Dog Behavior Training - The Sit Command

The sit command is the most popular and basic command a dog should learn before following other complex commands. The ’sit’ command is a sign of obedience and should be taught as soon as your dog becomes comfortable with the name given to him. So an owner might be asking, when is the best time to teach your dog this command? The timing is very vital, it’s not a bad idea to practice often without considering other circumstances however, timing and your dog’s frame of mind are very salient factors to consider.

A dog is responsive to training methods usually before meals or when he?s hungry and yearns for something. Make sure to reward your dogs for a good deed, making them wait around will only send confusing message to your dogs and would become disobedient in the long run.

With all this information at hand, it is now time to start the actual training. Be sure to have the treats ready for your dog when he performs well. Start in a quiet place where your dogs won?t get distracted. Slowly move the treats above the head and while doing this, your dog would naturally fall back into a sitting position by bending their legs when aiming for the treat above. When a task is accomplished give your dog some reward. This task may take several days or even weeks to be completed. If your dog refuses to stay in one place while doing the exercise, try using discipline procedures for a short period of time like a time out, take away favorite toys, totally ignore your dog or don’t give treats that are normally meant for good behavior.

No Comments »admin on April 5th 2008 in Pet Behavior, Pet Training

How To Keep Your Cat Healthy: Cat Feeding And Nutrition

Cats are fastidious eaters. They have a very keen sense of taste and smell. If they are used to eating the same menu over the years brand change could be done gradually. A few quantity of the new brand should be mixed with a large amount of the old one. Then slowly increase the amount of the new food and decrease the old.

Cats are habits centered species. An owner should set a specific time each day for meal time. If more than one cat shares your home, be sure to provide them with food and water bowls individually. This would lessen competition, their sense of being territorial, and most importantly everyone gets their fair share of nutrition.

Cats have different nutritional needs therefore, nutritional supplements should include: Vitamin A, Niacin, Essential Fatty Acids and Taurine.

Distribution of foods should also depend on the cat?s age, health, and activity level. Kittens under 12 weeks should be fed for about four times each day. Adult cats usually have twice-a-day feedings. A meat-based cat food over a vegetable-based is more favorable. Meat-based products are considered of better quality.

Moist or canned food is a cat?s usual favorite?as the moisture intensifies the scent of the food. However, ensure that your cats also eat dry foods regularly. Never leave canned food in a dish all day long for it attracts?cockroaches, ants and would create a bad habit in your cat. A clean bowl of fresh water should also be served.

Cats are also known for being meat eaters. Thus, snacking on plants could be dangerous for a cat. This might be a clear indication that your cat is trying to get the required minerals lacking from the commercial foods given to them. A planter pot?containing?”cat grass” available at pet supply stores and garden centers is the best alternative solution for this problem.

No Comments »admin on March 18th 2008 in Cats, Pet Nutrition