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Is a Labrador Retriever Right for You?

Labrador Retrievers have consistently been the most popular dog breed in the world for the past 30 years.  In the United States alone, the Labrador Retriever has been the most-registered dog for 25 consecutive years.  Is this popular breed right for you? Temperament Perhaps the biggest reason that Labrador Retrievers are so popular is their temperament.  Labs are patient, fun-loving, energetic, good with children, and obedient.  Labrador Retrievers are also friendly and outgoing, making them great pets for families. Size, Coloring, and Upkeep Labrador Retrievers are large dogs, with males weighing 65 -80 lbs, and females reaching 55 – 70 lbs.  Potential lab owners should know that scientists have recently found a genetic link for obesity in this breed, proving that labs are prone to overeating and weight gain.  When obese, these dogs can easily weigh over 100 lbs. Labs can be registered in one of three colors:  yellow, black,...
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Dog Aggression? Diagnosing Common Canine Behavior

One of the worst labels a dog can receive is “aggressive.”  In fact, in many states, that word can be a death sentence.  It is important for owners to understand the signs of canine aggression, and what to do in order to fix the problem. You can find some good books here on this as well. Normal Canine Behavior New pet owners may not understand that nipping, biting, and gnawing are all normal puppy and adolescent dog behaviors.  While these actions can be frustrating (and painful) they are not indicative of an aggressive dog.  Instead, this behavior stems from the fact that dogs interact with the world via their mouths (much in the same way as toddlers), and until they are taught otherwise, they will continue to behave in a way that is most natural.  Therefore, if your puppy nips at your heels, chews on your hand during play time,...
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Apple Cider Vinegar: A Natural Remedy for Dogs

During your dog’s life, you are likely to run into problems such as itchy skin, fleas and ticks, ear infections, or digestive distress.  These ailments are common among pets, but are also preventable.  One common remedy and preventative is raw, unfiltered, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar (ACV), which can be purchased at any health food store.  The recommended uses of ACV for dogs are discussed below. Skin Allergies Dogs can develop skin irritation from any number of common allergens, including grass, pollen, dust, and even their food.  Unlike humans, dogs do not display allergic reactions in localized areas, rather, their entire bodies will become itchy and irritated.  ACV can help soothe irritation when applied directly to the skin and coat.  Simply dilute 1 part ACV with 1 part water, and combine in a spray bottle.  Spray your pet (avoiding broken skin) for fast-acting relief. Fleas and Ticks Not all dogs can...
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Tips for Bonding with your New Dog

Bringing home a new dog is a fun-filled occasion for the whole family.  However, pets are often returned within a short period of time because the new animal is not immediately meeting expectations.  For many first-time pet owners, they mistakenly believe the dog will instantly create a bond with its new family, and can be disappointed and frustrated when this expectation is not met.  Tips for jumpstarting the bonding process with your pet are outlined below. Obedience Training One of the best ways to begin bonding with your dog is to attend a structured obedience class.  The positive environment with a seemingly never-ending supply of treats will teach you and your dog how to communicate with one other.  Communication is one of the most important components of bonding, and will help you better understand the needs of your pet and vice versa.  Look for a positive-reinforcement training class in order...
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Tips for Saving Money on Dog Supplies

Despite all of the rewards of dog ownership, caring for your four-legged friend can be downright expensive.  Experts estimate that owners spend a minimum of $1,100 in the first year, and $500 per year on food and medical care after that.  Additional items such as toys, treats, cleaning supplies, grooming sessions, and bedding can add up quickly.  Fortunately, there are a number of ways to lessen the burden on your wallet and save money. Take Advantage of Autoship Discounts One expense that pet owners can count on is food.  But, did you know that you can save time and money by purchasing pet food online and signing up for an autoship discount?  Retailers such as Amazon.com not only offer pet food at reduced prices than most pet stores, but will also ship your food at regular intervals for a fraction of the price. Check out the free program here. Join...
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6 Reasons to be a Foster Parent to a Homeless Dog

Whether you are a current dog owner or are looking to become one, fostering is a great choice with numerous benefits.  A foster parent is responsible for housing a pet for a shelter or animal rescue until a suitable “furever” home can be found.  The advantages of fostering are listed below. See Whether a Dog is Right for You Are you unsure whether you can handle the responsibilities of pet ownership?  Fostering a pet can help you better understand if you are ready for purchasing or adopting a pet of your own.  If you ultimately realize that you are not ready for the full time commitment associated with a pet, you can rest assured that fostering is a short-term commitment. Socialize your Current Pets If you are considering bringing home a new dog but already have pets and are unsure how they will react, fostering is a great way to...
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Pros and Cons of Pet Health Insurance

Veterinary care can be expensive, especially when emergency situations arise.  For this reason, more pet owners are choosing to insure their pets with a health insurance policy, one that can cover the cost of both emergency and routine care.  Here, pet health insurance is explained, as well as the benefits and disadvantages of insuring your dog. What is Pet Health Insurance? Health insurance for dogs is similar to that for humans.  After choosing an appropriate policy based on deductible and coverage, as well as age, sex, and breed of your dog, a monthly premium is paid to the company.  In return, the company may cover the cost of accidents, provide monetary damages should your pet become lost or stolen, and reimburse you for the majority of medical bills.  These policies are most helpful when major accidents or illnesses arise. What are the Benefits of Insurance? The major benefit of having...
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10 Most Poisonous Plants for Dogs

Indoor and outdoor plants are common in most homes thanks to improved air quality and aesthetically pleasing colors and shapes.  However, many common houseplants are poisonous to pets, and should be kept out of reach of animals.  Some of the most poisonous plants – along with their symptoms – are described below. Aloe Vera Aloe is typically kept in the kitchen as a quick, natural remedy in case of burns.  However, if your dog happens to eat a leaf of this plant, beware that he or she will experience gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting and diarrhea. Autumn Crocus Not to be confused with the spring crocus variety which is only mildly toxic to pets, the Autumn Crocus is poisonous and can lead to vomiting, bleeding in the GI tract, organ failure, and respiratory distress. Azalea These pretty pink flowers are extremely toxic to dogs, and even the ingestion of one...
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Is A Beagle Right For You?

Are you considering whether a beagle is right for you and your family?  Before bringing home a new pet you should understand any quirks the breed might have, and whether you and the dog would a good match.  Common beagle traits are discussed below. Temperament Beagles are known for their kind, fun loving, and trusting temperament.  They are excellent family dogs that are equally suited to cuddling on the couch and playing in the yard.  Although beagles are poor guard dogs due to their easy going nature, their tendency to bark or howl when excited makes them excellent watch dogs. Size As medium –sized dogs beagles top out at 13 – 16 inches tall at the shoulder, weighing 25 lbs for males and 23 lbs for females.  Pocket beagles are even smaller, standing less than 13 inches tall and typically weighing 15 – 18 lbs. Other Pets? While beagles get...
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5 Supplements for Dogs Found in Any Kitchen

Food has long been considered medicine in many cultures, but only recently have physicians and veterinarians begun to study the effects of foods on humans and dogs in the United States.  Some of the best cures for common canine ailments are likely already in your kitchen cupboard.  Five of the best foods for dogs – and their uses – are described below. Turmeric This bright yellow spice has been shown slow down the proliferation of cancer cells in both humans and dogs.  The effect is so powerful that when used in conjunction with chemotherapy cancer cell growth can be stopped completely.  Turmeric also has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in pets, as well.  One way to provide turmeric to your pet is through a paste, which can be made by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil with ½ cup of turmeric powder.  After the water and...
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