Dog Crate Training Part 1 - Reasons Why Dog Crate Training my K9 a Good Plan

Dog crate training is an often times disregarded part of dog training which is unfortunate because a pet that's appropriately dog crate trained is much happier and much more balanced. The truth is, properly trained canines think of their crates to be their own special den where they may really feel safe.

There are 3 major types of crates. Soft dog crates, wire dog crates, and plastic dog crates. All can be used for crate training. Getting your pet used to going into a cage can provide him or her with a secure and safe home. Additionally, if you wish to travel with your canine or just take your pet to a vet you might have to place him in a crate and if he is already used to the dog crate, this can be an additional bonus. In case your puppy is needing potty training, a dog crate might help immensely.

Why Buy a Plastic Dog Crate?

Here's a video on plastic dog crates and some of the best benefits they can offer you and your pet. I tried to outline the things that I thought were most important and the reasons I would decide to choose a plastic crate as opposed to a wire or soft dog crate. I'm not saying that plastic is better, just better for some uses. I'll be making some for each of the various types of products here. Hopefully they provide a more entertaining way to offer some of the information found here.

What is the Best Dog Crate?

This is a very familiar and popular question.  Many people are looking for the best dog crate, and there are a lot of different answers regarding this.  There are so many different crates on the market today, that each serve different purposes, so I can't pick a specific crate that is the answer to the question.  The real answer depends on what you will be using it for and what type of dog you have.  There are some that I prefer over others, and quality as I have stated in most all of my posts, should be a top priority.  Evaluating you dog's specific needs (and yours too) will help you in deciding what type of crate to buy.  Here are the most popular types, and what I would recommend using them for.

Plastic Dog Crates - Great for traveling with your pet.  Make sure you find a top quality product that is approved for airline use (if that is your purpose) and be sure to check with the airline you are flying on, because each has specific guidelines.  They are also very tough and last a very long time (I use one that's as old as me)

Wire Dog Crates - Great for indoor or outdoor use, and excellent for training purposes.  They can be made very plush with the addition of a bed, cover, and there is even furniture designed to go over them and make them an attractive addition to the home.  Many top brands fold flat and store easily.  They are strong and great for traveling in the car, but not approved for airlines.

Soft Dog Crates - Great for the outdoor or traveling type.  They are very portable and act just like your pet's own personal tent.  They are excellent for going to the park, beach, on a camping adventure, or any similar type activity.  They should not be used for dogs that chew, or aggressive dogs.  Good ones are made of tough fabric that is usually water resistant, but still don't hold up to a chewing canine.

As you can see, it can be a difficult question to answer.  I certainly have my own personal recommendations as to specific models in each category, but what I prefer, may not be best for everyone.  Just make sure you choose quality, and maybe you too will be using a dog crate that's as old as you someday.




 

Back Pack Dog Carriers - A Few Tips to Make Using One This Summer Fun

Summer is almost here, and for those of us with small pets, a backpack dog carrier makes a great and attractive way to carry our small pet with us. Whether hiking in the mountains, hills, or just shopping around town, there are a lot or attractive and versatile backpack dog carriers to choose from. Some of the best tips for choosing a backpack carrier for your pet are:

1. Find one that will fit your lifestyle and provide comfort for your pet. You don’t want to get one that is over-sized or undersized.


2. Look for a backpack dog carrier that is made of a durable material and that have mesh sides for ventilation.

3. Look for one that will fit your purpose. If you want it for hiking, a heavy duty one may be best. Likewise, if you want to shop downtown with your pet, fashion may be a higher priority. The great thing is that you don't have to compromise one to get the other these days.

4. Backpack dog carriers offer more freedom than taking your pet on a leash as your hands are free to carry purchases, a walking stick, purse, etc., and are great for pets that have a hard time walking.

5. Weigh and measure your pet to find one that will best fit your needs.


6. Be sure to carry plenty of fresh water, when taking your pet with you, especially if you are going to be using it for a long period of time.

7. Take your pet out of the backpack carrier. Dog's especially need and love to exercise. Let him exercise his legs and take a potty break.

8. Be a responsible owner and take extra care and precautions when carrying your furry friend.

Excercise Your Pet and Reap the Rewards Yourself Too

What is the best medicine you can give your dog? Dr. Robin Downing, a veterinary pain-management expert in Windsor, Colo., has the answer. Exercise.  Helping your pet shed a few extra pounds if overweight is critical, because without weight-management, everything else we can do will be less effective. An estimated 44% of dogs are overweight or obese; cats are at 57%; in comparison to 67% of humans who fall in the category of overweight or obese.

If you have a dog that is overweight, exercise with him. Dogs love to play outdoors and will spend hours chasing a ball. Join in the fun and run together for the mental and physical benefits are tremendous. Being able to manage the food that is given to your pet is easier than controlling your own consumption. You are able to go back for seconds, whereas a dog is totally dependent upon you for his nourishment. Take a few pounds off of your pet and he will be lighter, making it easier for the two of you to extend that five mile walk to ten. Seriously, both of you will feel better and look better with the weight loss and the added exercise. Your mental outlook will also improve and you will be making a life change that will lower your blood pressure.

According to the 2008 Journal of Hypertension and American Heart Association, hypertension is growing secondary to obesity. High blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because most people and pets experience no clinical signs. Weight loss through diet and exercise is the best way to manage high blood pressure.

The best way for pet owners to combat these problems is with a regular walk or jog with our canines.  Dogs love to walk and run.  It is bred into them by nature.  There is nothing better than regular exercise for humans and pets.  We all know this is not always possible, and when those days arrive there are some great alternatives out there.  A couple that I use with my dogs are, using a Dog Exercise Pen for Training and Play - This is a great place to introduce new tricks or commands to your pet, and can be fun to play in too.  This is one of the best on rainy days.  Also, if you are away from home for a long stretch during the day, using an Outdoor Dog Kennel to give your canine some added freedom.  These are only a few, and I'm sure you have some of your own too.  Feel free to let us know what you do to keep you and your dog fit.  Happy walking!