Thursday, May 5, 2011

Do You Really Want a Puppy?


Raising a puppy is a huge commitment.
One must be prepared for sleepless nights, potty accidents, daily walks, expensive food and toys, spay or neuter costs, licensing, training, vaccinations and veterinary bills.
Canine Adoption and Rescue League and other Shelters are filled with owner turn-in" dogs. Life circumstances can't be helped. But oftentimes a once-adorable puppy has grown to become unmanageable, and this is usually due in large part to poor or even no training.
It is possible to turn a young pup into a great dog, but the reverse is also true: A great pup can turn into a difficult dog when bad training takes place.
If you are considering puppy adoption, take time to be informed on training methods and classes. Once you do adopt, stay focused and patient with your puppy. S/He is learning and eager to please, but s/he will make mistakes along the way.
For many single people and families alike, a mature trained dog is sometimes a better adoption option. Talk to  C.A.R.L. or other shelter representatives about an older dog's training level, likes, dislikes, and suitability for you. Be honest about how much time you can commit to a dog, and the number of small children and other animals in your household.
Are you perfect puppy material? Check out the future "perfect dogs" available for adoption at Canine Adoption and Rescue League or your other local shelter.
Call Paws First Choice - Dog Training in the 805 for help with your new puppy or adopted adult dog - Programs for house training, re-house- training and other good manners for integrating your new family member.   
I can help you help your dog.

All the Best,
Mary Cacciapaglia ( catch-a-pal-ya)
Paws First Choice - Dog Training in the 805
(805) 982-0482  

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Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Canine Body Language

Continuing with the topic of "how well do you know your dog", we will talk about body language. 
As the dog is a pack animal, it has a certain status or standing in the pack. This order is maintained by means of signs and signals. Observe your dog carefully and notice its posture at different times. Many things can be expressed by the position and movement of your dog's tail. We all know what it means when a dog wags its tail or puts its tail between its legs.





1. a self-confident, dominant animal in the presence of another dog

2. threat

3. trying to impress (tail wags from side to side)

4. unconcerned attitude

5. uncertain threat

6.posture when eating

7. subordinate attitude

8.uncertainty between threat and defense

9. 10. 11.subordinate attitudes in the presence of a dog of superior rank

Whether your dog is a Great Dane or Yorkie, your dog is telling you something. For a great relationship with your canine companion, read your dog's body language.




All the Best,
Mary Cacciapaglia ( catch-a-pal-ya)
Paws First Choice - Dog Training & Pet Photography 
(805) 982-0482  
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Sunday, March 20, 2011

Dogs that Drool - Pet tip


Why do dogs drool? Drooling can be normal in some dogs, especially some breeds such as Bloodhounds, Mastiff, Great Danes or Basset Hounds.
Excessive drooling can occur in any dog and can be caused by a variety of reasons. Some dogs are droolers due to the structure of their mouth.  The loose skin around their jaw line causes drool leakage.  

Other dogs drool from excitement especially around food, the scent of food or even the thought of food. Since Xena was a puppy, the excitement of going to the dog park can cause her to be so excited she literally foams at the mouth.  

If your dog is a natural drooler, you may have to keep a roll of paper towels handy.  Dog drool, especially on hard flooring, can be a slipping hazard!  If he is a food-induced drooler, you may want to feed him outside.

Other dogs will drool if they are nauseated or have an oral abnormality such as a dental problem or something caught in their mouths.

If your dog is a born drooler, try placing an absorbent bib or bandana around his neck with the point in the front.  It will collect some of the drool that would otherwise fall onto his chest.  We like using the thinner cotton dishtowels, the more absorbent the better.

Understand that while excessive drooling is likely benign, it may be a symptom of several more serious conditions, including poisoning, stomach problems or even paralysis of the tongue caused by rabies (which of course can be avoided if you keep your dog protected with a rabies vaccine.)

Again, your vet is the best person to diagnose any symptoms in dogs.