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Ours is a pet loving society, and wherever possible most homes would not be complete without a dog, cat, goldfish, hamster, rat… the lists is long and varied. Most of us understand just how expensive owning one of the larger animals can be, especially dogs. Because of this dog health insurance may be well worth investigating.

There is no doubt that dog owners need to take their pet to a veterinarian at least once a year, for a physical and inoculations. Most dog owners should be prepared for this expense. But where dog health insurance is useful is when your dog has an accident, develops a chronic condition or a terminal illness. Should any of these befall your much-loved dog, the expense of treatment can be staggering.

Taking out dog health insurance can help owners avoid heartbreaking decisions about the future of their pet. Faced with the prospect of a veterinarian’s bill, which could amount to hundreds or even thousands of dollars, those who can ill afford such expense may not be able to provide the surgery or medications needed to get their dog into good health again.

There are many different providers of pet insurance, and each one will offer plans tailored to dogs, with various inclusions. The level of cover will be reflected in the premium, but just about all insurers will cover injury and common medical conditions, although some hereditary conditions may be excluded. Most insurers do not cover vaccinations, or worming and flea treatments – but do ask about them.

Should your dog’s medical condition require a prescription diet, check with the prospective insurer to see if this is covered. Sometimes insurers will cover diet and other extras for an extra premium payment.

Some common exclusions are blood tests, x-rays and ultrasounds. Some breeds suffer from hereditary conditions, and these too may be excluded.

Prices of dog health insurance policies will vary between insurers. Generally, you get what you pay for. Compare the benefits carefully, and don’t opt for the cheapest if it means you will compromise on quality.

In calculating the premium for dog health insurance, insurers will consider the dog’s age, breed, current health, medical history and any past claims. An excess will probably apply, which means the insurer will only pay above a certain amount. For instance, if the dog health insurance policy has an excess of $200 and your claim is for a $300 bill, the insurance will only pay out $100 (or as the case may be, any amount above the $200).

Shop around for your dog health insurance to find the one that is best for your pet. Take the time to get quotes, and clarify exactly what is covered, and more importantly, what is not covered.

If you want more information on dog health care insurance, check out this book called “Pet Insurance.”

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Dog owners naturally want only the best for their pets and will keep a watch out for any signs of ill health or discomfort. There are some common dog health problems that every dog owner should be familiar with if they are to keep their best friend active and well.

Probably the most common problems seen in dogs are skin irritations and allergies. With constant scratching, chewing and rubbing, dogs can create unsightly patches on their bodies which can in turn become infected.

There are many causes of allergies in dogs, and what affects one dog does not give a dog in the same environment any problem whatsoever. Molds, pollens, fleas, dust mites, ragweed, food ingredients can all trigger allergic reactions in dogs – and humans for that matter.

Food allergies are the easiest to rule out by simply changing the dog’s diet. Where this is the cause many owners revert to preparing home made dog food for their pets, thereby eliminating all preservatives, and artificial colors and flavours. This will also alleviate many other common dog health problems.

A visit to the veterinarian will determine whether any sedative or hydrocortisone cream or spray is needed to help with scratching and resulting lesions. Soothing shampoos ease discomfort in the short term.

Arthritis is another common dog health problem and it is estimated to affect up to 30% of all dogs, especially as they get older. It is caused by the breaking down of the cartilage that protects the joints, thereby causing inflammation and pain. If you notice your dog limping, lagging behind during walks, or is slower than usual to rise after resting, suspect arthritis and consult your veterinarian.

Anti-inflammatory medication and pain relief may be necessary, and if the dog is overweight, a weight-reducing diet will be prescribed.

For dogs that are left in boarding kennels while their owners are away, it is imperative that they be vaccinated against kennel cough. This is a very contagious respiratory infection, producing a persistent, dry cough. It is caused by a bacterial infection, and if contracted may need treatment with antibiotics.

When mosquitos bite your dog, they can deposit microscopic larvae, which if left to mature will migrate through the bloodstream to your pet’s heart, and reproduce there. If left untreated, these worms can grow up to 12 inches long, and the dog will die of heart failure. Heartworm disease has in the past been treated by a once a month tablet, but it is now available as an annual vaccination.

Good dental health prevents many other common dog health problems and is an essential component of good canine care.

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Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a condition where the body cannot regulate the levels of blood sugar. Approximately one in 400-500 dogs develop DM, and most when they are between 7 and 9 years old, with unspayed females more susceptible.If your pet exhibits signs such as excessive urination, excessive thirsts, weight loss or lethargy, it could mean that it has developed DM, and a visit to your veterinarian is warranted.

Most dogs with DM will require insulin injections, but research into management through diet is continuing. Most vets recommend that diabetic dog food contains a higher soluble fiber content that commercially available dog food. It is generally believed that soluble fiber affects the digestive system by slowing the absorption rate of glucose.

If the diabetic dog is obese, it will require a diet even more specialized because it is important for the diabetic dog to lose excess weight gradually. Veterinarians will be best equipped to advise on the best diabetic dog food for individual pets as this will vary according to age, breed, size, and other health issues that may be present.

Often home cooking is not recommended for diabetic pets, but in consultation with your vet, it is possible to prepare meals at home for dogs with this condition. The main thing is to keep the food well balanced, healthy and consistent at each meal to maintain a stable glucose level.

For those contemplating home cooking for their diabetic dog, the basic recipe is 50% complex carbohydrates, 25% vegetables, and 25% protein (chicken, lean beef or fish). For a large dog, a sample recipe would be:

6 pounds of chicken
4 cups of uncooked brown rice
3 cups of carrots
2 cups of chopped celery
10 ounces of fresh spinach
3 cloves of crushed garlic
3 cups of rye
80 ounces of chicken stock
80 ounces of water

Simmer the chicken and garlic in the stock for 20 minutes. Remove the chicken and add the rye to the liquid and simmer for 40 minutes before adding the rice and simmering for a further 15 minutes. Combine the rye and rice mixture with the rest of the ingredients and mix well. You do not need to cook the vegetables as the heat from the rye/rice mixture will soften them enough.

Follow your vets directions as to how much to give your dog at each serve, but 3 feeds per day is best for diabetic dogs.

Many of the commercially available high-quality dog foods are able to be consumed by diabetic dogs. Maintaining the consistency of timing of meals and serving size is the key. As well, several manufacturer’s of premium dog foods, for instance Purina and Eukanuba make prescription diets.

The Natural Food Dog

More and more dog owners have realised that there are many alternatives to buying commercially prepared dog foods. They are taking the time to investigate how to provide their pet with natural dog health food, as a way of keeping him healthy and full of life.

Following the pet food recalls in the US, it was revealed just what ingredients some rendering plants are sending to dog food manufacturers. Pet lovers were justifiably horrified to learn that euthanized pets were included in the list, along with hide, feet, hooves, beaks, feathers and blood.

These ingredients are then bulked up with fillers, usually grains, which are difficult for dogs to digest, and lack the vitamins and minerals needed by healthy dogs.

By preparing their own natural dog health food, owners believe they are giving their much-loved pet the best possible diet. And provided they consult with their veterinarian regarding the composition of the diet, they are probably correct. The vet will advise on the right ratio of meat protein, vegetables and carbohydrates, for your particular dog. They are also the best people to advise if any supplements are needed by your pet for any health issues it may have.

Fresh vegetables are key ingredients in a natural dog health food diet, and should comprise 25% of each meal, as they provide antioxidants and vitamins. Garlic is great to add as well because dogs love it, and it is excellent for keeping fleas at bay.

The most popular carbohydrates are potatoes and rice.

Choose fresh lean meat as the basic protein source for your dogs new diet. Just about any meat will do – beef, lamb, chicken, turkey or fish. Port is perhaps best avoided as it can contain parasites that attach to the dogs intestinal walls.

A dramatic change in your dog’s diet to natural dog health food is a big change, so don’t be surprised if he resists initially. Many people find it easier gradually introduce the new food with food that the dog is used to, increasing the ratio day by day.

It is a good idea to cook up the dog’s food in bulk and sore it in meal-sized portions in the refrigerator, or the freezer if a large quantity has been prepared.

Pet owners report that having full knowledge of what their dog is eating helps them manage conditions like overweight much better, and they believe their dogs coats are shinier, they have less allergies and they are more alert.

Preparing your own dog food at home is great for you and your dog. You don’t have to haul all of that dog food from the supermarket and your dog will benefit from a healthier diet. But what should be the ingredients in a natural dog food recipe?

The best way to determine what is right for your dog is to initially consult with your veterinarian. He or she will advise you on the correct proportion of meat, carbohydrates and vegetables, how many times a day to feed your dog – depending on its age and health issues, and what supplements may be required for your dog’s particular needs.

By simple virtue of the fact that they are massed produced, there is just no way commercial dog foods can compete with a diet designed specifically for your dog.

A natural dog food recipe will contain fresh meat, fresh or frozen vegetables and carbohydrates. It will not contain the fillers, feathers, beaks, hooves and other dubious extras that commercial products can contain. Nor will it contain artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

The proportion of meat, carbohydrate and protein will vary, but as a rule of thumb it will be 40/30/30 or 50/25/25.

Any type of lean mean is acceptable, whether it be beef, chicken, turkey or fish, and once you find one that your dog likes, there is no need to vary it. Buying what is seasonal or on special is the most economical way to go.

Most people who prepare from a natural dog food recipe will buy and cook in bulk and then freeze the mixture in meal size portions. Flatten out the portions so that they store better, taking up less room in the refrigerator or freezer.

For a large dog, your recipe would look something like this – substitute the type of meat preferred and what vegetables in season, but maintain the type, e.g. only substitute green vegetables with other green vegetables.

6 pounds of lean beef
4 cups of uncooked rice
3 cups of carrot
2 cups of chopped broccoli
2 cups of chopped celery
3 cups of rye
10 ounces of spinach or bok choy
80 ounces of beef stock
80 ounces of water
Simmer the beef, stock, and water for 20 minutes. Remove the beef, and add rye to the liquid. Simmer for approximately 40 minutes before adding the rice and simmering for a further 15 minutes. Combine all the ingredients, including the vegetables, and mix well. The heat from the mixture will soften the vegetables.

If your dog is reluctant to eat his new meals, try adding a little to his regular food and increase the amount you add until he is taking the full natural dog food recipe.

In the past most people thought that it was not possible to litter train a dog, however owners of small dogs around the world are proving that it is.

Originally people who were litter training a dog were using the largest cat litter box they could find, but now there are several companies, Purina for one, who have introduced dog litter boxes onto the market. This is a great asset for people who have small dogs in apartments, or for dog owners with disabilities that prevent them from taking their pets outside ‘to go’.

Being litter trained also makes it easier to take the dog travelling. People you visit will be pleased that they won’t be left with any mess to clean up.

If using a cat litter box, you will need to cut off the top and smooth the cut edges with a file. The filler for the litter box is a matter of choice. Owners can choose commercially produced dog or cat litter, shredded newspaper, or newspaper that has been compounded into pellets.

Whichever filler you choose, it is good to have an easily accessible container for it, and a large scoop to dispense it.

The two best methods to use in litter training a dog are newspaper to litter box, and a type of “crate training”. It is most important though to first get your dog used to the litter box being in his life. It should be in his life from the beginning if possible, initially sitting on some newspaper – just in case. A small amount of litter should be in the box, with some newspaper over it. Gradually increase the amount of litter, and decrease and eventually remove the newspaper.

A good idea is to soak a piece of the newspaper in his urine before putting it in the litter box, so the dog registers it as a somewhere he has gone before.

It is always best to designate the area to be used for the litter box, and close the doors or block off in other ways, access to other rooms. For the first few days you will need to watch him carefully, ensuring there is nowhere for him to go out of your sight. If for whatever reason you cannot be with him, he should be secured in his litter room or crate.

Pay attention to the signs that dogs make before elimination – sniffing, searching, whining. When you notice these signs, put the dog in the litter box and use a phrase that will be repeated at this time, e.g. “use the box”. If the dog gets out, let him walk around again, and watch for the signs. Repeat the phrase, put him in the box. When he eventually ‘goes’ lavish praise on him, and reward him with a treat.

Should you catch the dog attempting to eliminate elsewhere, clap your hands and loudly (not yelling) say “no”. The sudden movement will halt the dog’s action and make him bolt. With all other doors closed, he will end up in his litter room. When he gets there, use the phase and put him in the box. Again, reward him when he goes.

Perseverance in litter training a dog will make your relationship with him so much more pleasant and eliminate a lot of cleaning and odors in your home.

What They Learn at Dog Obedience Training School

Good dog training schools should have a variety of programs to suit different skill levels, and should be aimed more at giving owners the skills they need to train their pets rather than the school doing the training for them.

There are some basic ‘good manners’ that dogs will learn at schools. They will be taught the self-control needed for them to not jump over visitors to your home, to settle at your feet or in a chosen spot, to come when called, and to walk nicely on a leash. Learning to socialise with other dogs, on and off a leash, should also form part of the dog training school’s curriculum.

They should also be taught:

• not to chew and dig
• to not be a recreational barker
• how to accept veterinary examinations
• to accept nail clippings and brushing

Good dog training schools will also equip the dog with the confidence and willingness to take instruction. Because the dog has to concentrate on a given task, it learns how to think and cooperate, and to not fear the unknown.

It is widely believed that training in the first 15 weeks of life will determine whether the cute puppy will grow into a well socialised, well mannered adult dog. For puppies, dog training school focuses on temperament, behaviour and good manners. This is aimed at stopping bad behaviour before it starts.

Dogs will then learn how to walk nicely on a leash, to sit, stay and lay down when asked. With the basics learned, they can then graduate to precision walking, emergency sit and some agility training, including tricks.

When deciding on the right dog training school for your pet, don’t be afraid to ask them what they provide, and what qualifications the trainers have. Check that there are classes for different skill levels, and to what extent the training covers. Always confirm that they only allow vaccinated dogs into courses (they should ask for your vaccination certificate when you enroll).

The stimulation dog training schools provide is loved by the pets, and will lead to a very rewarding relationship with their best friends – you.

Do Dog Training Collars Work?

Debate is inevitable when the subject of whether the use of electronic dog training collars is a humane way of canine obedience training. But it is useful to gain an understanding of what electronic dog training collars are, and how they function, before taking sides.

There are several different types of dog training collars. Most people are familiar with those that contain a sensor or probe that connects to the dogs skin. When the dog handler presses a button on his control unit, a signal is transmitted to a receiver unit on the collar, and an electric sensation is felt by the dog.

A second type of electronic dog collar emits a high pitched sound that dogs dislike; the third is a citronella collar which squirts citronella (which dogs don’t like) in front of their noses.

The type of dog training collar that is chosen is really irrelevant. They all have the same objective, to make the dog associate improper behaviour or response, with an unpleasant sensation, be it an electronic buzz, a sound or an unpleasant smell.

Those who don’t approve of electronic dog training collars believe that rewarding a dog for doing the right thing is a better, kinder and more effective training method.

However, there are dogs that are very difficult to train, and electronic dog training collars can be used as an aid to conventional command training. As an example, when you give your dog the “sit” command, a handler would gently push down on the dogs lower back, which makes him sit. After doing this several times, a dog usually catches on, and will sit without the handler touching him. Of course this needs to be repeated often over a period of time to reinforce the lesson.

If at this stage the dog refuses, or ignores the command, the handler might elect to use the electronic dog training collar. Use of the collar will ensure the handler has the dog’s attention, and then the command will be given again, with correct response rewarded with a treat.

A great use for electronic dog collars is to train your dog to stay on your property - for his own safety as well as neighbors. Called an “invisible fence” and requires a thin wire to be run around your property boundary (or the back yard - wherever you want your dog to remain). Whenever the dog approaches the wire, a beeping alarm is triggered. If the dog ignores the alarm a low-grade electric shock is then administered.

Electronic dog training collars are a good method of reinforcing verbal commands for difficult to train dogs. However, their use should remain as a reminder to the dog to respond correctly to commands, and never used as a form of punishment.

A Crate Can Be Your Dog’s Safe Haven

There are many reasons for crate training your dog - and using a crate as a form of punishment is not one of them.

When trained correctly a new puppy will come to view the crate as his own safe space. Crates are excellent for transporting your dog in the car or on aircraft, and are very useful when house-training your pet, limiting his access to all rooms in the house until he has learned your house pet rules.

On the first day of crate training a dog, place a soft blanket inside the crate, then put the puppy’s empty food bowl immediately in front of the open door. Let the puppy walk around and sniff the crate, and once it is used to its presence, pop the food bowl containing a little food just inside the open door. After a little while move the bowl to the back of the crate. Once the dog is inside the crate and eating happily, close the door and praise him.

Once the dog has finished eating, let him out, without praise. He should learn that the praise is associated with being IN the crate. Should the puppy start to cry or whine while in the crate, do not let him out until he has stopped or he will associate his release with crying.

Crates should only be used for short-term confinement, and never more than a few hours during the day. If left for longer, it is likely he will soil his special safe place and become unhappy in the crate.

Crates are excellent aids when toilet training your pet. When the puppy is in its cage and you hear it cry, you know its time to take it outside to its special toilet area. Open the crate door and say “outside”. The puppy will usually urinate first then use his bowels. When he does, go to him and lavish praise on him and give him a treat. Don’t call him to you to receive the praise as he will think he is being praised for coming when called. Try not to confuse him.

Follow up on the praise with some play time as further reward.

When crate trained well, a dog will view the crate as their safe haven and even take sanctuary there during storms and fireworks or when noisy visitors arrive.

Rewarding For Good Behaviour

All dogs should be trained in good behavior no matter their breed or age.

It can seem at times like a chore for the pet owner, but the best approach is to think of it as a way of bonding with your dog. Dog behaviour training is very stimulating for the dogs, they love the activity and spending time with their masters.

The positive reward system is the training technique most favored by professionals today, and it is the easiest for most people to master. The food rewards should be small pieces and highly palatable – worth obeying for! They should only received these treats in training sessions and they should be counted in any diet regime to avoid gaining excess weight.

If a training session is to be successful, the treat should be given to the dog immediately he has responded correctly, along with verbal praise and, sometimes, a pat.

Never yell at or hit your dog, as this does not train him, it makes him fear you. There is no use at all in punishing a dog for something that you did not see happen. If you find that the dog has had an ‘accident’ in the house, ignore it unless you saw it. The dog does not understand delayed punishment. It is also totally futile and inhumane to rub a dog’s nose in any accident spots.

Dog behavior training is best conducted away from any distractions, at least in the very early stages, because it is important that you have the dog’s complete attention. When giving commands look at him and speak clearly. Be consistent in the commands, for example don’t say “stay” in one session and “wait” in another. This will only confuse him.

Dog training sessions will require a lot of patience from the owner. Never “fit it in” to an otherwise very busy day. Doing this will result in the session being rushed, and the trainer seeming impatient.

Never attempt to train your dog when you are tired, unwell or angry. Dogs are very sensitive and will pick up on these emotions that are replacing the “good dog” positivity he usually receives at these times.

Only when your dog has mastered one set of commands should you move on to another. The first and most important commands to learn are sit, stay, drop and heel to leash. Dogs love learning, and revel in the “well done” they receive for doing well – so don’t hold back on the praise.

There are plenty of books and e-books on dog behavior training and dog obedience schools and clubs for those wanting more formal assistance in training their pets to be good companions.