Definitely. They can also feel loneliness and can even be stressed! This is why it is very important that you give all your pets enough attention.

No. Cats and dogs can be friends. This fact is something families with lots of pets know. However, not all cats and dogs can become friends. Friendship between two different kinds of animals will depend on the animal's personality, how early they got to know each other (pets that grow up together often become friends) and how well the owners treat the pets.

Decreased appetite in pets is often indicates the presence of a health problem. If your pet refuses to eat food take it immediately to the vet. Your vet will find the underlying problem and prescribe the proper treatment or medication. In case your pet is not sick it might simply be trying to get more attention from you. Once you give more time to your pet it will likely start eating more. Of course your pet might just be picky eater, in which case you can try feeding it different dog food flavors to find out which ones it likes best. You can also try feeding your dog raw food since they are generally tastier and has more texture.

Yes. There are tracking devices available to track different kinds of pets. The most common pet trackers in the market are for dogs and cats although there are some companies that make customized trackers for other pets like rabbits and birds. Most pet tracking devices are GPS systems that are very compact and won't hamper your pet's activities.

Vitamins are given to help supplement your pet's diet. Cats and dogs, just like people, have different dietary requirements. This means that what might be best for one cat/dog might not be the best for another. Because of this it is better to consult with a vet to be able to determine what kind of vitamins you pet needs. You might be surprised to find out that the food you are feeding your pet gives them enough vitamins they need. Furthermore, while vitamins are often seen as beneficial it can also be potentially harmful if given in excess. For this reason, while there are a lot of great vitamins to choose from, your safest bet is to ask you cat's veterinarian before buying and giving your cat any supplements.

There are no known disadvantages to anti-rabies shots. Make sure you have your pet vaccinated against rabies.

Cat and dog rabies are equally dangerous. However, cat bites are often regarded as more dangerous since 80% of cat bites become infected as opposed to 18% only of dog bites. The reason why cat bites get more easily infected has nothing to do with rabies but because they often result in puncture wounds, which are difficult to clean, and are located in the hands, which makes it more prone to infections. Dog bites, on the other hand, while they may seem worse due to the outside damage, do not get as easily infected since they are usually not too deep.

The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is usually about 5 inches tall at the shoulder and commonly weighs about 4 pounds. It is undoubtedly one of the most popular of the tiny pet breeds known as toy dogs. Chihuahuas are known to be very protective and seem not to realize the limitation of their size, thus may have no qualms on taking the biggest dog on the block.

Excellent quality dog food is a must for pregnant Chihuahuas because of the extra calories and nutrients that she needs for her growing pups. This is a dog breed that prefers several small meals instead of one big meal. Proper care and nutrition for the mom is in order since newborn puppies are totally dependent on her. Newborn puppies are unable to control their own body heat for about three weeks and would rely on mom for their heat source. They would start nursing from their mother every 2 to 3 hours during their second week. Chihuahuas that have just given birth should be treated similar to their pregnancy stage by offering the same high quality dog food and fresh drinking water. Dry food or a mixture of dry food with canned food is preferable since canned food may sometimes be difficult to digest for this breed.

It is a good sign when the mother Chihuahua begins to leave the puppies for a few hours at a time to return to some of her old routine. This means that all is well and the puppies are getting enough to eat. The mother will get to enjoy a break from having to constantly feed her puppies once solid food is introduced. Chihuahua puppies are fed four meals a day until three months old, three meals a day from 3 months to 6 months and twice a day from 6 months to a year. Once a day feeding is acceptable after 1 year except that again, experience has shown their preference for several small meals.

There are those that believe that healthy feeding for any dog can only be provided by real foods such as fresh chicken, turkey and beef, fresh raw vegetables and fruits, fresh brown rice and oatmeal plus fresh yogurt, eggs and cottage cheese. Humans and animals appear to thrive best when fresh, wholesome, unprocessed food constitutes their daily diet. At the very least, dogs should only be given a commercial diet that uses only ingredients that have passed the necessary inspection. Human grade meals can be supplemented with fresh foods. An excellent first meal for dogs that have just given birth may consist of chicken broth, chicken and rice, after the dam is able to relieve herself and given some fluids. Access to clean, fresh water at all times is highly recommended. Generally, the mother can be given all the food she wants after the puppies are born.

Dog pregnancy lasts approximately 63 days from the date of breeding although delivery as early as 58 days or as late as 65 days are fairly common. Pregnancy is diagnosed by palpating or feeling the uterus or though an ultrasound. Physical manifestations of definite dog pregnancy will be noticed within a few weeks.

It makes good sense to take care of a dog’s health even before breeding by making sure that vaccinations are current, whenever possible, or treated for worms when necessary. Dog pregnancies also require good nutrition to fully support the demands of the growing fetuses. Proper exercise consisting of gentle but consistent movements will help keep the pregnant dog’s muscles toned.

Early signs of pregnancy include decreased appetite and a sudden decrease in activity. Nipple growth is another indication. Progressing signs consists of increased appetite and the thickening of the abdomen. Gentle examination should reveal a firm rather than a flat feeling to the area. Dramatic changes will occur during the last weeks of gestation. Puppy movement should be felt and seen during the last weeks of pregnancy with a definite increase in movement a few days before delivery as they get into position for birth. Lack of such movement should alert the owner to investigate further and have the dog examined by a veterinarian.

A placenta or a dead puppy can be retained in the uterus which will cause infection. The veterinarian typically examines the dog to make sure that all contents have been expelled. Administering a shot to make the uterus contract or an antibiotic shot to ward off infection may sometimes be necessary. Restlessness is often a sign that all is not well and thus necessitates a visit to the veterinarian.

There are signs of imminent delivery and these are displayed by the dog usually 24 to 48 hours before delivery. General restlessness is noticed as the dog prepares the area where she intends to deliver the puppies by scrunching up blankets, newspapers and the like. A temperature drop held for two readings taken twelve hours apart, signals impending delivery within the next 24 hours.

Feeling the uterus has been learned by some breeders but it is always safer to have it done by a professional to avoid possible damage to the puppies.

The Great Dane is one of the giant working dog breeds and is considered unique because of its well-balanced general conformation that provides it an appearance that is regal, dignified, strong and elegant. It moves with a long reach and powerful drive and is always spirited, courageous, never timid, friendly and dependable. Its particular physical and mental combination gives rise to the true Dane breed type and falling below the defined standards is considered a serious fault.

Male Great Danes appear more massive than their female counterparts sporting larger frames and heavier bones. A Great Dane should be square in the ratio between length and height. Females are permitted a somewhat longer body provided that it is well proportioned to their height. This breed is often referred to as the Gentle Giant or the Apollo of all Breeds.

Most giant dogs have a fairly slow metabolism, including the Great Dane. Dogs are primarily carnivores or meat eaters but they also need vegetable foods. All dogs require certain nutritional elements including protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. These essential elements are available in many commercial dog food preparations which are either sold in cans and other forms such as biscuits, pellets, meal wafers and bologna. Supplements are usually not needed when high quality food preparations are given.

Soft foods such as milk, cereal and prepared puppy foods are given to puppies until about three months old. During this stage, vitamins and minerals are added to the diet. Puppies are usually fed three or four times a day while full-grown dogs usually eat only once a day. Too much feeding can result to finicky and overweight dogs. One way to prevent overfeeding is to feed the dog only when it is hungry.

Poor growth along with decreased appetite, weight loss, rough and dull hair coat, decreased immune function, lower reproductive performance and decreased milk production may sometimes be caused by diets that are too low in dietary protein. However, there is a limit to the amount of protein that can be stored in the animal’s body. Excess to the demand for amino acids and the required protein reserves could potentially go to the production of fat. Essential amino acids for dogs that should be provided in the proper proportions include argenine, lysine, tryptophan, histidine, methionine, valine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, leucine and threonine.

Vitamins are usually required in the smallest amounts and only work with other nutrients that nourish the animal. Vitamin A has a number of functions including its role in growth but providing vitamins is best done with the guidance of a veterinarian.

Spaying is the surgical removal of the ovaries and uterus of the female dog which results to sterility. It is also referred to as ovariohysterectomy. The recommended time for spaying a puppy is between 3 to 6 months of age, before her first heat and when sexual development is about complete. Early-age spay, which is done as early as 8 weeks of age is said to be safe and does not cause any behavioral or physical problem.

The primary purpose of spaying is to prevent the side effects of heat cycles, pregnancy, false pregnancy, production of unwanted puppies and development of cancers of the female reproductive tract and mammary glands. After spaying, the level of the female hormone, estrogen, declines rapidly. The spayed female dog will not show any signs of heat or estrus. Neither will she be able to have puppies. However, she will have fewer medical problems, a longer life span on the average and be a more loving and rewarding pet. It is not true that spayed dogs become fat and lazy which is caused by too much food and lack of exercise. It is also not true that dogs should have one litter before being spayed since it is more complicated and more expensive and harder on the dog to have the surgery after having a litter. Spaying is an elective surgery that should be performed when the puppy is healthy and has finished her puppy vaccines.

A dog that has been spayed may be able to go home the same day or be ready for discharge after a 1 or 2 nights stay. Normal feeding can be resumed only the next morning after the surgery. Indoor confinement and restricted activity for one week will be necessary. An appointment has to be made to have the sutures removed after 7 to 10 days. Careful attention should be given to these sutures which can be put to much tension by movements of the dog. Tension tends to cause inflammation of the incision or weeping of serious fluid which can lead to slower healing. Spaying will produce a cleaner, calmer and healthier dog. It also has its community-related benefits in the sense that owners of spayed or neutered dogs are doing their share in resolving the problem of overpopulation of unwanted domestic animals.

The “K9 Advantix – There Ain’t No Bugs on Me” commercial featured a dog that looks like a fox. This particular dog belongs to the breed of the Labrador Retriever. Labradors come in three colors – black, chocolate and yellow. The Yellow Labradors are often referred to as Golden Retrievers although this reference cannot be truly considered correct. The term yellow actually refers to a range of color from nearly white to gold to fox-red. The Golden Retriever is a distinct and separate breed from the Labrador in spite of some similarities.

Labradors are mainly characterized by their coat, tail, head and temperament. Their soft, downy undercoat keeps them dry and warm in cold water while the hard outer coat helps them repel water. Their tail is thick at the back and tapers to a narrower point and is described as an outer tail. Their head is clean cut and somewhat broad with hanging ears. They generally exude an expression that is alert and intelligent which conveys a kind and friendly temperament.

Loving, people-oriented dogs best describe Labrador Retrievers. They are happiest when they are with their owners and will bring things found laying about one’s house or yard, since they are retrievers. They are not great guard dogs but are extremely wonderful family dogs, being quite patient with children. Their temperament is quite stable thus there is no tendency to be easily upset by strange things or occurrences.

Field lines and show lines comprise the two distinct lines of Labradors. Those that have been bred with an emphasis on field and hunting ability are categorized as Field Lines Labradors while those that have been bred with an emphasis on conformation and temperament are categorized as Show Line Labradors. Either type makes for a pleasant companion for a day outdoors.

An untrained Labrador can become unmanageable due to its size and enthusiasm. Destruction or escape to alleviate boredom and excess energy are some things that can be expected from unexercised Labradors. They crave for love and attention in the same manner as they require food and water. Labradors are generally easy to train thus making obedience work fun rather than a chore to accomplish. Labrador Retrievers have been extensively used in hunting and field tasks as well as service and therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs and terrific pets.

No dogs can remain clean and well groomed without proper care from its owners. Care would include regular bathing, combing, brushing, nail trimming and teeth cleaning. All dogs give off a particular “doggy” odor while the skin secretes a waxy substance that tends to cling in their hair and collar. If such grooming is needed in ordinary circumstances, extra care should be provided to female dogs that have just given birth.

Normally after whelping, dams clean their pups and themselves before settling down to nurse. They can be freshened up with a sponge bath and put in nice clean bedding. A heat pad can be placed under a wooden whelp box to provide a nice, radiant heated whelping box floor. This lessens the possibility of hurting the puppies when they get caught down under the bedding when the heat pad is placed inside the whelp box.

In the usual bathing of dogs, many commercial dog soaps and shampoos are available with some containing ingredients that kill fleas and other insects. Soap residues should be well rinsed out. Dogs may be permitted to shake themselves and allowed to dry in the sun during warm weather. In cold weather, dogs can be rubbed dry with a towel to prevent chilling. Flea control is even more important after the puppies are born but owners should be guided in using only the safest products both for lactating mother and newborn puppies.

There is actually no need to hurry in giving regular baths to dogs that have just given birth since nature eventually takes its course. Dams are worn out from giving birth and needs to rest. They may also get stressed out when parted with their puppies and vice versa even for a short time. A week or two may be sufficient time to intervene for bathing purposes. Warm water can initially be used. Soaps, shampoos and flea killers are best used when the puppies are already weaned. If absolutely necessary, the mildest soap or shampoo can be used.

Canine brucellosis is a bacterial disease that causes infertility and abortion on dogs. The dog is the only animal species known to be naturally susceptible to the disease. It is caused by a bacteria known as Brucella Canis and is spread from one dog to another during breeding or oral contact with vaginal discharges, aborted fetuses and placentas, semen or urine. It occurs more frequently in breeding kennels although family pets can also become infected.

Pregnant females with brucellosis abort their puppies while non-pregnant bitches will have to contend with the inability to conceive when bred. Males develop swelling of testicles which will ultimately lead to sterility. Some carriers of the disease may appear to be in excellent health but are capable of spreading the disease just the same. Diagnosis is done by blood culture and/or blood testing wherein more than one blood sample will usually be required for confirmation.

Brucellosis exhibits various clinical signs in dogs such as the initial swelling of the retropharyngeal lymph nodes after oral infection and the superficial inguinal and external iliac nodes after vaginal infection, fatigue, reduced appetite and weight loss as well as behavioral abnormalities. Abortion occurring between the 7^th and 9^th week of pregnancy is usually the first clinical manifestation of brucellosis in pregnant bitches. There is also a mucoid, serosanguinous or gray-green vaginal discharge which lasts up to six weeks. Live puppies are often weak and die within a few days.

To date, there is no effective treatment for dogs with the disease and no vaccines for prevention are available. There is great possibility in spreading the disease to other dogs and it can become a threat to human health as well. The bacteria causing the disease lives inside the dog’s cells making it difficult for antibiotics to be effective. Prevention should be the primary concern which can be done by testing dogs before breeding. Positive males and females should not be bred and surgical spaying or neutering is highly recommended.

Pet owners are generally not considered to be at risk for infection since they are unlikely to come into contact with the blood, semen or placenta of the infected dog. It is actually the veterinarians who are placed at risk because of their possible exposure to blood of infected animals.

Advantage has the same ingredients for cats and dogs but is given in different dosages. It is a fast working, month-long flea control preparation. Its manufacturer promotes it as a gentle yet effective solution that is able to stop biting fleas in three to five minutes and starts to kill adult fleas within an hour after application. It guarantees 98 to 100 percent flea mortality within 12 hours.

Imidacloprid is the active ingredient found in Advantage which acts on the nervous system of the flea, causing paralysis and subsequent death. Getting rid of fleas is important since bites can lead to skin infections, cause much discomfort to the dog or lead to allergic skin reactions. The presence of fleas can facilitate the transmittal of other disease-causing organisms such as tapeworms.

Advantage can be used for dogs and puppies who are at least seven weeks or older. It is available in four different dosages. During application, the dog should be standing while the tip of the tube is placed on skin to expel its content directly. Great care should be taken so that it does not get into the dog’s eyes and mouth.

Cats that are eight weeks and older can likewise benefit from the use of Advantage. By parting the hair on the neck at the base of the skull until the skin is visible, the solution is applied directly to the skin. This method will minimize the opportunity for the cat to lick the product. Salivation may occur for a short time if the cat licks the product immediately after treatment. Empty tubes are discarded by wrapping them in several layers of newspapers.

The correct pre-measured dose both for dogs and cats can be obtained from the veterinarian. Instructions have to be read and strictly followed to provide the desired effect. Fleas are unwanted guests on anyone’s pet or home and Advantage presents a potent yet safe alternative to get rid of them.

A flea is any of a large group of small wingless insects that feed on the blood of many warm-blooded animals, including man. They are fairly common throughout the world but are particularly numerous in tropical regions. They are able to transmit disease aside from being annoying pests. Generally, each kind of flea attacks only one kind of animal but would readily attack other animals if the usual hosts are not available. While most fleas leave their hosts after feeding to live in the host’s nest and surroundings, there are those that remain attached to their host, thus the need for an effective solution for the health and comfort of one’s pet.

Although humping is almost always readily associated with the sexual act, dogs use it as a way of asserting authority and thus are used to signal power and rank. Male dogs that are intact or unneutered are the ones most likely to engage in this particular behavior but neutered males and females can also express such behavior. Since humping or the mounting behavior is not exclusive to any specific type of dog, it is believed that it is genetically encoded in both sexes and may be activated not only by testosterone but also by other forces of nature.

In dogs, there is no behavior that is purely male or purely female even though some forms may be more common in one sex than the other. Humping, which is far more common on male dogs are also manifested in some dominant female’s behavioral repertoire. It is a fact that the dominant male dog who gets the privilege of breeding receptive bitches with the process being often likened to a contest of mental and physical strength. Therefore, sexual motivation as well as the dominance factor may be responsible for the male dog’s urge to repeatedly engage in the mounting behavior.

A flea is any of a large group of small wingless insects that feed on the blood of many warm-blooded animals, including man. They are fairly common throughout the world but are particularly numerous in tropical regions. They are able to transmit disease aside from being annoying pests. Generally, each kind of flea attacks only one kind of animal but would readily attack other animals if the usual hosts are not available. While most fleas leave their hosts after feeding to live in the host’s nest and surroundings, there are those that remain attached to their host, thus the need for an effective solution for the health and comfort of one’s pet.

Estrus is the mating period of female animals. Animals are said to be “in heat” or “in season” when estrus occurs. Generally, dogs have their first estrus cycle at 6 to 12 months of age although large breeds may not have theirs until they are 12 to 24 months of age. It is during the heat cycle that the possibility of dogs becoming pregnant arises.

The estrus cycle starts with the appearance of vaginal bleeding which normally lasts from 4 to 9 days. There is an accompanying increased swelling of the vulva with possible increase in urination. Although male dogs may become very persistent, female dogs that are “in heat” will only accept the male during the stage when the vaginal discharge is more yellowish than bloody which can last for 4 to 13 days. The so-called metestrus and anestrus are periods of ovarian activity with no symptoms. False pregnancies usually occur during this stage. Female dogs should be confined for the entire 3-week period of heat to ensure that they do not become pregnant. Spaying is recommended for females that are not intended for breeding.

Many female dogs hold a fairly steady schedule of coming into season about every six months but there are variations in actual situations. Some can only come in once a year while others may come every four months. These extra seasons are not always fertile. It is important to track subsequent seasons to find out a female’s natural pattern after her first season.

The bloody discharge is usually the biggest indicator of a female’s coming into season. Swelling of the vulva is another although some female dogs hardly swell at all. Tail flagging is another sign that a female is ready to be bred as she usually stands quite still while the male investigates her vulva. Males are great early warning detectors as they can smell the change in a female’s hormones before she even becomes fully into heat.

When the discharge from the vulva cannot be attributed to any of the usual causes, a check with the veterinarian would provide owners clarity as to any health concerns for the dog, if any. On the average, female dogs are ready to breed again 20 to 24 weeks after giving birth.

The German Shorthair Pointer or GSP was developed in Germany to be an all-purpose dog. The development of a breed of dog with inbred instinct for multiple tasks was the original intent of its breeders to lessen the time to “force train”. Aside from being bred to point, retrieve, trail wounded game, hunt and to work in low or heavy cover, including water, the GSP was also intended to be a family companion both for adults and children.

Some GSPs may appear physically mature by six months although they may not be mentally engaged until they reach two years of age. This is considered a very energetic breed and is considered quite strong in spite of their size pound for pound. Much of their body weight is attributed to muscle. German Shorthairs are very athletic, lean and muscular.

Even if the first heat cycle in dogs usually occurs at 6 to 12 months of age, some breeds may have theirs at 12 to 24 months. The heat period varies from 8 to 30 days with an average of about 21 days. This would include 7 days coming into heat, 7 days in heat and 7 days going out. Again, there are always exceptions to the norm and a female’s correct cycle can be determined by watching and recording her cycle. The cycle usually stays the same throughout her lifetime.

There are signs that would indicate the commencement of a heat season such as change in mood and physical activity. Physical signs are bound to show such as swelling of the breast and vulva, tail flagging and blood discharge. Female dogs are not encouraged to be bred until they are fully grown which is about one and a half years for small breeds and two and a half years for larger breeds. This will give them time to take advantage of proper nutrition and care before their bodies are required to focus their energy in growing healthy puppies.

Responsible dog-owners take time to take care of their dogs including the aspect of determining whether there are any health or developmental concerns to address. This is best done through the help of a professional veterinarian chosen by owners since a healthy doctor-patient relationship is only possible in an atmosphere of trust.

No dogs can remain clean and well groomed without proper care from its owners. Care would include regular bathing, combing, brushing, nail trimming and teeth cleaning. All dogs give off a particular “doggy” odor while the skin secretes a waxy substance that tends to cling in their hair and collar. If such grooming is needed in ordinary circumstances, extra care should be provided to female dogs that have just given birth.

Normally after whelping, dams clean their pups and themselves before settling down to nurse. They can be freshened up with a sponge bath and put in nice clean bedding. A heat pad can be placed under a wooden whelp box to provide a nice, radiant heated whelping box floor. This lessens the possibility of hurting the puppies when they get caught down under the bedding when the heat pad is placed inside the whelp box.

In the usual bathing of dogs, many commercial dog soaps and shampoos are available with some containing ingredients that kill fleas and other insects. Soap residues should be well rinsed out. Dogs may be permitted to shake themselves and allowed to dry in the sun during warm weather. In cold weather, dogs can be rubbed dry with a towel to prevent chilling. Flea control is even more important after the puppies are born but owners should be guided in using only the safest products both for lactating mother and newborn puppies.

There is actually no need to hurry in giving regular baths to dogs that have just given birth since nature eventually takes its course. Dams are worn out from giving birth and needs to rest. They may also get stressed out when parted with their puppies and vice versa even for a short time. A week or two may be sufficient time to intervene for bathing purposes. Warm water can initially be used. Soaps, shampoos and flea killers are best used when the puppies are already weaned. If absolutely necessary, the mildest soap or shampoo can be used.

The care for a Pitbull is centered on two words: Responsible Ownership. Since this breed is descended from pet dogs one way or another, the possibility of provoked aggression, whether human or animal is there. It can never be trusted not to fight. However, a well-raised Pitbull of proper temperament can be the most loyal and loving dog in the world. Unprovoked human aggression is considered bad temperament.

Forced socialization is not particularly suitable for Pitbulls. Most Pitbull puppies get along fine with other dogs but owners should always look out for signs of aggression with other dogs as they mature. Pitbulls need to be trained to give them guidance and structure. They thrive best under positive leadership.

Puppies should be given a bath when they’re already four weeks old. During this time, they are capable of maintaining their own body temperature. So until they reach their first month, you should only clean your pups with wipes and then dry them with a towel.

When they’re ready for bathing, you can wash them in the bathtub or the kitchen sink. Use warm water ideally between 70 and 80 degrees. Put a towel in the bottom of the tub or sink and tub and wet it with warm water.

It’s best that you have someone to hold the puppy while you pour water over the body and shampoo it. First wet the body before shampooing. Remember not to include the head as the pup might lick the shampoo. After that, rinse gently with warm water and be sure not to let the pup lick the soapy water.

Make sure to keep the bath short so as not to get the puppy chilled. Wrap your pup immediately in a towel and rub her. You can use a hair dryer as well set in low to dry the puppy completely.

Female dogs, once they start breeding, can breed over and over again in their lifetime. On the average, they ready to breed again about 20 to 24 weeks after giving birth but they can come into heat any time after delivering their pups.It is important, then, to be observant and take note of signals that your dog is in heat again.

Each year, female dogs have two periods of heat lasting for about two to three weeks each. The first heat is experienced approximately between six and 15 months after birth. Ovulation for female dogs is a continuous process and takes place every six months depending on the breed. This cycle can last between 150 and 300 days and includes four phases – the proestro, estro, diestro and anestro. The first two refers to the period of heat while the last two are the periods of sexual resting. The cycle may vary as some female dogs may cycle every three months, six months or once a year but generally, it’s every six months.

It’s normal for male dogs to have their penis out in the open often even if there are no females in sight. This is true for both the neutered and non-neutered dogs. Even the well-bred and well-trained dogs can still have this behavior. Better leadership can help solve this issue.

If you see nothing unusual with the appearance of your dog’s penis, there’s nothing to worry as it’s totally normal. This can occur if the dog is excited or when he’s cleaning himself or even for no reason at all. So just don’t mind it and never even scold your dog for the indecent exposure.

Did you know that there’s even an obedience class for dogs to teach them the proper behavior? This class should teach them and the owners about the role of a top dog in the house and the proper ways to train your pets when they misbehave.

However, if you suspect there’s something wrong with your dog’s exposed penis for long, better bring him to the vet. Tell your vet everything you’ve noticed about your dog’s penis so he could determine the possible problem.

While delivering her puppies, a mother dog may ignore the first few litters. This is considered a normal behavior. If you observe, though, that she is not attending to them, you have to remove the birth sac and get the pups breathing in the first few minutes after they were delivered. Otherwise, they may not make it at all.

There are some dogs that have the habit of abandoning their puppies after giving birth. This makes her a poor mother at the expense of her puppies. However, depending on the breed, a female dog may babysit her pups for eight to 12 or even 12 weeks.

Breeding can take a toll on your female dog especially if she’s not prepared for it. It can actually put her at risk of death, a serious illness due to stress and negative changes in temperament.

Breeding could also be a big expense and a lot of work on the part of the pet owner. Many people who breed their dog just one time end up spaying her to prevent further breeding.

The father of the puppies is not involved in raising their kids. In fact, they don’t recognize them at all as they find them very annoying. Besides, their presence may only cause further stress in the female dog as well as in the puppies.

I’m sure your dog can handle her situation if ever she gets fixed again after giving birth. Just monitor her condition, feed her well and observe any unusual behavior. Do understand that female dogs can be in heat once again after birth because that’s the way they are. But while they are capable of breeding over and over again, it’s important also to consider the health of your dog. You may want to have her checked by your vet first.

However, if you feel that she might not handle it, by all means postpone the mating until her puppies are a little older. As it is, your dog is nursing her pups only once a day so you may be a little worried that she’ll totally abandon the puppies once she gets pregnant again. What you should do then is to keep male dogs away from her. Also, it may be hard on your dog’s body to be taking care of litters while she’s in heat so it’s best to give her more time to recover first. You can have her spayed if you wish and if you really care about your pet.

Male dogs are just so dominant they want to mount every female they see near them. This can happen even to the males that have already been neutered. This behavior does not necessarily signal a dog’s desire to mate as he simply wants to show his dominance and this could mean mounting even the spayed females sometimes to the point of pinning them to the ground. The female dog can get injured if this mounting behavior is not stopped.

Teach your male bull terrier about how he should behave. Train him and correct the wrong actions. He should be made to understand that mounting the female all the time in not an acceptable behavior. You can always teach your dog no matter how old he is and it’s never too late. Otherwise, your female bull terrier will end up injured.

You can also try spraying a little of that compressed air in a can into your dog’s face. It’s only air you’re spraying so it won’t hurt your dog at all but it will scare him for sure. This can of compressed air is usually used in cleaning out keyboards. If your dog experiences this spraying thing several times, he will eventually learn not to mount the female.

Dogs can be in heat even a few days after giving birth. You should learn the signs when a dog has come in season. These include bleeding from the vagina accompanied with swelling of the vulva and frequent urination. For small dogs, the bleeding may not be too much. Of course, a major sign that your pet is in heat again is the presence of male dogs hanging around your home.

Generally, female dogs experience their first cycle at age six months. Some dogs, though, may have their estrous cycle earlier while the others may have it as late as when they reach 14 months. This period normally lasts an average of three weeks although it may also vary. Some dogs can be in heat for two weeks while the others can have their cycle for four weeks.

During this cycle which usually occurs every six months or once a year for some, a female dog may get pregnant. This can happen after a male dog mounts a female canine.

Caring for your Pets when you Travel

There are several options available to you regarding the care of your pet(s) when you travel. Depending on the number and kind(s) of pet you have, the distance you’ll be traveling and the length or total amount of time you’ll need to stay away you can come up with the best choice on what to do with your pet.

For those very close to their pets the ideal choice would be to travel with the pet. However, this isn’t always possible especially if you have a pet that would be hard to transport like a horse or a big yet delicate fish. Pets that are sick or temperamental should also never be made to travel since a sick pet’s health could deteriorate even more while a temperamental pet could lead to disasters of all kinds. If your pet CAN travel with you then just make sure that you prepare well ahead of time so that you won’t encounter any problems during travel. Make sure that your pet will pass all the travel restrictions or regulations in your travel destination like required vaccinations. Arrange for accommodations well ahead of time to make sure that the place you’ll be staying in allows pets. And last make sure to prepare all the necessary pet travel supplies so you won’t end up making last minute purchases and forgetting something important like water or medicines.

If you do decide to leave your pet behind then you now have another important decision to make. You need to decide where and with whom you are to leave your pet with. There are three options available to you in this case: ask you friend or family to take care of you pet, hire a professional pet sitter, or leave your pet in a boarding kennel.

With the first option you will not only save money but also be sure that your pet is safe with someone you trust. This is also advantageous to your pet is your friend or family and the pet is already well acquainted since your pet won’t have to adjust to being with someone new that much. You’ll have to decide though about certain important arrangements like whether your friend will stay in your place, just drop by a few times a day to check on your pet, or your pet to his own home. The ideal arrangement for your pet would be the first one but this isn’t always possible. The possible drawback of this arrangement is if your friend or family isn’t used to taking care of pets or if he/she has his/her own pets that might not really get along with yours.

The second option results to choosing living arrangements like in the first option. The difference though is that you’ll be paying a professional. This means that the chances of something going wrong and the care giver not knowing what to do is very slim. Plus you’ll have insurance (make sure the contract states this) accidents. The pet sitter is legally liable for your pet. Just make sure that you choose a good pet sitter if you go for this option.

And third is the boarding kennel. Boarding kennels also ensure quality care. Before you go for this option read our section on choosing a boarding kennel for your pet to make sure you get good service.

CAREERS IN DOG GROOMING

If you are the type of person who is not afraid of dogs, who has an enormous amount of patience and has no trouble spending hours on end primping and prettifying pooches, then maybe you would like to consider a career in dog grooming.

No need to raise your eyebrows, dog grooming is no longer considered a vocation but an actual career. If in the past, dog groomers gained their skill primarily through experience, nowadays, groomers not only have skills because of experience, they get professional training from reputable dog grooming schools as well.

What does it take to be a dog groomer? Basically, you need to enjoy working with animals. You should not be averse to “getting your hands dirty” so to speak. Most likely, you will be doing one or all of these basic grooming activities:

- giving dogs a bath

- brushing and trimming their coat (includes removal of parasites)

- clipping their nails

- cleaning their ears

- brushing their teeth

In addition to this, they also have to do some administrative functions such as filing, recording dog information such as the dog’s name, breed, gender, and disposition. Should he notice something wrong with the dog’s body during grooming, he should also take this down, advice the owner and refer them to a veterinarian. Unless your dog groomer is also your veterinarian, the groomer is not authorized nor is he trained to prescribe medication or recommend treatment for ailing dogs. They can, however, give advice pertaining to grooming, diet and proper coat maintenance.

If you think you have what it takes to be a dog groomer, you may go about it through three different ways:

1. Learn the skills on-the-job. A lot of dog groomers started their careers as apprentices or assistants to other groomers. At first they would hold the dogs while the groomers snipped and snapped, until later on, they could trim dogs on their own. If this is the route you want to take, make sure that you work under a good groomer. If you follow a bad one around, whatever bad habits and practices he has, you most likely will follow.

2. Attend courses or workshops. There are some dog-grooming training schools or centers that offer short courses on basic grooming skills and topics on health and safety, handling dogs, differences between dog breeds, coat condition, introduction to canine diseases, first aid and general information on setting up and managing your own dog grooming salon. These may be paid or free of charge and the length of the program varies. You may surf the internet for dog grooming schools in your neighborhood or check your local telephone directory.

3. Those between ages 16 and 24 can be trained as apprentices in Animal Care. From there they can move up and take more classes as need be.

A dog groomer’s foundation should be solid. Normally, training institutions require that the grooming student be equipped with a high school diploma. If this is not needed by the school, sometimes, it is required by the employer. It would be to your benefit if you were to be accredited or be an active member of professional or industry associations. This shows your clients that you have undergone training and they would feel more secure about leaving their prized pets in your able hands.

The life of a dog groomer is not always about fluff and prestige. It also involves a lot of patience and hard work. Although groomers are trained to handle both cats and dogs, most of the clientele (about 90%) is dominated by canines. The most common problem groomers’ encounter is getting bit by ill-tempered dogs. This happens when groomers are not trusted by the animals. This, however, can be avoided by simply putting muzzles and restraints on aggressive animals.

Other problems groomers encounter are: having to travel far and wide to reach their clients; having to lift heavy dogs on to a grooming table, and dealing with irritable and demanding dog owners.

Is the pay high? It depends really. It would be better or more financially lucrative if you were self-employed because, not only do you get to work at your convenience, but the profit is all yours. If you work for an employer, only 30 – 50% of the standard grooming fee (usually about $35.00 / dog) goes to you.

Investment wise, putting up your own dog grooming business is not that difficult. You will need a quiet area with a sink and a counter. What you will need to invest on, aside from the tuition for formal training and education, would be your work clothes (laboratory coat / apron and gloves) and grooming equipment.

If you intend to buy grooming tools, you need not splurge on ultra high tech and expensive products like the hydraulic or mechanized grooming table. You just need to have the basics and these include nail clippers, blades, a pair of doggie scissors, and shampoo. If you have some more money to spare, you can buy dryers, grooming tables, extra cages. The decision to buy the accessories such as ribbons and bows and perfumes for dogs will lie solely on you. These are not necessary unless you have a client who will bring the dog to a dog show or a commercial shoot.

Is there a market or a demand for dog groomers? Yes, there is a growing market for pet groomers due to the increased awareness of people on the benefits these pets have on their being. More and more people appreciate their pets and spend a small fortune spoiling them. However, although it is practical, the demand for it and the possible income you’ll receive should not be the main reasons why you’ll go into this profession. Even if you had all the skills and the equipment, it would not amount to much if you do not have the passion for it. You have to love what you are doing and enjoy every minute of it. You should not view your job as a means to an end.

If you enjoy working with and cleaning animals; and find joy and satisfaction in a job well done, then go on and continue with it. Worry about money and fame later, for it will come. If you enjoy what you’re doing, won’t have to work a single day of your life.