dogs

Dogs Are Free to Play Within the Electronic Dog Fence

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

Is your dog a runner? A large variety of dogs, especially sporting breeds, enjoy running around in wide-open areas and for miles on end. Considering they are also quite intelligent animals, they will eventually find a way to escape the yard or other area they were contained in. There are lots of reasons why so many houses don’t have their back yards fenced and the presence of a running dog won’t change this situation. Moreover, dog owners don’t even need to consider a fenced in area especially for their dogs, as there are so many other possibilities to keep their dogs safe at home. Of course the electronic dog fence is not simple equipment, but dog owners just need to read the instructions in order to easily use it.

An electronic dog fence is usually installed around the area you wish to fence in for your dog by a professional company. Several sensors are placed around the fenced in area that interact with the specialized dog collar used for the fence. The sensors will sense when the dog approaches them, and then the collar will issue a warning sound to make your dog turn back. Some dogs will avoid the warning beep and will continue their way, but the collar will issue then a mild electronic shock to stop them. Starting from the first day you installed the fence, your dog will learn to turn back when he or she hears the warning sound, after only getting two or three shocks.

These fences have been argued by many to be inhumane treatment of animals. Nevertheless, due to the complex technology these equipments are using, they have proven to be completely dog friendly. The collars usually have a shock setting on them that you get to set for your animal. In order to be sure the settings you make will not hurt in any way your dog, the vendors of these equipments will encourage you to test them by yourself. At the maximum setting, when trying the collar you will feel something like the electric static shock you’ve already experienced at home some times. The dog will be astonished by the shock, not hurt. The dog does not understand what happens, it is just surprised.

The small shock your dog gets is far more humane than the injuries and death that are very possible if he gets loose and hit by a vehicle or shot by a neighbour who fears he is after their livestock. These devices are the most effective when it comes to containing the dog within a safe area.

Thousands of electronic dog fence owners around the world have been enjoying the benefits of their fence for years. The dog can roam around a seemingly opened space and the owner is peaceful about its safety. Buying an electronic dog fence means paying for the safety of your dog. They are safe and easy to use devices. So what do you have to lose? You’ll be happy seeing your dog running and playing free in the yard.

Resource Box

Of course the electronic dog fence is not simple equipment. The dog will be astonished by the shock, not hurt. None of the buyers of an electronic dog fence complaint about it.

West Highland Terrier Dogs – Are They Right for Your Lifestyle?

Wednesday, August 31st, 2011

West Highland Terrier Dogs – When setting out to find a Westie is right for your lifestyle and your family, you have to consider a few things first. Bear in mind that owning a Westie is a very special experience and the fact is that you are adding a member to your family. Therefore you are about to bring a major change to your life.

Moreover, a healthy Westie can live for 12-15 years or more, so it is important for you and your future Westie, that you give all this some serious thought. You must be prepared to invest considerable time, money and patience in training your Westie to be a good companion.

Make sure your Westie gets enough attention and exercise. Spend the money it takes to provide proper veterinary care including but certainly not limited to:

Annual vaccines

Heartworm testing

Monthly year-round preventive

Spaying/neutering.

Keep the breeder informed and updated on the Westies accomplishments and problems. Have the patience to accept responsibility for the Westie despite inevitable life changes such as new babies, kids going off to school, divorce, relocation, or returning to work.

All you need to do is just take your time and find a Westie that matches your lifestyle. Most of all, don’t get a Westie on impulse or because it is trendy. Trends just come and go, but your Westie will stay with you for a longer time.

You’ll probably see lots of adorable puppies. But try to think of your future Westie as an adult. Every puppy is a cute ball of fluff, but you need to know what it will grow up to be.

You can begin by studying the breed’s history, as it is common knowledge that all breeds were developed to perform a specific function. If you know that purpose and the history of the breed, then you will have a good idea of its needs, its temperament and personality and you will be best prepared for a long-lasting, successful relationship.

Bear also in mind that having a Westie creates responsibilities. Also make sure you will have quality time to spend with your Westie. There are many resources to help you in your search. Start at surfing the Internet, searching for more information on Westies, as well as on clubs and kennels.

Here are some other suggestions. Take a look at some of the many books, magazines, web sites and videos you have at hand. Consult with your local all breed club, boarding kennel, or veterinarian. Go to a Westie show and talk to Westie breeders and owners, when they are not busy grooming or showing.You can also test to see what Westie you should choose to match your lifestyle.

Also called the Westie, this terrier has its origins, as the name already suggests, in the western Scottish highlands.

In this sheer and rocky landscape, small robust terriers were used for the hunt on foxes, wildcats, otters and badgers. The exhausting hunt, usually in the pack, required much courage and endurance as the hard climate required. Beside the hunt, the Westies were also put into the guarding of house and yard of their owner.

It is probable that the West Highland White Terrier and all the terriers of Scotland came from the same stock. The Scotties, Cairns, Dandie Dinmonts, and West Highland Whites are branches from the same tree and its roots.

The most important branch of the predecessors of the Westie was in the 18th Century from the Poltalloch terriers of the Colonel Malcolm from Argyllshir.

As the legend goes, a reddish Westie of his, emerging from cover, was mistakenly shot for a fox. Malcolm is said to have decided on the spot to breed only white Westies that could be readily identified in the field.

The breed was listed officially as the West Highland White Terrier in 1907 at the Crufts Westie show in England. The name was chosen for the rugged character of the Westies and the area of their development.

Westies were originally bred for controlling the population of rats, fox, otter and other vermin. Nowadays, this charming terrier is mostly bred as a companion or family Westie. The Westie belongs to the Terrier group and has full recognition of the most important Kennel Clubs worldwide.

(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)

Jeff Cuckson

Discover the FREE 5 Day Westie Secrets Mini-Course to learn about your West Highland Terrier. This course won’t be available for ever. Go NOW to: Mad About Westies

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West Highland White Terrier – Dog Breed Profile

Saturday, August 27th, 2011

Description: The West Highland White Terrier is a small dog with a sturdy build. This dog ranges in height between 9 and 12 inches at the shoulder. The dog weighs 15 to 21 pounds and the bitch 13 to 16 pounds. The West Highland White Terrier has a hard outer coat about 2 long, with a soft undercoat beneath. The coat of this dog is always white. The ears are naturally erect and the short tail needs no docking. The legs of the West Highland White Terrier are fairly short. This breed is also known as the Westie, Poltalloch Terrier, or Roseneath Terrier. The Westie can live for 15 years or more.

History: The West Highland White Terrier originated in the Poltalloch region of Scotland in the 19th century. When a breeder’s Cairn Terriers began to throw off white puppies, this breed began its path to recognition. The Westie was further refined at the estate of the Duke of Argyll, Roseneath. This dog was originally used to hunt vermin such as rats and mice, but also used against badgers, foxes, and otters.

Temperament: One word comes to mind when speaking of the West Highland White Terrier’s personality, and that is – lively. This little dog has a great deal of energy. The Westie enjoys being around its family and will be devoted to them, and is probably at its best with older children. This dog should become accustomed to cats and other small household pets while still a puppy, otherwise it will view them as game. The West Highland White Terrier is a barker and also loves to dig. Sometimes these two activities are combined.

Health Issues: A health issue of concern is called “Lion Jaw” or craniomandibular osteopathy. This affects Westies between the ages of 3 to 12 months. An excess of bone tissue is deposited in the jaw area, and this makes it very painful for the young West Highland White Terrier to eat. The condition will correct itself by the time the dog is about 12 months old, but until that time, pain relievers or cortisone will be given to allow the dog to eat. The Westie can also suffer from liver problems and hernias.

Grooming: Because the West Highland White Terrier has a rather long, shaggy coat, it should receive a brushing or combing every day. If it has been outside, check the coat for ticks or stick-tights, which can cause tangles. Trimming with blunt ended scissors should be done around the ears and eyes, and the coat will need stripping twice a year. Make sure the ears are clean and dry, and keep the nails clipped short.

Living Conditions: The West Highland White Terrier is capable of living in either an apartment or a house. It loves to cuddle with its people and might become destructive if left alone for long periods. However, it should be noted that the high energy level of this dog requires the owner to make sure that it gets enough exercise. Westies love to play and will chase a ball for hours. It will appreciate a daily walk, and would probably be best suited to active individuals and families.

For more information on West Highland White Terrier Training, Puppies and other dog breeds please visit my sites below. Thanks for stopping by.

Puppies For Sale
Puppies or Dogs

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West Highland Terriers – Dog Breeds

Thursday, August 25th, 2011

West Highland Terriers or “Westies” originated in the West Highlands of Scotland. These terriers were originally bred to go after small game. It is said that their breeding came about after another terrier was mistakenly shot Another breeder had a few white pups in the litter and bred those exclusively to become the West Highland White terriers of today. A Westie is very friendly and has a jaunt about his step. This breed is very hardy and needs a walk every day for exercise. Westies have a better temperament than most terriers and will not snap as much. They are recognized by the AKC and other top breeding programs as a legitimate breed.

Westies are fun loving, and fun to be with. They need a small yard to be happy. They are also good companions to be with, and all the love that you could ask for. However, the life can go right out of them if you mistreat these precious dogs. They are good companions for those that have families and well behaved children. They are a bit high strung, but are well worth it to have as friends and companions. The heart of a warrior lies within their chests.

For hunting of small game, these terriers really cannot be beat. These hunters keep at it until they have found their prey. Their determination is one of their inborn traits as a small game hunter. They are fantastic to work with and a joy on the hunting field. These terriers have a natural ability to hunt and also to play. Their good nature is what truly endears them to dog lovers. For Westie owners, they really would not have it any other way. These dogs are also champions on the field of competition and have the AKC stamp of approval. You can see a representative at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. You can also see these at any AKC competition.

These adorable Westies have won Best of Show, Best of Breed, and even won several AKC events. Breeders have entered these dogs into all sorts of shows. They have won major competitions in any show that they have been entered into. They are champions of field, of breed and lovable companions to any and all who take them into their homes. If you want a loyal dog breed this is the only one to have.

For more information on West Highland Terriers or Dog Breeds take a look at this Dog Training website.

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West Highland White Terriers – Fascinating Facts

Thursday, May 5th, 2011

West Highland White Terriers began their history as the undesirable white offspring of the dark-colored Cairn Terrier. With the dog’s popularity today, it is hard to believe that the early Westies were usually drowned or shot.

One breeder, though, Colonel Edward Donald Malcolm of Poltalloch, is credited with recognizing the potential of the white coat. The legend is that it made the dog more visible as it ran through brush, and prevented it from being mistaken for prey during foxhunts. He bred them for their white coats, and for many years they were known as Poltalloch Terriers.

The Westies, as they commonly called today, the Cairn, Scottish, Skye, and Dandie Dinmont, West highland Terriers are closely related breeds that arose in the rugged terrain of Scotland. They were bred to chase down small prey such as otters, foxes, badgers, and vermin. The Terrier’s features and temperament both were honed until it became a feisty little dog that would determinedly run its quarry to ground.

It has a small, compact body, with short legs, which allowed it to run and squirm through underbrush where its usual prey dwelled. The Westie’s double coat has coarse outer hairs to shed dirt and debris, and a thick, soft undercoat.

Like many hunting dogs, they are considered intelligent. They also are prone to pursue any creature that runs from it. Barking announced to the hunter that it was on the chase. Westie dogs were trained and bred to become more aggressive the harder the prey tried to escape.

The origin of the word ‘terrier’ is in the Latin word ‘terra’ – earth. It was given to them, and all terrier breeds, because once their prey is run to ground, they will dig it out. Westies today still possess the tendency to be diggers.

The modern white west highland terrier dog is a hardy, tenacious breed that is also loyal and friendly. They still retain the traits of their ancestors: a love of the chase, a moderate tendency to bark, a habit of digging, and they are prone to become a bit aggressive during very rough play. They are a little obstinate, and need firm, consistent discipline. However, they are also easy to care for, and natural guard dogs. Those taking a West Highland white Terrier as a pet will find themselves with a loyal, loving companion for the life of the dog.

(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)

I do hope that you have found the article of use to you.

Good health and happiness

Jeff Cuckson

Discover the FREE 5 Day Westie Secrets Mini-Course to learn about your West Highland Terrier. This course won’t be available for ever. Go NOW to: Mad About Westies

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West Highland White Terrier – Success Tips for Training

Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011

The West Highland Terrier is a friendly dog, and is considered easier to handle and train than other terriers, such as the Scottish Terrier. Still, it possesses the bold, dynamic terrier temperament, and has to be trained in a manner appropriate for the breed.

Your West Highland Terrier training begins from the moment you bring your terrier home. Westies are stubborn and clever, and considered a bit naughty. They will become demanding and ill tempered if they do not get their way, so you must teach them from the start that you are in charge. From the beginning, treat your terrier in a firm, consistent way.

Terrier puppies, like all very young dogs, should be trained in short sessions of five minutes or less. Make the training session play for both you and your terrier. Generously reward your dog with praise. They are also known to react well to food training.

Your Westie will become confused if you lash out at its misbehavior, particularly if you continue to be angry after the behavior has stopped. Your little terrier wants to please you, and by consistently rewarding the behavior you wish to promote, you will encourage it to become part of the dog’s personality.

Like the Scottish Terrier, and other terrier breeds, Westies are barkers. Barking is a dog’s natural way to communicate a variety of feelings from happiness, to anxiety, to boredom. The terrier breeds, though, are quicker to bark than other dogs.

The most natural reaction by dog owners is to yell at your terrier to stop barking. This is exactly the WRONG thing to do. Your dog hears the loud voice as a sort of human bark, and it only reinforces the behavior. The key is to remain calm, verbally and physically, and diffuse the terrier’s excited emotional state. Say ‘no bark’ in a calm but firm tone. Never forget to reward the dog when the barking stops.

West Highland Terriers are clever, active dogs, and they will sometimes bark out of boredom. Be sure to provide your dog with walks and appropriate play to stimulate their minds and bodies. You can divert their attention with a chew toy that can be stuffed with a food treat.

Other concerns common to West Highland Terrier training, as well as Scotties and other terrier breeds, are digging, chasing, and aggressive behavior. These little dogs were never bred to be pets, but rather to hunt down and kill vermin.

Never encourage your terrier’s natural behavior by engaging in aggressive play. It is difficult for your Westie to distinguish that gnawing and nipping are all right during play, but not at other times.

(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)

I do hope that you have found the article of use to you.

Good health and happiness

Jeff Cuckson

Discover the FREE 5 Day Westie Secrets Mini-Course to learn about your West Highland Terrier. This course won’t be available for ever. Go NOW to: Mad About Westies

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Stop Your Dog’s Barking With Cintronella Collars

Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011

Amidst the electric shock and sonic collars that are often used to calm down the perpetual barking of pets, the advanced Cintronella bark collars prove to be humane and unique.

Working Principle of the citronella bark collar

Cintronella bark collars have a mechanism that allows them to use a citrus spray, that triggers at the vibrations of the dog’s barking. When the dog starts to bark, the citrus scented smell spurts right under the chin of the dog. The dog dislikes the strong citrus scent that takes him by surprize and it will stop barking once it smells it.

Types of Cintronella Bark Collars

You can choose between citronella anti bark collar that is controlled by a remote or a sound sensitive one.

Barking induces the spouting of the spray in case of the sound sensitive model whereas the remote control version can be operated remotely by the owner via a single click of a button as and when there is a necessity for it. Many dog owners prefer the remote control version to the sensor sensitive one as it gives them te power to decide when to interfere. Moreover, this type of collar can be used whenever your dog engages in disturbing behavior, such as attacking strangers.

Nevertheless, both models are extremely efficient in teaching the dog how to behave. Apart from annoying the dog, it will feel no other discomfort produced by the collar.

Why Is The Cintronella Collar So Efficient?

1. This type of collar allows you to control your dog’s behaviour without using painful methods.

2. The consumables are available in any pet store.

3. Despite having an aggressive smell, the citrus scent poses no danger to either you or your dog.

4. No person will be disturbed by the citrus smell of the collar.

Summary: This article elucidates the intricate details of the cintronella bark collars. It clarifies any basic detail related to citrus collars. The article presents the types of cintronella collars, how they work and what advantages they bring to dog owners.

citronella bark collar is a good alternative to other methods of controlling a dog’s barking. Moreover, the remote version allows the dog owner to inhibit various other annoying dog behaviors, such as chewing objects or attacking strangers. Click here to find more information on the citronella anti bark collar.

West Highland White Terrier Dog Breed Temperament, Health Issues, Grooming, and Living Conditions

Monday, May 2nd, 2011

Temperament: The West Highland White Terrier is a hardy small dog, and gets on well with children. This dog is an excellent companion and this dog travel well. The West Highland White Terrier is easy to train and they have a great deal of self assurance in their personality. This breed needs a good pack leader, or they can become irritable and snappy, guarding food, and even biting. This dog loves to bark and dig and needs firm guidelines on what is acceptable.

The West Highland White Terrier does show terrier instincts and will want to chase cats, but the fun is in the chase, and the cat should be unharmed. Small dog syndrome should be avoided as this will lead the dog to have behavioural problems. To prevent this you have to be the pack leader and have firm rules, for the dog to follow. This breed may be small but still requires walking daily and giving them play sessions will burn off the energy that they have. This dog, like most dogs loves to have a good romp off the lead in a safe area.

Health issues: The West Highland White Terrier is prone to hip problems and jawbone calcification, this is painful in puppy hood. Any puppy that has this, will need medical help, but this does pass at about 1 year. Liver disease and skin problems are also recorded. As with any dog it is very important that you make sure they are up to date on all vaccinations, de-wormings and heart worm preventatives. It is also suggested by the majority of licensed veterinarians that you take your puppy or dog in for a check up at least twice each year.

Grooming: The West Highland White Terrier is fairly easy to keep clean and tidy. All that is required is brushing regularly. The dog’s coat will need trimming every four months, with stripping twice a year.

Living conditions: This dog is fine for apartment living and is active indoors and will do fine without a garden, but daily walks are still required.

For more information on different Dog Breeds, Dog Training and Teacup Puppies for sale including Yorkies, Chihuahuas and Morkies please visit our websites below. Be sure to Register for our Free Puppy Contest where you can register to win a Free Puppy valued at up to $1,500.00 with Free Shipping.

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How Long Do West Highland White Terriers or Westies Live?

Monday, May 2nd, 2011

How long do Westies live? I was out for a walk with my son Jonathan and Pepper our Westie Dog by the sea shore where we live. I met a neighbour called John who I hadn’t seen for ages. I was very surprised to see him on his own because he has a black Labrador and the 2 of them are inseparable.

Naturally I enquired about Barney and his face dropped. I knew something was terribly wrong. His reply was that he had to put Barney down because he had developed cancer and it had come on so quickly. He didn’t want his friend to suffer.

I said to John that I was so sorry. He knew that I meant it as all dog lovers do. After all it is the passing of one of your family. Non dog owners can’t understand and I feel that they are the losers of such love and loyalty.

The news hurt Jonathan because he always would play with Barney and make such a fuss of him.

It got me to thinking how long our Pepper would live to. The Westie in general should live to around 15 years if probably looked after and also if no serious health issue arise.

He is now 6 years and I still can’t believe he is that old. Maybe it’s a sign of me getting old, because my kids seemed to have grown up in the blink of an eye.

I give Pepper a big hug when I got home and he got a couple of extra treats also. Don’t want to take him for granted and will monitor his health checks with the proper grooming for the west highland terrier He always looks like a little puppy again, every time he returns from the groomers. Have to also start building up the westie photos again.

So for all dog lovers, please remember to give your pet a hug today

(Disclaimer: Any information contained in this site relating to various medical, health and fitness conditions of Westies or other animals and their treatments is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing the health of any animal. You should always consult and check with your own vet or veterinarian.)

Jeff Cuckson
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Discover the FREE 5 Day Westie Secrets Mini-Course to learn about your West Highland Terrier. This course won’t be available for ever. Go NOW to: Mad About Westies
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Itchy Dog – West Highland White Terrier

Friday, April 29th, 2011

The West Highland White Terrier suffers from allergic skin disease called at or atopic dermatitis. These dogs have a faulty skin barrier and are allergic to pollens, dust mites and household spores (the things that cause asthma in people). These dogs are frustrating to treat.

As pollens and spores are difficult to keep away from the dog, the problems are recurrent. To reduce the severity of flare-ups, the itch should be treated as soon as possible. The itch and rash on these dogs develops on the thinly haired regions of the body that is not well protected. These dogs typically have itchy feet, groin, ventral abdomen (tummy) and axilla (arm pits) and the concave surface of the pinna (pointy part of ear).

Immunotherapy is the only current way of curing the problem with a 70% success rate. Allergens are determined by a blood test and a skin prick test. This procedure is expensive and most owners of West Highland White Terriers turn to other ways of managing the condition. Corticosteroids such as prednisolone are the cornerstone of management. Cyclosporine also works well but the costs involved are often inhibitive.

Recent developments in understanding this terrible condition have enabled some more effective natural treatment regimes to develop that really do work. The skin barrier is deficient in a protein called sphingosine which is part of the protective ceramides that bind the skin cells together. Barrier protection and repair can greatly help these dogs prevent flares by blocking trigger factors. The west Highland White Terrier is a very challenging itchy dog.

For a FREE “Home Diagnosis Manual to the itchy dog” and information on natural treatment that really stops your dog itching and scratching go to http://www.scratchingdoghelp.com

For more information on treating the itchy scratching dog the natural way and to find out how to stop the itch go to http://www.scratchingdoghelp.com/treating_itchy_dogs.html

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