Dog Sweater :: How to Make a dog sweater from a sock

Dog Sweater :: How to Make a dog sweater from a sock

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Thanks :: http://mfrost.typepad.com/cute_overload/2007/09/how-to-make-a-k.html

Dog Sweater :: Potty Training Tips for Yorkies

Dog Sweater :: Potty Training Tips for Yorkies

It's true that Yorkies may make smaller messes but the size of the mess doesn't really affect the amount you are going to spend on cleaning up after your pup. Yorkies need to be trained in the same ways that a large dog would.
You have to remember that their size might work against them in that their tiny bladders won't hold as much (or for as long) if you're late coming home for their potty break.
Living in an apartment or home without a big yard is no problem for the Yorkshire Terrier. These pets only need a small space to do their business which means that a flowerbed can work wonders.
Some people make fun of little dogs in their knit sweaters, but it's more than just a fashion statement. During the winter months in cold climates, the change from heated indoors to freezing outdoors is very harsh on a Yorkshire Terrier's body.
The cold can be very distracting for a dog that needs to use the potty and could make them want to run back inside. As soon as they make it back into the warmth of your home the urge to go will come right back and the pup will likely go on the floor. This transition is made much easier when the dog has a nice warm sweater on for extreme cold weather.
Some Yorkies will refuse to go out in bad weather unless they see you have a sweater for them to wear. This can be during the winter or even when it's raining.
You have to plan options. Perhaps you can keep a papered box in the garage as a backup potty during bad weather. Only use this for limited times during the year so that you don't discourage the dog from going outside to his regular potty spots.
If your dog usually goes outdoors or you walk him through parks frequently, always keep an eye on him. Look out for tall grass and bushes. You dog may want to sniff a certain spot and could potentially end up being bit by a snake.
Be sure to be courteous of your neighbors even if your dog has only made a small mess outside. Regardless of the size it is still dog poop that needs to be picked up promptly.
This is also true when it comes to tracking dog poop in the house on your shoes. You won't notice it until it's all over your carpet and the same goes for your neighbors. Be responsible and clean up after your pup.
Housetraining works just the same for large dogs as it does for small ones like Yorkies. You can start with crate training and work to establish a routine for potty breaks. Many little dogs are spoiled because they constantly sit in their owner's lap. This is where your positive reinforcement, praise and affection can come in handy.

Dog Sweater :: Cold Weather Care for Dogs

Dog Sweater :: Cold Weather Care for Dogs

We may think our dogs are tough and they shouldn’t be in the house alone, especially when they are considered a large dog breed. Your pet does need regular exercise and plenty of room to grow, but you should also consider the type of weather you will be leaving them in. Cold weather is one of the most dangerous times of the year for your dog. Even when you have a Huskie or Akita they need to have protection from the harsh cold weather. As an owner you are going to be responsible for their care.

If you must leave your dog outside during cold weather check the weather forecast. You will need to know what temperature it will reach and whether it will be snowing or raining. Shelter will only help your dog so much when left outside in the cold. There are also many different types of doghouses you can have to help keep your dog safe.

First the doghouse should be insulated and large enough for them to fit their entire body into as well as have plenty of blankets and covering to avoid the cold earth or snow. If it is not going to snow several feet then you may be able to let them stay outside depending on the provisions you are providing them and the temperature. Any temperature that is near freezing or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit is going to be too cold to leave your dog outside. Water will freeze if it gets too cold and then they want have part of the basic care a dog needs.

When the cold weather rolls in you are better off keeping the dog inside, no matter what it will be doing. It is rather cruel to withhold proper care just because the dog is a little too big or can get into trouble while inside. Your best option for cold weather care is coming home at least once during the day and letting them out for exercise and bathroom breaks.

We all like to turn down the temperature when we aren’t home, but consider what temperature the dog will need to be comfortable. If it is too cold inside you are doing no better by having them inside. So keep the thermostat up at a decent temperature while you are away for the day.

You may need to spend a little more playtime and exercise time with your dog once you get home, but it is important to see they are safe, warm, and happy during the day when you are at work. You can even leave them extra blankets around their bed during the night and when you are away just in case the house isn’t warm enough. Most dogs love to cuddle when it gets cold. You will find them in front of fireplaces and heaters warming themselves.

If you do have a fire going make sure you have the doors on the fireplace closed or that the screens are in place. You don’t want the dog to get too close just because of curiosity.

Cold weather can be just as harsh on your dogs or dog as it is on you. Keep in mind that extra care needs to be taken even if you are just going for a little exercise out of doors. There are many things you can do such as dog sweaters, little booties, or just keeping up the pace to make sure your dog will not suffer in the cold.

Dog Sweater :: What's important when buying essential dog supplies?

Dog Sweater :: What's important when buying essential dog supplies?

Dog supplies are one of the important aspects that will help in the overall growth, temperament and health of your dog. Dog supplies include everything from food to dog leash and even dog bowl.
The most important of all dog supplies is food. Let us take a look at all the different categories of dog supplies that you might have to buy at different points of time. This includes:
·Clothing: This consists of primarily any dresses that you would want your dog to wear which could be pajamas, coat and even eyewear. You can get everything from sweaters to designer clothes.
·Outdoor gear: This mainly consists of jackets to protect them from cold and even paw tectors
·Beds: This is one of the most useful dog supplies and is much needed too. Whether you have an adult dog or a puppy, you will need to buy a comfortable and durable bed. Beds are available in different sizes and colors and can even be customized.
·Bowls: Bowls are also an important part of dog supplies but are normally a one-time buy product. You can even go for a pet feeder, which is normally used for feeding them filtered water. As for dog bowls, they are available in different colors, shapes and sizes.
·Carriers: If you happen to be a frequent traveler or drive out of the city regularly then a carrier is a good thing to have. You can find it at any pet store and it is an integral part of dog supplies. Most of the carriers are portable. There are plenty of colors, sizes, styles and materials to choose from.
·Collars & Leash: A dog collar as well as leash is necessary. These are the type of dog supplies that you can’t do without. You can go for the sleek leather collars, the break free safe collars, chrome collars and dog safe collars. Every time you take you dog out for a walk, you will need to put him on a leash. This is for their safety as well. Dog leashes are also available in different varieties and differ mostly on length of the leash, color and material used.
·Flea & Tick remover: This is an important item especially for dogs with long hair or double coats. Fleas and ticks are regular problems and can cause severe skin infection. You should always have a flea or a tick remover handy.
·Grooming: Grooming dog supplies is also an important aspect as it is required for almost all dogs large or small. From speed nail clippers to hair dryers, there are a variety of things that you can buy for grooming your dog. It will save the long-term cost of taking your dog to a grooming specialist.
·Stain and odor remover: This is mainly used for removing the stains of dog urine or feces on clothes and rugs.
·Toys & Dog treats: Toys are essential part of dog supplies and it is used to help the dog have a good time playing. ·Food: This is the most important of all dog supplies.

Dog Sweater :: Getting Your Pets Into The Halloween Spirit

Dog Sweater :: Getting Your Pets Into The Halloween Spirit

People dress up like animals all the time for Halloween - why not go the opposite way and dress your pets up like people? After all, pets are part of the family for a lot of people. They take them everywhere, buy them gifts, get spa treatments for them - why not a Halloween costume too?

Now, it goes without saying that dressing your pet in a Halloween costume is more for the owner's enjoyment than the pet's. Having said that, you'll know your pet better than anyone.

Some pets don't like wearing clothes at all. If they are showing signs of stress or frustration, don't force your pet to wear a costume.

Pets will do best with unrestrictive, flexible costumes. Hats, crowns, and other headgear are usually alright in addition to some sort of clothing that can be tied around their midsection, although it should be loose.

It is best to leave pet costumes simple. If they become too complex, the animal could decide that they don't want to have it on and rip up the outfit in the end anyway.

The Internet is the best place to find Halloween pet costumes, although they are also available in many pet stores as the holiday approaches. Online costume sources often have pages devoted to just pet costumes, whose sizes are usually based off of weight.

Before putting your pet's new costume on them, be sure to look for any pieces that they might be able to get tied up in or swallow. Most costumes are made to be safe for pets, but you should always double check.

After all the hard work you will have done to find a costume and get it onto your pet, the most difficult part is sure to be getting the perfect picture. Though some pets will be good and sit quietly while you take a picture, for most it will require quite some effort to get your pet to calm down long enough for you to enjoy their costume.

Thanks :: http://www.animalpetsandfriends.com/Article/Getting-Your-Pets-Into-The-Halloween-Spirit/2289

Dog Sweater :: Dress Up Your Dog

Dog Sweater :: Dress Up Your Dog

Few things look more adorable than a dog dressed in boots, a sweater and a pom-pom hat, or a dog in a cute or clever costume for Halloween. But there are many reasons to dress your dog besides how precious he or she will look in a fashionable ensemble!

• Some dogs, particularly small breeds, feel the cold more acutely than most people realize. And small dogs tend to get cold faster than larger breeds. A sweater or coat on a cold day can make outdoor time more pleasant for your pet. If you’re shivering in the cold, chances are your dog feels it, too.

• Raincoats aren't just fashionable springtime wear, they protect your dog. Animal fur does protect dogs against water, but it can only protect them so much. Once the dog’s fur gets wet enough to soak through to the skin, the dog can grow cold more quickly than if his or her skin stayed dry. Short-haired breeds are more susceptible to rain and wet conditions than long-haired dogs.

• Snow and ice can damage a dog's pads, so dog boots, while cute, do more than make people giggle. They protect your dog’s feet from the harsh elements. Dogs that walk and run over rugged terrain, like dogs used for hunting or tracking, can benefit from rugged boots designed for rough landscapes. Even the tiniest dogs can be made more comfortable with boots, especially in the winter when it’s necessary to walk on ice, snow and salt. Cracked pads are painful, but prevention in the form of boots can save your doggie’s paws.

• Dogs can sunburn, too. Clothing, whether light garments in the summer or warm coats in the winter, protect your dog from the sun. Dogs with light hair and pink skin are especially sensitive to the sun’s rays, just as we are. You’ve got another reason to dress your pooch in that sassy T-shirt for a day at the park—sun protection! And consider putting sunscreen on your dog’s ears, nose and stomach if you’re planning much time in the sun. Your vet can recommend a brand that will work well on your dog.

Before you write off the idea of dog clothing as something cutesy and unnecessary, consider how you feel when you go from a nice warm house to the cold outdoors. If your dog lives indoors with you, your pet is used to the same toasty, warm environment. You wouldn’t go outside in mid-winter for any length of time wearing only your regular clothes and a pair of thin slippers! So, bundle up your pup against the weather, and make sure outside time is comfortable and fun.

If you love dressing up your pets, check out some of the pet costumes you can find online. You know what is even better? You and your pet dressing up together! Why not find adult costumes that compliment the ones you buy for your pet. Start a new fashion trend with matching costumes and watch the masses turn and stare. It's fun to make you and your pet the center of attention sometimes.

Thanks :: http://www.animalpetsandfriends.com/Article/Dress-Up-Your-Dog/1633

Dog Sweater :: Keeping Your Dog Warm In The Winter

For many dog owners, how to keep their dog warm during the cold winter is a big concern. Luckily for them, there are many ways to do this.

If your dog is small, has short hair, or is older, you may want to consider purchasing a jacket to help keep him warm. In some climates, it is appropriate to choose a sweater for the fall months and a heavier jacket for the colder winter months. When choosing outerwear for your dog choose something simple that is easy for you to put on. You may need to acclimate your dog to wearing a coat as some dogs do not like to be dressed up. To do this, simply put the coat on for short periods each day making sure to give lots of good treats. Your dog will learn to associate wearing his coat with yummy treats making it much easier for you to dress him.

Choose a coat made from durable materials that are easy to care for. Just because it's cute doesn't necessarily mean that it is appropriate. Also, if snow is a concern, look for water resistant materials. Make sure to know your dog's measurements and follow the manufacturer's directions to ensure proper fit.

Dogs that walk a lot, work outside, or are older, may also need to wear boots. Dog boots are available from many manufacturers and help keep feet protected from ice, snow, and salt. As with coats, make sure to follow the manufacturer's directions to ensure proper fit. If you choose not to purchase boots for your dog, make sure to remove ice and snow from between his pads when he comes inside. This will help keep him warm as well as help prevent dry, cracked, irritated pads.

If your dog lives primarily outside, you will want to make sure you get him a good quality shelter of some sort. Many pet supply stores and online manufacturers make great quality dog houses in a variety of styles for every budget. You will want one that will help keep wind, rain, and snow away from your dog. You will want to make sure that the opening to the dog house does not face the wind. You will also want to make sure that you lay down straw or provide a bed or several blankets to help protect your dog from the frozen ground. Make sure to change the straw and/or bedding periodically.

Blankets and beds can get wet and straw, when wet, can get moldy. Moldy straw can lead to upper respiratory and skin infections. Some people like to provide heat to their outside dog houses. It is not a good idea to do this with heating pads or space heaters with electrical cords. Your dog can chew through these cords causing a hazardous accident. If you choose to provide heat to your outdoor dog, it is best to have this done professionally. Some pet stores offer heated beds that contain a disc that can be heated in the microwave or with hot water periodically.

During the winter, it is just as important to keep your dog properly groomed as it is during the summer. Your dog's coat provides natural insulation against the elements. It is important to keep your dog's coat brushed and free of mats and burrs. The hair between the foot pads needs to be trimmed up to help prevent ice balls from forming. Regular grooming will help ensure proper body temperature during the winter months.

Some dogs, especially those kept outside, will require extra food during the winter months. It is important to discuss these nutritional needs with your veterinarian or pet professional. If your dog is kept outside, it is also very important to make sure that he has access to clean, fresh water at all times. Snow and ice are not appropriate for hydration. Be careful to make sure that his water has not frozen over.

There are many things you can do to ensure that your dog stays warm and safe during the winter months. If you have further questions about how to do this, please ask your veterinary staff or pet professionals.


Thanks :: http://www.i-love-dogs.com/dogsarticles/Keeping-Your-Dog-Warm-In-The-Winter.html