House training your new Chihuahua is easy when you start with firm consistent rules. The biggest problem with Chihuahuas "doing their business" usually relate back masters who are inconsistent with their reactions to good and bad behaviors.
New chihuahuas will have no idea where the bathroom is unless you make it very clear to her (or him), so the first thing you should do with a new chihuahua is spend time with them and let them know where things are...the place to sleep, the toys, and the bathroom.
Chihuahuas by nature will just go when they have to, and are rather carefree about it at first, so you will need to spend time around her, and help her to know the rules and procedures.
If your chihuahua has been with you for a while, and she (or he) is still making mistakes, then you should first know that these loving dogs respond best to positive reinforcement. This means you should spend most of your time on commending good behavior rather than discliplining your chihuahua when mistakes are made.
If you want to correct any problems with peeing or pooing in the house, confine your chihuahua to a small room when he sleeps at night, since they dislike using their sleeping area for a toilet. First thing in the morning, take your dog out to where you want her "area" to be, and keep her there until the business is done. Then commend her, and be very affectionate, and use a soft voice. This bonds the chihuahua with you, and creates a desire to repeat the experience.
If you have been active in disciplining your chihuahua and are feeling frustration, you might want to know that chihuahuas are pain avoiders, so she might be running off and doing the business in a secret spot, and disappearing before you discipline her. Again, positive reinforcement is the key to getting your chihuahua house trained and happy.
If punishment is used, it should only be given when catching her in the act, or within a few seconds of the bad behavior, otherwise the dog won't know why you are angry. Punishment should only be a stern voice and facial expressions, since chihuahuas are very perceptive. Beating your dog is not a good idea, since it will create avoidance behaviors (example: do not poo on the living room carpet), rather than focused good behaviors (poo in the garden near the fence).
Male chihuahuas have "marking" built into their brain, and you will not change them. Basically, they can pee on demand. You can teach your male to go to a particular spot when he wants to mark. One woman had a house-bound male, and succeeded in paper training him by laying plastic down, then paper, then put a full bottle on top that was covered in dog urine. She then worked with her male dog to give him praise when he urinated on the bottle.
Other more methods of house training include crate training and outdoor training, so you might want to investigate these methods if you are not having success within 4 weeks.
If you are at your wits end after using everything mentioned here, you should get advanced help, because sometimes professional advice is the only thing that can bring success in house training your chihuahua.
Chihuahuas are smart, loving dogs, and a joy to have when they learn the rules and respect you, so be kind and firm, and enjoy your time with your little buddy.
2008年8月24日星期日
2008年8月19日星期二
Hermit Crab Space Requirements
As a potential hermit crab owner, you might be wondering if there is a limit to the number of hermit crabs you can have in a certain amount of space. This is something I first wondered when I started keeping hermit crabs as pets. There is no really easy way to answer that question with exact numbers and measurements. The best number of hermit crabs to have for a certain amount of space all depends on the type of situation you have, space-wise. When deciding how many hermit crabs you can house, you have to consider tank size, personal space, and furnishings.
The first thing you need to consider when you are trying to determine how many hermit crabs you can house is tank size. This is a factor. If you have the minimum 10-gallon aquarium, you are most certainly not going to be able to house as many hermit crabs as a person with a 150-gallon aquarium. The small hermit crab kit cages are most certainly not adequate for one hermit crab to live in comfortably, let alone more than one. A 10-gallon aquarium is the smallest recommended to house a single crab and be able to expand your crab habitat somewhat.
Another thing you must take into consideration when deciding how many hermit crabs you want to buy is the fact that, while hermit crabs are social creatures, they must be able to roam around in their own personal space. Many pet stores have an appropriately sized aquarium for a few hermit crabs, but they have the audacity to jam it full where the hermit crabs are forced to live on top of each other. This is an unacceptable situation for anyone to have, but especially pet stores that are supposed to be humanely housing their stock of animals. You have to take into account if each of your hermit crabs will have enough room to go off on their own for a little while. Each crabbie should be able to have some alone time now and then.
Another thing to consider is that, if you are a keeper of hermit crabs for any length of time, you will inevitably run into a crab that must go through the molting process. You need to make sure that in your hermit crab habitat, there is plenty of room for a safe molting haven. If the hermit crabs do not have the space to molt, they can not molt safely, away from other hermit crabs. Also take into account that if you have quite a few hermit crabs, more than one crab may molt at the same time. You must allow for this. Another thing to think about is whether or not you want a variety of different size crabs.
One last thing to consider when making sure to purchase a home big enough for the amount of hermit crabs you want to buy is to consider the furnishings that must go into the tank with the hermit crabs. Remember, you will have food and water bowls, climbing toys, shelters and other decorations in your tank. In order for your hermit crabs to live comfortably around these things, you must take this into consideration as well. You also want to make sure the hermit crabs have space to take a run as well as the space to maneuver between objects without getting stuck. One more aspect of spacing the furniture is that you need to keep things in the central part of your hermit crab habitat. If you set items near the edge of the habitat, hermit crabs are more prone to escape.
Though there is no set number of hermit crabs per gallon like goldfish have, the biggest thing to remember is to use your best judgment and common sense. Don’t allow the hermit crabs to be so crowded that they cannot maneuver around each other or their furnishings. Make sure everyone has a spot to call their own. Just keep the comfort of your hermit crabs in mind when deciding on the number you can care for.
The first thing you need to consider when you are trying to determine how many hermit crabs you can house is tank size. This is a factor. If you have the minimum 10-gallon aquarium, you are most certainly not going to be able to house as many hermit crabs as a person with a 150-gallon aquarium. The small hermit crab kit cages are most certainly not adequate for one hermit crab to live in comfortably, let alone more than one. A 10-gallon aquarium is the smallest recommended to house a single crab and be able to expand your crab habitat somewhat.
Another thing you must take into consideration when deciding how many hermit crabs you want to buy is the fact that, while hermit crabs are social creatures, they must be able to roam around in their own personal space. Many pet stores have an appropriately sized aquarium for a few hermit crabs, but they have the audacity to jam it full where the hermit crabs are forced to live on top of each other. This is an unacceptable situation for anyone to have, but especially pet stores that are supposed to be humanely housing their stock of animals. You have to take into account if each of your hermit crabs will have enough room to go off on their own for a little while. Each crabbie should be able to have some alone time now and then.
Another thing to consider is that, if you are a keeper of hermit crabs for any length of time, you will inevitably run into a crab that must go through the molting process. You need to make sure that in your hermit crab habitat, there is plenty of room for a safe molting haven. If the hermit crabs do not have the space to molt, they can not molt safely, away from other hermit crabs. Also take into account that if you have quite a few hermit crabs, more than one crab may molt at the same time. You must allow for this. Another thing to think about is whether or not you want a variety of different size crabs.
One last thing to consider when making sure to purchase a home big enough for the amount of hermit crabs you want to buy is to consider the furnishings that must go into the tank with the hermit crabs. Remember, you will have food and water bowls, climbing toys, shelters and other decorations in your tank. In order for your hermit crabs to live comfortably around these things, you must take this into consideration as well. You also want to make sure the hermit crabs have space to take a run as well as the space to maneuver between objects without getting stuck. One more aspect of spacing the furniture is that you need to keep things in the central part of your hermit crab habitat. If you set items near the edge of the habitat, hermit crabs are more prone to escape.
Though there is no set number of hermit crabs per gallon like goldfish have, the biggest thing to remember is to use your best judgment and common sense. Don’t allow the hermit crabs to be so crowded that they cannot maneuver around each other or their furnishings. Make sure everyone has a spot to call their own. Just keep the comfort of your hermit crabs in mind when deciding on the number you can care for.
2008年8月12日星期二
Titan In A Teacup -- The Pomeranian Dog
Looking for a new canine pal and have one of the toy breeds in mind? Then be sure to give more than a glance to the stylish Pomeranian -- that prancing little ringmaster who, just like a certain boy or girl from high school, knows exactly how good looking he is.
If you have the time to brush and comb his magnificent coat, the Pomeranian thoroughly deserves your consideration. A whole lot of dog in a small package, he fairly bursts with personality. When you walk him down the street, all eyes turn -- and not because he's blocking the light! -- but because of his bright eyes, "look at me" stride and gorgeous coat.
Most dog lovers don't know that the tiny Pom is related to the standoffish, handsome Chow, the lovely white Samoyed and others belonging to the group loosely known as "Northern dogs." Europe and especially Germany boasts several near relatives of the Pomeranian, including the white and black Spitzes.
So, then, why are Poms so small? The fact is, when they first appeared in America they were heftier, weighing in at about 15-20 pounds on average. In fact, around the turn of the twentieth century, prize-winning American Poms could be found at 25 to 30 pounds.
But their pint-sized destiny had already been determined. In the late 1800s, Queen Victoria became known as a Pomeranian fan, and like many celebrities, preferred the smallest specimens. Sure enough, the breeders followed her lead, resulting in the tiny, mighty companions we have today.
Unsurprisingly, Poms are a special favorite of women, but they deserve real consideration in many homes thanks to their special mix of size, intelligence and beauty. Urban families without a fenced yard can greatly enjoy a Pom.
It may hardly tip the scales, but the Pom is a distinctive pocket pup with an alert expression, incredibly acute hearing, and almost limitless intelligence and eagerness to learn. What's more, Poms have more backbone than you might think (you may have to protect them from their own bravado if a large, aggressive dog approaches).
If you're almost set on a Pom, just don't forget that being a Pom owner means devoting time and care to its coat. They're so attractive and proud that their thick, showy coats deserve special attention, and that means more than a lick-and-a-promise brushing.
If you have the time to brush and comb his magnificent coat, the Pomeranian thoroughly deserves your consideration. A whole lot of dog in a small package, he fairly bursts with personality. When you walk him down the street, all eyes turn -- and not because he's blocking the light! -- but because of his bright eyes, "look at me" stride and gorgeous coat.
Most dog lovers don't know that the tiny Pom is related to the standoffish, handsome Chow, the lovely white Samoyed and others belonging to the group loosely known as "Northern dogs." Europe and especially Germany boasts several near relatives of the Pomeranian, including the white and black Spitzes.
So, then, why are Poms so small? The fact is, when they first appeared in America they were heftier, weighing in at about 15-20 pounds on average. In fact, around the turn of the twentieth century, prize-winning American Poms could be found at 25 to 30 pounds.
But their pint-sized destiny had already been determined. In the late 1800s, Queen Victoria became known as a Pomeranian fan, and like many celebrities, preferred the smallest specimens. Sure enough, the breeders followed her lead, resulting in the tiny, mighty companions we have today.
Unsurprisingly, Poms are a special favorite of women, but they deserve real consideration in many homes thanks to their special mix of size, intelligence and beauty. Urban families without a fenced yard can greatly enjoy a Pom.
It may hardly tip the scales, but the Pom is a distinctive pocket pup with an alert expression, incredibly acute hearing, and almost limitless intelligence and eagerness to learn. What's more, Poms have more backbone than you might think (you may have to protect them from their own bravado if a large, aggressive dog approaches).
If you're almost set on a Pom, just don't forget that being a Pom owner means devoting time and care to its coat. They're so attractive and proud that their thick, showy coats deserve special attention, and that means more than a lick-and-a-promise brushing.
2008年8月11日星期一
Pomeranian Health - Caring For Your Pomeranian
One of the major issues that affect owners of Pomeranian's is the Pomeranian health issue because they have a tendency to acquire a few different health problems. Many of these issues can be easily dealt with and with proper nutrition and care the tendency to suffer through health issues are greatly reduced. That being said however, there are a few things that you can look for when raising your dog that can make you aware of Pomeranian health issues and how to spot them at an early stage. With proper care and attention, your Pomeranian can live up to 16 years old, as these dogs are one of the very heartiest breeds available.
Pomeranian Health Watch
One of the most common problems of Pomeranian health is that they tend to lose their teeth early and in the same manner as humans get very sick by having unkempt teeth or rotting teeth, dogs are susceptible to acquiring diseases and other health disorders if the teeth are not properly maintained. In order to maintain Pomeranian health it is essential to brush the dog's teeth at least once a week with a small children's toothbrush. It is also very important to note that when brushing dog's teeth it is not recommended to use human toothpaste because it is very bad for the Pomeranian health.
Most people are also lacking in the knowledge that this particular breed of dog has been down bred from much larger dogs that are typically 15-20 pounds. Whenever this occurs within any breed of animal, it can cause health problems however in the particular Pomeranian health it also plays a significant role especially in birthing a litter because they typically need a C-section due to the fact that they have been bred down from a much larger dog.
Another common Pomeranian health issue is that the teeth often do not line up properly which can be caused by a variety of different reasons. This is sometimes confused with the dogs that have teeth out of line and this is a different issue than that because the Pomeranian's jaw has outgrown the other jaw and this causes a very big over or under bite. This can potentially damage the dog's career in the limelight however, aside from that it doesn't pose any huge threat for the Pomeranian health. This is even attributed to not having the puppy's retaining teeth removed and it forces the jaw to grow at different rates of speed and often ends up with this result.
Pomeranian Health Watch
One of the most common problems of Pomeranian health is that they tend to lose their teeth early and in the same manner as humans get very sick by having unkempt teeth or rotting teeth, dogs are susceptible to acquiring diseases and other health disorders if the teeth are not properly maintained. In order to maintain Pomeranian health it is essential to brush the dog's teeth at least once a week with a small children's toothbrush. It is also very important to note that when brushing dog's teeth it is not recommended to use human toothpaste because it is very bad for the Pomeranian health.
Most people are also lacking in the knowledge that this particular breed of dog has been down bred from much larger dogs that are typically 15-20 pounds. Whenever this occurs within any breed of animal, it can cause health problems however in the particular Pomeranian health it also plays a significant role especially in birthing a litter because they typically need a C-section due to the fact that they have been bred down from a much larger dog.
Another common Pomeranian health issue is that the teeth often do not line up properly which can be caused by a variety of different reasons. This is sometimes confused with the dogs that have teeth out of line and this is a different issue than that because the Pomeranian's jaw has outgrown the other jaw and this causes a very big over or under bite. This can potentially damage the dog's career in the limelight however, aside from that it doesn't pose any huge threat for the Pomeranian health. This is even attributed to not having the puppy's retaining teeth removed and it forces the jaw to grow at different rates of speed and often ends up with this result.
2008年8月7日星期四
Japanese Chin Puppy And Dog Information
The Japanese Chin is a happy lap dog with a magnificent coat. She loves everyone and is good with pets and other dogs. She can be a good watch dog and likes older, respectful children. She does not require a lot of exercise so she is ideal for smaller apartments or houses.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Japanese Chin is 7 to 11 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and up to 9 pounds. There are two classes, under 7 pounds and over 7 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Japanese Chin is no exception. Be on the look out for subluxated patellas, breathing problems, low blood sugar, teeth problems and their eyes are high profile and subject to injury. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Japanese Chin has a long silky coat, that can become matted easily. She should be brushed and combed daily, and professionally groomed occasionally.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The Japanese Chin can live between 9 and 10 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Japanese Chin come from Japan. They are thought to be descended from the Chinese Peekingese. Their original name was the Japanese Spaniel but was changed in 1977. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1888.
Some Registries:
*Japanese Chin Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 1 to 3 Japanese Chin puppies
Category: Toy
Terms To Describe: Aristocratic, small, lively, soft, silky, stylish, happy, sensitive, intelligent, affectionate, responsive, clean, agile, dainty.
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Easy to housebreak.
She keeps herself very clean.
Affectionate lap dog.
She is a quiet dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
They tend to snore.
Can not stand too much heat.
Poor watch dog.
Poor guard dog.
*Other Names Known By: Japanese Spaniel
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Japanese Chin is 7 to 11 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and up to 9 pounds. There are two classes, under 7 pounds and over 7 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Japanese Chin is no exception. Be on the look out for subluxated patellas, breathing problems, low blood sugar, teeth problems and their eyes are high profile and subject to injury. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Japanese Chin has a long silky coat, that can become matted easily. She should be brushed and combed daily, and professionally groomed occasionally.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.
Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.
*Life Span. The Japanese Chin can live between 9 and 10 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Japanese Chin come from Japan. They are thought to be descended from the Chinese Peekingese. Their original name was the Japanese Spaniel but was changed in 1977. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1888.
Some Registries:
*Japanese Chin Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry
Litter Size: 1 to 3 Japanese Chin puppies
Category: Toy
Terms To Describe: Aristocratic, small, lively, soft, silky, stylish, happy, sensitive, intelligent, affectionate, responsive, clean, agile, dainty.
*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Easy to housebreak.
She keeps herself very clean.
Affectionate lap dog.
She is a quiet dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
They tend to snore.
Can not stand too much heat.
Poor watch dog.
Poor guard dog.
*Other Names Known By: Japanese Spaniel
*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.
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