The post Dog Instagram Celebrity RuPawl’s Droolworthy New Dog Clothing Line by Melissa L. Kauffman, Group Editorial Director Catster/Dogster appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Part Chihuahua, part Poodle, part Australian Cattle Dog and 100% beloved doggie social media influencer, Instagram celebrity dog RuPawl is in a class of their own. RuPawl’s human José Lizárraga tells Dogster that RuPawl’s popularity happened right around the time American reality competition TV series RuPaul’s Drag Race started becoming more mainstream after the show’s move to VH1.
“We quickly became popular amongst fans of Drag Race and the queens themselves.” RuPawl recently turned 6 (actually 9, says José, but you know they don’t want people to know their real age) and loves dressing up, long nature walks, chasing wild bunnies, flirting with wild deer, eating organic and naps. “They dislike carrots … yeah, kinda random,” says José, “but they will literally pick out the smallest piece of carrot from any dish we prepare for them.”
The Doggie Drag fashion line for dogs launched with small and medium canine clothes sizes, but will soon include large sizes too.
It’s not surprising that this two-time Webby Winner and model and their human has set sights on apparel for dogs, especially when their social media page is known for the fun and bold frocks they model inspired by RuPaul’s Drag Race Queens.
Says José, the founder of Doggie Drag, “We will be creating seasonal looks that are distinguishably DRAG, inspired by the queens of Drag Race and beyond. … It felt important to launch a line that unabashedly highlights the beauty and artistry of drag.”
The line launched with small and medium sizes, but will now be selling in large sizes. “Because,” says José, “pooches of all sizes deserve to be FABULOUS!” Want to follow this adorable mix? Strut over to @RuPawl on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok or check out the Doggie Drag online store.
The post Dog Instagram Celebrity RuPawl’s Droolworthy New Dog Clothing Line by Melissa L. Kauffman, Group Editorial Director Catster/Dogster appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The post Meet the Charismatic Cardigan Welsh Corgi by Lynn M. Hayner, JD appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is renowned for his adaptability, athleticism and hardiness. Bred for work in the hills of Cardiganshire, Wales, the Cardigan’s chest was developed deep for large heart and lung capacities. His legs were developed short, but don’t misjudge him: He’s tough, capable and (surprise!) speedy.
Looking back
Ancestors of the Cardigan migrated to Wales with Celt warriors thousands of years ago. Cardigans needed great strength in temperament as well as physicality to control livestock.
Originally a genetic mutation, the Cardigan’s dwarfism is called chondrodysplasia. As a herding dog, his short legs became an asset. His low height allowed him to dodge and avoid cattle kicks.
Early Cardigans moved the owner’s cattle to grazing land and kept trespassing cattle off the owner’s property. Farmers also used Cardigans for companionship, general farm work, protection and vermin hunting.
Still busy today
These days, only a few Cardigans are employed moving livestock, but they all thrive keeping busy. Intelligent and biddable (albeit sometimes independent thinkers!), they take honors in dog sports such as obedience, tracking, herding, rally, agility and barn hunt. At home, daily walks, focused training sessions and activities such as ball chasing keep the Cardigan healthy and satisfied. The Cardigan adapts well to urban settings and apartment living, as long as he’s exercised regularly.
Cardigans show reserve with strangers outside the home. Around their own property, Cardigans enthusiastically wear the watchdog cap. The breed, ever vigilant, has no interest in topping any Quiet Dog list. Yes, he tends to bark alarms!
Cardigans do well with animals in their own household, but they may push strange animals around. After all, the Cardigan’s ancestors were taught specifically to chase stray animals off the property. And let’s not mince words: Herding breeds are characteristically bossy!
Despite name similarities and physical likenesses, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are distinct breeds with their own histories and ancestors. Both breeds worked with farmers to lead cattle to grazing land and stood guard over the barnyard. But Cardigans (some two thousand years older) were developed in the rocky terrain of Cardiganshire in southwest Wales. Pembrokes were developed in the flatter terrain of Pembrokeshire in southern Wales.
These days, a quick way to tell the Cardigan from his cousin the Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Cardigans have a long, foxlike tail; Pembrokes have tails docked close to the body.
Accurate name: In Welsh, the word Corgi loosely translates to dwarf dog.
AKC popularity rank: 66th
Equipment: The Cardigan isn’t built for strong or prolonged swimming, so get him a life jacket.
Some Cardigans also use portable stairs to help them up on furniture.
Possible health issues: Degenerative myelopathy, hip and elbow dysplasia, canine intervertebral disc disease.
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The post The Border Collie — Mastermind of the Dog World by Allan Reznik appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The Border Collie is the Swiss Army Knife, the Everything Bagel of the dog world. Whatever you need him to do, he can do with ease, then ask what is the next job on your to-do list. Although considered by many authorities to be the world’s most intelligent breed, nobody calls the Border Collie low maintenance.
This is a lot of dog to deal with in a medium-sized package. Not every Ford driver can handle a tanked-up Maserati, and not every casual pet owner can keep a Border Collie content and engaged. Here are seven fun facts about this super dog.
Border Collie history
The Border Collie originated in the Border country between Scotland and England, where the shepherds’ breeding selection was based on cooperative stock sense and the ability to work long days on rugged terrain. This selective breeding developed the unique working style of the Border Collie gathering and fetching the stock in a wide, sweeping manner, then controlling it with an intense gaze known as “eye,” and a stalking style of movement. As the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard states, “Breeding based on this working ability has made this breed the world’s premier sheep-herding dog, a job the Border Collie is still used for worldwide.”
Versatility, thy name is Border Collie
Border Collie experts and the AKC standard agree that this breed “is, and should remain, a natural and unspoiled true working sheep dog.” Not only is the Border Collie a superior herder of livestock, but he has proven himself a formidable competitor in such performance events as obedience, agility, rally, dock diving and tracking. About the only activity the Border Collie has not perfected, or even pretends to be good at, is that of a lazy couch potato.
Due to the breed’s working heritage, Border Collies are demanding and energetic. They do best in households that can give them plenty of exercise and play, with humans or with other canine companions.
Because of their great need for mental stimulation, many Border Collies will develop problematic behaviors in homes that are unable to meet these requirements. To cure their boredom, Border Collies are notorious for chewing holes in walls and furniture, digging and other destructive activity. Border Collie clubs and rescue groups advise that anyone considering the breed first make sure they can provide the exercise needed as a suitable outlet for the Border’s high energy and great stamina.
A working Border typically runs many hours a day, using his personality and intelligence to control challenging livestock. The breed becomes distressed and frustrated if left in isolation, ignored or inactive. They can be motion sensitive and may chase moving vehicles and bicycles, behavior that can be corrected with appropriate training. Border Collies will also express their strong desire to herd by herding small children, cats and dogs.
Show vs. working vs. performance
Border Collies that come from dog show bloodlines will look the most alike, as their breeders are producing dogs that meet a written standard that describes the ideal Border Collie in size, silhouette, head and body shape, and overall appearance. Those from working bloodlines will display the least uniformity, as it is the dogs’ stamina and herding ability that are most highly prized, and physical looks are of little importance. Border Collies from performance bloodlines, bred to excel in agility, rally and other dog sports, will lie somewhere in between.
More than black and white
While the vast majority of Border Collies seen are black-and-white, the breed comes in all colors, combinations and markings. The AKC standard states that “All colors are to be judged equally with no one color or pattern preferred over another.” You’ll find Border Collies in tricolor, chocolate, blue and blue merle, and red in all shades from copper to blond.
Border Collies also come in two coat lengths. Close-fitting, dense, weather- resistant double-coats are required in both, but the more common rough coat variety has feathering on the forelegs, chest and haunches, while the smooth variety has a short coat over the entire body, usually coarser in texture than the rough.
Border Collies in the media
Few breeds have been seen more often on TV and in movies than the Border Collie, and that visibility has certainly played a big role in their popularity. Besides Borders in many dozens of TV commercials, we remember Bandit from the TV series Little House on the Prairie and Shep, the star of the British children’s show Blue Peter. Border Collies to star on the big screen included Nana in Snow Dogs, Fly
in Babe, Jessie in Animal Farm, Raffles in the animated Rover Dangerfield, and Mike in Down and Out in Beverly Hills.
Celebrities cross over to the Border
Not surprisingly, plenty of actors, singers, musicians and sports figures are passionate about their Border Collies. The star-studded list includes James Dean, Anna Paquin, Tiger Woods, Dierks Bentley, Jerry Seinfeld, Ethan Hawke and Jon Bon Jovi.
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The post Herding Dog Breeds by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Herding dog breeds are wicked smart and originally bred to round up and protect livestock. These high energy breeds will keep you on your toes In addition to herding livestock these breeds were bred for intelligence and working closely with humans.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) currently recognizes 32 herding dog breeds in the Herding Group. The AKC organizes dogs into groups based on the jobs a particular breed was originally bred to perform. Initially part of the Working Dog group, a more specific grouping for herding breeds was created in 1983.
Herding dog behavior
Instinctually, herding dogs are driven to control livestock by gathering and protecting them, so these dogs flourish working on farms. Some herding breeds, such as the Shepherds and Belgian Malinois, flourish at protection work, such as Schutzhund, and various police work roles like narcotics detection and cadaver searches.
Key traits of herding dog breeds:
high energy
highly intelligent
loyal
athletic
active
protective
fun to train
industrious
very responsive to their handlers
Training is a must for herding dogs, and they’ll need to go beyond basic obedience skills, especially since they tend to nip as part of their instinctual behaviors. You need to work to minimize this tendency from the outset. Bored herding dogs can often be a behavior challenge and may start to herd children or even adults without solid training and proper outlets for their instinctual drive. Also called stock dogs, they are sensitive to sound and especially movement, so they may chase wildlife and even cars; therefore, training and adequate and appropriate stimulation and engagement are key.
Since herding dogs’ needs are best met by giving them a job, they do best in an active family with time to devote to meeting their mental and physical needs. But even if your working dog doesn’t have a flock to tend to, he can still get his genius groove on with mental/physical activities you can try in your backyard or with a class/group.
The American public came to love smart and family-oriented herding dogs like Lassie, the Collie and Rin Tin, the German Shepherd Dog. More recently we fell in love with Chaser, behavior psychologist John W. Pilley’s Border Collie, who knew over 1000 words! Today these brainy and spirited dogs are part of many families.
Herding dog breeds make great companions, but they’re not couch potatoes, spa day divas or walk-around-the-block dogs: herding dogs require a lot of mental stimulation and physical activity to thrive emotionally, physically and behaviorally. Herding is in their DNA, so finding your stock dog a job will keep you both active and happy for the long haul.
The post Herding Dog Breeds by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The post How to Become a Dog Trainer by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
Everywhere you look things have gone to the dogs! Earning a living as a dog trainer is fun and doable. Although the dog training industry remains unregulated, certification helps you stand out from your competition and offers many other benefits for networking, marketing and continuing education.
While you’re considering certification, or working on completing it, here are the basic steps to become a dog trainer:
Shadow other dog trainers to get hands-on experience
Find a qualified mentor. Look local for someone to show you the ropes in person. Focus on training facilities that use rewards-based methods. Avoid trainers who use language about “dominance,” “pack leadership,” offer “balanced training,” and advise “using corrections” to train dogs. Steer clear of those who use shock/e-collars. Try the directories on PPG’s Zip Code Search or CCPDT’s websites for both local and online options. Read the bios and reach out! Most trainers are happy to help newcomers to the profession.
Volunteer for a rescue or shelter for more interaction with all dog breeds, sizes and personalities.
With permission, work with friends and family members’ dogs
Read. Read. Get your paws on relevant dog-training related articles, books and studies. But, be picky. Read books whose authors have credentials and the books and materials have citations and credible sources. Get started at PPG and APDT.
Look for local or online courses. Check out the aforementioned professional organizations’ and schools’ websites for online courses and webinars. Start with what piques your interest and branch out. There are a lot of affordable online conferences. Here are some to get you started.
Narrow your focus on the types of training you’d like to do. Some types of training to consider are: basic manners, behavioral issues (i.e. aggression, over reactivity, phobias/compulsions, separation anxiety), trick training, sport training (i.e. agility, nose work, treibball, flyball, conformation) or working with certain breeds.
Rewards-based training is what modern dog training is about and the future of the profession. Be choosy about your study and mentor resources and select evidence-based practices.
Attend a dog training school such as Victoria Stilwell Academy, CATCH Academy, Karen Pryor Academy or Jean Donaldson’s Academy for Dog Trainers. Dog training schools provide foundational knowledge about dogs: the book smarts. Hands-on experience is a huge part of training, but bringing both knowledge and experience to the table when working with dogs helps create safe and successful encounters.
Once you’re educated and experienced, it’s time to zero in on the prize: your own business.
Before taking on your first client, get organized:
Decide what type of training (listed above) your business will focus on. Some examples are basic manners, working with certain breeds or dogs with certain behavior issues. Finding a niche will make you a stand out and help develop and hone your skills
Start petworking! Market and promote your services: Visit local veterinarians and other pet-related business, set up booths at local events/festivals and promote yourself on social media.
Spending your days with dogs can be a blast, but can also be exhausting, so take care of yourself too. Make time for downtime so you’re refreshed and can put your best paw forward for your clients. The bonus? Since the pet care industry is expected to top $275 billion by 2030, a dog training career can be both lucrative and rewarding.
The post How to Become a Dog Trainer by Rachel Brix, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The post Can Dogs Eat Green Beans? by Claire Primo, CVT, ACMT, FFCP appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The simple answer is yes! Many dogs enjoy green beans as treats, snacks or meal toppers. In addition, green beans are affordable and low calorie. At 31 calories per cup, they are an ideal treat for pups on a diet.
Nutritional components of green beans include:
Fiber
Healthy carbohydrate
Antioxidants
Vitamin C
Vitamin K
Vitamin A
Calcium
Potassium
Vitamin B6
Essential fatty acids
How to feed green beans to your dog.
There are a few guidelines to follow when feeding your dog green beans.
Serve your dog plain green beans. Never cook green beans for your dog with additional ingredients, such as salt, butter, fats or sugar. Avoid canned green beans as well, since they often contain high salt content.
The best ways to offer your dog green beans include:
Cooked (boiled or steamed with no added salt)
Dehydrated
Fresh/uncooked
Frozen
Always plain with no added ingredients
How many green beans can my dog eat?
Start by introducing small portions to your dog at a time and monitor how her GI tract responds.
Small dogs (>20lbs): 1-to-2 green beans daily
Medium dogs (20lbs-50lbs): 2-to-3 green beans daily
Large dogs: (<50lbs): 3-to-4 green beans daily
Remember: These tasty treats are not a substitute for a balanced diet and should not exceed more than 10% of your pup’s daily dietary intake.
If you have any worries with how your pup may respond to green beans or if she has a sensitive stomach, consult with your veterinarian before adding this tasty treat into their diet. Bone-appetit!
The post Can Dogs Eat Green Beans? by Claire Primo, CVT, ACMT, FFCP appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The post 8 Common Types of Dog Tumors by Claire Primo, CVT, ACMT, FFCP appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
There are many variations of canine tumors and not all are created equal. Some tumors are less problematic for dogs, while others risk spreading throughout the body. Understanding common types of tumors, how they present and are treated, and symptoms to watch for, is essential in early treatment and intervention.
Two main types of dog tumors
Tumors are characterized as either benign or malignant:
Benign tumors are noncancerous tumors that will not spread throughout the body.
Malignant tumors are cancerous and have the ability to spread cancer throughout your dog’s body. Early intervention is a key component to treatment and recovery.
Benign, fatty tumors that tend to be soft and mobile (not attached to your dog’s body wall) and range in size.
Mast cell tumor (MCT). Malignant tumors that often look like warts or bug bites and can change in size. MCTs are most commonly seen in Boxers, Boston Terriers, Bull Terriers, and Pugs.
Wart-like, viral tumors that typically appear in or around a dog’s mouth. Papillomas are benign but contagious between dogs and are typically characterized as whitish masses with cauliflower texture.
A fast growing, benign tumor typically found in young dogs. These tumors are known for infection and ulceration, however tend to resolve on their own with time.
A highly malignant tumor stemming from blood vessels. This tumor often affects the liver, skin and spleen and commonly impacts senior pups.
Malignant tumor of the bones, osteosarcoma causes significant pain, often affecting a forelimb.
Malignant tumors often found in the oral cavity of dogs and can be very aggressive. There is now a melanoma vaccine available to dogs diagnosed with this tumor!
Sebaceous gland tumor. Raised nodules that originate from sebaceous glands. In rare cases, sebaceous cysts become malignant. Remember that no tumor should go unmonitored or forgotten!
Symptoms
Dog tumor symptoms will vary greatly depending on many factors and may include:
Visualizing a lump or bump
Limping
Pain
Low appetite
Difficulty eating
Vomiting or diarrhea
Coughing
Weight loss
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, visit your veterinarian.
Diagnosis
The most common ways to diagnose dog tumors include:
Fine needle aspirate (FNA). A fine needle aspirate (FNA) involves collecting samples of cells from your dog’s tumor using a needle and syringe and viewing these cells microscopically.
A biopsy involves collecting and submitting a small amount of the tumor for pathology review. A biopsy reveals detailed information about the tumor and can help to stage malignant tumors.
Your veterinarian may recommend additional testing such as radiographs, abdominal ultrasound or a lymph node biopsy.
Benign tumors should remain closely monitored by you and your veterinary team. If changes occur in size, shape or consistency, have them reassessed. Regular exams by your veterinarian are key in finding tumors less visible to the naked eye.
Early detection of malignant tumors often happens at home. Regularly massaging your dog can help you keep tabs on current and new tumors. Monitor changes in your dog’s everyday behavior and listen to your gut. You are your dog’s biggest medical advocate!
The post 8 Common Types of Dog Tumors by Claire Primo, CVT, ACMT, FFCP appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
The post Dug Up at Dogster: July 2023 Dog Events and Dog Holidays by Lauren Katims, Executive Editor Dogster appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
How are all our furriest friends spending their summers? They’re making splashes in the pool, chomping down on yogurt-berry pupsicles, and showing off their most festive 4th of July outfits! Thank you to all our readers for sharing your pup’s photos with us. We’ve shared them on our Dogster social media pages – check out our #dogsterdogs in action! This summer, I’m working with my pups on their comfort levels near the water. We’re making progress! Emmy and I are graduating this weekend from the pool and are going on a little paddle boarding adventure to the lake by our house. Emmy has always hated getting wet, so she’s come a long way.
Something to think about this month: How will you keep your dogs calm during 4th of July fireworks? Many dogs get anxious and fearful of the loud, unpredictable noises. Here are some tips on calming your dog, which will make your celebration a happier one, too. Wishing all our puppy pals a happy 4th of July!
Planning to attend any dog events near you? Send us pictures of your pup to be featured on our social media pages.
A small dog with an American flag. Photography by Photohunter / Shutterstock.
July 2023 monthly dog holidays
Lost Pet Prevention month
National Pet Hydration Awareness month
July 2023 dog holidays
July 1: ID Your Pet day
July 4: International Whippet day
July 11: All American Pet Photo day
July 15: National Pet Fire Safety day
July 21: World Collie day
July 21: National Craft for Your Local Shelters day
July 31:National Mutt day
July 2023 dog events
July 8, 2023: If you’re in the Los Angeles area, head to Pawlympics from 4 to 7 p.m. at South Park Doggie – Doggieland for a series of competitive games and activities for dogs.
July 9, 2023: The11th annual PAWmicon, a Pop-culture themed festival held by Helen Woodward Animal Center to celebrate the superheroes of real life who adopt orphan animals. PAWmicon, located at AleSmith Brewing Company in San Diego, Calif., will feature events, such as the PAWsplay contest for contestants to dress themselves and their pooches up as their favorite pop culture characters. There’s also a trivia competition, music, animal artists, games for the kids and craft beer.
July 12 2023: Marin Humane is hosting its next drop-in community clinic for pet parents in need at Pell Plaza in Novato. Bring your pet to the mobile clinic at 500 Redwood Blvd., from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. to get: free vaccinations (DA2PP, FVRCP, rabies), free microchipping, free flea/tick treatment, free mini-check-up by a veterinarian and pet food and supplies!
July 14-16, 2023: Del Monte Kennel Club Dog Show. Held at 4380 Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel-By-The-Sea, Calif., 93923. All breed entry for Conformation, Obedience and Rally.
July 14-18, 2023: One of the largest American Veterinary Association events of the year, the AVMA Convention 2023 will be held in Denver, Colo. for veterinary professionals to experience 600 hours of high-quality CE, highly rated special events, innovative solutions and networking opportunities.
July 19-23, 2023:Houston World Series of Dog Shows. Throughout the five-day event, the show offers an extensive shopping venue, numerous seminars, entertainment exhibitions and obedience/companion events. During the Meet the Breeds event, the public can get hands-on experience with more than 110 purebred dog breeds and discuss care, personality traits and temperaments with breed experts.
July 19-21, 2023: The Association of Service Dog Providers for Military Veterans Partner Members invite all to attend the annual National Service Dogs for Veterans Conference in Washington, D.C. The annual conference consists of two full days of formatting for administrative, veterans, mental health and dog training tracks and a half day roundtable training session. Tickets include breakfast for all three days, lunch for two days and an opening night reception.
July 22 – 23, 2023: Join more than 50 of the top pet influencers from all over the US and Canada, such as Crusoe the Dachshund, Tika the Iggy, and Jonathan Graziano for PetCon 2023, held in Chicago. There will be meet and greets, a pet adoption garden, a shoppable marketplace featuring small businesses, speaker sessions, a non-profit showcase and lots of fun activities!
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The post DIY Whelping Box by Yvonne Villasenor appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
A whelping box acts as a safe haven for your dog to deliver her litter and is where the pups will live the first few weeks of their new lives. Fortunately, you can build this essential item at home if you’re looking to fully customize it for your dog and living space — and save some money.
Dogster interviewed Grace Sette, AKC breeder of Sette’s Chihuahuas of Long Island, NY, to learn more about how to make your very own whelping box for puppies.
Materials for a DIY whelping box:
Use a large plastic box or container to make your whelping box. (Grace uses a dog house to make sure there’s a lot of space.) If you need it to be portable, she recommends adding PVC piping and wheels.
How to make a whelping box:
Secure a water bowl on the side of your whelping box with screws.
Place a hard foam board at the bottom of the box to ensure it’s level and comfortable.
Attach plastic piping to the whelping box so it’s elevated.
Attach steps so the dam can come and go to the floor where her pee pads and bed are located. (This entire area should be gated off.)
Create a doorway by making a cut into the box. Grace adds pieces of wood to block the pups from leaving. The older and bigger they get, Grace adds 2-to-3 inch mini wood blocks. This should always be low enough for the dam to come and go.
Dogster tip: Cut a hole to fit an electrical wire, in case an additional heat source is needed.
In terms of length, Grace makes her whelping boxes long enough so the dam can move to the other side to rest. When the pups are between 3-and-4 weeks old, she puts a pee pad on the side with the pups, so they have a space to relieve themselves. At this point, their mom spends time in a bed or out of the ‘penned’ area.
Optional: pig rail to protect puppies if mom rolls over (Grace found this was necessary one with preemie pups and the mom was larger.)
Optional: electric heater or lamp
When the pups are 4 ½-to- 5 weeks old, Grace says they graduate to a regular pen in the main section of the house. Their world gets bigger as they get bigger!
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The post Easy Dog Trick: How to Teach a Dog to Bow by Sassafras Lowrey, MFA, CPDT-KA, CTDI appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
If you’re looking for an impressive dog trick, don’t forget about the classic bow. This trick puts the natural dog play bow behavior on cue so you can ask your dog to bow anytime, anywhere. This playful position — elbows down on the ground, bottom in the air — is also a great stretch for your dog’s core and back. You don’t need a lot of space or supplies to get started.
To teach your dog to bow, you need:
lots of small pieces of treats that your dog is excited about.
If clicker training, use a clicker to mark when your dog is in the right position.
Or, say “yes” as a verbal marker when your dog is in the right position.
Step 1: Start in a quiet area of your home with minimal distractions. With your dog standing in front of you, get her attention with a treat.
Step 2: When you have your dog’s attention, use that treat to lure her head down toward the floor. As her head goes down and back, she will naturally lower the front of her body.
Step 3: When your dog’s elbows touch the floor and her back legs go up, click if you’re clicker training, or use a verbal marker like “yes,” and then quickly treat your dog.
Dogster trainer tip: If you find your dog is dropping into a down position instead of staying in a bow, you can toss a treat instead. This will help cue that we want the bow position, not a down.
Step 4: Repeat several times, continuing to lure your dog into the bow position and praising and treating your dog when her elbows touch the ground, and her bottom goes up. When your dog is consistently following the lure, add in a verbal cue of your choice like “bow” or “fancy.” Say your cue word as your dog’s elbows go down, and her bottom goes up.
Step 5: Fade out the treat lure. Start by luring your dog into the bow position with an empty hand. Then, praise and treat your dog when she goes into the position.
Step 6: After several repetitions of luring with an empty hand, start to phase out the full lure. Use your verbal cue with a smaller hand signal. Start to add duration where your dog is holding the bow position longer before you click, treat and release your dog.
Step 7: Once your dog is smoothly performing the bow behavior on cue, continue to phase out the lure, so you eventually have only a verbal cue or a small physical cue. Then, practice doing the trick in different positions like bowing or curtsying yourself! Also start practicing bow in new and more distracting environments.
The post Easy Dog Trick: How to Teach a Dog to Bow by Sassafras Lowrey, MFA, CPDT-KA, CTDI appeared first on Dogster. Copying over entire articles infringes on copyright laws. You may not be aware of it, but all of these articles were assigned, contracted and paid for, so they aren't considered public domain. However, we appreciate that you like the article and would love it if you continued sharing just the first paragraph of an article, then linking out to the rest of the piece on Dogster.com.
