5 Ways Homemade Healthy Dog Food Can Help Your Dog by K.C. Jones

Why should you consider making homemade healthy dog food? For your dog's health and well-being. We've trusted the commercial dog food companies for decades, only to find out they've been using 1) substandard ingredients and 2) preservatives that have been linked to liver and kidney damage.

So let's look at some definitive ways homemade healthy dog food can help your dog:

1) No more deadly toxins!
Most commercial dog food companies use preservatives such as BHA & BHT (known to cause liver and kidney damage) and Ethoxyquin (banned from human use) to keep the fat in the dog food from going rancid -- for a longer shelf life. No need for any preservatives with your homemade healthy dog food.

2) No more mystery meat!
Have you ever looked at the ingredient label of dog food? What is "meat meal" or "chicken by-product"? By-products are the rest of the animal that isn't fit for human consumption. If the animal name is not listed (just meat), then it could be anything - euthanized dogs & cats, diseased cows/pigs/chickens unfit for human consumption - the disgusting list goes on. The problem with this type of "meat" is that it can contain chemicals and poisons that are not eliminated through the processing. This means your dog will also ingest these chemicals. With homemade healthy dog food you buy human-grade meat to feed your dog.

3) Improved digestion and absorption of necessary nutrients.

This can be seen by the size of the stool. You'll see less waste because the body is able to utilize more of the food from your homemade healthy dog food. The commercial dog food has so much filler to add bulk, to make your dog feel full. But it lacks the nutrients necessary for the dog, so it just goes right through them.

4) Improved immune system in your dog.

Your dog's body has been living in a state of stress. He has not been getting all the nutrients he needs for optimal function. Once he starts getting the necessary nutrients from your homemade healthy dog food, your dog's immune system will be able to perform better. This means he will be less susceptible to illness and diseases.

5) Decrease of your dog's "allergy" symptoms.

A lot of your dog's "allergy" symptoms will start disappearing - itchy skin, gas, diarrhea, smelly stools, bad breath. A study by William Pollak, DMV, with over 500 dogs of 30+ breeds, showed that a change to a healthy diet, within 12 months, almost entirely eliminated the allergy symptoms in 94% of the dogs. Start feeding your dog homemade healthy dog food now and watch his allergy symptoms disappear.

Do your dog a favor, start making him homemade healthy dog food. You'll start to see a healthier, happier dog in days! Find out more about how easy it is to make homemade healthy dog food. He's man's best friend, let's start treating him that way.
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Training Puppies and Dogs is Not As Difficult As You Might Think by June Carr

Dogs are such loving creatures (most of them), their greatest desire in life is to please their master. Training them with that thought in mind is not difficult, but will require some patience on your part. If you have the time and patience, and you've made the decision that training your puppies and dogs is something worthwhile, here are a few tips to help you along the way.

Although dogs love us, and some of them are very smart for their breed, they don't have the brain capacity of humans. And as much we treat them as our children (yes I'm guilty), we have to tailor our training to a dog and not a person. The first thing to do is to choose one person to do the training, usually the master (or alpha leader in dog speak), this is the person (most probably you) who will train your best friend. If you're asking why, it's simply to avoid confusion and help your puppy or dog learn to recognize your commands, inflections, and instructions.

All of us, both humans and dogs, enjoy positive reinforcement; with people it may be a word of encouragement, or a promotion at work. Obviously things are different in the dog world, but positive reinforcement works much the same, it might be a scratch behind the ear, a doggie treat, or simply using letting them know they are loved with a tummy rub.

CAUTIONARY NOTE: Never scold your dog should they not understand your instructions. While positive reinforcement works, negative reinforcement may have the opposite effect, and cause your dog to be fearful of training. This is not something you want and has been known to hinder properly training puppies and dogs.

Recognize that dogs, no matter how smart for their breed, are not as intelligent as humans. And while multitasking in today's environment is expected of homosapiens, such is not the case in the dog world. Teach them one thing (thing=command) at a time, otherwise your training session may be confusing and not achieve the results you're hoping for. Realize that even if you only teach one command at a time, it will very likely require multiple training sessions.

As humans, none of us desire to be spoken to disrespectfully, and can easily recognize an angry tone in someone's voice, often garnering more from an inflection than the actual word. This is the same for dogs, so keep your voice cheerful, let them know you're happy with them. Never shout or speak it mean when giving new commands.

Try not to isolate your dog when training, meaning as you move around town, to the degree possible, take your best friend with you. This will allow your dog to experience new places, people, dogs and things. While it may not seem necessary, this will allow your dog to become better-rounded (which is a people term) and better able to understand your instructions/commands, which is good for both of you.

When you take on the task of training puppies and dogs, sometimes the journey will be difficult, but well worth it when your dog becomes trained, and well behaved.

Get all the info you need for Training Your Dog in an effective and efficient way. Cats Dogs And Pets! provides a wide range of informative articles.

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Rules Dogs Live By by Nola Lee Kelsey

Today we're going to talk about rules. Have you ever noticed that old people will suggest you hit your dog on the nose with a rolled up newspaper whenever it does something wrong? Yet, apparently, we're not suppose do the same to Dick Cheney whenever he opens his mouth. Talk about your mixed messages.

Unlike the Bush Master, dogs at least want to play by the rules. Don't they? Or perhaps the problem is that much like VP Dick, canines have their own perception of what the rules are. Consider these staple rules of dog society:

• If it can be stuffed, it can be unstuffed.

• Leashes should be pulled hardest when the ground is iciest.

• The neighbor's trash can is a weekly offering to you. Enjoy the experience to its fullest.

• Couches will always feel softer with mud on your paws.

• If Dad forgets to bring the poop bag to the park you must poop at all costs.

• If Dad brings one poop bag to the park, you must poop twice at all costs.

• If Dad brings two poop bags to the park you must instantaneously manifest diarrhea.

• If Dad is flirting with a pretty lady in the park, also instantly manifest diarrhea - - twice.

• When your owner drops the end of the leash, it's a surefire sign he wants to play chase with you in the street. Always accommodate these whims.

• If a cat moves away from you, chase it!

• If a cat moves towards you, run!

• To get every last drop of squeeze cheese out of a Kong, use the cat's tail.

• If it's set out to thaw it's for you!

• Nothing is more fun to lick than a clean camera lens.

• The dog barrier in Mom's car is a challenge you must always rise above.

• Paired socks must die!

• If a sock is already missing its match, leave it to suffer alone.

• Never have an accident on the easily cleaned tile floor if you can possibly make it to a freshly made bed.

• When Mom's date picks her up, bite first, hump second.

• Never dig in the gravel when you can dig in the grass.

• Never dig in the grass when you can dig in the garden.

• Never dig in the garden when you can dig under the fence.

• iPods®, they're not just for breakfast anymore.

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This article is an excerpt from Nola Lee Kelsey's new book 'Dogs: Funny Side Up!' available everywhere fun books are sold. For a limited time only readers can receive a free Adobe ebook versions of 'Dogs: Funny Side Up!' by emailing FreeBooks@DogsEyeViewMedia.com Visit http://www.DogsEyeViewMedia.com for further details. Learn more about the Kelse at http://www.NolaKelsey.com
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Benefits of Organic Dog Food by Alex De La Cruz

More and more people these days are becoming environmentally conscious that is why there is a proliferation of organic food. Many people realized the bad effects of commercial food to their health. Thus, a lot of them have changed their lifestyles especially their eating habits through eating organic food. Many people who have gone organic can testify that they had better immunity to common illnesses. Their complexions have improved and they had fewer allergies. The health benefits of eating organic seem to have a lasting effect on people who religiously follow an organic diet. This phenomenon had eventually influenced a good number of dog owners who went out feeding their dogs with organic dog food, too.

The demand and sales of organic dog food had recently gone up. Perhaps, dog owners realized the ill-effects of feeding their dogs with commercial food, as much as preservatives-packed foods are detrimental to the health of human beings. This eco-friendly crusade of people these days was a product of people's desire for a healthy living. For dog owners, it is a fact that the usual dog foods found in the market are not the best option for their pets. Instead, organic dog food was also devised to keep dogs healthier. Although, the U.S. Department of Agriculture stated that the difference between organic and commercial foods is how it is produced and processed and not their nutritional content.

Therefore, there is yet to be a study done to further affirm the nutritional benefits of organic food over commercial dog foods. Nevertheless, a lot of dog owners were not discouraged from feeding organic dog food to their pets. Wholesome ingredients in organic dog food are said to be more appealing than preservatives or synthetic ingredients in many commercialized dog food. Organic dog food does not contain growth hormones, antibiotics, and artificial flavorings. Dog treats are made of organic whole grains while organic dog food made of chicken are only made of free-range chickens. Free-range chickens are said to be healthier since they do not rely on synthetic chicken feeds but on natural food found in their surroundings.

If you are planning of switching your dog's diet to organic dog food, you have to consider the price. Organic foods are more expensive than regular ones, so you need to check your options first if they will fit your budget. Then, you must also gather some information about manufacturers of organic dog foods. Find out about their production process and their reputation. One notable benefit of using organic dog food is that your dog will generally have more energy and a healthy weight. Since this kind of dog food does not contain bulk-fillers, your dogs will only consume what they need to maintain healthy energy levels and life functions.

They get satiated faster even if they eat smaller amounts of nutrient-dense dog foods. An organic diet can also improve the immunity of your pets from many infections or illnesses. Since it is organic, it is more digestible so dogs can easily absorb the nutrients. What you feed your dog will have an impact on how he looks, feels, and acts. Somehow, by feeding them with organic food, you are ensuring them with long, happy, and healthy life. Finally, before you completely embark your dogs to an organic diet, make sure that you have consulted your veterinarian. This is to ensure that you will be making the right decision for your pet.

The author of this article Alex De La Cruz is a Dog Trainer who has been successful with several dog training courses for many years. Alex decided to share his knowledge and tips through his website http://www.doggyweb.info. You can sign up for his free newsletter and enjoy a healthy and submissive dog.

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How to Select Quality Dog Food by Robert Kokoska

Even a great depression or recession could not deter people from spending millions on dogs and dog food. Statistics say Americans still keep a major chunk of their income for dogs. This shows the importance they give for their pets. In many homes, dogs have become an extension of the family and great priority is given for their wellbeing. As the market is flooded with different brands of dog food it is really difficult to select quality food. Since the age we live in is an age of marketing, where big companies flourish deploying marketing professionals who have their own way of luring the gullible. The resulting companies and marketing industry thrive in the name of pets. So it is really important to look into the credibility of pet food before buying it.

Animal protein, grains, bacteria cultures, probiotics and antioxidants are a must in dog food. A dog that feeds on quality food out-lives dogs fed on lower quality foods. Debate is going on strong whether dog food should be protein rich or not. While some argue that dogs are omnivores and can go about with out additional protein while others say it is essential for their growth. There is a general belief that too much protein can lead to renal failure. But whatever be the contention, protein is essential along with vitamins and minerals. One thing you have to pay attention to, is the quality of the meat.

Low quality protein is difficult to digest and can cause serious ailments. So it has to be avoided at all costs. As most companies use corn gluten to increase crude protein levels, you have to be extra careful before choosing protein rich food for your pet. Since fake products have entered the fray, it is advised to be alert and not to be hoodwinked by the false claims of business tycoons. As there are no regulatory measures to protect dog food, adulteration becomes easy.

Many canned foods contain harmful chemicals and preservatives intended for shelf life. More than that, most of the dog foods use euthanized or carcass as raw material. In many cases they use corn and soy to increase the protein which is not suitable for dog as it causes indigestion. The best dog food has become a rarity as more and more manufacturers cut costs on a daily basis. Their integrity regarding love for the animals is questionable as they are more concerned with the fattening of their wallet. At least the premature deaths of dogs place them in a bad light.

The best dog food should contain only two grains with ample protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and essential oils. Make sure that the protein is from chicken and not from soy or corn. As vitamins and minerals are needed for the supply of oxygen the best dog food should contain adequate amount. A healthy diet should include dry food. Though canned foods claim wholesomeness, nothing can beat the homemade stuff. Even if the dog likes canned food, if it is given crumbs it will eat eventually. It is a false notion that dogs don't eat vegetables. In fact they relish it. The fiber content is good for the health of the canine.

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Top Five Dog Training Mistakes by Chad Thompson

While there are great self-help dog training guides out there and even better at home courses you can take to learn about dog training, be wary of any that include bullying or punishing your dog for not obeying you. These are common mistakes I see my clients make on a daily basis. Be sure to enroll in a solid online course or pet store class that avoids methods like these:

1. Training sessions that last longer than 20 minutes.

Most dogs attention spans are around 10 minutes of complete focus. It can be stretched to 20 minutes if you have an enticing reward like food or generous amounts of affection and petting. But after about 10 minutes, the dog will lose interest. Going past that amount of time can hurt training as the dog will try to avoid the situation. This leads to frustrated owners and if you are familiar with my writing, you know that dogs do not follow unstable or emotional (angry, frustrated, sad) leaders.

2. Punishing or scolding the dog after an accident or misbehavior.

If you come home to an accident in the house or your favorite pair of slippers chewed to oblivion you first reaction may be to punish the dog. You may actually justify this punishment by bringing the dog to the mess to show him why he is being scolded. The truth is the dog has no recollection of the moment. Even when you bring the dog to the slippers, he will not remember that he did it. So you are punishing the dog, in his mind, for no reason which leads to mistrust. How can you expect him to listen to your commands when hes been punished for not doing anything. I know what you are thinking (because I've worked with people and their dogs for many years), how then, does he remember to sit. Truth is, he doesn't. It's more muscle memory and instinct. The act of getting affection and treats subconsciously reminds the body how to act. That's why you see animals stalk prey the same way for centuries. It's simply instinct.

3. Hitting your dog.

Many years ago, it was common to roll up a newspaper and give your dog a smack on the rear end if she did something you did not agree with. Those times have changed. Studies show that any physical abuse will counteract years of love and praise. A dog is always in survival mode. So years spent in pleasure can be undone in a moment in a dogs world. Touching, however, is a very effective method. Touching is a firm touch with two fingers on the dog to snap him out of whatever he is doing. It doesn't hurt the dog, just gets his attention. At the touch, give a firm no and that will do the trick.

4. Letting the dog eat at the same time you do.

Letting the dog eat before you is worse. You need to establish that you are the pack leader in any human-dog relationship. In the dogs natural habitat, the pack leader eats first. It makes sense because the strongest have priority if the pack is to survive. Just like our president is the first evacuated out of an area if a problem arises. So if you feed the dog first or eat with the dog, the dog will determine that you two are on the same level and therefore, he does not have to obey your every command. After all, you two are equals!

5. Using a crate that is too big for the dog or puppy.

It is a common misconception that crates are like torture for a dog. The truth is dogs are den animals and feel safe in those types of areas, surrounded by walls or objects. It gives them protection from what they cannot see. When you see a dog whine while in a crate, it's because he or she simply wants to be with the pack leader. If you were in there with the dog, there would be no whining. So in order to compensate, owners buy crates that are way too big for their dog so the dog has room. However, the crate should only be big enough for the dog to stand up, turn around and lay back down. I usually tell my clients to choose a crate, then buy the next smallest one. That's probably the right size. If the crate is too big, a puppy will gladly eliminate in one corner and lay down in the other. So if your dog is going to the bathroom in the crate, the crate is too big.

Chad E. Thompson
Founder, http://www.virtualdogtrainer.comActive Member of the Humane Society of the United States, Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and the International Association of Canine Professionals.

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Dog Feeders - Using Them to Control Your Pet's Weight by Jennifer Akre

Have you ever really thought about the weight of your pet and what it may mean to their body? Most people love lavishing their pets with toys and treats thinking of them as their furry children. The problem is what may be a little treat to a child may be a large treat to your small dog. Too many of these treats can lead to your dog being overweight.
While you may think a few extra pounds are not a big deal, that is because you are considering what a couple of extra pounds means on your body. On a human body, a couple of extra pounds aren't much. But on a dog body, that can be equal to an extra 20 or 40 pounds on your body, maybe even more if you have a very small dog.
Allowing your dog to be overweight could be setting him up for major health risks such as:
Breathing Problems - From too much fat pushing on their respiratory system.
Pain - The more weight your dog has, the more pressure and stress you are going to be putting on their joints, bones and muscles to hold their body up.
Diabetes - Just like people, dogs get this ailment too.
Heart Disease - Being overweight can lead to a number of heart problems like high blood pressure and heart failure in dogs.
Liver Failure - When dogs get too fat, some of that fat gets stuck in their liver and can keep it from working as it should.
Additionally, being overweight can cause your dog to have digestive problems, hair and skin problems, and even problems in reproduction.
It's time to act. If your pet is overweight, you need to do something about it, now.
No Treats
Start by cutting off the treats you are feeding your dog. While you think it's a nice thing to do, it's a big part of the problem. Your dog needs to learn the healthy meal in their dog feeders is all they need to have.
Limit Food
If you have had a policy where the dog feeders were always full and your pet could eat at any time, you need to change that policy. Instead, you need to read up on what amount is best for them to get back in shape and put that amount in their bowl.
You may want to purchase automatic dog feeders if you are away from home often. These dog feeders will get your pet on a schedule of knowing when their feedings are, as a container will open and allow them to eat at a predetermined time.
While your pet may pout and beg for food at the beginning, they will soon adjust to the dog feeders and be just fine. If they are really begging you could try to toss them some vegetables, which are good for them and low calorie foods.
Exercise
Finally, you do need to make sure your pet gets an appropriate amount of exercise. But, don't overdo it. Just like you can't jog a mile after being out of shape, neither can your pet. Start with a few minutes of exercise at a time and slowly build up their workout time.
Author Jennifer Akre is an owner of a wide variety of online specialty shops that offer both items and information on how you can easily furnish and decorate your space. Whether it's your living, bedroom, or even your deck or patio, there are many tips you can use to make those spots both functional and beautiful. Today, she offers advice on how to create a fabulous pet area by using the essential dog supplies and basic cat supplies that your pets need.
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