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	<title>Treat Pets Well &#187; Dog Training</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.treatpetswell.com/category/dog-training/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com</link>
	<description>Love your pets and they will love you!</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 09 Sep 2010 12:45:24 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	
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		<title>Schutzhund Training Program Designed To Produce Guard Dogs</title>
		<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/09/schutzhund-training-program-designed-to-produce-guard-dogs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/09/schutzhund-training-program-designed-to-produce-guard-dogs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Sep 2010 12:45:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Klaus Gruber</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[german shepherd training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[schutzhund puppy training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[schutzhund training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/09/schutzhund-training-program-designed-to-produce-guard-dogs/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Schutzhund training is one way to solve the quizzical love/hate relationship dogs have with humans. You either love them or hate them. This dichotomy is often the result of mistaken understandings and notions by us humans. These misunderstandings are triggered by people who fail to understand that a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. In those situations can lead to confusion and misplaced fears.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Schutzhund training is one way to solve the quizzical love/hate relationship dogs have with humans. You either love them or hate them. This dichotomy is often the result of mistaken understandings and notions by us humans. These misunderstandings are triggered by people who fail to understand that a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing. In those situations can lead to confusion and misplaced fears.</p>
<p>The biggest manifestation of this mindset occurs through the concept of guard/protection dogs. The general public perception on guard dogs is snarling and lunging creatures all set to kill and is borne out of the irresponsible behavior of owners who are not willing to learn the basics of the guarding or protection program. Learn the proper methods with our <a target='_blank' href="http://topschutzhundtraining.com/freevideo/">free schutzhund training videos</a></p>
<p>Schutzhund (German for security dog), as the training method is widely known, is all about training well a dog for guarding and protection purposes and done properly, he will work hard and love immensely the housemates and their possessions. However, Schutzhund also demands a whole lot of extra responsibility on the part of the owner. A fair comparison is a 0.454 Casull firer, which demands careful attention on the part of the proper functioning of the transfer safety bar. Or, think the sport as a means to turn the quintessential junkyard dog, without any sort of training and human interaction into a logical creature who knows when to wag its tail and when to snap. In simpler words, it is sophisticating an untamed beast and making it gain control over its impulses, either by itself or through the commands. It is more than making a dog a mere alert barker.</p>
<p>The prime targets of Schutzhund remains making a dog learn things that shall channelize its unleashed energy towards becoming a fearless defender for itself and others in its circuit. However, only a few breeds qualify to become a guard dog per se and they are certainly not the cute, fluffy breeds which, though may be trained to become alert barkers, would fail miserably in face of a physical fight.</p>
<p>So herding breeds rule the roost in this aspect and it is their inner protective instinct that comes to great use. Additionally, some of them (Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherds, for example) would just let go off the alert barking and stick with being wary to strangers and protecting its pack (i. E. The family or people with whom it stays). The dogs from the Molosser family also qualify well, but not as well as the German Shepherds, who are well known for their intelligence, an even, stable temperament, confident, assertive yet sociable nature and the fight drive. All these blend together and make the GSD highly trainable in the hands of even a moderately experienced dog handler. However, dogs, like humans, are individuals and some may turn out as headstrong, requiring highly experienced trainers to jump into the scene. Unless correctly educated and led, it might become a fine alternate being on the wrong end of the gun.</p>
<p>Contrary to popular belief, the Schutzhund program does not teach a dog a myriad ways to bite. Its focus is to teach a dog how to harness its powers and allow them to understand how to behave in specific grave situations.</p>
<p>Socialization with humans is a critical part of Schutzhund program. It is best initiated when the dog is eight to twelve weeks old. After Schutzhund training, the dog must also complete obedience training, the two having distinct objectives. Obedience is important since a dog must understand when to bite, release, and withdraw from an attack. Schutzhund schooling does not replace obedience training, rather, the two are complementary.</p>
<p>The Schutzhund training program is multi-level. It demands time, effort and dedication by the owner, as much as the dog. Moreover, the owner may have to reexamine some of his or her attitudes and behaviors during the program if it is to be successful. The program covers protection or guard work and also some obedience and tracking training. The behavior of a dog very much reflects how it is respected by the owner. The Schutzhund program can often be a mirror for the owner.</p>
<p>You can see a fantastic FREE video when you visit <a href="http://topschutzhundtraining.com/freevideo/">free schutzhund training videos here</a> now!</p>
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		<title>A Brief Introduction To Pet Training With Positive Reinforcement</title>
		<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/08/a-brief-introduction-to-pet-training-with-positive-reinforcement/</link>
		<comments>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/08/a-brief-introduction-to-pet-training-with-positive-reinforcement/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Sep 2010 07:38:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Adrianna Noton</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[veterinarian]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/08/a-brief-introduction-to-pet-training-with-positive-reinforcement/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are many reasons to begin a training regime with your pet. You may want to stop an animal's bad behavior such as clawing or chewing the furniture. You may want to keep him under control in social situations. Or you may want to teach him to perform tricks on command. In any case, the animal will benefit both from the mental exercise required and from the time and attention you give him. The most satisfying form of pet training uses positive reinforcement.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are many reasons to begin a training regime with your pet. You may want to stop an animal&#8217;s bad behavior such as clawing or chewing the furniture. You may want to keep him under control in social situations. Or you may want to teach him to perform tricks on command. In any case, the animal will benefit both from the mental exercise required and from the time and attention you give him. The most satisfying form of pet training uses positive reinforcement.</p>
<p>Animals are naturally keen to perform actions that they know will lead to positive outcomes. Positive reinforcement means rewarding your pet for good behavior, rather than punishing him for bad behavior. The rewards most commonly used in training are enthusiastic praise and a tasty morsel of food.</p>
<p>Although you may not be aware of it, you have probably already trained your pet using positive reinforcement. If your dog or cat stands near a door and barks or meows, and you open the door for them, they will associate their actions with the reward of being let in or out. The next time they want you to open the door, they will repeat the same behavior in anticipation of getting the same reward.</p>
<p>Before beginning a formal training session, you will need to determine the precise action you want your pet to perform and think of a command or cue word which will initiate the action. Single syllable cue words such as &#8216;come&#8217; or &#8217;stay&#8217; are easiest for the animal to recognize and for you to remember.</p>
<p>When your pet performs the desired action in response to the command, immediately reward him with verbal praise, swiftly followed by a treat. Consistency and speed are vitally important. If you are trying to teach a dog to respond to the word &#8217;sit&#8217;, and you wait until he is standing again before rewarding him, he won&#8217;t know which action to associate with the positive response.</p>
<p>To teach an animal to get off your favorite lounge chair or any other piece of furniture, use a simple command like &#8216;off&#8217;. When you find your pet sitting where she shouldn&#8217;t, go get one of her treats. Stand near the chair, make sure your pet is looking at you and say &#8216;off&#8217; in a loud, clear voice. Gently push or lift the animal to the floor. Immediately praise her and hold the food to her mouth. Repeat the training process every time she climbs into the chair. After a number of trials, she will jump to the floor unassisted when she hears the word &#8216;off&#8217;.</p>
<p>When an animal has learned to reliably respond to the cue word, you can gradually stop rewarding her with treats. But do persist in offering praise and affection in return for good behavior. Dogs are eager to please their owners and generally require no other motivation. Depending on their individual personalities, and the extent to which they have bonded with their owners, some cats and birds will also continue to obey commands once the food incentive is withdrawn.</p>
<p>Pet training requires patience on the part of both the teacher and the pupil. There will be good days and bad days. Do not continue with a <a target='_blank' href="http://www.barkbusters.ca/trainers-okanaganvalley.html">dog training Kelowna</a> session if your pet seems tired or distracted. Never resort to scolding or punishment for bad performance. This will cause your animal to associate the cue word with negative consequences. Training should be an enjoyable experience that both you and your pet will be keen to repeat.</p>
<p>Training a puppy can be frustrating, <a href="http://www.barkbusters.ca/">dog training</a> requires discipline and consistancy. When experiencing problems, consult a professional. Bark Busters offer a reliable and affordable service for house <a href="http://www.barkbusters.ca/">puppy training</a>.</p>
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		<title>What You Don&#8217;t Know About The Wireless Dog Fence</title>
		<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/07/what-you-dont-know-about-the-wireless-dog-fence/</link>
		<comments>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/07/what-you-dont-know-about-the-wireless-dog-fence/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 12:12:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jordan Murphay Monroser</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/07/what-you-dont-know-about-the-wireless-dog-fence/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[When you first decided to get a puppy, you probably weren't aware of all the responsibilities that went along with being a dog owner. There are a lot of things that need to be done on a daily basis to take care of a dog and on top of all of that they can be very expensive.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>When you first decided to get a puppy, you probably weren&#8217;t aware of all the responsibilities that went along with being a dog owner. There are a lot of things that need to be done on a daily basis to take care of a dog and on top of all of that they can be very expensive.</p>
<p>Unlike humans, dogs can not fully grasp certain concepts. For example, you dog doesn&#8217;t understand that they can not leave your property for their own good. They don&#8217;t know that they will encounter many dangers if they wander off. They can get lost, hit by a car or worse.</p>
<p>Because of the fact that communicating with your dog is almost impossible and training them to stay within the perimeter of your yard can be just as hard, most pet owners keep their dogs leased in the backyard. This can almost completely defeat the purpose of letting them outside in the first place. Leases can make it very hard for your dog to do doggy things like running and playing.</p>
<p>Wouldn&#8217;t it be nice if you could just explain to your dog that they can&#8217;t leave the boundary of your property. They would be able to run around and have fun outside. You could let them loose and never have to worry about them running off and getting into trouble.</p>
<p>If being able to let your dog run free in the yard, worry free, is something that interests you, you may want to consider purchasing a wireless dog fence. A wireless dog fences uses a wireless signal much like that of a cordless phone to help teach your dog the boundaries of your property.</p>
<p>Wireless dog fences come with two separate parts, the transmitter and a special collar. The way it works is, the transmitter emits a signal that is received by the special dog collar. If the dog collar stop receiving the signal it puts out a correctional shock. This may sound drastic but I assure you this is in no way painful for your pet.</p>
<p>The amazing thing about wireless dog fences is that they show you just how smart your pet really is. You will be amazed how quickly your dog learns their boundaries and within as short a period as a few days will rarely even roam any where near them.</p>
<p>Wireless dog fences are very easily set up. Simply, choose a place in your home where you&#8217;d like to place the transmitter, set it to the distance you&#8217;d like your pet to be able to roam and that&#8217;s it. Your dog will be able to roam free outside with little to no supervision.</p>
<p>I hope you enjoyed this article on <a href="http://wirelessdogfencereviews.blogspot.com">wireless dog fence</a> or better known as the <a href="http://wirelessdogfencereviews.blogspot.com">electric dog fence</a>.</p>
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		<title>Remember To Perform Some Research When Buying A Dog</title>
		<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/05/remember-to-perform-some-research-when-buying-a-dog/</link>
		<comments>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/05/remember-to-perform-some-research-when-buying-a-dog/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 05 Sep 2010 11:44:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Bob Locker</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diseases]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/05/remember-to-perform-some-research-when-buying-a-dog/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dogs can be amazing pets. When buying a dog, you are investing in a companion that, hopefully, will be with you for quite a number of years. Therefore, you should know what you're getting into and not just spend hundreds of dollars on a particular dog breed because it "looks pretty".]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dogs can be amazing pets. When buying a dog, you are investing in a companion that, hopefully, will be with you for quite a number of years. Therefore, you should know what you&#8217;re getting into and not just spend hundreds of dollars on a particular dog breed because it &#8220;looks pretty&#8221;.</p>
<p>Learn about the disposition of the dog you want. Some breeds are more aggressive than others while others are very calm and lazy. Some people don&#8217;t mind having a tennis ball tossed at their feet every five seconds, but it can drive other people crazy. So it&#8217;s important to know what you&#8217;re getting into.</p>
<p>Some dogs require more grooming than others. How much does your chosen type need to be groomed? This is one of the questions you should ask the breeder of that golden retriever you want so badly, along with inquiries about exercise requirements and daily feeding amounts.</p>
<p>Having a dog is a responsibility. If you want to be a responsible dog owner, you should know about general dog care. A dog is completely reliant on you for its health and happiness; you must know how to take care of one properly.</p>
<p>Make sure the dog is up to date on all of its shots and immunizations before you buy it. This is important to avoid being stuck with a sickly animal; you want a strong, healthy dog that will live a long time.</p>
<p>Unless you want to become a breeder yourself, you should also consider staying or neutering your animal. This is important because it helps regulate the dog population.</p>
<p>If you don&#8217;t want to invest time and energy in training your dog, make sure it has already received basic training from the breeder before you buy it. This will save you a lot of frustration.</p>
<p>Be knowledgeable about the health problems your particular breed is prone to. This prepares you for any issues down the line and helps you provide the best life for your pet.</p>
<p>Read more of this writer&#8217;s articles regarding topics including <a href="http://skylightblinds.org/solar-tube-skylights/">solar skylight tube</a> and <a href="http://skylightblinds.org/electric-blinds/">electric roller blinds</a>.</p>
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		<title>Basic Dog Training</title>
		<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/04/basic-dog-training/</link>
		<comments>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/04/basic-dog-training/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 04 Sep 2010 13:52:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Stan Masket</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog trainers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet advice]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/04/basic-dog-training/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Dog Training Basics]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Dog Training Basics</p>
<p>There is never a perfect age to train your dog, but there can be a perfect time &#8211; right now! A dog of any age can be trained no matter what the kind of behavior you are looking for from your pet. The longer you put off training, the harder it will become for your pet to adapt to that learned behavior. While many people try their hand at training their dog on their own, others seek out a professional dog trainer in their area in order help guide them and reach the results they are looking for.  </p>
<p>Finding a dog trainer can be an extensive search depending on what types of problems you want to avoid with your pet. Common dog behavior problems are easily helped with training.  Potty training, eliminating aggressive behavior, barking or just leash training can all be helped by the use of a professional dog trainer.</p>
<p>No matter if this is your first pet or one of many, each dog is different and no personality is the same and may require additional help from an outside source. Seeking out a dog trainer is not an admission of being an inadequate owner, but rather an owner that is serious about having a well-behaved dog that is desirable to be around.  Working with a trainer will keep you on coarse and make the job easier.</p>
<p>When using the services of a local dog trainer you too can become informed about the benefits of having a structured regime for your pet. Not only will your pet become well behaved, but also it will be a joy to have around and spend more time with at home, out in public or with other dogs. There is less anxiety for both owner and pet when a dog knows its boundaries and limitations of what is expected on a daily basis.  </p>
<p>Potty training can happen fast or slow depending on how you wish to approach it.  Pro trainers help with assistance, knowledge and encouragement.  Often, the more time you spend one-on-one with your pet for potty training, the easier it will be for both of you and the desired results will come faster.</p>
<p>The more training you put into your dog the more enjoyment you will get out of it.  Using the skills from a local dog trainer can help the process so that you do not become easily frustrated with your new dog before they are fully trained. </p>
<p>There are no rules about what training will work best for you and your pet.  There are lots of resources available to you.  The benefits of training are that there are many different methods used by local dog trainers, and you are free to choose which ones will work for you and your pet.</p>
<p>There are no rules about what training will work best for you and your pet.  There are lots of resources available to you.  The benefits of training are that there are many different methods used by local dog trainers, and you are free to choose which ones will work for you and your pet.</p>
<p>Learn more about <a href="http://www.seasonals.com">Dog Diapers</a>. Stop by our site where you can find out all about <a href="http://seasonals.com/Dog-Diapers/order">dog diapers</a> for dogs in heat and incontinent or dog marking territory, what they can do for you.</p>
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		<title>How To Housebreak Your Puppy</title>
		<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/02/how-to-housebreak-your-puppy/</link>
		<comments>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/02/how-to-housebreak-your-puppy/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Sep 2010 11:01:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Detlev Rinke</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/09/02/how-to-housebreak-your-puppy/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[House training a new puppy is a bit tricky and sometimes very difficult and frustrating. However, in the long run, it is well worth the time. This will probably begin as soon as you bring your new puppy home, so a bit of preparation and patience is in order. Take a look at some information on housebreaking a puppy that might benefit you in this process.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>House training a new puppy is a bit tricky and sometimes very difficult and frustrating. However, in the long run, it is well worth the time. This will probably begin as soon as you bring your new puppy home, so a bit of preparation and patience is in order. Take a look at some information on housebreaking a puppy that might benefit you in this process.</p>
<p>There is no shortage of ideas and opinions on this subject. Some techniques are useful, while other are not. Often, these myths are cruel and ineffective. Take a look at some information and techniques that have been proven to be effective much of the time. Understand, however, that your success will depend on many variables.</p>
<p>You need to have realistic expectations with this process. Understand that puppies are very immature and simply have a tough time controlling their bowels and bladder. For this reason accidents are often unintentional and can continue after the puppy has learned its responsibility. Be prepared for this with patience and understanding. Make sure that you are consistent with your technique and approach to this process, or your puppy will only get more confused.</p>
<p>An important early step in this process is setting a schedule and sticking too it. When you wake in the morning, immediately take the puppy outside to use the bathroom. Puppies generally wake up with a need to urinate, so take advantage of this by anticipating this need to go and equating it with going outside. Also set an eating schedule and take your puppy outside immediately after he or she eats. This is another typical time when a dog will need to use the bathroom. Anticipation and preparation is ideal, so keep these important moments in mind.</p>
<p>Keep an eye on your dog and be mindful of signs that it needs to use the bathroom. Key signs include pacing, circling, and sniffing. Be safe and take the dog out if you catch it doing this. When you inevitably catch the dog making a mistake, give him a stern &#8220;no&#8221; and immediately take it outside. Never hit the dog or utilize other cruel tactics that aren&#8217;t effective. Also avoid punishing the puppy if you didn&#8217;t catch him in the middle of the act. If you don&#8217;t catch it in the act, it will have no idea why its being punished.</p>
<p>Two key items you may need are puppy pads and kennels. Kennels are ideal for times when you must leave the house. Dogs will not want to relieve themselves in such a confined space, encouraging them to wait until you get home to go to the bathroom. However, the puppy may have no choice but to use the bathroom if you are gone for too long. Puppy pads are great for avoiding messes. They are also good for teaching the dog to go to the door when it needs to relieve itself. Try slowly moving the pads toward the appropriate door over time. The dog will learn to go to the door when it needs to go outside.</p>
<p>Housebreaking a puppy can be particularly difficult for some people, while relatively easy for others. However, if you approach the issue with patience and understanding, you will eventually succeed in this process. Immediately begin developing a schedule to help everyone involved. Also consider purchasing a dog kennel and puppy pads. A bit of anticipation and preparation can make this training much simpler.</p>
<p>More tips about <a href="http://www.puppypottytrainingtip.com/ideas-on-housebreaking-a-puppy/">housebreaking a puppy</a> are available for you.</p>
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		<title>Helping A Puppy Mill Dog Feel Comfortable In Your Home</title>
		<link>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/08/31/helping-a-puppy-mill-dog-feel-comfortable-in-your-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/08/31/helping-a-puppy-mill-dog-feel-comfortable-in-your-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:34:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jennifer Rodane</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dog Training]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.treatpetswell.com/2010/08/31/helping-a-puppy-mill-dog-feel-comfortable-in-your-home/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Adopting and caring for a canine is always a rewarding experience. In exchange for food, shelter, exercise, and regular veterinary care, your pet offers loyalty and companionship for the remainder of his life. Dogs that have lived in puppy mills, however, pose a unique challenge for owners. The treatment they received at the mill will likely have made them distrustful of people, and fearful of anything that is unfamiliar to them. Owners who adopt such dogs must take a few extra steps toward making them feel comfortable and secure in their new homes.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Adopting and caring for a canine is always a rewarding experience. In exchange for food, shelter, exercise, and regular veterinary care, your pet offers loyalty and companionship for the remainder of his life. Dogs that have lived in puppy mills, however, pose a unique challenge for owners. The treatment they received at the mill will likely have made them distrustful of people, and fearful of anything that is unfamiliar to them. Owners who adopt such dogs must take a few extra steps toward making them feel comfortable and secure in their new homes.</p>
<p>In this article, we&#8217;ll describe how puppies are treated in mills so you&#8217;ll understand the reasons such pups are hesitant and fearful of others. We&#8217;ll also describe the typical behaviors puppy mill dogs exhibit once they&#8217;re rescued. Lastly, we&#8217;ll provide a few suggestions for helping your canine feel comfortable within your home.</p>
<p>Inside A Puppy Mill</p>
<p>Puppies are treated poorly in mills. Their physical and mental health take a back seat to revenue. The mill generates this revenue by breeding the pups in their care. But there is a key difference between the breeding activity that takes place in a mill, and that which is done by professional breeders.</p>
<p>Professional breeders do everything possible to minimize genetic problems in the canines they breed. Mills take no such precautions. Instead, they breed pups without consideration for the likelihood that defects may pass to the litters. For this reason, many of the puppies born from this process are saddled with eye, dental, and joint problems.</p>
<p>The pups at the mill are usually housed in overcrowded pens. The living conditions are often dirty to the point of being unhygienic. Moreover, the dogs seldom receive the basic essentials they need to stay physically and mentally healthy. They rarely see the sun, or have access to a constant source of clean air.</p>
<p>When a puppy is adopted from a mill, the transition to a &#8220;normal&#8221; life can be jarring to him. You may notice behaviors in him during the first few days in your home that seem odd.</p>
<p>Establishing His Personal Den</p>
<p>Keep in mind that everything is new and potentially frightening to your new pet. When you bring him into your home, he may appear especially hesitant. This is because he has lived with fear his entire life. He has learned to dread the unfamiliar.</p>
<p>First, establish a room &#8211; or part of a room &#8211; as his personal den. Place bowls for food and water in this area along with newspapers on which he can urinate and defecate. Having an area to himself will make him feel safe, and slowly build his confidence.</p>
<p>Second, after a week has passed, begin acclimating him to a collar and lead. Place both on him for short periods, and let him drag the lead as he roams throughout your home. This will help him become accustomed to the feel, and prepare him for going on walks.</p>
<p>Minimizing Fear And Stress</p>
<p>Because your puppy&#8217;s exposure to the outside world was so limited while he was at the mill, he may be easily startled by unfamiliar noises. For example, the sound made by a vacuum cleaner may frighten him. A toaster, television, and blow dryer may also cause him stress. Desensitization training will prove invaluable for helping him become used to hearing these sounds. This type of training takes time and requires patience. But it&#8217;s the most effective way to minimize your canine&#8217;s fear and stress of routine noises that occur in your household.</p>
<p>Once your dog begins to feel safe and secure within your home, he&#8217;ll explore on his own. He&#8217;ll start to peek into other rooms to discover what lies beyond the confines of his personal den. Over time, he&#8217;ll gain confidence regarding his place within your life, and look to you as his best friend.</p>
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