Posted on by Sanjit

Dog Training Ethics

There are recent ways of training a dog at present that can change the view of owner how to go about it. In the foggy days the string tied on a dog’s neck used to the ethic of straining, now there are other approaches that can stand a better chance with owner today.

Though some new method of the dog collar is quite useful above other types. It becomes a surprise to the dog when a new type of its collar is used. This comes in a remote control model with all activities programmed thereof.

This new approach is excellent nice for anyone to use. It keeps the dog from barking or performing unwanted activities. Though there are certain ethics that is allocated to some dog training. This will depend on the type of dog that the owner is breeding and the method used.

A good example of the new ethic of training a dog is the electronic operated type. This is programmed and operated with a remote control. It brings the dog training collar open for anyone to see. It mainly applied with dogs that are used for sporting purpose. This approach is really power making dog owners to pass information with a command from the remote control when it is passing it verbal range of communication. Nevertheless, the best type of this dog collar remains shock collar.

With the new approach of dog ethic training helps it to stop barking whenever it brings such habit. Normally everyone knows that dog will always bark, the new training collar works automatically to stop such action bring the dog calm again. In most cases it is usually called the common bark collar.

It is a common fact that for each dog training collar, there is a specified requirement that is given to it. Sometimes some barking animal like dog might have hearing problem, this makes it is easy for vibrating collars to be used. This is easily done by pushing the button of the remote control in other to activate the vibrating figure thereof.

So magnificent this method of dog collar can give. The signal is done by the owner by making style that will drive the dog attention thereof. With this the deaf dog will respond to the given signal. One good thing that the vibrating collar training method does is that it makes the dog itself to feel the shake to respond to hearing stimuli. Even if the dog is deaf it can come back to life by this approach and can perform like other hearing dogs. It is good for dog owners to use this method in other to keep the long-term relationship with their barking figures. It will help a lot of time and again.

Though there are other means of dog collar training that can be used such as choker method that is used for unresistant ones. In some cases if a dog is found disturbing or creating headache to the owner, the pinch collar dog training style is applied to bring it normal.

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Posted on by Sanjit

How Can I Stop My Dog’s Bad Barking Habit

Some people are getting outrageous about their dog barking habit. Sometimes it might even go to a height of disturbing others. Dog owners experience may be tired of this manner and wish to give the barking animal away from the premises. The good news that people that have such dog should know is that bark collars can be the best solution in this respect. It can stop such indecent action of the dog quickly, easily without any difficulty added with it. Though the bark collar is operated electronic wise and will help stop the barking action of the dog. Mind you if it persist or fails, then surgical operation might follow.

In most cases the bark collar works with sound system that can make a dog pick up quick. The memory of animals work quickly in retaining thing by sound. Using this method will really help the dog to stop barking unnecessary. Once the sound barking collar is established the dog will gradually come to normal without any further disturb.

This shows that the higher the process advances the better the barking habit of the dog will reduce normal. Some the electronic material that is used for barking dog can be placed at their throat when they commence. This will help to combat the negative habit of the barking dog and keep it perfect without disturbing anyone.

It is also like preventing the other sound that can be created outside the dog barking habit. It works well in the safety of the barking action of a dog. In most cases the disadvantage of the barking dog collars is that they use microphone in detecting sound and can be activated by other noise that comes from different place.

The sound of other dog barking can switch it off. This shows that it is not highly effective in this respect. For dog using vibration collars, it is often tripped off by external noise and makes the material less effective. It is really important to know the problem of the dog barking and using the proper method of solving this issue as required. This will make things easy for the dog and the owner rather than experiencing tough noise of dog barking.

It is good to stop using certain types of bark dog collars that spray mist, it can affect the brain of the animal and thereby creating other confusion. If care is not taking, it will cause negative condition for the barking dog.

There some other devices that should be used for the barking dog such as microphone electronic installation in the collars. This is really not perfect means of stopping a dog from barking. It will rather create some harms to the dog and make the owner to spend more money as required. It is better to abstain from the appearances of devices of this nature. If all the bark dog collars fail using a surgical approach is the best option left. Giving a chance will work perfectly for the barking dog.

Posted on by Sanjit

Dogs Story for Real

Do people really know the impact of a dog in their life? It is the dog habit to be loved be someone and takes good care of it. In some cases do we say some dog are not well catered for? This will depend on the owner of the dog if I might mention.

There are certain character that makes the dog appreciate the care it is being given by owner. It comes wagging the tail and a happy appearance giving the owner the mind of moving on. It is the culture of some dog owner to make the resting place as equal as their room.

Another amazing habit of a dog is to know its owner properly. This comes from the action of the owner at every moment that dog notice his presence.

Rearing a dog is like bring up a new born baby child. It calls for total commitment with any compromise. It should be a thing that should continue for a lifetime.

People should know that having a dog can help their daily life. The expression of the dog most times conforms with the natural feeling that their owners put on. When depression and pains comes lying in the way of its owner, the dog also show the mind of making the person be lively again.

Taking the dog for a walk will really make owner feel the respect it gives outside. If the dog’s owner commands a word it will surely be done because of the care and treatment given before the time. It is the habit of a dog to feel care for and carried along by its owner.

Sometimes the action of a dog might look bad. This depend on the living condition of the dog. If a dog is sleeping in an area where it struggles to breathe or feed, it will be clear that such dog will remain hostile for the rest of a lifetime.

It is a wise saying by understand all that owner require before buying a dog. It needs care and good treatment. It should be brought into the family of the recipient. This will make the joy of the dog completes and do according to its owner instruction. Really having a dog can be full of education.

This really a good study that people should look at before attempting to bring a dog home or buy it. There are a lot of puzzling question that rings around the study of a dog. Does the dog want care or good treatment or say what does a dog need from its owner? From the explanation given above draws a conclusion that reads the dog’s expectation.

It needs support and care for a lifetime from people. This anyone will presume the dog really require from anyone. Give the dog a chance in your life and see how it will change it. It is worth a while that dogs do funny things give a try on just one breed and enjoy it.

Posted on by Sanjit

How to potty Train a Puppy

Hey, my name is Rebecca and this is my blog about how to potty train a puppy.  I’m not technically minded so I had someone help me put this blog together so I could share my experiences and what I’ve learnt since owning little Harry.

Harry is my very first puppy and when I got him I had no experience of looking after a puppy or what to expect as an owner.  As you can imagine the first few days were wonderful but I soon realised that I had a bit of a problem on my hands when I started to find that Harry was fouling on my carpets.

Sometimes I would find the mess immediately but often it would take a couple of days before I would find say a urine patch behind the couch.  I was spending all my time cleaning up after Harry and all my money on cleaning products.  I think the most frustrating part was not knowing what to do and then having to restrict Harry to one room in the house.  It was really hard for me.

This website helped turn everything around for me and I recommend you take a look if you are having the same problems, you can find it by clicking here.

I think the hardest thing about trying to work out the best way to potty train a puppy is the lack of quality information.  Before I came across the website I mentioned above I spent a lot of time reading articles in magazines and on the internet.  What I found is that these aren’t sufficient.  You need to follow a programme that explains the A to Z of how to toilet train a puppy.

Some of the things I’ve learned from the website I mentioned earlier which you can find by clicking here are:

  • The time to start training a puppy to use a potty is between 8 and 8.5 weeks.
  • Don’t confuse your puppy by giving it unclear instructions, get everyone in the household who is involved on the same page
  • Designate a voiding area and take the puppy to this area 10 to 15 minutes in the morning and evening, after a sleep, before and after meals and after a playing session.
  • Avoid the crate training method if your puppy doesn’t like the crate you are using; they may feel scared, restless or uncomfortable in the crate.
  • When your puppy is going to the toilet in the designated area try to reassure them by using soft voice commands.  This reaffirms your approval of their behaviour.
  • Never pass up the opportunity to praise your puppy when he uses the designated area to go to the toilet.  It’s essential for his/her development.
  • Always have an effective odour killing spray on hand in your home for those little accidents.
  • If you catch you puppy going to the toilet in areas other than the designated area express you disapproval with short sharp voice commands – ‘No’ or ‘Bad dog’ and take them to the designated area immediately.
  • Always, always clean up the designated area after your puppy has been to the toilet this will protect you, your guest and your puppy from any worm infestation.
  • Never stop your training until you are 100% sure that your puppy has grasped the new system
  •  Never give you puppy full access to your house until you are entirely happy that they are fully potty trained.

Changing behavior and why it’s important

Breaking the cycle of unwanted behavior is probably one of the most important first steps and is going to require some investment in time from you.

You should assign an area of your house that can be used by your puppy to foul then each day take them to this area.  Try 10 minutes in the morning and evening and after a feed or a nap.  This will get them used to this pattern and to the area.  This small change may seem almost too simple but it is little changes like this that will eventually lead to your puppy seeing this area as the area they are supposed to use when they go to the toilet as opposed to the rest of your house.

Understanding when to toilet train a puppy

It’s very important to understand when is the best time to start house training a puppy because if you start to early your puppy will not respond to your direction and you may get frustrated and give up.  The best time to start house training your puppy is when they are 8 to 8.5 weeks old.

Choose an area that you are going to use as a designated area and get into the habit of taking your puppy to this area regularly, say 10 -15 minutes in the morning and 10 – 15 minutes last thing at night this will help them get use to the area and the time of the day to visit it.

Not all breeds are the same

Did you know that a puppy develops full sensitivity of its bowel and bladder at around 6 weeks but isn’t able to control itself at this time.  But did you also know that smaller or toy breeds of puppy/dogs have a smaller bladder but a much higher metabolic rate so they may need to go to the toilet more frequently.

Don’t lock your dog away!

When I was initially searching for the best way to potty train a puppy I was having to lock Harry in a room overnight and then watch him like a hawk during the day because I was so worried that he was going to have another accident.

Getting it wrong can be expensive

In my opinion the best way to potty train a puppy is to follow the advice of seasoned experts someone who has been working with dogs for a long period of time.

Getting your puppy potty training wrong at such an early stage can cost you a lot of money in floor coverings and cleaning materials but it can also cost you your relationship with your puppy and future dog.

Puppies can get easily confused so they need a clear and consistent message saying the wrong command at the wrong time can confuse things and even make the situation even worse.

I can’t recommend the website I mentioned earlier enough.  Its been of great assistance to me and I know it will help you too.

Posted on by Sanjit

How to House Train a Puppy

You as the owner of a new puppy must first learn how to house train a puppy if you plan to give the pup the run of the house. This can be a daunting task with some pups.

Some dogs are more hardheaded than others learning not to relieve themselves on the carpet and floors of your house. There are different methods for doing this task and understanding them will help you in your efforts.

Traditional Method

The traditional answer on how to house train a puppy is the standard laying newspapers out and hoping the puppy learns to use them for potty time. Also, this takes a lot of watching on the owner’s part to catch the puppy’s mistakes.

Along with this, the owner must take the puppy outside many times during the day, so it can learn to potty in the yard. The best times of the day to take the puppy out is right after it eats and drinks, first thing in the morning and last thing at night. After all, the paper training is only for the times in between these outdoor times. This method is fine if you have the time and patience to do this. It has been effective in the past and still is. One note of caution if you are letting the puppy roam the house during the day, you might want to confine it to one area at night or when you are not home.

Confinement Method

The confinement method of how to house train a puppy can be done in a variety of ways. One way that is used a lot is placing the puppy in a specific area of the house. This could be a bathroom or utility room. Somewhere with no carpeting for sure, and lay out newspapers. Then the puppy does not have run of the house. It is easier to keep up with the accidents this way without your carpeting getting damaged. In between being confined in the room, the puppy should be taken outside to play and possible potty. Gradually the puppy learns that outside is the place to potty not the house. Another type of this containment method is crate training. This is discussed in the next section in detail.

Crate Training

Crate training is probably the newest method for house training a puppy being used today. The theory is that puppies will not soil where they sleep. Therefore, they learn quite quickly not to soil their crates. A crate is just a cage for the puppy to call home. (Before you think this is mean, dogs actually grow to love their crates.) You can buy these crates at your local pet shops or pet-supply stores. Make sure to have one large enough for the puppy to stand up and turn around. A blanket and a couple of toys can also be placed in it. No food or water should be placed inside the crate. This will keep the puppy from making a mess with it as happens sometimes with puppies. Also, you can regulate when they need to go outside a bit better this way.

After it has eaten and before you put the puppy in the crate, take it outside to go potty. This is an important part of how to house train a puppy. Then place it in the crate and lock the door. Chances are it will whine at first do not immediately take it out of the crate. Give it awhile to get used to the idea. You can even place the crate in the room you are in to make it feel it is not all alone.

Each time you take the puppy out of the crate take it immediately outside to potty. Then when you bring it in, let it eat and drink something if it wants. Then you can play with it some before again taking it outside to go to potty, so it can go back into its crate. The puppy soon learns that the only correct place to go potty is outdoors in the grass. Also, he will soon love to go into his crate to sleep.

Eventually when you know the puppy is fully house trained, you can start leaving the door to the crate open. The pup will come and go as he pleases then. There still might be times when you are going to be away that you might want to lock him in just to make sure no accidents occur. Crate training is an extremely easy answer to how to house train a puppy.

Things Not to Do

There are some things you should not do when house breaking a puppy. They are:

Yell at the puppy for having an accident in the house
Swat it with rolled up newspaper
Rub its nose in its urine or feces
These things will just upset the puppy and possibly be counterproductive to how to house train a puppy. Just clean up the accident and go on loving your pup.

Puppy Pads

There are puppy pads today that you can use in place of newspaper in the above methods of house training. These are pads made of absorbent materials with a plastic back. This way the floor does not get wet or stained. Some even have a scent that encourages the puppies or dogs to use them.

Although, the answer to how to house train a puppy can try your patience eventually you will be successful. You will be able to let the dog romp and play in the house without worrying about accidents.

Posted on by Sanjit

Mosquito Repellent For Dogs

Many pet owners really feel for their dogs when they see them trying to get some sleep in the evenings, but they are being pestered by a swarm of mosquitoes. Often these pet owners want to use a proprietary mosquito repellent for dogs. There are several special types of mosquito repellent for dogs and you will see some of them on these pages.
Mosquito Repellent For Dogs

Isn’t it awful to see mosquitoes pestering your dog as it is trying to sleep? One solution is to get a specialist mosquito repellent for dogs.

If you want, you can just put Deet or any other spray on them that humans use, but it is not good for animals because they lick themselves clean. Deet tastes awful, but it cannot be good for an animal to have a quantity of it in its stomach.

Therefore, it is better to use some kind of natural mosquito repellent for dogs. A vet or a pet store can help you choose which one is right for you or you could just try a few natural kinds of mosquito repellent for dogs.

Mosquitoes hate anything that smells like lemons, so you could place a citronella plant by your dog’s basket. If he is going walk-about or outside you could rub lemon juice into his muzzle and around the base of his tail.

A word of warning though, these forms of mosquito repellent for dogs do not last long, so it will have to be re-applied every 30-60 minutes.
Indoor Mosquito Repellent

Most forms of mosquito repellent are suitable for indoor use. However, if you do not like sprays and the like, you could try more natural kinds of indoor mosquito repellent. For example, you could try growing citronella on the window cills of windows that you often leave open. If you grow citronella in pots, you can move this very effective natural indoor mosquito repellent from window to window.
Natural Mosquito Repellent

There are various kinds of natural mosquito repellent that peoples’ around the world recommend. Some kinds of natural mosquito repellent may only work in one region or country others may work everywhere. Some examples of a natural mosquito repellent are lemon juice, lemon grass and citronella, all of which smell like lemons which mosquitoes seem not to be able to tolerate.
Natural Tick Repellent

There are plants that are considered to be a natural tick repellent, but most people still think that DEET is the only truly effective solution. However, some people would rather use a natural tick repellent that does not contain the chemical DEET. If you would like to try a natural tick repellent on yourself or on your dog (but not cat), you could try Rose Geranium or American Pennyroyal, which is also called tickweed. Try to obtain the essential oils of these plants.
Insect Repellent Clothing

Insect repellent clothing is not a new idea, but it is more popular now than ever before. Most of the insect repellent clothing on the market today is impregnated with permethrin which is a water-resistant contact killer of insects. This means that the insect repellent clothing that has been treated with permethrin will kill insects that land on it, but will not necessarily stop insects buzzing around you.

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Puppy Control

Excerpt from a telephone conversation:

“My puppy is getting into the woodwork, the carpet, the cupboards and messing on the floor!”

“I’m getting very tired of it. How can I put a stop to this??!”

“When is your puppy doing this? Where are you when this happens?”

“Well, I put him in the kitchen with a baby gate during the day, and he works on everything periodically during the day. I’m, of course, doing my housework, laundry, etc.”

“I thought you had him crate-trained and used that…?”

“Oh, I do – at night. But I don’t want to put him in there ALL DAY too, so I keep him in the kitchen.”

The above conversation actually took place, not too long ago. I have similar conversations quite often.
Puppies are curious balls of energy. They naturally need to explore their world. Textures, smells, tastes – all entice them. They need to learn about everything. Whether you are present or not, this exploration goes on. As puppies get older, they still explore their environment – seemingly on a “search and destroy” mission.

REASONS

Dogs and puppies “get into mischief” for many reasons:

1. Exploration

2. To test their limits – to find out what they are allowed to do and NOT allowed to do.

3. Stress – often resulting from too much freedom and no apparent limits set on their behavior.

4. To get to something else – ie: a toy hidden in the cushions of the couch.

5. To use up energy – If you don’t exercise them, they’ll find a way!

6. Separation Anxiety – a psychological disorder

…plus a few we haven’t quite figured out yet

If you haven’t figured out my solution to the problem of destructive behavior yet, here goes:

IF YOU CANNOT MONITOR AND CONTROL YOUR PUPPY’S/DOG’S ACTIONS, THEN HE MUST BE KEPT IN A SAFE DOG-PROOF PLACE!
ANY DESTRUCTION YOUR PUPPY DOES IS ULTIMATELY YOUR FAULT, NOT YOUR DOG’S.

Puppies are destined to be bad – they don’t know any better. It is up to you to guide your puppy to appropriate releases of energy. This does NOT mean your puppy will always be bad. IF you put the time and effort into showing him what is right – he will learn to be good.

Think about possible solutions to the puppy mischief that goes on when you cannot watch. You will be surprised that YOU can probably answer your own questions on how to control it.

SOLUTIONS:

KEEP YOUR PUPPY CRATED WHENEVER YOU CANNOT WATCH HIM

This, of course, means puppy will be spending a lot of time in in his crate during his first year with you. IF you spend the time needed to guide your puppy as he learns your house rules, then that time will decrease as he grows and learns. YOU will need to invest time EVERY DAY in lessons in living for puppy. This time investment should happen naturally as your day progresses. You don’t need to have guilt driving you (gosh, I need to TRAIN my dog. I need to spend a half hour or he wont’ grow up to be a GOOD DOG…). Lessons may only be 5 minutes long. Puppies don’t have the attention span for long lessons. They do need consistent guidance.

KEEP THE PUPPY WITH YOU AS YOU MOVE THROUGH THE HOUSE

This can be accomplished in a couple of ways:

Invest in enough baby gates to barricade him into a small area where you are. This works well – if you remember to WATCH him! Your thoughts can never wander far from the puppy!

Buy a cheap 6 foot leash (preferably a thin, light one), clip it to puppy’s collar, and tie the other end to your belt! This is called the “umbilical cord technique”. It’s a wonderful way to keep your puppy near you, and the little tugs you feel will remind you to keep an eye on him. This technique is not foolproof; you will still need to watch your puppy, but as you move through the house, you don’t need to take any barricades with you. Some puppies will chew through the leash – so watch for that. As you move around your house, with puppy in tow, make sure to provide something safe and appropriate for him to do. Bring a chew bone or a durable squeaky toy to keep him busy. I like to teach my puppies to understand the phrase “chew your bone” or “get your bone”.

As your puppy becomes more reliable, you can combine the baby gates with the umbilical cord. Untie the leash from your belt and let the puppy drag it. This MUST be done with complete supervision, because a puppy could get tangled or knock something over. If puppy gets into trouble, you catch him by simply stepping on the leash, rather than making a mad grab for a tiny dog. This works very well for the puppy who quickly learns when you are angry and won’t let you catch him. By stepping on the leash you’ve avoided a game of tag!

The BEST combination for puppy control is actually a combination of everything we’ve discussed. Puppies NEED plenty of time-out crate time and they also need supervised “free-time” to explore and learn. It’s up to you to decide how to use the steps I’ve outlined to meet your particular needs.

Posted on by Sanjit

What You Can Do for Separation Anxiety

If your dog shows signs of separation anxiety or nervousness when you depart such as whimpering and crying at the door, barking during the day, destroying things, or relieving in the house, here’s how you can ease his distress:

    • Be understanding. The dog is doing this because he’s anxious. Heís not misbehaving or being spiteful. For that reason, don’t punish or isolate him. Either action only worsens the problem.

 

    • Give your dog structure by teaching him obedience, and even some tricks, and be consistent in your expectations. Walk your dog in a heel position right next to your ankle and have him sit/stay before and after entering or exiting doors. Make sure he sees you as he pack leader and not ‘his’ follower.

 

    • Try feeding your dog his main meal just as you are leaving the house. You can also hide part of his meal around the house, which will give him something to do while you are away.

 

    • Help your dog forget to be lonesome. An owner can help an anxious dog by redirecting his behavior. Fill a toy with kibbles or biscuits and present the toy to the dog before departing. He may become so engrossed in ferreting out the stuffed goodies that he’ll forget to be upset.

 

    • Leave an old t-shirt, piece of clothing or stuffed toy with your odor on it near your dog’s bed or on the floor. Make sure you won’t mind if your dog destroys it.

 

    • Play classical music on a low volume while you are away.

 

    • Desensitize your dog to triggers. Put your shoes on and not go anywhere. Put your coat on, then sit down to read the paper. Pick up your car keys and just carry them around with you, jangling along as you go about your business.

 

    • Downplay your comings and goings — do not make a big deal of leaving the house or of coming home. Pay little or no attention to your dog when preparing to leave the house. Ignore him for 10 minutes and then slip out the door with no fuss. That means no long, emotional goodbyes when leaving or wildly enthusiastic hellos when arriving home.

 

    • Gradually get him used to solitude. Develop a plan to help your dog learn to tolerate being alone. Offer him a treat-stuffed toy, then leave the house for a minute or two. As your dog adjusts to being alone, gradually prolong the amount of time you’re gone.

 

    • Teach your dog to love his crate/kennel – feed him in it, put an item with your odor in it, give him a treat or food-filled toy in it, etc.

 

    • Don’t let your dog become too ‘clingy’ and dependent on you every second you are together. When he is quiet and calm go and give him some praise, make it clear you are happy with him. Teach him to down/stay away from you for longer and longer periods of time.

 

    • If he is a barker, purchase a ultrasonic bark suppressor that is triggered by his bark, but only after you’ve tried all of the above suggestions.

 

  • Get him some company. A pet-sitter/walker or doggie day-care is a big help for dogs that cannot seem to overcome separation anxiety.
Posted on by Sanjit

How to Select the Right Dog Bed

Just like you do, your dog will spend a lot of time in his bed so it is important that you choose the right one. Unlike you, your dog isn’t going to test a lot of different dog beds and then say “this is the one I want”. This article will help you make the right choice on your dog’s behalf.

Your first concern is to make sure that you are looking at dog bed models that are big enough and strong enough to match your dog’s breed. Your next consideration is climate and location. Is this an indoor bed or an outdoor bed? Does it snow where you live, what are the seasonal temperature ranges? You will need to select a bed that can stand up to whatever mother nature throws at it.
How to select the basic shape

Dog bed shapes are generally defined as nests, balls, or mattresses. To select the right shape for your dog, pay attention to how he sleeps. If your dog curls up when sleeping, then a nest or ball is the right choice for him. Nests provide excellent cold-weather insulation as well since your dog can snuggle down inside of them.

If your pet stretches out when sleeping, then a more conventional dog bed mattress should be your choice. Mattress beds let your dog toss and turn, curl and stretch, and find whatever position suits him best.
How to select the right size dog bed

Don’t you just hate sleeping on a mattress that’s too small for you? Well, your dog will too, so let’s take a look at how to select the correct dog bed size.

When selecting a bed size keep in mind that bigger is better. You want to allow room for growth, if you dog is still growing, and you want to allow rom for movement regardless of whether your dog is still growing or if he’s already at maximum size.

For nest and ball-type beds measure the length of your dog while he is curled up. Measure from the top of his head to the point where his tail meets his hindquarters, and then add 7 to 9 inches.

If you will be buying a mattress dog bed, then measure your dog, from nose to where his tail meets his hindquarters, and add 12 inches.
How to select the right filler material

Your basic dog bed filler choices are either solid foam, or stuffing. Since the type of filling that you choose will impact your dog’s comfort, you should make an informed decision that takes into consideration your dog’s size, age, and health.

Poly-fill beds are stuffed with little pieces of foam. There are different types of Poly-fill to choose from. You want to make sure that your dog bed uses “high-loft” which means that it will not flatten out and lose its “spring” over time. Also make sure that you choose a bed style that uses “baffled chambers” which keeps the fill evenly distributed throughout the bed and keeps it from shifting to the outer edges as your dog snuggles in for the night.

Solid foam dog bed mattresses are best for large breeds and older dogs who are still in good health. If your dog has arthritis, or any back or hip problems, then you need medical-grade orthopedic foam bed.

The two key issues when choosing a solid foam mattress are firmness and density. Just like your mattress, the firmness determines how hard or soft the mattress is, while density determines how much “bounce” is in the mattress A good quality solid foam bed mattress will have a higher density and more firmness.
How to select the right dog bed cover

Let’s face it, dogs can be messy so make sure that your dog bed cover is up to the challenge. Choose 100% machine-washable fabrics that can be removed form the mattress when it’s laundry time. Choose a durable fabric that can stand up to sharp toenails. Make sure that the seams are double-stiched and insist upon a “self-repairing” synthetic zipper. Of course, a stain-resistant fabric for your dog bed is another must-have feature.

Your dog’s health and comfort depend upon his getting a good night’s sleep. Make an informed decision when you purchase a bed and your dog will benefit for years to come.

Training Your Dog to Use a Dog Bed

If you start right out teaching your dog to sleep in her bed while she is still a puppy, you won’t have any problems when she grows older. However, this article will work equally as well for those of you who have older dogs, and are facing first-time dog bed training issues as well.
Understanding the Natural Denning Instinct

As with any dog training exercise, results are gained more quickly if you work with a dog’s natural instinct rather than against it. Wild dogs will always try to find a sleeping den that is safe, warm, and dry. When puppies are born in the wild, the mother always seeks out a safe and cozy den for the birthing. She teaches them to keep the den clean by correcting them if they use it for a bathroom. Understanding that domestic dogs have these same instincts will help make the dog training process go more smoothly.
Selecting a Location

The dog bed should be placed in an area that is safe, warm, and dry. Try to keep it away from common areas where there may be loud noises and constant interruptions. Keep the bed away from drafty areas or areas that receive direct airflow from your home’s heating or cooling vents. It is OK to place the bed in the same area where your dog eats as long as that area meets the conditions that I just outlined.
Pre-Conditioning the Bed

The dog’s sense of smell is an all-powerful motivator. She uses it to detect food, danger, friend and foe. The most important use, as far as bed training is concerned, is that she uses it to detect the “Alpha Male” or “Alpha Female” in her “pack”. Since her pack is your family, and the alpha male or female is the family member who the dog thinks of as the “boss”, your sent means a lot to her. She knows that you represent food, protection, fun, and love. As a result, your scent is soothing to her. You can take advantage of that by placing your scent on the bed before your dog uses it for the first time. Here’s how:

Remove the bedding and rub it up against your skin. The goal here is to transfer your odor to the fabric. If you’re a bit hot and sweaty, so much the better. Don’t be afraid to really rub your scent into the fabric, your dog is going to derive great comfort from the scent. Next, rub your hands along any railings or non-fabric pieces that make up the bed. Again your goal is to transfer your scent.

Once you have permeated the bed with your scent, allow other family members to do the same. Your dog’s nose is keen enough to pick out each of the individual scents and will immediately recognize that this new object “belongs” here and that all of the members of her pack have visited it.
Leading Your Dog to the Dog Bed

Once you have pre-conditioned the bed, take a few of your dog’s favorite toys and place them into the bed. Call your dog to the bed and point to the toys and get her interested in sniffing around the toys and bed. Pat your hand and try to get her to hop into the bed. If she won’t then pick her up and gently place her into the bed. She does not have to lie down yet. Your goal here is just to get her interested in the scents and to add her own scent to the mixture.

Once she is in the bed, praise her with “Good dog” or whatever your usual praising terms are. Touch and rub the bed and bedding while you pet her, or rub her head, or scratch her behind the ears. Your goal in this step is to have her associate the bed with love and pleasure.

As you continue to praise and pet, have her lie down in the bed. Continue to praise and pet so she will be relaxed and unafraid. Lie down on the floor next to her and continue to praise and pet. Keep this up for a few minutes and then gradually walk away. She may stay or she may hop out. Either way is no problem.
Bed Time

When your dog appears to be ready to lie down for the night call her to the bed and repeat all of the steps above. make sure that her favorite toys or blanket are in the bed. Lie down with her, if possible, until she falls asleep. If she refuses to sleep in the bed at first, do not discipline her. Take your time and repeat the procedure every day until she gets the hang of it. It could take up to a week, or more, for her to start thinking of her new dog bed as her own cozy den.