What Vaccinations Does Your Dog Need?

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 at 6:32 pm  
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You may be surprised to hear that there is no universal protocol for dog vaccinations. There are a few things that are required by the county, like Rabies. There are some vaccines that every dog should get, because there’s a good chance of contracting the disease and/or because the disease is deadly or very contagious. Beyond that, it’s up to you with your veterinarian’s recommendations, to decide which vaccinations to get.

Many veterinarians recommend the vaccination schedule that comes with the vaccinations. This probably makes sense to them because it’s the closest thing to a ’standard’ that’s available. Most of their clients come in and ask for whatever vaccines their dog needs, trusting that the veterinarian knows what that is or that there is some standard. In this case, it makes sense to just make sure that the vaccines are covered. Better than facing an unhappy client when their dog gets sick even though they came in for vaccinations. But it is possible to overvaccinate. For example, you shouldn’t give a sick or weak dog any vaccines they don’t absolutely need.

Most experts agree that dogs should be protected against canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2), canine distemper virus (CDV), canine adenovirus type 2 (CAV-2), and rabies virus (RV) because they are highly contagious and potentially fatal.

Have your puppies vaccinated against distemper, parvo, and adenovirus, not before six weeks, and at least once after the age of 12 weeks. They should get a rabies vaccine after 16 weeks. This means that for the first few weeks, you puppy needs to stay away from any dogs that haven’t been vaccinated. If that’s not possible, talk to your vet about how early you can get the vaccinations and what the risks are.

For all of the other available vaccines, ask your vet about the diseases they protect against. How is it transmitted? How common is it, especially in your area? Is the disease treatable, and if so, how many dogs recover? If the disease kills many dogs who get it and the disease affects dogs in your area, you should get the vaccine. If you’re on the fence, the age and health of your dog may influence your decision.

If you don’t know which vaccines your dog has had and whether they’re current, your vet can do a test to find out if your dog is protected. Talk to your vet about whether it’s better to test or just go ahead and give a booster shot.

Many dog owners go to low cost clinics for vaccinations. If you do this, you need to know which vaccines to get, and you need to keep track and get booster shots when necessary. If you don’t pay for an office visit, you won’t have the opportunity to consult with the doctor. Many veterinarians offer vaccination clinics once a month at their office. Technicians give the shots, and you won’t get a consultation, but at least the vet’s office will keep the records and remind you when it’s time for boosters. If you’re going to do that, you could discuss the options with your vet the first time you bring your dog in for a checkup or for something else. If there are no changes in your dog’s general health, then go to their vaccination clinics.

Managing your dog’s health care is much like managing your own or your children’s health care. Don’t go in blindly. Ask questions, make decisions with the help of your vet, and get the best care for your particular dog.

Coleen is the mom of one very special Chocolate Lab named Snickers. We love our favorite Orange County vet, Dr. Earl. Check out our new website Pet Orange County.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/what-vaccinations-does-your-dog-need-1417087.html

DIY Dog Training

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009 at 6:47 am  
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Teaching your puppy right so it grows up to be a well adjusted dog is just as important as giving it food and shelter. There could be no one else it would learn behavior from but you. You are ultimately responsible when it comes to developing good habits and attitudes to your dog. There are certain behaviors that your dog must learn so it can live in harmony with the rest of the household and your neighborhood. There are only a few basic ideas behind how you should train your dogs and there is plenty of literature on DIY dog training.

The most common way a dog owner would train the dog is to keep it company and let it do whatever it wants as long as the dog owner isn’t bothered by it. This is sadly not enough and the owner is taking on a very passive position. The dog must realize that the owner can assert his authority and assume responsibility so it listens to him. Many owners tend to think that it’s needless especially when they have small dogs. Even small dogs need to be taught some manners and often enough, the small ones are nasty and would nip at a child. You can’t let the dog lead you. It should be following your cue, although not all the time. You should be the one dictating which behavior is appropriate in what situation. To do this, you can’t just let your dog be around other people or animals when it hasn’t learned how to behave well.

Trainers would encourage good behavior by positive reinforcements such as the use of praise and treats. Praising a dog that deserves it is good and encouraging. Doing it too much would be distracting if you are still in training. It would make the dog forget you’re still in the serious business of training it.

Giving treats is a classic and works pretty well with animals that exert a lot of energy doing tricks such as seals and dolphins but you’re only teaching a dog to sit or behave a certain way around people or other dogs. It may not have a voracious enough appetite to find the treats rewarding especially when you’re training it after dinner.

To get the best results in training your dogs, you have to let the dog know that you are the master. Dogs have an innate sense of social ordering. Once you are considered the top dog, it will follow you better. You should be able to give verbal or non-verbal commands and make your dog comply. To do this, it must be clear to your dog that you are the one that determines its welfare. You are the one granting it privileges in the house.

Find more with training your puppy for easily and effectively train your puppy. James K. Bosley will share you tons more potty training your dog & information at training your dog correctly.

Fun and Exciting Jobs For Dogs

Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 9:39 pm  
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When it comes to dreaming in living color . . . let’s face it. Doggies see in black and white. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t add a little “reach for the stars” rainbow into his life. From spreading a little cheer to kids in need to getting on the cover of that local pet store ad, read on to find out how you can get your doggie wagging for a living . . . or simply for a good cause.

Doggie Modeling

It’s glamorous, it’s glitz and you’ve always wondered how to get your puppy’s face on the front of those little dog food cans you pick up at the local super market. But where in the world do you start and what does it really take to be a primped and proper pup model?

The start of every good puppy model begins like the start of every good human model . . . a bit superficial. Sure. We all think our puppies are adorable - and they all are in their own right but when it comes to modeling in most cases a company is going to be looking for Mr. Oh, So Adorable not Mr. Oh, So Irresistible to Irene.

Secondly, a doggie model is going to have a very obedient personality. An agent won’t have much patience with a dog that is chasing down the camera man and chewing up that couture doggie jacket he’s modeling. (Peeing on set is also not looked fondly upon!) However, if your pup isn’t very obedient, that doesn’t mean giving up. It simply means going to classes and learning more and more every day . . . then, give it a go. It’s better to go in prepared than to just “give it a shot” and be marked eternally as “demon dog.”

So - your dog has the looks and the self-control . . . so now what? Where do you find those puppy modeling agencies who can hook you up with actual work? A good place to start finding reputable agencies is by asking for recommendations from local trainers. Many offer “modeling classes” and can give you information on agencies in your area.

Happy Tails, Healing Hearts

You’ve always had a heart for children. When you hear about children who are suffering, sick or going through an operation your heart breaks and you’ve always wondered what it be like to be able to bring a little joy to the lives of these kids and their families. Wouldn’t it be perfect if you and your pup could be a part of bringing that cheer together? But how do you start and what qualities does your dog need to possess to even be considered?

In this instance, adorability has nothing to do with it. Personality is key. A dog who is good and even tempered, one who is obedient and gentle, one who isn’t stand-offish . . . these are the qualities of a healing pup.

To prepare your dog for cuddle therapy, (he’ll be giving and receiving lots) it’s a good idea to begin by taking your dog to places where many people gather. The park is a good start. Introduce him to new and strange situations. How does he respond? Watch his reactions to children and other people. How does he react when they approach him? How does he react when they approach you?

Secondly, you’ll want to begin a good obedience program if you haven’t already. Many of the children he will be greeting will be fragile and he’ll need to know how to be gentle and still when needed.

Once you and pup are ready to start visiting hospitals, call up those in your area and ask to speak to their Child Life coordinator. Explain that you would like to volunteer to bring your pet in for visits in their outdoor area. At most children’s hospitals there is a garden or playground for exactly this kind of thing. Feel free to mention the obedience classes and other special achievements of your pup. Ask if you can bring in Fido to meet with the Child Life staff for approval.

When it comes to wagging for a living, it isn’t always easy. It takes a lot of time and effort, but in the end it can be very rewarding for both you and your pet. While doggie modeling isn’t the key to striking it rich and being a “happy healer” doesn’t bring in any income at all, it offers rewards of a different, heartfelt kind. If you are considering starting a doggie profession, remember, to keep puppy’s interests at heart too. As long as you are both happy, you can “work” until puppy is ready to retire that tail to his favorite comfy spot on the sofa.

David Beart is the owner of the Professors House. Our site covers family related issues from raising children to dog information, relationships to cooking.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/fun-and-exciting-jobs-for-dogs-1412240.html

4 Common Questions Dog Owners Ask About Their Pet’s Diet

Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 8:12 am  
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The meals you provide for your pooch are more important than you might realize. If he does not receive the right vitamins and nutrients, his health and vitality can quickly plummet. Once that happens, his body will become far more susceptible to diseases, viruses, and other problems.

Fortunately, making sure your dog receives the food he needs is simple, especially with the packaged formulas available at most pet supply stores. Even so, many owners remain confused regarding their canine’s nutritional needs. In this article, we’ll offer simple answers to questions you might have about your pooch’s diet.

Question 1 - When Should I Transition My Pup To Adult Food?

If you own a puppy, you’ll already know how energetic they are and how quickly they grow. Puppy food is specifically formulated to give puppies the vitamins and nutrients their bodies require for that quick growth. However, it’s inappropriate once they reach a certain age. You should transition your pup to adult food once he has reached 90% of his expected full-grown weight. Usually, this happens at nine or ten months, so watch the calendar.

Question 2 - Which Brand Is The Best?

Worry less about the brand you purchase for your canine and more about whether he’s receiving the ingredients he needs. There are several popular brands (including Waltham, Iams, and Purina) that are generally considered to be good. However, it’s more important to consider the type of protein, fat, and vitamins your pooch requires. And that depends on his age, weight, and overall health. If you’re uncertain, ask your dog’s veterinarian for suggestions.

Question 3 - How Much Is Enough?

Every breed is unique and even canines within the same breed have different nutritional needs. The volume of food you give to your dog during each meal will depend largely on his life circumstances. Is he a puppy? If you own a female, is she pregnant? Is your pooch energetic, bounding at every chance to go for walks. Or, is he content to sit on the couch all day? And of course, his size and health both play key roles. Again, consult the veterinarian to design a meal plan that is appropriate for your dog.

Question 4 - Does My Dog Really Need Meat?

This might surprise a lot of owners: your canine does not necessarily need to consume meat in order to be healthy. As long as he has a plentiful source of protein, he can remain in great health as a vegetarian. Having said that, you should talk to your veterinarian before taking meat off your pooch’s menu. He may have additional insight that is specific to your canine.

Creating a nutritious menu that provides the right blend of protein, fats, vitamins, and nutrients for your dog takes planning and dedication. But, once you establish a routine, you’ll find there’s rarely a reason to change it.

Find the best Dog Bones and Bully Sticks at http://www.bestbullysticks.com

Looking after your Dogs Teeth

Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 4:53 am  
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Everyone wants to have their dog’s teeth as pearly white as possible. But it’s not just the appearance of your dog’s teeth that is important. Even though the bad teeth may be unsightly, there are far more important reasons for maintaining your dog’s dental health.

Bad Teeth In Dogs Can Be a Severe Health Danger!

The reasons unhealthy teeth are dangerous for dogs is the fact that tartar build-up is often associated with bad teeth in dogs. The tartar acts as a breeding ground for bacteria. Plus, the infestation can often lead to bleeding gums in the dog. And here is where the problem lies: When the bacterium has direct access to the blood stream via the bleeding gums, they can inadvertently travel to other parts of the body including important organs.

Dog Gum Disease Can Be Deadly!

Once the bacterium has access to the organs of the body, their release of toxins inside those organs can prove very unhealthy and even deadly to the dog. Vets are often very worried about this problem and suggest a procedure called scaling. In this process, the dog is put under anaesthetic while the procedure is performed. Although the scaling of dog’s teeth is a very effective method for fixing the problem, there are significant costs and dangers associated with it.

Vet Scaling Can Be Dangerous.

The scaling procedure by a vet includes general anaesthetic for the dog. There is a high cost involved plus most dog owners do not understand the risk involved. The death rate for dogs undergoing anaesthesia is far higher than for humans. In fact, some estimates put the risk at more than 10 times that of humans who undergo anaesthesia. The reasons for this increased risk is that smaller bodied animals are generally of higher risk and also the training and safety measures are not as stringent with dogs as with humans.

Most vets will charge a small fortune for canine scaling. Additionally, there will always be the risk to consider. Fortunately, there is a safe and more inexpensive method for fixing bad teeth in canines. Always ask your vet about other possible options for your dog’s dental health.

Terry Metcalfe writes on behalf of Blackheath Vets professional London vetoffering services to pet owners within London and the surrounding areas.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/looking-after-your-dogs-teeth-1410676.html

Preparing Your Dog for the First Vet Visit

Sunday, November 1st, 2009 at 8:15 am  
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One of the most important things you can do for your dog is to take him to the veterinarian on a regular basis. Annual check-ups are the best way to identify health problems early and to prevent other types of health issues, such as heartworm. However, these vet visits are not always pleasant experiences for our canine companions.

The good news is you can start taking actions now that will help your dog be ready for these visits.

Early Preparations for the Visit

When you vet examines your dog, he or she will have to do things that your dog is not going to like. Most dogs, for example, do not want anyone prying open their mouth to examine their teeth or handling their feet. Some dogs might not want to be touched by a stranger at all.

You can change this by teaching your dog from a very early age to get used to these types of interactions. Making them as pleasant as possible will help immensely. Remember this is another type of socialization, too.

To get started, you need some treats your puppy or dog enjoys. Then wait until your dog is already pretty calm, perhaps after a walk or visit to the dog park. Start slowly by just touching your dog’s paws or ears. If he starts to growl or pull away, correct him then repeat the exercise. Once your dog allows you to touch his paws and ears calmly and without resistance, reward him with a treat and praise. Keep repeating this daily or every couple of days.

As your dog becomes more comfortable, you can increase the interaction. You can hold his paw and eventually begin to examine it the same way your vet might. You can do this with the ears, too. Remember to always praise and reward your dog after each positive interaction.

You can also repeat the process with other sensitive parts of your dog’s body, including the mouth and the tail.

By making the experience pleasant and relaxing for your dog, he will no longer view these behaviors as threatening and will be calmer at the vet’s office.

Nervousness & Distrust at the Vet

Even with this preparation, your dog might still act up at the vet’s office. If you are nervous, your dog will pick up on your attitude and will mirror your emotions. Keep in mind your dog won’t understand that you are fearful on his behalf; he will only know you are fearful and that means the vet is not someone to trust.

The best way to manage this behavior is for you not to even think about being nervous. Focus on your dog and keeping him well-behaved with treats. In many cases, other people at the office will want to pet your dog or give him attention, let that happen. It will help your dog associate the visit with pleasant experiences, plus it will give you a distraction to take your mind off of your nerves.

Some dog behavior experts have suggested the smell of your breath may change when you are nervous or fearful and that your dog can pick this change up. They recommend chewing gum to mask the smell.

Another way to help both of you relax more is by visiting the vet even when a check-up isn’t needed. For example, consider dropping in every month to pick up the heartworm medication or flea treatment and bring along the dog. When he (and you) start realizing vet visits aren’t something to worry about, he’ll relax and so will you.

Dealing with a Challenging Dog

Unfortunately, if you adopt an older dog you may have to spend more time working on this aspect of socialization. If your dog does have a problem being touched or messed with, you need to warn your vet ahead of time. Don’t wait until your vet gets nipped.

Difficult dogs can still be examined but precautions may need to be taken. For instance, your dog may need to be muzzled or even sedated to be thoroughly examined. While this might seem frightening for you, it’s better to allow these precautions to be used so your dog can be checked and can be kept as healthy as possible.

David Beart is the owner of the PetYak. Our site covers site covers everything from how to make dog vomit to dog training, puppies and pet trivia.Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/preparing-your-dog-for-the-first-vet-visit-1407653.html

Why Dog Cages Are Vital For Traveling

Sunday, November 1st, 2009 at 4:36 am  
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Travel carriers for pets enable you to safely move your pet very nearly anywhere with ease. The kind of cage you purchase will be determined by the kind of animal you have. There are a lot of kinds of cages to pick from, however. Everyone, even designers, are getting into pet travel cage making, so you are going to find yourself with hundreds of choices. The ideal cage for you and your pet is easily found with a little exploration.

Over sized crates will be necessary for transporting medium to large dogs. You could require assistance with the crate if you have a larger animal. The crate needs to be a size that allows your dog to sit down up, turn around, and stand easily. It also needs to be able to accommodate food and water containers.

If you are traveling with a small dog, you may be able to use either a travel bag that stays with you or a small crate. Many airlines permit this. The travel bag you pick may look like a handbag, a front sling, or even a backpack carrier; all of these styles and designs have places for the dog’s head to come through.

It is generally required that cats be transported in a cat carrier. When traveling with a cat, these cages are the customary means of transporting them safely. Unlike dogs, cats will generally choose to remain laying down throughout their journey, so their carrier does not need to be as tall. There should be ample room for the cat to be comfortable in the carrier; however, it only has to have enough space for your cat to lie down without the top of the carrier touching his head.

Once you have made the decision as to which travel cage is best suited to the needs of you and your pet, you will be ready for your trip. With so a lot of options, there is no longer any reason for Fido or Fluffy to stay house while you take pleasure in traveling the world! With the protection and safety provided by your pet travel cage, you and your pet can now take pleasure in many brand new trips together.

A pleasurable part of pet ownership is being able to care for them and purchase fun things for them. When you will be transporting your pet, a travel cage will ensure their contentment. Whether you are going on vacation for a couple of weeks or shopping in town, it will be a real pleasure to have your pet go with you. I mean they are an extension of the family - Are they not? I know mine thinks he is!

Layla writes many pieces about cages for dogs and about dog cages for cars to keep your pet safe whilst traveling.

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How to Know if Dog Coughing is a More Serious Infection

Saturday, October 31st, 2009 at 12:00 pm  
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If you hear your dog coughing it might or might not be a significant sign. If however that coughing is prolonged and / or followed by the production of mucus, then it could be a sign showing that your dog may be infected with kennel cough.

This is a very common sickness in canines and will often consist of vomiting, gagging, sneezing or snorting and dog coughing. Your dog will catch this by interacting with other infected dogs, or inhaling the pathogen.

Other signs of kennel cough are : fever, irritated eyes, gloominess, loss of desire for food and breathing difficulties.

Your dog coughing however is the warning sign that you have to keep an eye out for. Not every cough is bad, but you have to be vigilant enough to tell the difference for the sake of your dog.

Think about using these tips if your dog becomes infected. To start with ensure that the air around your pet is clean. Unhealthy air will only help to lengthen the sickness.

Diminish dog coughing by slowly walking your dog. When you leisurely walk your dog it will assist with its respiring. Please ensure that you do not make the walk powerful at any time as this could make its condition worse.

It is very vital to separate your dog from other dogs. To make sure the virus does not spread any farther and keep the dog away from others till it is completely well.

if you have to give your dog any medicine for dog coughing, make efforts to obey the directions scrupulously. If for any basis you are uncertain of what to do consult your vet.

If dog coughing ; the main symptom of kennel cough continues ; after using these techniques take the dog to the vet as soon as possible. Your dog will thank you for it.

If you notice dog coughing, you have to take it seriously. Study the info online and get a holistic treatment that will work for your canine. Take a look here: www.TreatmentForKennelCough.com

The Keys to a Healthy Diet For Dogs With Bladder Stones

Saturday, October 31st, 2009 at 8:31 am  
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A healthy diet for dogs with bladder stones can make all the difference when it comes to treating and preventing this painful condition.  And if you’ve ever experienced your dog needing to go all the time and struggling or feeling pain when it does, you know just how difficult it can be.  Fortunately, for concerned pet owners, there are safe, gentle options for treatment which can ease symptoms and give you peace of mind.

There are two types of bladder stones common to most breeds of dogs, struvite and oxalate.  Struvite stones occur more frequently and are usually caused by urinary tract infection.   Oxalate stones are caused by a build up of calcium in the blood stream.  In either case, there are certain treatments that can help including a special diet after bladder stones in dogs have developed.

When bladder stones do occur they can cause a considerable amount of pain and discomfort.  The safest and easiest way to treat symptoms is with the use of homeopathic remedies.  Made from a special blend of plant based ingredients, these all natural products can not only ease symptoms but also strengthen the immune system to improve overall health.  Combined with a special diet for dogs with bladders stones, they can make all the difference to your pet.

So exactly what do you want to use as a diet after bladder stones in dogs?  The key to maintaining good urinary tract health is balancing pH levels.  Stones occur when the urine contains high levels of pH or alkaline.  In order to prevent this, it is imperative that you feed your dog a low pH diet.  In most cases, this means a diet rich in animal based proteins.

Since most packaged foods are mostly cereal or even vegetable based, they can actually increase alkaline levels in the urine.  They also tend to include a lot of additives and preservatives which can also be harmful to overall health.  When it comes to a diet for dogs with bladder stones, it is important that you avoid relying solely on packaged foods.

Before you consider a special diet after bladder stones in dogs, you should consult with your veterinarian.  In most cases, vets will suggest a diet which combines canned dog foods and homemade foods.  Canned foods tend to be better for dogs since they have a higher water content to help balance out the pH levels.  But you should never completely cut out packaged pet foods without first consulting your vet.

Along with a special diet for dogs with bladder stones, another part of treatment is the use of homeopathic remedies.  These products have antiseptic and antibacterial properties which can work to alleviate painful symptoms without subjecting your pet to harsh side effects.   Together with the right diet they can be the answer to your dog’s urinary tract issues.

If bladder stones are a problem for your dog, why not consider the safe, gentle, natural approach to help keep stones at bay?  With the right combination of diet, exercise and natural remedies, you can help your dog get healthy and avoid painful recurrences.  Avoiding bladder stones is as easy as eating right and relying on the healing power of nature so get your dog on the right path today.

Laura Ramirez is a cat lover and researcher of natural remedies which heal disorders and keep pets vibrant and healthy. Find out more about safe, effective ways to maintain your pet’s urinary tract health at www.pet-ut-health.com.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/the-keys-to-a-healthy-diet-for-dogs-with-bladder-stones-1405366.html

Winter Tips for Dogs

Friday, October 30th, 2009 at 12:29 pm  
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Most breeds of dog are extremely hardy creatures, capable of withstanding all kinds of weather conditions. If your dog is kept outside, you may like to take a few extra precautions throughout the winter to ensure that your dog remains healthy. However, even if your dog is an indoor pet, there are a few tips to keeping your canine pal warm and safe in the harsh winter months.

1. If your dog does not have a doghouse, it is wise to construct one. On the other hand, if you already have a doghouse, it is advisable to make sure that it is suitable for winter weather. In other words, ensure that it is waterproof and can withstand strong winds. A doghouse doesn’t have to be fancy or cost a fortune, but your dog will really appreciate a warm cozy place to shelter from inclement weather conditions.

2. When constructing a doghouse, it is a good idea to ensure that it is sheltered from the wind. In addition, it is advisable to place the doghouse onto a platform or raise it with legs, so that the floor of the house is not directly on the ground. If the floor of the doghouse is not elevated from the ground, it can become extremely cold in frozen conditions.

3. Be sure to check the lining of your doghouse at least once a day to ensure that it is not damp. Many people use straw as it is a good insulating material. Additionally, it is inexpensive and easy to clean and replace.

4. With indoor or outdoor dogs, it is a good idea to check their pads frequently during winter. The salt and grit used to de-ice roads and sidewalks can cause cracking to a dog’s pads. Subsequently, you may like to wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth after a walk.

5. If your dog is kept outside, you may find that he, or she, gets an accumulation of snowballs on the fur and between the toes. Understandably, this will make your dog even colder. Again, a warm damp cloth will be appreciated when removing clumps of snow.

6. Remember, puppies and elderly dogs should not be kept outside during the winter. They will not survive extreme conditions, so, it is a good idea to bring very young and old dogs inside.

7. Whether your dog lives indoors or outdoors, it is wise to shovel a path and an area that you use as your dog’s toilet. If your dog is unable to get to where it has been trained to go, it may become stressed. In addition, clearing a spot for your dog will reduce the chance of accidents inside your house or the doghouse.

8. To ensure that an outdoor dog is getting enough to drink during the winter months, it is a good idea to offer him, or her, a bowl of lukewarm water two or three times daily. This is especially important if you live in an area that becomes extremely cold, as drinking water will freeze incredibly quickly.

9. Typically, dogs will get less exercise during the winter, but they will also eat more to retain body fat and keep warm. To avoid excessive weight gain in your dog, it is a good idea to cut down on treats.

10. There are some dogs that are particularly susceptible to cold conditions, including small breeds and very skinny dogs, such as Greyhounds and Whippets. It is not advisable to keep these dogs outside in frozen conditions and, when you take them out for a walk, it is wise to give your dog a coat or sweater to prevent them becoming too cold.

Whether your dog lives indoors or outdoors, you should take a little extra care during the winter to make sure that he, or she, is happy and healthy.

Samantha Markham is a professional writer, currently composing articles for Remmeer.com, an online supplier of pet products, including elevated dog feeders & raised dog bowls and items to help keep your dog warm in the winter, such as outdoor insulated doghouses.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/pets-articles/winter-tips-for-dogs-1402752.html

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