On Missing The Imprint Stage Of Puppyhood...

By Adam G. Katz

Dear Adam:

[From a previous e-mail which questioned why I recommend that dog owners don't try to train their dogs in a group class setting]

Yes, I understand about the imprint stages [two week stages from birth to 4 months of age in which a small amount of exposure will have a lasting affect on the dog's socialization to it's surroundings] but not everybody lives in the ideal world of getting their puppy at 6 to 8 weeks of age.

[The imprint stage when dogs learn dominant and subordinate behavior with other dogs. Missing this stage, or having a negative experience during this stage, can cause dog aggression later in life].

What are you then suggesting happens? There are a lot of people out there that don't know the first thing about dog training. So, all of these theories are great but how would that help somebody that comes to you when their dog is a couple of years old and displays canine aggression?

Regards,TB.

Dear TB:

Here's the deal: I don't have a lot of time to go into detail as this is a subject that could end up being another book. But to fix this type of thing, you need to:

#1: Establish yourself as the pack leader so that the dog respects you and what you say.

#2: Build a strong sit and down stay.

#3: Teach the dog that he must hold the positions around other dogs. It's your responsibility to make sure that the other dogs do not jump on him.

#4: With some dogs, the aggression can only be controlled. Other dogs will get comfortable enough, over time being around other dogs, that it will be eliminated. It really depends on the dog.

#5: The problem with group classes is that there is too much going on for your dog to really learn. Plus, the 10-on-1 nature means that YOUR instruction is lacking. It's a good environment if the dog is ALREADY TRAINED... as you can take advantage of the various distractions. [During the proofing stage, that is]. But for teaching the dog... no way!

And you don't have to trust my opinion. Just look at the caliber of training that you'll find with dogs that come out of group classes. They're substandard compared to dogs and owners that have worked just a few sessions with a competent dog trainer.

To read more of my dog training ramblings, read about my book:
Secrets of a Professional Dog Trainer!

Copyright 2002 By Dogproblems.com All Rights Reserved.

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How To Handle A Dog Emergency

By Russ Richer

Have you ever thought about what you need to do should your dog – or another dog – ever suffer a serious, life-threatening injury? What if they have a severe allergy to an insect bite or a bee sting? It’s great to know your vet’s phone number, but what if something happens during off hours? What if you don’t know where the closest emergency animal clinic is located?

Any emergency is stressful and scary, and one involving that furry little four-legged member of your family is no exception. The toughest of dog owners can be instantly rendered helpless, if something’s wrong with their dogs.

1. Be Prepared

The key to getting through a veterinary emergency is preparation. You may think you have that covered with a dog first aid kit and having the phone number to your vet handy, but what if there isn’t enough time to move your dog? You need to be well-versed in some of the more common dog emergencies just in case a situation ever arises. And hey, if a situation never arises, you’ll still feel more confident knowing that you have the ability to deal with one.

2. Caring For Your Dog’s Wounds.

Did you know that you shouldn’t use hydrogen peroxide on a bleeding wound? Nope. It slows clotting to the area, which means your dog could actually lose more blood than he would if you didn’t use the peroxide at all. In fact, the best way to treat a deep, severely bleeding wound is to apply a clean cloth and hold it in place for five minutes, then tape the cloth to the wound. That original cloth should never be removed – that also slows clotting – and should instead be layered with more clean cloths if blood soaks through.

3. Treating Your Poisoned Dog.

Did you know that certain varieties of toads, salamanders, newts, and other amphibians are poisonous if licked? Hey, guess who loves to hold little woodland critters in his mouth! Your dog. If you notice your pup drooling, whining, and wiping at his mouth after a trip into the forest, get him to a clean water source and rinse his mouth thoroughly. While the poison can be fatal if left in the mouth, it’s fairly easy to cleanse from the tongue and glands.

Now imagine all of the scenarios that can happen to your dog, from fractured limbs to choking and everything in between. Do you really want to risk not knowing how to handle them? You don’t have to anymore, since I’ve written “Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Dog” to help you learn how to cope with nearly any emergency as well as have the basis for handling all of the everyday and lifelong problems and situations you’ll face with your dog. From choosing dog toys to dog cancer and everything in between, it’s all in the book… as well as how to create the most effective dog first aid kit and handle the most common emergencies. Listen, even the most experienced dog owner needs a little help and advice now and then. Secrets to a Healthy and Happy Dog is that constant source of help and advice.


If you a looking for an informative dog health book then you can't go past "Secrets to a Happy and Healthy Dog."


About the Author: Russ Richer is a Dog Lover who has done extensive research into Dog Care and Training. For free reports, articles, and newsletter visit

http://www.dogdaypets.com/newsletter.html . To learn more on Dog Health and Training, visit : http://www.dogdaypets.com/megapak.html

Source: www.isnare.com

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