Pit Bulls Aren’t Scary

What do you picture when you hear the term "pit bull"? In today's culture, it seems those words have come to represent an aggressive, bad-tempered dog, but that couldn't be further from the truth. The dog breeds that can be considered "pit bulls" (as there is no single "pit bull" breed) represent some of the hardest working, most loyal animals in the dog world. Here are some common misconceptions about pit bulls and the real story about these dogs.

Myth: Pit Bulls Have Locking Jaws That Give Them Stronger Bites

Truth: The mouth and jaw structure of a pit bull is no different than that of other dog breeds, and a pit bull's jaw cannot "lock." In fact, in a study that compared the biting pressure produced by a German Shepherd, a Rottweiler and an American Pit Bull Terrier, the bully breed actually produced the least amount of bite pressure.

Myth: Pit Bulls Can't Get Along with Other Animals

Truth: Yes, some pit bull breeds were traditionally raised to view other animals as prey. The same holds true for other breeds, including some hounds and terriers. When trained and socialized properly in a loving home, almost any pit bull breed can live harmoniously with other animals, from other dogs to cats, rabbits, and even baby chicks.

Myth: Pit Bulls Don't Like Children

Truth: All dogs--no matter what their breed--have personalities and characteristics that make them unique. As almost any dog owner will tell you, the vast majority of dogs love children of all ages. And pit bull breeds are no different. Responsible owners of any type of dog, pit bull or not, should always supervise interactions with their dogs and any children. In turn, children should be taught to treat all types of dogs with respect and affection.

Myth: All Pit Bulls Are Fighting Dogs

Truth: While it is certainly true that some individuals have bred pit bulls to be fighting dogs, these breeds have a number of other traits that make them excellent pets. The many pit bull breeds regularly shine at obedience trials, dog shows, agility, tracking, herding, and even search and rescue work. Above all, the pit bull excels at being an affectionate member of the family.

Myth: Pit Bulls Are Mean and Vicious

Truth: A dog from one of the pit bull breeds is no meaner than any other breed of dog. In fact, according to the American Temperament Test Society (atts.org), pit bull breeds consistently score as well or better than the majority of the 240 breeds tested by the organization. In fact, most pit bull breeds undergo the test more frequently than any other breeds--and continue to score well. When raised in loving homes by conscientious owners, the dogs that make up the category of pit bull breeds make affectionate, loyal pets.

What's a Pit Bull?

Some of the breeds commonly considered to be "pit bulls" include:

American Bulldog
American Pit Bull Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Bulldog
Bullmastiff
Bull Terrier
English Bulldog
French Bulldog
Mastiff
Miniature Bull Terrier
Olde English Bulldogge
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Standard Bull Terrier

Source by: http://www.petsafe.net/learn/pit-bulls-arent-scary

                          How Much Is Too Much Barking?

You come home from work and find a note on your door from your next-door neighbor. Your dog has been barking all day and driving him crazy. How do you know if your neighbor is just being too sensitive, or if your dog's barking is excessive? Isn't barking normal for a dog?

Yes, barking is normal. So normal, in fact, it's rare to find a dog that doesn't bark. Certain breeds, like Samoyeds and Basenjis, don't typically bark, but most other breeds and mixes of breeds are very good at vocalizing when the mood strikes. To know if your dog is barking excessively and possibly for the wrong reasons--from a human perspective, that is--it's important to understand why dogs bark.

The Roots of Barking

While most canine communication comes in the form of body language--tail wagging, snarling, lying belly up--dogs use vocalizations to get their point across too. Dogs typically bark to defend their territory, when they are playing, or when they are anxious. They often bark to alert their human pack members to sounds and sights that are unfamiliar. They also bark when other dogs are barking, as part of a social display.

Some breeds bark more than others, mostly because they were originally bred to bark. Beagles, for instance, were developed to hunt in packs and to sound off when they caught the scent of their prey. Their constant baying alerted the hunter to their whereabouts as they pursued game. The Finnish Spitz was bred to bark relentlessly once it cornered prey in a tree, to alert the hunter of the game's whereabouts. Breeds originally developed as guard dogs, like German Shepherds and Doberman Pinchers, were bred to warn of intruders with a deep, persistent bark.

When you take the carefully bred characteristic of alert barking and remove its original purpose, you end up with a dog with a penchant for barking and no constructive outlet for his talent. Most dogs will find a way to put this inborn ability to use, whether it's barking at passing cars or yapping at the crows sitting on a nearby telephone wire.

Why Dogs Bark?

Dogs do most of their barking when they are outside. This is because they are usually alone when they are outdoors, and have a variety of stimuli to trigger a barking attack. If you leave your dog alone all day long, he will get bored and lonely. He may bark in the hopes it will get you to come home, or because it might elicit barking from another dog in the neighborhood, making him feel less alone. Some dogs get so distressed at being alone for long periods of time, they bark out of sheer misery. Your dog may also bark when he sees or hears people or other animals, or if he detects unusual sounds in the distance.

The best way to know why your dog is barking is to think about his circumstances. Chances are, this behavior is taking place when you're not home. This is your first clue that boredom and loneliness are to blame. Ask your neighbors about your dog's barking. It is constant? Does it happen in spurts and then stop for a while? Constant, incessant barking is a sure sign of distress.

Occasional barking is probably a response to stimuli, like the sound of other dogs barking, wildlife or other animals coming in or near the yard, people walking by on the street or sounds in the distance. If you can't depend on a neighbor for help, consider setting up a webcam to spy on your dog when you're not at home. You'll be able to hear your dog barking, and may even be able to see what he's doing. This will help you determine what's going on when you're not home.

Teaching Your Dog Not to Bark

If your dog is barking because he's hearing and seeing things that are setting him off, try keeping him indoors during the day with a TV or radio on to muffle outside noises. If you're gone for long hours, you may need to hire a dog walker to come and take him out during the day or have a friend or neighbor let him outside for a while to potty. Giving your dog plenty of exercise in the morning before you leave can help wear him out and reduce his penchant for barking at every little thing.

If it turns out your dog is barking because of loneliness or boredom, you should find a way to remedy this, for your dog's sake, as well as your neighbor's. Consider taking your dog to doggy day care instead of leaving him alone all day in the yard. If he sleeps outside at night, bring him indoors to sleep. Dogs are pack animals and get very lonely when left alone for long periods of time. Remember that your dog is barking for a reason, not just to drive you crazy. The best way to minimize excessive barking is to find out the cause and work on a remedy.


Source by: http://www.petsafe.net/learn/how-much-is-too-much-barking

How to Make Your Dog Halloween-Ready?

Spooky costumes, candy, Jack-o-Lanterns... oh it's Halloween - the spookiest time of the year again! While it is a fun night for you, but for your dog, it can be an absolute nightmare if precautions are not taken. Forgo the anxiety and danger this Halloween by keeping your dog safe.

However, we are not going to discuss the safety tips here, but some offbeat ways to make it an enjoyable and stress-free time for your four-legged family member.

Spooky costumes - yes they spell Halloween!

Ideally, you should prefer your dogs in their natural state. In case you feel the urge to dress them up, remember that the costumes should be made with the same care as those for your kids. If your furry friend feels uncomfortable, you are the first one to understand. If you want to post pictures on social media, better take out your camera fast, take a few shot and remove the costume as early as possible.

The finest costumes are the most minimal, like red bowtie that clips to the collar, devil horns, or a simple coat to keep them warm. Be sure it is made from fire-retardant material, safe and can be easily taken out if your dog feels distressed.

There are specially-formulated, nontoxic pet paints available in the market which can be used as an alternative to costumes. The color is temporary and wears off after a wash or two. These paints come in the form of spray or coloring pen. Say NO to paints or colors that are not designed for pets.

Blueberry-Facial scrub - toast to the cute monsters!

Blueberries and Dogs - How do they mix? You should know they mix wonderfully! If a well-groomed dog before Halloween sounds boo-tiful, head to your nearest dog salon and spa. This natural scrub is great for any dog breed even with sensitive skin. It is going to provide a gentle and soothing effect to your dog. And the smell... ooh la la! It is so very refreshing. The pet-friendly formula removes stains and yellow spots without irritating eyes or skin.

This is also a healthier alternative than paint and costume if the purpose is to click some Halloween themed images of your beloved doggie and share them on social media platforms. Your dog will look just like a cute blue devil after the application of the facial scrub. It's the perfect time to capture some cute images.

If you are looking for complete dog grooming in Oklahoma City, look for the one that provides blueberry facial scrubs. Why rely on experts? Because they gently apply the scrub around the eyes and mouth, remove the excess residue with a warm, moist cloth, massage it into the coat, rinse carefully and dry the fur.

Nail trimming and ear cleaning - for a spook-tacular look!

How about ditching the cliched concept - devil's red claw with long nails? This time, let your furry buddy achieve the spook-tacular look by going neat and tidy.

Dogs feel so much happier when they are clean and have trimmed nails. If you hear the dog's nails on the floor, probably it's the time your dog needs a nail trimming. And are you keeping a check on your doggy's ears? If you are too busy before the Halloween, go to a professional dog salon and spa that will take care of all the details, keep nails at the proper length and ears free from bacteria.

Hope these ideas help spice up your Halloween and make your doggie feel special. In the meanwhile, if you have any creep-tive and dog-friendly suggestions, do share with us.

Source by:http://www.sooperarticles.com/pets-articles/dog-articles/how-make-your-dog-halloween-ready-1450258.html