Brushing Tips

Dogs need to be brushed regularly to keep their coats healthy and free of mats and tangles. While this may seem like a hassle, you can easily do it with the right tools and techniques. Below we will share the best ways to brush your dog’s fur. So if you’re looking for information on keeping your dog’s coat healthy and looking its best, read on!

Check for Ticks as You Brush

You may notice the bugs themselves or tiny black dots.

Determine How Often You Need to Brush

Most short coats require weekly brushing, but longer coats may require daily attention.

For Smooth, Short Coats

Use a rubber brush, then a bristle brush, and then polish with a chamois cloth.

For Short, Dense Coats

Use a slicker brush to remove tangles, followed by a bristle brush.

For Long Coats

Use a slicker brush to remove tangles, and be very gentle when removing mats. Then follow it with a bristle brush.

Don’t Forget the Tail and Feet

Particularly for dogs with longer coats.

Bathing Tips

Are you one of those people who think dog bathing is a waste of time? If so, you’re not alone. Many pet owners believe dogs don’t need to be bathed as often as they should and most certainly don’t need all the fancy shampoos and conditioners available. But is this true? Take a look at some dog bathing tips that might make you change your mind.

Determine How Often Your Dog Needs a Bath

Depending on the weather and your dog’s recent activities, you may want to bathe your dog every one to three weeks.

Use a Dog Shampoo

Dog skin is different from humans, so you want to ensure the shampoo is mild enough to avoid irritation.

Start by Brushing

It will make the bathing process easier and more effective.

Use a Bath Mat

If your pup is in the tub, this helps prevent slipping.

Add Lukewarm Water

Be careful not to burn your dog or make it too cold, and only use about 3 to 4 inches in the tub.

Don’t Spray Directly in the Nose, Eyes, or Ears

A plastic cup or a spray hose can help you direct the water where you want it to go.

Rinse Well

One of the most common grooming mistakes is not properly removing all of the shampoo, leaving it on the skin to irritate your dog.

Check the Ears

Look in your pup’s ears. Do you notice any foul odors or a lot of debris? Consult your vet

Use a Low Heat Setting on the Blow Dryer

A dryer can effectively keep your dog from making everything in your house wet as he dries, but be careful not to burn your pup. You can also help keep it safe by not pointing it directly at your puppy but a little to the side.

Try a Bath Toy

If your dog is overexcited and mouthy during bath time, it may redirect some attention to something else.

Nail Trimming Tips

How often do you find yourself in a wrestling match with your dog over their nails? Or are they so tough that it is easier just to outsource the job of trimming them? If this sounds like something that would be painful for both parties involved, don’t worry! With our “dog-friendly” approach, we can make sure your furry friend comes away feeling pampered. If you want to make sure your dog’s nails don’t grow too long, it’s best not to trim them down into a stubby little nub. A more realistic goal (and one that can help prevent cutting) would be getting their nail length to just above where the floor meets the rug so they cannot scratch at anything.

Cut Carefully

What’s scarier than cutting a dog’s nails? Cutting blood vessels inside of them! It’s not pleasant for either party, but luckily, you can use some tricks to stop the bleeding if done accidentally. One idea would be using styptic powder and pressure or baking flour in an emergency. Just make sure not to apply too much force since this could cause more pain than what was initially inflicted on your pup by mistake during trimming time.

Start Early in Age

We recommend that you begin body-handling exercises when your pup is still a puppy. Gently familiarizing him with all of the equipment and how it’ll be working can help teach squeamishness and let them know this isn’t painful or scary!

Trim at Home

Cutting your dog’s nails at home is a great way to keep them comfortable while taking care of this essential grooming task. Busy pet professionals may need to use a groomer or a vet. However, this may not be the most relaxing way. Nail trimming at home ensures that your dog is relaxed and at ease throughout each step of the process.

Understand Their Reactions

When you take the time to understand how your dog feels, it will help shift what kind of reaction they have during nail care. Your pet may not be trying on purpose when they react in fear at the paws being stuck with clippers!

Choose Tools Wisely

Try something new if you find that your dog has had an unpleasant experience with a particular trimming tool. It’s easier to build up positive associations instead of trying to restore the negative ones!

Dog Teeth Brushing Tips

The dog’s teeth are also in need of attention. Dogs can develop tooth decay and gum disease like humans if their pearly whites aren’t regularly brushed. All you’ll need is some brushing tools designed for this purpose: either an electric or manual brush, depending on what type suits you best (or even both!), plus fluoride treatment capsules which help deter future abscesses by killing off bacteria quickly before they start growing again. Below are some more essential tips to follow for healthy gums and teeth.

Purchase Toothbrush and Toothpaste

You can buy toothbrushes for your dog at a pet store or online. They have longer handles that are easy to grip, making them perfect if you want quick access between the back teeth! Be sure to use toothpaste specially formulated for dogs. Some ingredients in human toothpaste can be toxic.

Choose Location and Time

You want to do the teeth brushing in an area of your home that is free from distractions such as pets and children, has good lighting, and promotes a calm atmosphere for your pup.

Test with Fingers

Specific training methods teach dogs to be calm during this touching procedure. First, lift the top lip with one hand while touching the lower incisors; then push down gently. Using your fingers first allows your pup to become familiar with the process of someone checking and cleaning their teeth.

Introduce the Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Before you start brushing, introduce the toothbrush without anything on it. Slowly put it in the mouth and work your way around the entire mouth, front, back, top, bottom, and sides. Give a reward if they have tolerated this action well. Next, show your pup the toothpaste tube, put a little on your finger, and allow them to lick it off.

Begin Brushing

Add the toothpaste and start brushing. Start front to back, top to bottom. The bottom inside will be a bit more complex and can be added in future brushings as your pup becomes more comfortable with the brushing.

Reward and Praise

Make sure you give verbal praise throughout the process. Teeth brushing is unnatural for dogs, so you want to build their confidence and familiarity with this part of grooming. Throughout each step, you can give a treat. As time goes on and they become accustomed to their teeth being brushed, you can slowly remove the food rewards.

Certain breeds require special attention between the folds and ears, so droopy ears should be monitored. Talk to your veterinarian to get grooming tips specific to your pup.

What’s your dog’s grooming routine like? Tell us in the comments.

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Best Dog Breeds for Families

Of course, the best way to have a family-friendly dog is to ensure that the dog considers every human member of the family as its Pack Leader. That being said, here is Cesar’s Way take on some of the best dog breeds for families.

Bulldog

The great advantage of bulldogs? They’re sturdy, so they can take anything that rambunctious kids throw at them, while they’re not very energetic. End result? A dog that will put up with a lot. They’re also not picky about where they live, so both small apartments and large houses are fine.

Beagle

If you don’t mind a bit of high maintenance when it comes to brushing and bathing, Charlie Brown’s best friend is an ideal dog for families with children. Energetic and friendly, beagles are also sturdy and mostly child-proof, and your kids will wear out before they do. They also make good nannies that can help you herd the young ones at bedtime, and have endearingly humorous habits, like howling, which can be very amusing in small doses.

Bull Terrier

Spuds McKenzie, Buster Brown’s Pal, and the preferred canine baby sitter of yesteryear, bull terriers are intelligent, energetic and friendly dogs that can take a lot of roughhousing while remaining calm. Particularly suited to large families, they don’t complain too much when manhandled by children, and can actually help teach kids how to properly relate to dogs. Plus they’re just very cute and adorable. While they are energetic and require lots of playtimes, they will also help wear your kids out — the more the merrier — and will return the favor by being very protective of them.

Collie

One word: Lassie. In fact, Lassie was one of the two dogs, (the other was Rin Tin Tin) who inspired a very young Cesar Millan to become a Pack Leader in the first place. While its long coat is high maintenance, its tendency to herd your children may be useful, at least in their early years. Beyond that, collies love nothing more than to make their humans happy, and it’s really not a stretch to imagine that you could train yours to alert you to a fire in the barn, or to remind you that you’ve left your cell phone on the dining room table before rushing off to work with a well-timed bark and whine. Sadly, though, no one has yet been able to train this breed to cook.

Newfoundland

Because of their natural love of children, the Newfoundland has been dubbed “Nature’s Nannies.” Large and sweet, it’s hard not to fall in love with them, and they will return the favor. While they can drool and shed a lot, and suit a family with large open spaces, they will also tend to wind up wherever the family is. Basically, they are gigantic, lovable furballs who desire nothing more than to keep watch on their pack members.

Vizsla

Originally a middle-European hunting dog, and little known outside of its native Hungary, the Vizsla is gentle, loyal, quiet and affectionate. It does require a lot of exercise — not a problem if you have energetic children. Still, it prefers to spend a lot of time indoors with its family and is very eager to learn and show off. If you want to teach your children by teaching them to train dogs, then this breed is a good choice.

Irish Setter

A better choice for families with yards because of their energy, Irish Setters are wonderful with children, because they are playful and energetic. One word of warning, though — their life spans are among the shorter ones for larger breeds, so you should only choose an Irish Setter if you want to teach those inevitable life lessons while your children are in middle school. Twelve years is considered old age for the breed and few make it to fifteen.

Poodle

Please note, only the standard poodle is a good family dog. Miniature poodles tend to be very high strung and not suitable for families with children. Standard poodles are smart and gentle, and are good for children with allergies, as they do not shed as much as other breeds. Otherwise, they are good-natured and make excellent playmates for children.

Labrador Retriever

One of the most popular breeds all around, we have documented Labradors elsewhere as the best dog to have if you’re looking for a date, the only breed accepted for training as arson dogs, and one of the more popular breeds for service dogs. For a family, there’s hardly a better choice. Labradors love to please their humans, being playful, protective, loving, and reliable. There’s nothing that a Lab loves more than to show off by learning a new trick, even if they manage to learn that new trick before you’ve taught it to them. They are canine Einsteins. All of these things make them one of the best dog breeds for families.

Golden Retriever

Goldens are almost everything a Labrador is, except with a much shorter life span then the Irish Setter — twelve years at the most, but ten more likely. Their main asset is extreme patience, useful around children, as well as their high energy. Frequently used as service dogs, they were originally bred as gun dogs and are avid swimmers.

Mutts

Bonus choice: go to your local shelter, and consider rescuing a mixed breed dog. In fact, consider a mixed breed in any case. Look for a dog that matches the energy level of your family, keeping one thing in mind — mid-size and larger dogs are great for families, while small breeds are not. If you have children, avoid Chihuahuas or Yorkies or anything you could pick up with one hand; look
at terriers, retrievers, or other bigger dogs. In general, if you’re not afraid of injuring it by stepping on it, then it’s probably durable enough for children.

Once again, remember: Whatever dog you bring in to the family, all of the people in the household need to be the Pack Leaders, whether adults or children. Follow this rule from day one, and no matter what dog you adopt, you’ll have an enjoyable experience.

What types of dogs has your family adopted?

The post Duplicated: 10 Best Dog Breeds For Families – [#2912] appeared first on Cesar's Way.

If you’re looking for a friendly, affectionate dog breed to add to your family, the Beagle may just be the perfect canine for you. Known for its gentle temperament and sweet personality, the Beagle makes a wonderful companion and great family pet.

If you want to learn more about this intelligent, sweet-tempered breed, you have come to the right place. Today, we’ll explore the characteristics of Beagles and what it’s like to own this particular breed of dog. We’ll also break down the steps to Beagle care and important information on Beagle health.

Ready to learn more about caring for Beagles? Let’s take a look at how to care for Beagles and why this breed may be the perfect dog breed for you!

What Do Beagles Look Like?

The Beagle is a breed of small hound quite similar in appearance to the foxhound. Beagles may be between 13-inches tall and 15-inches tall, and weigh between 18 to 20 pounds. Other noticeable traits of the Beagle include a square-cut muzzle, slightly domed skull, long droopy ears, and slightly curved tail tipped with white. A Beagle’s eyes are large and may be either hazel-colored or brown-colored.

A Beagle’s smooth, dense coat comes in a range of colors that include white, black, tan, and brown. Most Beagles are tricolored, meaning their body is white with black spots and brown shading. The tricolored Beagle may come in other shades, include the “Dark Tri,” “Faded Tri,” and “Classic Tri.”

Beagle Characteristics

There are a number of characteristics that make the Beagle a unique breed of dog. Although Beagles were originally bred for hunting and catching game, they have a sweet temperament that makes them wonderful house pets. Here, let’s take a closer look at Beagle characteristics and temperament.

Temperament

Beagles are brave, intelligent, and social dogs that are good with children and known for their loving, tolerant, sweet, and gentle temperament. The breed does well indoors and as an apartment dog as long as they are properly exercised and taken for long walks daily.

Socialization

Because Beagles were traditionally bred for hunting purposes, they need to be socialized from an early age, especially if their household includes non-canine pets. Furthermore, Beagle owners are advised to keep their pets on a leash during walks to prevent them from running off and trailing scents or chasing game.

Beagles can be stubborn but respond well to positive reinforcement. Like many breeds, they do best under the guidance of a strong pack leader. Practicing calm assertive leadership will help your Beagle to integrate into your lifestyle and prevent behavioral issues from developing.

Potential Beagle owners should also be aware that the breed exhibits a loud howl and bark, which may not always be appreciated by neighbors. Also keep in mind that although Beagles may bark at intruders, they are quite friendly and are unlikely to guard your house against invaders.

Beagle Health

Beagles are average shedders and are fairly easy to groom due to their short hair. Proper Beagle care includes bathing them with a mild, nonirritant shampoo whenever necessary and frequently brushing them with a firm bristle brush. Additionally, owners should occasionally check their dog’s ears for signs of infection (discolored wax, dirt, foul odor, excessive scratching, whining, or shaking of a dog’s head) as well as keep their nails trimmed.

As with any dog breed, mental stimulation is key for keeping Beagles happy, healthy, and content. Because Beagles are active dogs, they need to receive daily exercise in order to maintain a healthy weight.

Common Beagle Health Problems

The most common health problems associated with Beagles are obesity, epilepsy, allergies, cherry eye, and hypothyroidism. Fortunately, each of these conditions can be treated by your local veterinarian. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your Beagle, contact your vet immediately.

When properly cared for, Beagles have an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Engaging a Beagle’s Senses

In addition to playing fetch and going for walks, runs, and hikes, Beagles enjoy staying mentally stimulated. Because they are scent hounds, Beagles have a keen sense of smell and superior tracking instincts. These dogs make excellent hunting companions but can also benefit from other scent-oriented activities.

Owners of Beagles can purchase animal scents and play tracking games at home in order to engage their dog’s senses. Beagles will also enjoy the stimulation of sniffing out hidden treats or having their food bowls placed in new locations.

Training Your Beagle

Because Beagles are curious dogs, they need proper training in order to prevent them from being destructive. Keep in mind that training a Beagle requires a lot of time and patience, as Beagle training can be a challenging process. The best time to train a Beagle is from a young age. Crate training, potty training, and leash training are all most easily taught during the puppy stage. If you are working with an adult Beagle, expect the training process to take a bit longer.

In addition to teaching your Beagle manners in the house, you’ll also want to socialize your dog with both people and other canines. Socializing your Beagle can easily be done by frequently taking your Beagle out for walks in the neighborhood, as well as exercising him in local dog parks.

Although discipline may be necessary when training a Beagle, most Beagles react best to positive reinforcement. When your Beagle pup behaves well, reward him with verbal praise and food rewards. If your dog is behaving inappropriately, you may either ignore the behavior or firmly tell your Beagle “no.”

Beagles are independent thinkers and therefore can be difficult to train. With that being said, they are an extremely smart breed that can learn practically any type of training. If you are having trouble training your Beagle, treats may be used to motivate your pup.

We hope this article answered all your questions on caring for Beagles and what owning a Beagle is like. Whether you’re looking for a walking buddy, a hunting companion, or a family pal, Beagles can make wonderful additions to your home.

The post Caring For Beagles appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Is a Husky the Right Dog for Me?

There are a number of considerations to ponder when asking yourself, “Is a Husky the right dog for me?” One of the most important factors to deeply consider when deciding whether to own a Husky is the energy level this breed of dog has.

Siberian Husky dogs were originally bred to pull sleds over hundreds of miles across the frozen tundra of the Arctic region. Because a Siberian Husky’s energy levels run high, it’s important to note that this particular dog breed won’t be content to spend their days lounging in front of the TV. They need vigorous exercise and may enjoy wearing a harness and pulling a cart, a bike, or even you on skates.

It’s also important to realize that Huskies are intelligent but quite independent. Because they can become bored with following commands, Siberian Huskies respond better to overcoming new challenges. Additionally, you’ll want to keep in mind that Huskies are great escape artists and may climb your backyard fence if they’re not given enough mental and physical exercise.

What Breeds are Huskies Related to?

While there are quite a few dog breeds that closely resemble the Siberian Husky, two particular dog breeds that are related to the Husky are Samoyeds and Alaskan Malamutes.

Both Saymoyeds and Malamutes are directly descended from the original sled dogs and, according to DNA analysis, are two of the oldest dog breeds closely related to their wolf ancestor.

Samoyeds

While Samoyeds are often confused with Siberian Huskies, the Husky and Samoyed are two separate breeds with their own distinct personalities and characteristics.

Similar to the Siberian Husky, Samoyeds have thick double coats which allowed this dog breed to survive frigid temperatures in Russia from which they originate. Samoyeds also have high energy levels, although they are slightly easier to train than Siberian Huskies. Once they have their mental and physical needs met, Samoyeds make great family pets.

Malamutes

Bred for their strength and endurance, Alaskan Malamutes are among the oldest sled dog breeds of the Arctic and are believed to be a descendant of the wolf. Unlike the Siberian Husky, which was bred for its speed, the Alaskan Malamute is much slower but capable of pulling heavy loads over long distances.

While this dog breed is known for being affectionate and loyal, they are also extremely energetic and need plenty of exercise every day. Once their physical, as well as mental needs, are met, Alaskan Malamutes are well-behaved and incredibly gentle around kids.

Husky Appearance

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog breed with a compact body and thick double coat. They are highly admired for their seemingly effortless performance when pulling sleds and running for long distances.

A Siberian Husky’s coat comes in a variety of colors, ranging from pure white to dark black, and a number of colors in between. Another quality that makes the Siberian Husky appearance unique is the markings on its body. These markings may come in the form of black points or a piebald, depending on the Husky’s genes.

Husky Eyes

Another quality of the Siberian Husky is its gorgeous almond-shaped eyes. Husky eyes are often a distinctive blue, although they can also be brown, amber, or even mixed colors.

Where Does the Name “Husky” Come From?

The name “Husky” is a corruption of the nickname “Esky,” which was once used for “Eskimo,” a word that has largely been replaced by “Inuit.” The word “Husky” is recorded as far back as 1852 when Inuit people would keep these dogs to help them survive the unforgiving climates of the Arctic regions.

Husky History

The Siberian Husky’s history began in northeastern Asia where they were kept and bred by the Chukchi people. As the conditions of the environment changed for this group of people, Siberian Huskies became the key to survival as they hauled food and supplies across the frozen tundra during sub-zero temperatures.

Racing Origins

Huskies may be best known for pulling sleds in the famous Iditarod race, which commemorates one of the highlights of Husky history. In 1925, teams of sled dogs traveled 600 miles from Anchorage to Nome to deliver serum during a deadly outbreak of diphtheria. To this day, Siberian Huskies are kept by mushers for dog sledding sports throughout North America.

Husky Health

Proper Husky care includes feeding your dog a nutritional diet, grooming your dog regularly, and giving your dog plenty of vigorous exercise. There are also a few common diseases in the Husky breed that dog owners should be aware of and treat immediately if unusual symptoms suddenly appear.

What is the Lifespan of a Husky?

The typical lifespan of a Husky is 12 to 15 years of age. Although there is no known record for the longest living Husky, it is not unusual for Huskies to reach 16 years or even 18 years old when cared for properly and given a healthy lifestyle.

What are Common Diseases in Huskies?

Genetic diseases specific to the Siberian Husky breed include seizures and eye problems such as glaucoma and juvenile cataracts. It is also possible for your Siberian Husky to suffer from progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hypothyroidism, and corneal dystrophy. To identify and treat these diseases, you’ll need to visit a veterinarian as soon as your Siberian Husky begins showing unusual symptoms.

How Do I Keep My Husky Healthy?

Your dog’s food, activity level, and grooming schedule are all important factors for keeping your Siberian Husky healthy. Fortunately, the Siberian Husky is a relatively healthy breed that develops very few health issues. That said, it’s important to give your Siberian Husky the best possible care to improve not only his physical health but also his emotional wellbeing.

Because Huskies are extremely energetic, it’s important to exercise your dog daily by walking, biking, or hiking with him. Your Husky may also have fun pulling a sled during the winter or a cart during the summer months.

Depending on your dog’s activity level, you may need to adjust how much protein you feed your Siberian Husky. Siberian Huskies that are working every day may be fed up to 32 percent protein, while Huskies with low activity levels may only need 20 percent protein in their diet. Be careful not to overfeed your Husky, as obesity in dogs can lead to a number of other health issues.

Grooming Your Husky

Huskies have a thicker coat than most dog breeds. Because Huskies were bred to survive in cold environments, their coat consists of two layers—a dense undercoat and a short topcoat. Their furry bodies allow Siberian Huskies to endure sub-zero temperatures in the winter, as well as reflect heat during the summer.

How to Groom Your Husky

Because the Siberian Husky has such a thick coat, proper Husky grooming should be done weekly. Twice a year Huskies shed their undercoat and may need additional grooming to brush out the old hair. Also, note that Huskies are self-cleaning and therefore rarely need baths unless they are being shown in conformation dog shows.

In addition to grooming your dog’s hair, you’ll want to regularly clip your dog’s toenails. This can easily be done at home using dog nail clippers or a nail grinder. Be careful to never cut the quick, which is usually pink or dark colored. Before clipping your Husky’s nails, train him to be comfortable with you touching and handling his paws. If you or your dog feels uncomfortable, you may need a vet or groomer to clip the nails for you.

We hope this article helped answer your question, “Is a Husky the right dog for me?” If you’re still unsure whether a Siberian Husky is the right dog breed for you, feel free to leave any questions you have in the comments below.

The post So You’re Thinking Of Getting A Siberian Husky? appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Have you been asking the question, “What is the best guard dog?” If so, you have come to the right place. Together, let’s explore the top 10 best guard dogs and which breed may be the best guard dog for your family.

Throughout history, one of the main jobs of domesticated dogs has been to protect their owners and guard against unwanted people or animals. Although many modern dogs will instinctually act as home guardians, there are many specific breeds known for possessing the characteristics needed to ward off unwanted intruders.

Due to their temperament, physical strength, courage, loyalty and resistance to pain, expert dog trainers consider the following breeds to be the top 10 best guard dog breeds.

Our List of the Top 10 Best Guard Dogs

When it comes to selecting the best guard dog to have, there are a number of breeds to choose from. From the strong Bullmastiff to the speedy Doberman Pinscher, the options to choose from are numerous. Below, we’ve created a list of the top 10 best guard dogs for protection of your home and yourself.

Bullmastiff 

Known for physical strength, protection instincts, courageousness and extreme family loyalty, the Bullmastiff is one of the best guard dog breeds to have. If an intruder crosses the premises, a Bullmastiff will typically use his strength to knock them over or block their path. When it comes to being in a family environment, however, the breed is very docile and makes a great household pet.

Doberman Pinscher

If you have a large piece of property that you are trying to protect, a Doberman pinscher is a great guard dog for you. This breed is incredibly fast and is able to reach an intruder in a short amount of time. Known as the fifth-smartest dog breed in the world, Dobermans are fearless, alert and loyal dogs. Because they need a lot of exercise, however, they’re best suited for families with large yards and active lifestyles.

Rottweiler

Originally bred as cattle-protecting dogs, Rottweilers are known to be relentless protectors of their pack. They are an intelligent breed and extremely loyal to their owners. Rottweilers are known to be aloof with strangers until properly introduced to them. Additionally, they are very quick learners, thus making them one of the best guard dogs for families.

Komondor

Traditionally used to protect herds of sheep, the Komondor possesses a natural guard dog ability. This breed is active, courageous, loyal and known for his dignity and strength. If properly socialized and trained in obedience, this breed makes a devoted family pet.

Puli 

Originally bred for herding, Pulis are extremely smart and make excellent guard dogs. They are always on guard and will bark to alert their owners of anything out of the ordinary. Due to their high intelligence, Pulis require constant companionship. They make great additions to families with active lifestyles, as they love hiking, running and outdoor activities.

Giant Schnauzer

Giant schnauzers are strong, powerful and dominant dogs, thus making them one of the best guard dogs for homes and families. They are very intimidating to strangers but extremely loyal to family members. Keep in mind, however, that this breed requires a lot of mental and physical stimulation as well as constant attention.

German Shepherd 

Due to their high intelligence and quickness to learning commands, German Shepherds are one of the best protection dogs. They are bold, confident and fearless, hence making them a favorite police dog breed. Additionally, German Shepherds have a calm demeanor when in a household but will quickly react when their family or home is threatened.

Rhodesian Ridgeback 

Originally bred to hunt lions, this dog breed has a strong prey drive and tends to be independent in nature. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are loyal to their family and make natural watchdogs. They are known for being selective in their barking, so when a Ridgeback does bark, it needs to be taken seriously. Rhodesian Ridgebacks must be properly trained and managed, as they are not naturally obedient. Furthermore, this breed loves to cuddle and often likes to act as a lapdog.

Kuvasz

Kuvasz was initially bred to guard livestock but, over the years, has been increasingly found as guardians of homes. This breed is very territorial and has a strong instinct to guard his family members. The Kuvasz tends to be aloof with strangers but craves affection from his family. In addition to desiring constant companionship, the Kuvasz is very energetic and therefore needs plenty of exercise.

Staffordshire Terrier

Often confused with the American pit bull terrier, the Staffordshire terrier is one of the best guard protection dogs. They were originally bred for bear and bullfighting; hence, they have an aggressive and protective nature. Because of this, they must be properly socialized and trained from an early age. And although they are intimidating to strangers, Staffordshire Terriers make great household pets, as they are known to be aggressive only when protecting a family member.

Beyond Top 10 Best Guard Dogs: Other Dog Breeds Known to Be Natural Family Protectors

Still looking for the best guard dogs for home protection? Here we’ve listed the best guard dogs in the world beyond the top 10 best guard dogs for protection.

• Chow Chow
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• Belgian Malinois
• Belgian Sheepdog
• Belgian Tervuren
• Tibetan Mastiff
• Anatolian Shepherd Dog
• Black Russian Terrier
• Great Pyrenees
• Neapolitan Mastiff
• Fila Brasileiro (Brazilian Mastiff)
• Akita Inu
• Dogo Argentino
• Cane Corso
• Tosa Inu
• Bouvier des Flandres
• Ca de Bou

Dog Breeds Known to Make Excellent Watchdogs

Are you looking for a dog breed that will simply alert you of intruders? If so, a watchdog may be exactly what you need. Below is a list of the best dog breeds known to make fantastic watchdogs.

• Terriers
• Poodle (standard/miniature)
• Shih Tzu
• Miniature Schnauzer
• Dachshund
• Chihuahua
• Miniature pinscher

As with any pet, owning a guard dog comes with added responsibility. Although all the aforementioned breeds are known to make good family pets, owners must take into consideration the fact that these are very powerful dogs. In order to ensure the safety of family members, guests and neighbors, guard dogs must be properly socialized and trained. Moreover, guard dogs need to view their owners as their pack leaders.

If you’re looking for a dog that will alert you of intruders, a watchdog may best fit your needs. Unlike guard dogs, watchdogs won’t intervene if there is a threat approaching the premises. Several dog breeds are known for their persistent barking as well as their ability to alert their owners and scare away trespassers.

Do you own a guard dog or watchdog? Tell us all about her in the comments below.

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I deal with a lot of red zone cases, and I often hear people incorrectly blaming the breed. Any breed can cause trouble. The difference between an aggressive Chihuahua and an aggressive pit bull is that the bigger breeds can cause proportionately bigger damage.

It is important to recognize the power of a strong breed, like the pit bull, the Cane Corso, and the Mastiff. These dogs are very powerful and, if they are unbalanced, they can cause serious injury. Remember, these dogs don’t dream of being in the news when they grow up. Dogs don’t premeditate bad acts like people do. Bad things happen when powerful breeds (or mixes of powerful breeds) live with humans who like the breed but don’t understand and fulfill the animal in the dog. Many people consider the look or popularity of a breed before thinking about whether the dog works for their lifestyle. This is a recipe for disaster.

To control a powerful breed, you need to become the dog’s pack leader and establish rules, boundaries, and limitations. You need to fulfill the dog as Nature intended him to be fulfilled. If you are considering adopting a powerful breed, make sure you are willing and able to take on the responsibility.

Have you been able to correct your dog’s aggressive behavior? Tell us all about it in the comments.

The post Breed And Aggression appeared first on Cesar's Way.

Best Dog Breeds for Families

Of course, the best way to have a family-friendly dog is to ensure that the dog considers every human member of the family as its Pack Leader. That being said, here is Cesar’s Way’s take on some of the best dog breeds for families.

Bulldog

The great advantage of bulldogs? They’re sturdy, so they can take anything that rambunctious kids throw at them, while they’re not very energetic. End result? A dog that will put up with a lot. They’re also not picky about where they live, so both small apartments and large houses are fine.

Beagle

If you don’t mind a bit of high maintenance when brushing and bathing, Charlie Brown’s best friend is an ideal dog for families with children. Energetic and friendly, beagles are also sturdy and mostly child-proof, and your kids will wear out before they do. They also make good nannies that can help you herd the young ones at bedtime and have endearingly humorous habits, like howling, which can be very amusing in small doses.

Bull Terrier

Spuds McKenzie, Buster Brown’s Pal, and the preferred canine baby sitter of yesteryear, bull terriers are intelligent, energetic, and friendly dogs that can take a lot of roughhousing while remaining calm. Particularly suited to large families, they don’t complain too much when manhandled by children and can help teach kids how to relate to dogs properly. Plus, they’re just charming and adorable. While they are energetic and require lots of playtimes, they will also help wear your kids out — the more, the merrier — and will return the favor by being very protective of them.

Collie

One word: Lassie. In fact, Lassie was one of the two dogs (the other was Rin Tin Tin) who inspired a very young Cesar Millan to become a Pack Leader in the first place. While its long coat is high maintenance, its tendency to herd your children may be helpful, at least in their early years. Beyond that, collies love nothing more than to make their humans happy, and it’s not a stretch to imagine that you could train yours to alert you to a fire in the barn or to remind you that you’ve left your cell phone on the dining room table before rushing off to work with a well-timed bark and whine. Sadly, though, no one has yet been able to train this breed to cook.

Newfoundland

Because of their natural love of children, the Newfoundland has been dubbed “Nature’s Nannies.” Large and sweet, it’s hard not to fall in love with them, and they will return the favor. While they can drool and shed a lot and suit a family with large open spaces, they will also tend to wind up wherever the family is. Basically, they are gigantic, lovable furballs who desire nothing more than to keep watch on their pack members.

Vizsla

Originally a middle-European hunting dog, and little known outside of its native Hungary, the Vizsla is gentle, loyal, quiet, and affectionate. It does require a lot of exercise — not a problem if you have energetic children. Still, it prefers to spend a lot of time indoors with its family and is very eager to learn and show off. If you want to teach your children by train dogs, then this breed is a good choice.

Irish Setter

A better choice for families with yards because of their energy, Irish Setters are wonderful with children, because they are playful and energetic. One word of warning, though — their life spans are among the shorter ones for larger breeds, so you should only choose an Irish Setter if you want to teach those inevitable life lessons while your children are in middle school. Twelve years is considered old age for the breed, and few make it to fifteen.

Poodle

Please note, only the standard poodle is a good family dog. Miniature poodles tend to be very high strung and not suitable for families with children. Standard poodles are intelligent and gentle and are ideal for children with allergies, as they do not shed as much as other breeds. Otherwise, they are good-natured and make excellent playmates for children.

Labrador Retriever

One of the most popular breeds all around, we have documented Labradors elsewhere as the best dog to have if you’re looking for a date, the only breed accepted for training as arson dogs, and one of the more popular breeds for service dogs. For a family, there’s hardly a better choice. Labradors love to please their humans, being playful, protective, loving, and reliable. There’s nothing that a Lab loves more than to show off by learning a new trick, even if they manage to learn that new trick before you’ve taught it to them. They are canine Einsteins. All of these things make them one of the best dog breeds for families.

Golden Retriever

Goldens are almost everything a Labrador is, except with a much shorter life span than the Irish Setter — twelve years at the most, but ten more likely. Their main asset is extreme patience, helpful around children, as well as their high energy. Frequently used as service dogs, they were initially bred as gun dogs and are avid swimmers.

Mutts

Bonus choice:

1. Go to your local shelter, and consider rescuing a mixed breed dog.
2. Consider a mixed breed in any case.
3. Look for a dog that matches the energy level of your family, keeping one thing in mind — mid-size and larger dogs are great for families, while small breeds are not. If you have children, avoid Chihuahuas or Yorkies or anything you could pick up with one hand; look at terriers, retrievers, or other bigger dogs.

In general, if you’re not afraid of injuring it by stepping on it, then it’s probably durable enough for children. Once again, remember: Whatever dog you bring into the family, all of the people in the household need to be the Pack Leaders, whether adults or children. Follow this rule from day one, and no matter what dog you adopt, you’ll have an enjoyable experience.

What Qualities Should I Look for in a Family Dog?

Giving your family a pet is an excellent opportunity to teach them the basics about caring for another living being. Taking care of a dog will provide children with a sense of ownership and responsibility. One should not take lightly the factors that go into pet ownership. There are some points to consider when you are ready to bring home a four-legged friend.

The Benefits of Dogs for Families with Kids

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/kids-benefit-from-having-a-dog/

Studies have shown that children who have a dog are more likely to benefit in many different ways. Children tend to be more intelligent, emotionally aware, and more likely to be healthier. Some children with disabilities can benefit greatly from having a pup in their life. You can train certain breeds of dogs to be part of a positive support system for children who struggle emotionally, socially, and physically.

Good Health

Children tend to be healthier when they are active with their dogs. Walking and playing with their furry friends allows them to burn energy and remain physically active. Studies show decreased development of allergies for children that have dogs in the home.

Learn Responsibility

Children pretty much automatically assume responsibility for their new puppy by promising to walk the dog every day, keep their food and water bowls full, and, if you’re lucky enough, even clean up the poop. Starting your kids at a young age will give them a sense of responsibility and belonging within the family unit.

Lower Stress

Research shows that a child’s stress level decreases when they read aloud to their pet. Cortisol levels decrease in both the dog and the child while petting. What could be better than literature and lowered stress?

Safety

A dog’s instinct will kick in to protect their family and home when they sense danger. Research has found that barking dogs can prevent robberies and other attacks Overall, mentally and physically, your child can feel more at ease with their pup around.

More Compassionate and Empathetic

When children learn how to care for and nurture a dependent pet at a young age, they show more compassion and empathy towards people.

Higher Overall Happiness

Dogs are calming and familiar companions that can help with lowering stress and anxiety levels. Dog owners are typically less depressed than non-dog owners because they have higher levels of serotonin. Puppies are a natural conversation starter, and for those who are introverted, this could lead to situations where they can have less awkward conversations.

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Contrary to popular belief, the most critical factor is not the size or breed of the dog but the dog’s energy and your ability to ensure that its needs are met. Can you provide daily exercise and adequate physical and mental challenges? Will the dog live under rules, boundaries, and limitations with a calm and assertive Pack Leader?

In general, lower energy dogs, independent of breed, can adapt more quickly to small spaces. With that said, certain breeds — and mixes — are more likely to do well with apartment living.

Breeds of Dogs for Your Apartment

Yorkshire Terrier

This breed has two particular traits that make them great for apartment living: small and pretty quiet. Typically, Yorkshire terriers are also social with other people and animals, so they’ll also adapt well to your neighbors and their companions.

Pug

Pugs are known for their cute face wrinkles and spunky personalities, but they are also adept at making friends — especially with children — and comfortable in close quarters.

English Bulldog

Not a fan of tiny dogs? This medium-sized breed is a bit bigger but still comfortable living in a smaller space. They are typically low to medium energy, so they don’t mind lounging on the couch after their daily walk — though you will have to deal with the drool!

Chinese Crested

This breed tends to win the World’s Ugliest Dog title year after year because of its unique (and often strange) hairless look. But don’t let that deter you! They are typically very affectionate with family members but less confident around strangers.

Chihuahua

While Chihuahuas are typically active, it can be easier to tire them out since they are very small. Chihuahuas also enjoy the company of others in their breed, so why not adopt more than one? But beware of one common problem behavior with this breed that can cause problems with apartment living: excessive barking.

Shih Tzu

This breed usually isn’t high-energy, so it’s easier to meet their exercise needs with apartment living. However, you commit to regular grooming, most likely from a professional, to care for their hair.

Great Dane

This suggestion may seem crazy — after all, Great Danes are huge! But they are also typically calm, quiet, and low energy. So if you’re willing to sacrifice the room on your sofa, they can be a great apartment companion.

Bichon Frise

Small and quiet, these puffy cuties are often chosen as apartment companions — but there is one important caveat: they are usually high energy. However, if you’re high-energy yourself, taking frequent hikes and trips to the dog park, you’ll be a good match.

Papillon

This breed’s name comes from the French word for butterfly because of its fringed ears that look like a butterflies’ wings. They’re small and won’t take up too much room in your apartment, but they are high energy, requiring physical and mental challenges to stay balanced.

Boston Terrier

Another quiet breed, these terriers are typically small-sized with medium energy. They also have active minds, so they may require more mental challenges to avoid problem behaviors.

Want to know which breeds are best to avoid? These are some of the best dog breeds for apartments, but the list isn’t exhaustive and doesn’t consider mixed breeds, which can often be a great fit. While there are no hard and fast rules, hunting and working breeds require more physical activity and mental challenges, making apartment living harder for them. Dalmatians, in particular, are notoriously high-energy dogs that don’t do well in small apartments.

Remember, every dog — no matter how small or low energy — needs a daily walk. Also, dogs need an opportunity to relieve themselves about every four hours, so if you cannot get your dog out of the house that often, train your dog to relieve themselves in a designated area of the apartment, like a litter box or an outdoor balcony.

Must-Know Tips and Things to Avoid in Your Apartment

Once you have chosen the dog breed that best matches your personality, you will need to get your apartment ready for your new four-legged friend. There will be the apparent supplies you need to purchase, such as food and water bowls, leash, food, etc. However, there are some factors to consider as you get your home ready for your new addition and how to make the transition as calm and comfortable as possible.

Implement These Tips

Set Up a Routine

Just as humans thrive on routine, so do dogs. It is essential to have a set schedule so your puppy can know what to expect. Please make sure you take them for bathroom breaks, walks, and exercise at the same time every day. A schedule will save you from avoidable clean-ups, and your dog will adjust to its new home quicker.

Exercise Appropriately

Knowing the amount of exercise your dog will need is key. You need to research and determine if you can commit to the amount of time they will need.

Create a Calm Space

Give your dog a spot in your home that is just for them to retreat. Make it comfortable with a blanket and bed, and consider adding some toys. Make sure you set rules and boundaries for this space.

Entertainment

Pet owners can get so busy with their own lives that they don’t spend enough time with their pups. Connect with other dog owners in your apartment and set up playtime. Supervise the initial interactions to be sure they get along. Ask friends or family to come to take your furry friend for a walk if you have a long shift to work.

Make Training a Priority

It would be best to establish who the boss is right away, and it should not be your dog. Setting clear expectations from the beginning on what living in your apartment looks like will avoid headaches down the road. Each breed trains differently, so be sure to gear your techniques accordingly.

Avoid These Habits

Landlord Approval

It may sound obvious, but you would be surprised at how often this happens. Check your lease first to make sure the puppy you would like to bring home is approved, then get consent from your landlord and get it in writing– nothing worse than having to move or rehome your dog because you didn’t follow the appropriate steps.

Clean Up Messes

Clean up pet messes quickly to avoid stains and odors setting in. Invest in quality cleaning supplies and, if you can, equipment such as a carpet cleaner. Lay down piddle pads for your dog as a precaution.

Vet Visits and Vaccinations

Your lease may require you to stay up-to-date on your dog’s vaccinations, and it’s a good idea for the puppy’s health to keep their routine check-up appointments.

Disturbing Other Tenants

Not everyone loves dogs, hard as it is to imagine, but it’s the truth. You need to keep your pup quiet and clean up after it at all times. You can train your dog to be a positive part of your apartment community with time and commitment.

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My Australian Shepherd is a wonderful girl (she’s a therapy dog). My only problem is on long drives (2 days) she will go 12 – 15 hours without urinating. When I stop for gas, I walk her. I walk her in the morning outside the hotel and again before we leave as well as soon as we stop prior to checking in and again before bedtime. Often she usually goes without urinating for twelve or more hours. How do I ensure she relieves herself? She is always well hydrated.

Dr. Kristy Conn’s Advice

Urinary frequency in dogs will vary due to factors such as age, sex, body size and overall health. Typically, smaller breeds and younger dogs will need to urinate more frequently than larger breeds and older dog. The average healthy dog will produce approximately 10 to 20 ml of urine for each pound of body weight per day. Ideally adult dogs should be allowed outside to relieve themselves at least 3-5 times a day. Depending on how many times you stop for gas during your travel days I count at least 5 distinct occasions where your dog is given an opportunity to relieve herself. She is being given plenty of opportunities to relieve herself but it sounds as if she is only using a couple of them to actually go since you state 10-15 hours can pass without urinating.

Although you mention she stays well hydrated she may nonetheless drink less water since she is stationary in a vehicle for the majority of the trip as opposed to running around at home where she likely drinks more. Therefore she has less of an urge to go. Another factor may be excitement and distractions during pit stops which may prevent her from relieving herself. At rest stops try to walk her in a quiet area away from the main crowd of people and other dogs. As long as she is drinking and is given plenty of opportunities to relieve herself then you shouldn’t worry too much about the prolonged urinary retention on the occasional trip.

However, be aware that holding urine for prolonged periods of time has been linked with increased incidence of urinary tract infections and urinary stones. It has also been suggested that it may predispose to certain urinary cancers due to prolonged contact between carcinogens in the urine and the cells of the urinary tract. For these reasons you should consider keeping the trips to a minimum. You did not state how often you go but I would recommend no more than 1-2 trips a months. Since she has a higher risk of developing urinary tract infections ask your veterinarian to include a urinalysis as part of your dog’s annual physical and monitor her urinary activities both at home and on trips. Keep an eye out for signs of a possible urinary tract infection such as an increased urge to urinate, having “accidents” indoors, acting painful or uncomfortable during urination and blood or pus in the urine. As always seek out veterinary attention if you notice any significant changes in your dog’s urination habits.

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Insight into Dog Aggression

Breed and Dog Aggression

I deal with a lot of red zone dog behavior cases, and I often hear people incorrectly blaming the breed. Any breed can cause trouble. The difference between an aggressive Chihuahua and an aggressive pit bull is that the bigger breeds can cause proportionately bigger damage.

It is important to recognize the power of a strong breed, like the pit bull, the Cane Corso, and the Mastiff. These dogs are very powerful and, if they are unbalanced, they can cause serious injury. Remember, these dogs don’t dream of being in the news when they grow up. Bad dog behavior and dog problems are not premeditated. Bad things happen when powerful breeds (or mixes of powerful breeds) live with humans who like the breed but don’t understand and fulfill the animal in the dog. Many people consider the look or popularity of a breed before thinking about whether the dog works for their lifestyle. This is a recipe for disaster.

To control a powerful breed of dog, you need to become the dog’s pack leader and establish rules, boundaries, and limitations. You need to fulfill the dog as Nature intended the dog to be fulfilled. If you are considering adopting a powerful breed, make sure you are willing and able to take on the responsibility.

Fear and Aggressive Dogs

For many fear-aggressive dogs, it is a lack of adequate dog exercise that is the root of the dog problem behavior. Dog exercise burns the dog’s excess energy and helps maintain the dog’s healthy state of mind. This is important because, in order to talk to the mind, you need to remove the energy from the body.

Dog on Dog Aggression

With dog on dog aggression, your dogs are asking you to step up as the pack leader. Animals select pack leaders because they instinctually know who is strong and who can best lead them. An animal pack leader is concerned for the pack, not for himself. His natural instincts are protection and direction for the entire pack. It’s an unselfish role and an instinctual role. And in return, the pack completely trusts the pack leader. You need to earn your dogs’ trust, loyalty, and respect before the dogs will look to you as their leader and you do this by giving them rules, boundaries, and limitations.

Once your dogs see you as their pack leader, the dog on dog aggression will stop as they stop fighting for dominance because you will be their calm-assertive pack leader.

Red Zone Dogs

It is important to understand that red zone dogs are usually frustrated dogs. To control a powerful breed, you need to master the position of pack leader. The sheer size and strength of a pit bull, Mastiff, Cane Corso, Rottweiler, or any other large dog can quickly transform a frustrated and dominant animal into a serious threat. You must gain control of the situation and dog behavior before it escalates.

When dealing with red zone dogs, I start by working with the owners, explaining how to establish themselves as the pack leader and to understand the animal in their dog. This is a crucial part of rehabilitating your dog and overcoming dog problems: changing your behavior. If you revert to your old ways, so will your dog.

How have you changed your behavior to rehabilitate your dog? Tell it all in the comments below.

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