HowToDoThings.com Recent Care & Health Articles

How To Make Homemade Dog Food

niko — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 17:37:56 -0500

Just as good homemade food is a healthy and affordable option for humans, it is equally true of homemade food for your pet dog. As more and more dog owners stop buying commercially sold dog food on account of the harmful effects or poor nutrition quality, they are turning to preparing their pets' food right at home with fresh and good quality ingredients. It is easy, simple and very healthy and nutritious for your dog and easy on your wallet!!

What do healthy dogs need?

The average healthy diet for a dog should be a mix of 75% carbohydrates and 25% proteins from meat. Follow some of the suggestions listed below to have your dog eating and living healthy.

How To Prevent Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

turbo — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:17:42 -0500

Hip dysplasia affects numerous dogs, it is heartbreaking for owners to witness their once agile, loyal chum beginning to wobble and struggle on their hind legs. There may not be an actual ‘cure’ for hip dysplasia in dogs but there are certain preventative measures that can be taken.

Hip dysplasia means ‘badly formed hip.’ Positioned at the end of a dog’s leg bone is a ball and in a healthy dog this slots nicely into a pocket located within their hip. Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia do not possess this snugly fitting connection; the hip is badly malformed that the ball does not sit within the pocket.

How To Care for Your Chihuahua

kdiscountpetmall — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 13:28:24 -0500

How To Safely Feed Your Dog the BARF Way

kdiscountpetmall — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 17:48:01 -0500

How To Make Nutritious Homemade Dog Food

cwalk — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:14:22 -0500

How To Easily Maintain Good Health for Your Dog

cwalk — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:54:11 -0500

How To Care For Your Pregnant Dog

cwalk — Tue, 27 May 2008 18:16:18 -0500

How to Remove Skunk Odor from Your Pet

mcdesign — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 20:11:12 -0500

How To Try a Raw Food Diet for Dogs

britgurlmax — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 18:01:37 -0500

The raw food diet craze is sweeping the dog nation -- and for good reason. Raw, natural diets are better for dogs, providing them with more nutrition and keeping them healthier. Raw foods don't need all the junk in them to preserve them, and are preserved from natural ingredients. Simply freeze, thaw, and serve! Some people are skeptical that if their dogs eat raw food that one of three things will happen:

How To Treat Your Dog for Fleas

Casey47 — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 12:41:10 -0500

If you have a pet, it's almost a certainty that you've been subjected to fleas. There are few things in this world more annoying than a flea, except maybe a house full of them! Once fleas infest your home, they are very hard to get rid of and will cause you and your dog a lot of grief!

The best way to treat this problem is to prevent your dog from ever getting them in the first place. However, if it is too late for that and you need a solution fast, I am here to provide the best solutions possible. First we will go over the best plan of action if your dog is covered in fleas.

How To Identify and Treat Canine Allergies

CrystalsPetPages — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 19:48:42 -0600

One of the leading reasons for veterinarian visits is canine allergies. Canine allergies are annoying, frustrating and even overwhelming for some pet owners. The search for the culprit can be exhausting and some people just don't know where to start. If these steps are followed, it should take some of the guessing work out of identifying and treating the allergy.

How To Make Money as a Young Teen

Hayden Killworth — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:40:52 -0600

When you are young and can't get a job at a store or restaurant such as McDonald's, it can be hard to make money. As tough as it is to make a dent in the moneymaking world, there are other things you can do to pull in the cash.

How To Prepare for and Find the Perfect Puppy

ColleenDB — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:57:52 -0600

Above all else, when you are preparing for a puppy, you must do your homework! Here are some things to consider as you prepare for and choose the perfect puppy.

How To Keep Your Dog Safe in the Deep Wilderness

harryoakes — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 12:23:19 -0600

We all enjoy sharing our outdoor experiences with our pets. There's nothing more spiritual or rewarding than to cuddle up to your dog and watch a sunrise or sunset. To share in the majestic beauty of the wilderness. There are some very important factors to consider before you head into the outdoors with "Fido".

Terrain. Ask yourself: Can "Fido" handle the terrain? Is He / She in shape for this adventure? Can the terrain injure or kill my dog? What can I do to minimize the risks?
To protect the dog from a falls off of a cliff, make sure your dog wears a HARNESS.

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How To Keep Your Dog's Teeth Healthy

bronwyn — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 12:02:25 -0600

Did you know that dogs have dental problems, too? Domesticated dogs eat processed food and end up with many of the same dental problems as humans. In fact, 85% of all pets have some form of dental disease by the time they are three years old. Don't let your pet be a statistic! Follow these steps to ensure healthy teeth for your dog!

How To Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays

bronwyn — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 11:51:27 -0600

Christmas and other holidays can be fun for the whole family - pets included. However, there are some common hazards that may threaten your pet's well-being. Dogs, cats, rabbits, and other pets who wander around the house could soon find that their curiosity and playfulness gets them into trouble. Before relaxing and celebrating, make sure that your home is pet-friendly.

How To Make the Best Dog Treats Ever

mcdesign — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 23:53:25 -0600

Yes, store-bought dog treats are quick and easy, and Rover loves to swallow them whole, but have you ever read the label and tried to figure out exactly what you are spending so much money on and what is going through Rover's digestive system? By spending a few minutes per week preparing this homemade snack, you will save money and feel the satisfaction of knowing your family pet is enjoying all-natural ingredients.

Ingredients:

3/4 cup of water
2-3 chicken or beef bouillon cubes
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup powdered milk
1 egg, beaten
3 cups whole wheat flour

Preparation:

How To Choose a Healthy Dog Food

caseyleighh — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 20:42:00 -0600

Choosing what food to feed your dog is an important decision. The food you choose will be his or her primary source of nutrition. In order to make the best choice for your dog and your budget, you must learn to decipher the information on the label of the dog food bag. All of this information is regulated by the Association of American Feed Control Officials, or AAFCO. Here are the things you need to look for on the label:

How To Feed Your Pet Safely

teacher — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 14:17:30 -0500

Having a pet is a lot of fun as it provides you with company and even some entertainment, but you should be aware that it also comes with a lot of responsibilities, which includes feeding as well as safety. What do these two components have to do with each other? Well, next time that your pet is mooching food while you are having a snack or a meal, think about what you are about to feed him and ask yourself if it is safe to share? After all, the last thing that you want to do is to make your beloved pet ill, choke him or even cause his death. Surprised? Well, not as much as when you read the following potentially life-threatening foods that are listed below.

How To Choose Flea Control Medication

edward.s — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 12:59:19 -0500

Choosing the right medication can mean the difference between your dog or cat being comfortable or living a life in a constant state of itch. Several steps can ensure that "Fluffy" is protected against one of the most uncomfortable problems facing pets.

How To Be a Responsible Dog Owner

bronwyn — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 15:45:03 -0500

Adopting a dog is often an emotional experience, in which people look at the ball of fur that they might take home and melt. As adorable as puppies are, it is essential that you remember how much work taking care of a dog is before you adopt one! If you are a prepared, responsible dog owner, you and your pet will co-exist happily. These tips can help you be a responsible dog owner!

Did you think about this? Dog ownership should always be premeditated - a dog is not something to get on a whim!! Sadly, many dogs are abandoned each year after they were given as gifts and their novelty wore off. Make sure that the future owner - whether it is you or someone else - is prepared to accept the responsibilities of owning a dog.

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How To Help Your Dog with Allergies

basepps — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:05:32 -0500

My husband, Ron, owned a small animal practice in the Fort Worth area for more than 20 years. Of all the ailments his clients presented their dogs for, allergies seemed to be the most common. Itching, scratching, licking, watery eyes, raw spots on their skin — are all common symptoms to allergens. Unfortunately finding causes and cures for allergies is not so common.

Allergies can be caused from environmental irritants — grass, pollen, flea and other insect bites — or internal allergens in their food. Many dogs develop an allergic reaction to foods they have been exposed to over a period of time. These can include grains, proteins or any other ingredient their systems eventually cannot tolerate. The problem is that internal and external allergies manifest themselves with very similar symptoms—you guessed it—itching, scratching, licking, and watery eyes.

How To Care for Staffordshire Bull Terriers

Linette547 — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 09:32:00 -0600

Staffordshire Bull Terriers are a medium-sized member of the Terrier group. They possess the typical Terrier tenacity, and determination. They put their whole heart into everything they do. A relatively short-haired breed, their colors vary from black to brindle, usually with a little white on their faces or paws. Staffordshire Bull Terriers can be a great addition to the family if properly cared for, but they do require some special care.

How To Care for Tibetan Terriers

Linette547 — Wed, 14 Feb 2007 18:01:00 -0600

Tibetan Terriers are a high energy, outgoing, playful member of the Terrier group. They are a midsize breed, with a long, thick, heavy coat. The breed is relatively rare, and can be solid in color, parti-colored, or tri-colored. Here are some tips and tricks for caring for your Tibetan Terrier.

How To Care for Wheaton Terriers

Linette547 — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 15:04:00 -0600

Wheaton Terriers are named for their wheat-colored coat. Wheaton Terriers are a versatile, fun-loving breed. They are normally great with people, but require early socialization. They are a medium-size dog, with a long flowing coat, and graceful long strides. Here are some tips on how to care for this special breed:

How To Cope with the Loss of a Pet

Staff468 — Tue, 16 Jan 2007 13:39:00 -0600

There's no easy way to cope with the loss of a pet, nor should you try to bypass the natural grieving process. Always remember, you're not alone. Everyone who's ever been touched by a pet's loving devotion has also known the pain of loss.

A time of emotional turbulence. After the loss of a pet, you can expect to face the emotional roller coaster known as grief. For a time - sometimes a period of days, sometimes weeks or months - you may experience feelings of disbelief, sadness, anger, guilt, embarrassment or depression. Let's banish embarrassment without further delay, though, since there is no justifiable reason to be ashamed of grieving for your lost pet. Grief is admirable and human, not unnatural or embarrassing.

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How To Care for Border Collies

Linette547 — Sun, 14 Jan 2007 09:57:00 -0600

Border Collies are a high-energy member of the Herding group. They are typically between 30 and 50 pounds, and the most common color is black and white. They can also be other colors including liver and white, or merle and white. Border Collies require a high amount of physical and mental exercise to keep them happy. If you are considering this breed, you should keep in mind Border Collies enjoy an active lifestyle. They are eager to please and easy to train, but when Border Collies get bored, they can be very destructive. Here are some tips for caring for this hard working breed:

How To Help Your Pet Cope with the Loss of Another Pet

Staff468 — Fri, 12 Jan 2007 19:36:00 -0600

Coping with the death of a beloved pet is very difficult for all of us, requiring lengthy sessions of grieving, feelings of emptiness and not just a few tears. But we often forget that the struggle is also difficult for a surviving pet who has lost a companion. Even if your pets did not seem incredibly close, they undoubtedly formed a stronger bond than was visibly obvious. Very likely you can see signs of grieving and sadness in your pet's behavior. We owe our pets all the support and love we can offer in their time of need; haven't they been there to support and love us?

Show the dead pet's body to your surviving pet, when possible. Allowing your surviving pet this opportunity can ease her potential anxiety and make the mourning period smoother.
How can you tell if your pet is grieving?
- You may notice a loss of appetite and enthusiasm for food and water.
  
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How To Care for Toy Fox Terriers

Linette547 — Fri, 29 Dec 2006 09:42:00 -0600

Toy Fox Terriers are a smaller, spunkier version of a Fox Terrier. They are shorthaired and come in a variety of colors. Their tails are usually docked when they are puppies and they carry their docked tails high. They don't think they are small dogs at all. Toy Fox Terriers are very good watchdogs because they are very intelligent, alert and usually fearless. Here are some tips and tricks to help you care for your Toy Fox Terrier.

You should look for a puppy who has been socialized and is not afraid of people. You should continue to handle him and socialize him after you bring him home.
Toy Fox Terriers have very few grooming requirements. To keep their coats shiny and remove dead hair, you should brush them at least once or twice a week gently with a soft brush.
Keep their nails trimmed short and wipe carefully inside their ears with a soft cloth.

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How To Treat Canine Hair Loss

Linette547 — Thu, 28 Dec 2006 12:36:00 -0600

Most dogs lose some of their hair on a regular basis. If you own a dog, you may be familiar with finding tufts of hair on the carpet or couch. This is especially true of double-coated breeds. Double coated means your dog has a softer thicker inner coat, which helps protect him from extremes in temperature. It insulates him in the winter from extreme cold. The fur also helps keep extremely warm air from reaching the skin in the summer. Double-coated dogs usually have a course outer coat over the top of the inner layer, which helps protect the inner coat, and is an additional layer against cold and heat. Some examples of breeds with a double coat include: German Shepherd, Collie, Husky, and Welsh Corgi.

How To Care for West Highland Terriers

Linette547 — Tue, 26 Dec 2006 18:12:00 -0600

West Highland Terriers are spunky, lighthearted, fun-loving members of the Terrier group. They love people and are family-oriented. This fun-loving breed is often also referred to as a "Westie." Here are some tips and tricks to care for your Westie.

How To Determine If Your Dog Has Food Allergies

Linette547 — Thu, 14 Dec 2006 14:49:00 -0600

A dog can develop food sensitivities over time, just like humans. People often assume that the allergy is related to something recently added to the diet. In reality, your pet may have been eating the same food for several years before an allergy develops.

The main symptom of dogs suffering from food allergies is inflamed, itchy skin. Some of the other possible symptoms include, but are not limited to: loss of appetite, persistent ear infections, hair loss, licking or chewing front paws, head shaking, and skin lesions.

The most common ingredients causing allergic reactions in pets include all types of fillers, food coloring, preservatives, beef, chicken, corn, eggs, milk, soy, wheat, pork and whey.

If you suspect your dog has food allergies, follow these steps:

How To Care for Welsh Terriers

Grace170 — Wed, 06 Dec 2006 06:24:00 -0600

The Welsh Terrier is a lovable breed-one of the friendliest of all terriers. Welsh Terriers are loyal and playful, and have the reputation as being one of the most happy-go-lucky breeds of the terrier variety and of dogs in general. Here are some tips for owning a Welsh Terrier and some things you'll need to know before you purchase this pooch.

Physical Characteristics. The Welsh Terrier's looks are similar to that of an Airedale, although the breed is smaller. They are roughly 15 inches tall and no more than 20 pounds. The compact body has a wiry coat. The face has heavy and bushy eyebrows and is equipped with a stylish beard and mustache. The snout comes to a square end instead of a point, and its nose is black. The Welsh Terrier is born black and as it ages, turns tan, black and tan, or a mix with some grays. The tail is normally docked.

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How To Choose a Veterinarian

Amy 329 — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 12:06:00 -0600

For those of us who love our pets, choosing the right veterinarian can be a big decision. There are several things you can do to ensure that you find a doctor you are comfortable with and who will take the best possible care of your pet.

Ask for recommendations. One of the best ways to find a good veterinarian is to ask other people for recommendations. You can ask family and friends, and you can also check with a breeder or the staff of your local animal shelter. Getting recommendations from people who have a good relationship with their veterinarian is better than searching your local yellow pages.

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How To Diagnose Dog Illnesses

Amy 329 — Thu, 30 Nov 2006 06:12:00 -0600

Most people want to provide the best possible care for their four-legged friends, including veterinary care when necessary. Sometimes, however, it's difficult to determine whether or not your pet has an illness that requires veterinary attention. The following are some factors to consider as you decide whether your dog has an illness or condition which may require the care of a veterinarian.

Your dog is exhibiting a persistent hacking cough. Dogs, like people, sometimes cough. A onetime cough probably isn't anything to worry about, but if the coughing persists, it's time to call the vet. If your dog has recently been kenneled, the hacking cough can be attributed to a condition called kennel cough, an illness which can be treated with antibiotics. There are other illnesses that can cause this type of cough, as well, so your best bet is to bring your dog in for a check-up.

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How To Breed Dogs

Mary311 — Wed, 29 Nov 2006 21:57:00 -0600

Making the decision to breed dogs is one which should be made out of love for the breed as opposed to an opportunity to make money. Responsible breeders should seek to breed their dogs in an effort to produce high quality dogs of their chosen breed and should place these dogs in suitable homes. The following tips will assist those who have an interest in breeding their dogs to learn more about the process:

If you plan to breed your bitch, you should first make certain she is healthy. This will help to ensure she has an uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery. Complications can also be minimized by waiting until your bitch is full grown before breeding her and supplying her with a high quality diet rich with supplements.

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How To Care for Your Dog's Skin

Sharon449 — Wed, 22 Nov 2006 07:51:00 -0600

Many conditions can affect your dog's skin, from dry weather to contagious skin diseases, causing itching, redness, infection and pain. Caring properly for your dog's skin is vital to his overall health, well-being and appearance.

Choose the proper shampoo. There are many varieties of shampoo made specifically for dogs. If your dog has dry skin and flakiness, choose a moisturizing or sensitive skin shampoo. Also available for dry skin and associated itching are medicated shampoos with oatmeal, papaya or aloe. Use an antiseptic shampoo for inflamed skin to relieve excessive itching and prevent infection. There are also flea and tick shampoos, shed control shampoos and, if your dog is fearful of water, waterless shampoos. For certain skin conditions, a veterinarian will provide a prescription shampoo.
Treat parasites quickly. Fleas, ticks, chiggers, mange and ringworm all affect your dog's skin.

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How To Choose the Right Pet Boarding Kennel

Casey47 — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 10:03:00 -0600

Choosing your pet's home away from home while you are gone is one of the more important choices you can make for them. Many people do not realize the extreme differences in pet boarding kennels these days. Just the name itself can tell you a lot. Would you rather your dog stay at a boarding kennel or a pet resort? I think the answer to that is easy! Now let's explore why this is by talking about prices, accommodations, extras, and other factors.

Locating Pet Boarding Kennels: The first step in choosing the right place to board your pet is to first locate all of your choices. There are two really simple ways to do this.

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How To Care for Norwich Terriers

Grace170 — Tue, 10 Oct 2006 09:31:00 -0500

The Norwich Terrier is the smallest of the working terrier breed. Of all the terriers, the Norwich is the best match for the "on-the-go" owner that wants a terrier but cannot provide his pooch with constant stimulation and bountiful amounts of exercise. Norwich Terriers are best known for their affectionate attitude and their easygoing nature. Here are some things you should know about a Norwich before you go out and buy one of these comforting creatures.

Physical Characteristics. The Norwich has a short, rough coat. It has short but strong, sturdy legs, a docked tail, and a foxlike mug. The coat is wheaten, tan, black and tan, or in some cases, red. A square head with twin pointy ears tops off the Norwich Terrier's compact little physique. An average Norwich Terrier weighs 10-12 pounds, and sits approximately 10 inches tall.

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How To Care for Silky Terriers

Grace170 — Sun, 24 Sep 2006 07:28:00 -0500

The Silky terrier is one of the more delicate terriers. Silky terrriers are affectionate, smart, and alert animals. Although they are lapdogs, they do have quite a bit of energy and will demand great attention from you. Here are some things to know about the Silky terrrier before you go out and buy one of these cute creatures.

Physical Characteristics. Also called the Sidney Terrier, this pooch is long-haired, short-legged, and lightly built. The head structure is flat and wide between the ears, and the nose and eyes are black. Although they are small-framed-measuring up to around 10 inches in height-they are sturdy dogs.

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How To Care for Patterdale Terriers

Grace170 — Fri, 22 Sep 2006 03:11:00 -0500

The Patterdale Terrier is the most substantial of terriers. Equipped with solid legs and high set ears, the Patterdale is less of a "fussy" dog when compared to the rest of the terrier breed. Although the Patterdale is know for his easygoing attitude, here are some things to know before you go out and buy a new Patterdale puppy.

Physical Characteristics. The Patterdale has a short, rough coat. The Patterdale's coat is wiry; it can be black and tan, red, brown, or just plain black. He measures about 12 inches, and weighs between 10 and 14 pounds.

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How To Care for Manchester Terriers

Grace170 — Thu, 21 Sep 2006 08:17:00 -0500

The Manchester Terrier is a high-energy mix of intelligence and slyness all bundled into about 15 inches. They are good matches for owners who can spend the time to fill their curiosity and satiate their need for exercise and stimulation. Before you go out to buy a Manchester, here is what you should know about the breed and how you should prepare yourself for owning one.

Physical Characteristics. There are two types of Manchester Terriers-Toy and Standard. Both are compact pooches with v-shaped ears. Their ears may be cropped, but are not always. Their coat is sleek and dark just like their eyes. The black nose is reminiscent of a Whippet (a breed that is in their gene pool), and their short tapered tail completes the compact body. Manchesters can come in tan and black, but can always be described as a stealthy dark color.

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How To Treat Canine Kidney Disease

Sharon449 — Wed, 20 Sep 2006 13:24:00 -0500

The kidneys maintain the correct balance of water and electrolytes in the blood and serve as filters for the waste products leaving the body. When the kidneys don't function properly, toxins build up in the blood. Canine kidney disease is classified as being either acute or chronic. Acute kidney disease can affect dogs of all ages, has a sudden onset, and the damage to the kidneys may or may not be reversible. Chronic kidney disease affects mostly older dogs, develops slowly over time, and the damage is irreversible.

How To Care for Norfolk Terriers

Grace170 — Thu, 31 Aug 2006 05:33:00 -0500

The Norfolk Terrier is a lovable little dog that has made its way into the hearts of pet owners. Not quite a trendy dog, the Norfolk is popular with families and single dog owners based on its manageable size and its adorable features. Before you go out to buy a Norfolk, here is what you should know about the breed and how you should prepare yourself for owning one.

Physical Characteristics. The Norfolk Terrier is the smallest of the working terriers. Its body is short and stable. Norfolk's faces have a semi-pronounced snout and ears that point at attention. A half-docked tail finishes off the wiry coated body of the animal.

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How To Care for Large Dog Breeds

Sharon449 — Tue, 22 Aug 2006 05:15:00 -0500

Large breed dogs generally weigh more than 50 lbs. and include a variety of breeds such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, Greyhounds, and Golden Retrievers. Large breed dogs make wonderful pets, but because of their size, there are some special considerations when caring for them.

How To Care for Labrador Retrievers

Grace170 — Mon, 21 Aug 2006 12:05:00 -0500

The Labrador Retriever is one of America's favorite pets. This medium-sized, athletic, good tempered dog is known as a stable addition to the family. Although they are a retrieving breed, "Labs", as they are affectionately called, make the perfect companion even off the hunting grounds.

Physical Characteristics. The Lab is a strongly built animal with a short, thick coat of hair. It has a broad back that leads to what is commonly called an "otter" tail. It's legs are fairly short-coupled and muscular. The Lab has good endurance and is considered a "fit" dog.

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How To Use Canine Medications

Wendy118 — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 19:46:00 -0500

Prior to giving your pet any medication, you should make sure you understand the instructions given to you by the vet. These instructions will include dosage, how often to give your pet the medication and what side effects you should watch out for.

If you have ever tried to give your dog medication, then you know how difficult it can be. A dog will not simply open his mouth up like a good boy and swallow it down. Dogs cannot usually be bribed with a treat or special surprise to take their medicine, either. The key to getting a dog to take his medicine is to be sneaky. Here are some tricks that can you use that will take the fuss and worry out of giving your dog his medicine.

How To Treat Canine Mange

Mary311 — Sat, 29 Jul 2006 13:43:00 -0500

Canine Mange is a skin disorder which is caused by the presence of mites which exist on the skin of the dog or in the hair follicles and may even burrow under the skin. Mites are always present on dogs but certain mites will cause reactions which create uncomfortable symptoms if left untreated. There are three common types of Canine Mange in dogs which are caused by different mites. These varieties include Cheyletiella Mange, Sarcoptic Mange and Demodectic Mange. Treatment of Canine Mange is usually fairly simple if the condition is detected early on before it spreads extensively.

The following steps are helpful in treating Canine Mange:

How To Treat Canine Incontinence

Mary311 — Sat, 29 Jul 2006 12:59:00 -0500

Canine incontinence may seem like an insurmountable obstacle to many dog owners who find their dog is struggling with this problem but it is actually quite simple to treat and manage. Canine incontinence is categorized by urine leaking uncontrollably from the bladder. In a dog who is not afflicted by incontinence, he is easily able to control the leakage of urine from the bladder through the use of muscular tissue at the base of the bladder. The function of this tissue is strengthened by estrogen in bitches and testosterone in dogs. When the levels of these hormones are compromised, incontinence may occur. One common theory regarding canine incontinence is that when bitches are spayed too young, the lack of estrogen in the body adversely affects the bitch's ability to control the valve at the opening of the bladder.

How To Groom Your Dog

Mary311 — Thu, 27 Jul 2006 14:30:00 -0500

Grooming a dog is not a straightforward procedure. The steps in the process will depend on a number of variables including size, coat type, condition of the dog, and temperament of the dog. By nature some dogs such as those with double coats and those with particularly long coats involve more grooming than shorthaired dogs with single coats. However, most of the basic tips included in this article will apply to most dogs. Although grooming can be a difficult and time-consuming process, it is necessary because poor grooming can lead to medical problems such as infections. The following steps are the basic procedures for grooming a dog.