How to give a Dog Bath

As the myth goes, it is not healthy to bathe a dog frequently. A part of it is true and other part is not. While swimming in natural water is a good exercise for a dog and can be permitted according to its tastes and climate, using soaps or shampoos on dogs regularly can be hazardous. Especially human shampoos can cause an imbalance of sweat on dog's skin and may make its skin dry and itchy, though, mild human shampoos can be used once a month. However, dog-specific shampoos are much better and are recommended to be used only once every several weeks. The medicated shampoos meant to cure particular skin-disorders are different and the frequency of their use depends on the condition of the dog.

It is best to bathe the dog only when its coat becomes greasy or you are about to have a company. Dog odor is also a sign that your dog needs a bath. Mud tends to dry up and fall off the dog's coat by itself as it rubs it on. To bathe the dog, lay a blanket or the floor and keep two towels, dog shampoo, dog conditioner and a washcloth ready by the bathtub. Keep the dog's brush, comb and trash bag on the blanket. Special super-absorbent towels are quite helpful in drying the dog quickly. If the dog's coat is matted, brush him first to untangle the knots and then bathe him. The dogs that get too scared in the tub and keep jumping around, you might try to give him the shower with the hand-held showerheads. Being able to stand on firm ground, will keep him feeling safe.

Inside the tub, you can put a non-slippery rubber bath mat to keep your pooch from slipping. Large dogs can be bathed in the garden using a hose and a bucket, especially when the weather is hot. Don't dump water on dog's face and use a washcloth instead, for the ears of the dog shouldn't get too wet inside and he generally gets too scared when doused over the head and may get aggressive. A good dog shampoo is the best choice but a baby shampoo or a mild herbal shampoo can also be used occasionally. Conditioner helps to prevent tangles, in the dogs with long hair. Good shampooing, rinsing and condition of the dog's skin and coat keep lice and fleas away from dogs. Deodorants can be used to keep off the body odor and keep your dog smelling fresh and healthy.

There are shampoos that claim to be gentle yet effective, perform antibacterial action, have pearlescent whiteners for that shiny sparkling whiteness in the coat and gentle aloe Vera and tea tree oil to keep the skin healthy. Dogs with black and dark colored coats can use special shampoos with them that enhance their natural shine. After lathering and cleaning the dog, rinsing is very important for any shampoo residue may cause skin irritation. Shampoos mild for eyes are recommended. Dogs often give a good shake, soaking you and the room. You can dry your pet using one end of a first towel over his head and drying him with the other end. The second towel is used to pick him up. After drying, lay your dog on the blanket and keep him there until he dries completely.

what are the best dogs in the world

What if you bought a cute-looking dog that bites? What if you got this real dainty pup that growls under the couch the whole day? Taming such a pet can give you a real bumpy ride. It can also be quite perilous at times. Thus, it is necessary that you make the right selection when it comes to incorporating a new dog in your family. Take into consideration various factors like the breed, the temperament, the history and the adaptability of the dog before you pick him as a pet. In this article, we have detailed about some of the best family dog breeds that can be a smart and safe addition to your family.

Top Family Dogs

Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retriever, or Labrador, is a medium-sized dog that is renowned for its fun spirit and affable camaraderie. Generally 21" to 24" inches tall, it is considered to be one of the most obedient and reliable dog breeds in the world. 

Golden Retriever
This versatile breed (21" to 25") is famous for its vigilance, intelligence, friendly demeanor and gentle nature. With proper training, dogs of the Retriever family can be the most ideal of all the family pets. They are safe company for children too. 

Boxer
These short-haired and medium-built dogs (21" to 25") have an extremely kid-friendly nature. They are very exuberant, high-spirited and very patient, which makes them good play companions. They are also ideal watch-dogs. 

English Springer Spaniel
With their smooth temperament and highly affectionate nature, this long-legged breed (19" to 21") is a very popular family dog. They can be wonderful playmates for children. Their boundless stamina, however, demands adequate exercise. 

Staffordshire Bull Terrier
This breed has short coats and is of medium built (14" to 16"). Fondly known as "The Nanny Dog" in England, this muscular dog is famous for its protective temperament and bold nature. They are suitable for small families with children. 

Shetland Sheepdog 
Also known as 'Sheltie', this particular breed (13" to 16") is popular for dog's loyalty and lively nature. They can also be excellent playmates and easily fit into the family unit. They, however, require plenty of exercise and interaction. 

Poodle
This breed comes in three varieties - Standard, Miniature and Toy. They are popular pets because of their elegance and intelligence. They are also good swimmers, enjoy romping with children and require extensive grooming. 

Yorkshire Terrier
Also known as 'Yorkie', this long-haired toy breed has been a popular pet from the Victorian era, for their appearance and companionship. They have a beautiful tan and blue coat with fine silky hairs. They are also very energetic and playful. 

Newfoundland Dog
A Newfoundland can be one of the best gifts to your child. This furry and gigantic pet is very cuddlesome, jovial and sweet tempered. He is also very easy to train and is natural water rescuers. This dog may grow till a maximum of 30". 

Beagle
With oodles of energy and a cheery temperament, a beagle can be an ideal pet for families with children. Beagles are very intelligent and curious. Because of their fine and straight coat, they can easily be groomed and maintained. 

Collie
Collie can be a great friend for an outdoorsy person. They are natural rescue dogs and are often used to star in movies for their fine appearance and intelligence. They may reach a height of 22" to 26" and are very well-mannered. 

Old English Sheepdog
This doll-like breed is popular for the long and hairy coat. Their grey and white soft furs cover their face entirely and give them a very cute appearance. They can be very amiable and witty. The breed stands tall at 22 inches till their withers. 

Now that you have added to your knowledge about various dog breeds; you can easily go and make that safe addition to your family. Good Luck!!

Arthritis disease in Dogs

Arthritis is generally a medical term that denotes any kind of abnormalities or changes in the joints and the structural architecture of the body. It might be the result of an infection, congenital defects, stress or even trauma. Such a condition is usually known as 'Canine Arthritis' in dogs. It might occur in your pet's neck, shoulders, hips, elbows and back and can be extremely painful. Thus, it becomes necessary that you remain aware of the subtle changes in your pet's behavior for an early diagnose of the disease. Identifying early indicators of the disease can save a lot of pain and discomfort for your dog. It will also help you to avoid fatal repercussions associated with long-term joint degeneration. In the following lines, we provide you with the various symptoms, causes and treatments of Arthritis pain in dogs.

Symptoms

• Consciousness while climbing stairs or hesitancy in jumping fences etc
• Difficulty while sitting, standing or other forms of movement
• Increased hours of sleeping
• Increased lethargy and inactivity
• Less inclination towards playful activities
• Noticeable limping or pain
• Stiffness in limbs, especially during the mornings
• Sudden and unusual weight gain
• Unwillingness to be patted, touched or picked

Causes of Arthritis in Dogs

• Diseases like Cancer might also give birth to various arthritic problems.
• Improper bone development in young dogs may give birth to arthritis.
• In some dogs, the disease may be genetically transferred.
• Metabolic disorders and other hormonal problems lead to arthritis.
• Overweight and obesity may lead to swollen joints.
• Sometimes, a traumatic injury might also lead to joint instability.

How to Treat Arthritis in Dogs
Here are some measures that you can take to cure the problem of Arthritis in your dog.

• Acupuncture techniques by a good veterinarian will also help to remove arthritic pain in your pet.
• Consult your veterinarian and give your pet anti-inflammatory and pain-relief medication when necessary.
• Give him adequate rest and provide him with a comfortable sleeping area.
• Provide him adequate exercise and help him stay fit and healthy.
• Provide your pet a balanced diet and keep a regular check on his weight.
• Surgical repair of ligaments can also be done to get rid of the problem.
• Various herbal medication are available that helps to get rid of the problem, effectively and holistically.
• Various massage therapies can alleviate Arthritis in dogs. Take the advice of your veterinarian.

However acute arthritic pain your dog suffers from; he cannot come up to you and share it. It is you who should be alert and keep a track of his various health related problems. Make it a point to take your pet to regular health check-ups and help him lead a happy and healthy life.

Aggressive Behavior of Dog

Aggressive behavior in dogs is very common and is noticed in almost all the breeds. Often your canine companion might growl, bark, snarl, snap, bare teeth or even bite other dogs or even humans. Sometimes a dog might use aggressive behavior as a tool to terrorize/ harm others. But a dog that constantly exhibits aggressive behavior might pose a lot of problems for its owner. The presence of an aggressive dog in the family can be quite a menace. Such a perilous behavior might also deeply injure the bond that you share with your pet. Taming an aggressive dog, demands that you properly understand how to tackle such a problem. In the following lines, we help you to understand your dog better, by detailing the various types of aggressive dog behavior and ways of controlling the same.

Types of Aggressive Dog Behavior

Dominance Aggression
When a dog is aggressive because he demands obedience, it is dominance aggression. Here the dog loves to be the undisputed king of the household and will often be deaf to your commands. He will exhibit aggressive behavior when asked to do certain things or even when patted or groomed.

Territorial (Overprotective) Aggression
A dog might become aggressive, when he believes that someone is violating or intruding his personal space/ belongings. Sometimes, the animal gets aggressive without the presence of any actual threat. Such an animal is guided by a sense of excessive protection for his house/ owner from other people or animals.

Fear Aggression
Sometimes a dog tries to be aggressive in order to screen his own fear, nervousness and insecurities. Such a dog reacts to anything and everything. Any sort of disturbance in the surroundings alerts him and makes him exhibit aggressive behavior. He might even bite if you try to pacify him.

Predatory Aggression
This is also a potentially dangerous aggressive behavior in dogs. Here, the dog's aggression is triggered by anything that moves. One can witness this behavior with street dogs that chase moving vehicles. Sometimes such an animal might chase playing children, joggers or even normal pedestrians.

Punishment Aggression
Some owners mete out severe punishment to their dogs that can at times turn out to be unhealthy and dangerous. Such behaviors from their owner might undermine the dog's confidence. The dog may see his master as a source of threat, and retaliate by displaying aggressive behavior sooner or later.

Pain Aggression
}Sometimes a dog might react aggressively when you touch him in sensitive, infected or cramped areas. Various illnesses (arthritis, ear problems, and hip dysphasia) also make his temperament foul and vicious. Thus, such an aggressive behavior is the off-shoot of pain.

Maternal Aggression
Such an aggressive behavior is noticed in females, when they rear and feed their new born pups. She might instinctively exhibit aggression if any human or animal approaches the whelping area. Maternal aggression slowly disappears in the mother as her puppies grow.

Dog Aggression
Such dog-to-dog aggression is noticed in puppies while they play and learn. It should be curbed at once. Such behavioral patterns, if left unattended, give rise to adult dogs that can be highly dangerous. Dog-to-dog fights generally take place for various reasons like territory, food, dominance or fear.

Redirected Aggression
An already aggressive dog might redirect his aggression to anyone. In this form of aggression, the dog is already aroused/ agitated and tries to harm whoever tries to interfere with or put an end to his aggression. Thus, it is always better to find out what is the primary stimulus of the dog's aggression and treat/ prevent it.

Stopping Aggressive Dog Behavior

• Let the dog know and understand his position in the family.
• Select the right breed of dog that suits your lifestyle and habits.
• Never make your dog a part of aggressive games and play.
• Provide your dog with rewards for displaying good behavior.
• Mild discipline should always be maintained.
• Provide him enough mental and physical exercise.
• Don't pat or praise him excessively, without any reason.
• Don't mete out unwarranted punishment on your dog.
• Don't leave the dog unsupervised with strangers and small children.
• Consult your veterinarian and appoint a good trainer.

We see that a dog might be aggressive due to various reasons. Thus, it is very important that you delve into your pet's psychology to understand what exactly is making him aggressive. Leashing an aggressive dog in a secluded corner or meting corporal punishment will do no good. Try the above tricks and be the happy owner of a happy dog.

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