pro’s and con’s with your own Veterinarian. These observations have come from a number of trainers and behaviourists, but are not part of a study in laboratory-controlled conditions.

I do believe we need to set a good example for future generations of pet owners, spay and neuter your pets, but me mindful of the pitfalls, remember, if you are not part of the solution you are part of the problem.

Stan Rawlinson

Dog Behaviourist and Obedience Trainer, who has owned and worked dogs for over 25 years, starting with gundogs then moving to the behavioural and obedience side of training companion dogs. He now has a successful practice covering
Greater London, Surrey, and Middlesex.

Stan is recommended by numerous Vets, Rescue Centres, and Charities. He writes articles and comments on behavioural issues and techniques for dog magazines including Our Dogs, Dogs Monthly and K9 Magazine and Shooting Times.

He is also the founder member of PAACT The Professional Association of Applied Canine Trainers