|
The Rundown on Dog Beds
Veterinarians across the country agree that investing on a good
quality dog bed is one of the most important things a dog owner can
do for their dog. People often assume that getting a dog bed is an
indulgence or a luxury. A good dog bed is far from that. Your dog
needs a warm, supportive bed in just the same way that you do. A
quality dog bed can provide security for your dog, and the proper
rest results in your dog leading a healthier life. There are lots of
different types of dog beds available. You can get small dog beds,
large dog beds, designer dog beds, water proofed and even
fashionable dog furniture!
A lot of dogs, as they get older will start to suffer from joint
pain, arthritis and hip problems. This can occur in much younger
dogs too. These ailments are just as painful for your dog as they
are for humans. If your dog sleeps on a hard floor, or in an area
where cold draughts exist it can compound the problem. An additional
problem here is that your dog will probably not be sleeping well,
which can lead to other problems such as lethargy and unwillingness
to go for walks and exercise. Luckily for your dog, you can get
orthopedic dog beds that are specially designed to relief for your
dog from such symptoms.
If you invest in a good quality dog bed that is washable, it may
last the lifetime of your dog. Buying a cheaper bed is a false
economy as these will quickly wear out. You can be sure that your
dog will appreciate a new bed; it's well worth the investment.
Why you should crate train Your Dog.
Crate Training is the fastest and most humane method of
housebreaking dogs.
Have you ever seen a dog under a table, chair or bed? The reason is
that dogs naturally want to seek shelter, even in a house. If you
don't provide it, they will create it themselves in an effort to
feel safe and secure. A crate serves as a den for your dog.
Crate Training is the fastest and most humane method of
housetraining
What is crate training?
Like babies, puppies cannot control their bladders until they mature
(usually between 3 and 6 months). Dogs have a natural instinct to
avoid eliminating in their dens. Therefore, confining your puppy in
his crate for the proper amount of time encourages him to "hold it"
until you take him outside for a walk.
Housebreaking older dogs
It is never too late to crate train your dog! The number one reason
dogs end up in shelters is behavior problems. Crate training, at any
age, can help break bad habits and solve most of these problems.
How long you should use a crate
Crates are not just for training, they are good for the lifetime of
your dog. By providing a crate for your dog, you are in essence
providing him with his own bedroom. Crates are especially important
for older dogs that use it to escape the hustle and bustle of
everyday family life, which often includes small children or other
pets that may harass them.
How safe is crate training?
Crates are not just for training! Dog crates are the best
housetraining tool available. They provide a room for your dog while
protecting your home furnishings from damage. However, even a crate
isn't an absolute safe harbor for your pet. As per crate
manufacturers warnings, you should always remove standard collars
before placing your dog in a crate. Your dog is at risk for possible
strangulation if his collar or ID tags become caught in the crate's
bars.
There are many reasons to not enjoy a bare metal dog cage.
Comfort: when dogs lie down in their crates, they are leaning up
against wire bars, which can be very irritating. A soft lining will
provide the comfort they need while also protecting their coats,
wagging tails, noses and teeth from the metal.
Security: wire crates leave your dog exposed on all sides. You may
put a cover (Old Blanket) over the crate to give a more , den like
feel.
Location: separating your dog from the rest of the family can add
stress to your dog. Dogs are social animals, so the ideal location
is a room full of activity. Your dog will enjoy his new room while
still being part of the family. At night the bedroom is an ideal
place for a crate so your dog will feel the security of being close
to you.
Time: confining him in his crate for excessive periods of time
will be a negative experience for your dog. After housebreaking your
dog, we recommend removing the door from the crate so he can enjoy
his den any time he chooses.
Did you know:
Top veterinarians and dog trainers recommend covering your dog crate
Some things you can do to make dog crates and kennels more
appealing:
* Put appropriate toys and treats inside the crate, which will
entice him to go in on his own.
* Feeding your dog in his crate can develop a positive association
with it.
* Give your puppy lots of praise when he enters the crate.
Is it true that wire crates are the best because the dog can see
outside?
Top veterinarian behaviorists and dog trainers recommend covering
the crate. This makes the crate a more den-like environment,
providing more security, which reduces barking. Covering the crate
will result in a better experience for both you and your dog.
How do I stop my dog from whining or barking the crate?
Again, make sure the crate is in a good location. Veterinarians and
trainers recommend covering the crate to give your dog the privacy
he needs to feel secure. If your dog can see you, he'll want to be
with you outside the crate. Crate covers lower the number of
distractions your dog sees, which reduces barking and stress.
Note: Dogs that suffer from separation anxiety should not be crated.
If you feel your dog is suffering from separation anxiety and is
showing clinical signs, please avoid crating him until speaking to a
professional.
Will my dog chew up his crate lining?
Very few dogs exhibit a desire to chew their own personal beds.
Always make sure there are appropriate toys & treats to keep your
dog's attention in the crate.
So Why a Crate again?
Dog crates give your dog a place he can claim as his territory, we
just want to make sure it doesn't interfere with yours. Providing
your dog with a comfortable room of his own will help keep him off
your furniture.
|
|
