Dogs learn in two ways: by association (emotional response) and by consequence (doing things). An example of associative learning is dogs’ reaction to the sight of a food bowl: fits of joy. They have learned that this bowl predicts mealtime. We can use dogs’ associations to teach them things. For instance, new puppies don’t care… Read more »
Awkward as the subject is, excessive flatulence in dogs is no joke. Of course, some gas production is perfectly normal, in dogs as well as humans. But too much of it is not just a nuisance for those living with the afflicted pooch, it’s a sign that something isn’t working as it should in the… Read more »
Snakebite readiness and prevention isn’t just for rural dogs. Urban pooches visit yards and sometimes go on vacation or road trips, so here’s a primer on what to know: Prevention. Beware of yards that have undergrowth, brush, or shrubs where snakes can hide. Ditto spilled birdseed or fruit; food attracts rodents, which attract snakes. On… Read more »
This slender, smooth-coated twiglet combines the doe eyes and sensitivity of a miniature Bambi with the harefooted quickness befitting a tiny cousin of the Greyhound. Affectionately known as ‘Iggies,’ Italian Greyhounds are an ancient breed, found in pictorials as far back as old Egypt and first-century Rome. Possibly bred originally for hunting small prey (and… Read more »
Dogs have pulled things for humans throughout history: sleds, carts, and many types of cargo. In today’s sport version, dogs wear a padded harness that attaches to a so-called trace (two side straps), which connects to either a sled, wheeled cart, or rail carts. Competitions mostly attracts bully breeds—Bulldogs, Mastiffs, Boxers—but the sport is open… Read more »
Aesop wrote his fables a very long time ago. In 1877 Black Beauty galloped onto the stage, and mid-twentieth century, John Steinbeck wrote about his poodle-accompanied road trip in Travels with Charlie. Stories about animals have always been around, but precious few transcend the fluffy-edged sphere of children’s literature. Not so anymore. Ten or twelve… Read more »
A trim figure is fundamental to good health for dogs. Statistically, lean dogs live longer than their chunkier buddies and have fewer health problems.Overweight dogs are more likely to develop pancreatitis, diabetes, heart disease, and joint pain. If the pounds have snuck on (if you can’t clearly see your dog’s waist), consult your veterinarian about… Read more »
Social dog We all want our dogs to play nice with other dogs—and shouldn’t it come naturally? Dogs are social, after all. So why does an otherwise sweet-natured canine buddy turn into a killjoy at the park? Well, dogs can be introverts, too. Like humans, they can have bad days and they occasionally form instant… Read more »
Some dogs don’t appreciate a good lie-in—or know the difference between workdays and weekends. Young puppies and senior dogs can’t be expected it to hold it all night and are legitimately excused, but adult dogs should know better. If your dog has taken it upon himself to be your personal alarm clock, here are some tips.
