A Guide For Labrador Retriever Owners and Fanatics
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Do you have questions, articles, pictures, news, training tips or any information pertaining to Labradors. Would you like us to do a dog product review? Send us an e-mail and I will gladly post them on this blog and try to answer any questions you may have.
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I love blogging and writing which I share with other members of my family. Thanks to my sister-in-law, Sammie Pucci for all her help with all of our blogs and to our other family members who get no credit working hard behind the scene.
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As always, with most samples listed on the All About Labradors blog, don't delay in making your request or they will be gone. The offer is for the USA only.
You can begin some elementary retrieving exercises at eight weeks or so, and your Labrador will most likely love the game and look forward to it each day. To teach the basic mechanics of the fetch (run out, pick up the object, return the object to the master, and release), begin by placing the puppy on a 10-foot lead. Take a favorite toy or a ball large enough not to be swallowed, dangle it in front and above the dog's head to gain its attention, and toss it 5 to 6 feet in front of you. Precede your command with your dog's name. For example, say, "Jake, fetch!" As he races for the toy, follow behind him. Make sure the lead stays loose and does not snap shut and frighten or hurt him (and perhaps permanently sour him on retrieving).
If he picks up the toy, praise him encouragingly. Should he merely eye or paw the toy, make him pick it up by shaking it in front of him, repeating "Jake, fetch!" Once he has grasped the toy, walk backwards to your beginning spot. Coax him to follow you by motioning him toward you using your hands and fingers. When he arrives back, get the toy from his mouth by commanding "Out!" and gently pulling it loose. Now is the time to give him a lot of praise and affection - not during the exercise, although encouragement can be helpful.
At such a young age, the emphasis in this and all types of exercise is on fun, not on performance. Improvement in response should naturally come with familiarity. As the puppy masters the game, vary it. Keep the dog guessing. Try to remain in position and not move out toward the toy. Later, you can attach a longer lead and extend the distance of your throw, or throw the toy sideways. Any Labrador retriever worth its name will take easily and eagerly to this game.
It is recommended that you play with the puppy often and consciously make an effort to get down to its level. Standing upright, humans can be quite an imposing sight for a puppy. Sitting or lying on the floor, they are no longer towers but friendly companions. Giving a puppy some eye-to-eye attention will go a long way in cementing the human-dog bond.
Because Labrador retrievers make good swimmers as adults, some misinformed people think this gives them the liberty to dunk young puppies into any available pool of water. A Labrador is a natural swimmer, but the dog needs to learn the fundamentals before being expected to feel at ease in the water. When a puppy's first exposure to the water is being thrown or forced in, the shock may make it dislike and fear the water throughout life. Many potential field dogs have been ruined by improper or overzealous training.
The first introduction to the water can begin while a puppy is quite young (three months is a good age). A puppy should be able to master the mechanics very quickly, especially if "shown the ropes" by some older dogs. The owner should always be nearby, should trouble arise. It often helps the dog feel at ease if the owner wades into the water with it on the first dip.
Ponds or lakes, with their easy entries, are best for training water dogs. The slick tiles and steep sides of a pool are often unmanageable for the dog, and many drownings have occurred when an exhausted dog was unable to climb out of the water. Similarly, a young puppy is not strong enough to manage a rough ocean surf, but should be encouraged to play along the shoreline in a sheltered area of shallow water.
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Hip Dysplasia is a widespread condition that primarily affects large breeds of dogs. Hip dysplasia is a painful, crippling disease that causes a dog's hip to weaken, deteriorate and become arthritic.
Hip dysplasia literally means an abnormality in the development of the hip joint. It is characterized by a shallow acetabulum (the "cup" of the hip joint) and changes in the shape of the femoral head (the "ball" of the hip joint). These changes may occur due to excessive laxity in the hip joint.
In the following video, Morkel Pienaar (BVSc Cert Ophtal MRCVS) of vetstoria.com, explains:
For those of you that feed your Labrador Retrievers Wellness foods or snacks, here are a couple of coupons to save you some money.
First is for $5.00 off Wellness Dry Dog Food (or cat food). Offer is valid on any purchase of Wellness® Dry Dog Food. Limit 1 coupon per purchase, per customer. Good only on product(s), sizes and flavors indicated. Customer pays sales tax. RETAILER: Offer expires 12/28/09. OFFER VALID ONLY IN THE U.S.
The second coupon is for $2.00 OFF Wellness® Snacks for Dogs (or cats). Good only on product(s), sizes and flavors indicated. Customer pays sales tax. RETAILER: Offer expires 12/28/09.
Atopy or atopic dermatitis is an allergic skin disease of dogs. In the allergic state, the dog’s immune system ‘overreacts’ to foreign substances (allergens) to which it is exposed. The most common type of allergy is the inhalant type, also known as atopy. It results in itchiness, either localized (in one or several areas) or generalized (all over the dog). Common allergens that can cause atopy include tree pollens, grass and weed pollens, moulds, mildew, and the house dust mite.
Canine Atopic Dermatitis, also known as atopy is a common itchy skin allergy in dogs caused by a disorder of the dog's immune system. It is an allergy to substances in the environment that are inhaled by the dog. These substances are called allergens and cause the immune system to over re-act and release histamines.
"Dr. Wayne Rosenkrantz, DVM, DACVD, discusses Atopy in dogs-clinical signs, allergies, skin infections & treatment options. Dr. Rosenkrantz, specializes in Animal Dermatology in Tustin, CA. This video is NOT meant to replace the advice of your regular vet."
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Information from Happytails Canine Spa:
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Right now they are offering a free 1 oz sample size of Bubbles 'n Beads. You will receive a confirmation e-mail, so make sure you watch for it. I also received a free 20% Promo Code for a future order in my e-mail.
Be advised, the first 500 responses per week will receive free sample. If you don't get it this week, don't forget to try again next week. Available in the USA and Canada.
Find out the history of the Labrador Retriever with information from certified dog trainer, Nancy Frensley in this free video on dog care and obedience.
Frensley is the K-9 program leader and training manager of the K-9 College at the Berkeley East Bay Human Society.
Quick tips to remember when caring for a Labrador Retriever:
Subject: Do Labrador Retrievers get cold during the winter - UPDATE
From: Ashley (USA)
Labrador Retriever's Name: Junior
Fay,
Thank you soo much for the helpful information! Its starting to get cold, but thankfully he is bundled up in his doggy house with blankets. I always stick the blankets in the dryer just so they can stay warm for him. His name is Junior =)! Barely 10 months still VERY hyper and extremely happy. He truly is my heart! Thank you soo much again.
With Christmas around the corner, my children make their list of what to get their siblings and our two lovable Labrador Retrievers. While searching the Internet we came across some products of interest for my Labrador Retriever girls and I thought I would share them with the readers of this blog (just in case you haven't pick up your gifts yet).
I'll be posting future post with other Labrador Retriever Christmas Gifts.
Hyper Products makes many unique interactive toys for your Labrador Retriever but we like the Doggie Driver or the Hyper Dog Launcher (available with 2 or 4 ball launcher).
We figured The Doggie Driver will be a gift for dad as well as our two Labrador Retriever girls as it provides practicing his golf swing while exercising our dogs. Swings like a regular golf club, this slobber-free tennis ball launcher will send your Labrador Retriever in pursuit up to 100 yards. After your Labrador returns the ball, just push the open end of the Doggie Driver against the ball to pick it up. Nice and easy.
Watch this beautiful Labrador Retriever have some fun with the Hyper Products Doggie Driver.
The Hyper Dog Ball Launcher shoots tennis balls away, up to 220 feet, for your Labrador Retriever to fetch. It's slingshot design allows you to play catch over and over without getting doggie drool on your hands and makes picking up the ball easier.
Watch these very energetic Labrador Retrievers show of using the Hyper Dog Ball Launcher!
Hyper Products offers many other interactive toys for your Labrador Retriever as well as treats, training aides and cool gear.
You can find Hyper products at just about any main dog supply store or any easy search of the Internet will bring you plenty of results (PetCo, Amazon, etc).
Here's a helpful video and accompanying article in regards to table for for your Labrador Retriever and other pets you may have.
Dr. Karen Becker of Mercola Healthy Pets, dispels the long-held myth that “table food” is bad for your pets.
Human, edible foods can be very healthy for your pets. Throw away the concept of “cat” food and “dog” food, and just think “food” -- food that grows in the ground or comes from animal products.
A whole generation of pet owners is afraid to feed anything but over processed rendered food to their pets. But there’s no way you can create abundant health in an animal by providing only the minimum nutrients it needs for survival. Dogs and cats have a living food requirement, just like you do.
The food you feed your pet should be biologically suited to meet your dog’s or cat’s needs. Dog and cat chow may be nutritionally “complete,” but it is akin to your drinking a meal replacement shake three times a day for the rest of your life … or giving them to your kids in lieu of fresh foods.
Yet, many veterinarians will often recommend you feed your pets kibble or canned food for the rest of their lives. Some will go so far as to say that feeding your pet anything that doesn’t come from a bag or can will be harming your pet!
This is a paradigm problem, and one that can be very confusing for pet owners.
In reality, there’s no way you can give your pet the food it needs to thrive if you do not feed it a biologically appropriate diet that includes a variety of fresh foods.
In fact, a growing number of holistic-minded veterinarians state that processed pet food (kibbled and canned food) is the number one cause of illness and premature death in modern dogs and cats.
So how did conventional veterinary nutrition positions get so skewed?
Well, major dog and cat food manufacturers provide much of the veterinary nutrition information to veterinary students. It becomes engrained in many new vets’ minds that it’s wrong to feed pets “living” fresh foods.
This is a myth!
Your Pets Need Living Foods
Veterinarians tell you to never offer living foods to your pet. But your pets need living foods on a consistent basis to achieve optimal health.
So, yes, you can and should offer your pets some of the very same foods that you enjoy. And since those foods are at a much higher grade nutritionally than typical dog or cat foods, they may be the healthiest foods your pets have ever consumed.
As you know, I recommend you feed your dogs and cats an all raw, nutritionally balanced living food diet. In my opinion, the only viable excuse to not to feed your pets a species appropriate diet is cost. Feeding raw food cost more than dry food. However, raw fed animals have fewer health problems, which mean lower vet bills over a lifetime. If you cannot afford to feed your pet an all raw diet, don’t deny your pet’s access to living foods throughout the day, in the form of treats. Remember, treats (even really healthy treats) should not constitute more than 15 percent of your pet’s daily food intake.
Berries are one of the best treats you can offer. Bite size and packed with antioxidants. Many cats enjoy zucchini and cantaloupe. . My favorite training treats for dogs include peas, raw nuts (remember, the only nuts you should never feed your pets are macadamia nuts).
A salad without dressing, but with plenty of dark green leafy vegetables, is also good for your cats -- your pets are chewing on your houseplants for a reason, after all.
Avoid giving your carnivorous companions biologically inappropriate foods, including grains, such as oats, soy, millet, , wheat, or rice. Dogs and cats do not have a carbohydrate requirement and feeding your pets these pro-inflammatory foods creates unnecessary metabolic roadblocks to health.
Furthermore, there are certainly some foods that are toxic to feed to dogs and cats such as grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts and onions. Never feed your pets these foods.
The Optimal Choice to Feed Your Pets
I highly recommend you give your dog or cat an opportunity to experience living raw foods like fruits and veggies as treats, and feed them a biologically appropriate, balanced raw diet the rest of the time.
Remember, your pet is resilient and can eat a variety of suboptimal, metabolically stressful foods on occasion and be fine, but because it’s my goal to provide a diet that most closely fits your companion’s biological requirements, I don’t recommend a lifetime of kibble or other “dead” over-processed food.
The goal is to provide a diet that mimics your pet’s biological nutritional requirements as closely as possible … in this case it means rethinking the “lifetime of dry food” or “canned food” theory.
If you are unable or unwilling to feed your pet a species-appropriate, nutritionally balanced, raw food diet, then I strongly recommend you compromise with the next best choice: USDA-approved canned foods (and supplement with raw)
My last choice would be a dry food (kibble), made from human-grade ingredients with little to no grains, and LOTS OF WATER.
But no matter which option you choose, remember that you can treat your dog and cat to berries, leafy greens, raw nuts and many other fresh fruits, veggies and meats on a regular basis.
I hope this insight will help you feel more confident offering foods and treats to your pets that are unadulterated and fresh. They deserve the same benefit of living foods that you get, and there’s no better way to start than by sharing some of these raw healthy foods with your dog or cat today.
Dr. Mercola is the founder of the world’s most visited natural health web site, Mercola.com. You can learn the hazardous side effects of OTC Remedies by getting a FREE copy of his latest special report The Dangers of Over the Counter Remedies by going to his Report Page.
Here's a wonderful article for the readers of All About Labradors to help in making your Labrador Retriever happier. It has some nice tips and you are all welcome to help contribute further tips to this article.
Do you love your lab? Show your dog friend that you care!
Steps:
Play fetch with a tennis ball. You can often get them free from around tennis courts. Some labs won't bring the ball back to you without being trained to do it.
Get your lab in the water. They may like boating, chasing fish, and swimming. Know your dog's preferences about water before assuming they will like it or not. You can also get them a little backyard swimming pool or watering trough to dunk in during play.
Give your dog a chance to run. Most labs have bolts of energy so you might want a big chunk of land. Or, you can take them to an off-leash dog-park every couple of days. If there's any water there, bring a towel.
Train your lab. This breed does very well with training. Enroll in a class together.
Consider agility training for you and your lab. While they may not be the fastest dogs, they usually do quite well. It will make them mentally alert, eager to please, and fun exercise.
Walk your dog EVERYDAY! Even if it's just a 15 minute walk, dogs need it!
Tips:
Make sure to have a lot of time and attention for your lab, or else they'll get bored and depressed!
You don't need lots of expensive toys to keep a lab happy. A few tennis balls, some things to chew on (cow hooves are good), and quality time with you is what matters to them.
Make sure that you watch your dog closely if you give it rawhides to chew on. They will also need to have water readily available. You may notice that rawhides will make your Labrador gassy.
Warnings:
Have a fenced in yard so they don't run away.
Never let your lab run free in a place where vehicles are around. That can be quite dangerous.
Subject: Do Labrador Retrievers get cold during the winter?
From: Ashley (USA)
Labrador Retriever Name: Junior
Reader's E_mail - Ashley Writes:
I’d like to know if Labrador Retrievers get cold during the winter. My dog (puppy) (10 months) is kept outside in his dog house. I do stuff blankets in there for him, but I'm always worried he is cold. Especially when the nights hit harder. Should I supply him with a heater inside the house just so that I can have a piece of mind?
All About Labradors Answer:
Hello Ashley,
Thank you for your question. The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Disclaimer
As the season gets colder, I receive this question many times. I am going to refer you to the older post done on the All About Labradors blog which will supply you with all the information you need.
As far as the heater inside the house goes, I'm not sure what type of heater you want to use. I personally wouldn't use a kerosene heater (very dangerous).
I did find an outstanding article called Heating a Dog House. It provides excellent information in regards to proper cold weather construction and ideas for warming a dog house, as well as safe products for heating a dog house (heated kennel mats and dog beds).
Please let me know if this helps and if you have any further question, don't hesitate to ask.
Subject: Should my Labrador Retriever chew on sticks?
From: Reanne (USA)
Labrador Retriever Name: Berrin
Reader's E-mail - Reanne Writes:
When myself or my husband take our Labrador Retriever out to exercise or for a walk, he likes to pick up sticks, run with them in his mouth and chew on them. We also love to play fetch with him with a stick. Is this OK or should I not allow this to happen?
Thanks,
Reanne and Berrin the chocolate Labrador.
All About Labradors Answer:
Hello Reanne, a big thank you for visiting the All About Labradors blog and for your e-mail.
The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's or other professional advice. Disclaimer
The carrying and picking up of sticks, especially having owners tossing them to their Labrador Retrievers in a game of fetch has been going on forever. As for a safety issue I'm sure you will get arguments for both sides on this one.
In my lifetime of Labrador Retriever ownership, I have on more than one occasion thrown a stick to them for play. Nothing ever happened to any of my Labrador Retrievers from these actions. Moving on to the present, I no loner use sticks to play or do I let my Labrador Retriever girls pick up sticks to play with or chew on.
Here are some reasons of the dangers of letting your Labrador Retriever play with sticks:
Splinters can enter your Labrador Retriever's mouth can lead to painful infections that are difficult to heal.
Pieces of the stick can come off in your Labrador Retriever's mouth causing serious internal injuries.
Stabbing injuries can occur to your Labrador's chest/body, eyes, mouth, throat, etc.
Bacteria on sticks can cause serious infections in your Labrador Retriever mouth.
As far as playing fetch goes, there are many safe dog toy products to play fetch with at your local pet stores and online. Just make sure the toys you choose are much larger than your Labrador Retriever's mouth to prevent accidental swallowing.
Hope this will be of some help to you Reanne. Take care of yourself and Berrin.
This is for a download for a free eBook called Free Dog Treat Recipes from Cosmos Delicious Dog Treats. Inside the eBook you will find over 130 free recipes for homemade dog treats and food.
Information about Free Dog Treat Recipes:
Do You Ever Stop and Think About What is in Those Dog Treats You Buy From the Store?
WALMART FINDS MELAMINE IN DOG TREATS FROM CHINA
FDA PET FOOD RECALL (MELAMINE) TAINTED FEED
This is STILL Happening Folks!
Please don't gamble with your pets life!
With the recent pet food scares, and the continuing problems going on with Chinese products containing melamine, it makes sense to feed only the best quality dog treats.
Also, as a bonus you will receive four other dog care guides:
1) A simple guide to training your puppy.
2)The essential dog owners guide.
3) First aid for your pets.
4) House break your dog.
You can receive all of these items free by signing up at http://www.cosmosdogtreats.com/. Now there is one catch, when you sign up you will receive their weekly newsletter with information on general dog care, feeding and how to deal with certain behavioral issues.
If your like me (worried about giving out my main e-mail address), you might want to use an e-mail address other than your main e-mail (you can create a free one at Gmail and Yahoo).
I would like to thank Donna who was nice enough to send an e-mail to me letting me know about this free offer.
The Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation is offering free Emergency Decal & Animal Alert Cards.
Information from Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation:
Rescue Alert Sticker
This easy-to-use sticker notifies people of pets inside your home. Make sure it’s visible to rescue workers, and includes 1) types and number of pets in your household; 2) name of your veterinarian; and 3) veterinarian's phone number. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write "EVACUATED" across the stickers.
Animal Alert Card
This card is designed to be carried in your wallet to alert emergency personnel that you have animals relying on your return for care. It lists all the pertinent information for the care of your pets in an emergency situation and should include any special instructions and list medications as needed.
Nobody plans to need to provide first aid to their dog, but it's still worth making sure you know what to do should your Labrador Retriever have an accident or sustain an injury. It may save your dog's life. Pack a small doggie first aid kit, learn how to use its contents, and keep it handy when you and your Labrador are out and about.
Although we can't cover all possible emergencies in this article, there are a few situations which occur quite commonly, and you should familiarize yourself with how to handle them.
Labradors are very gentle dogs, but they may still snap or bite if they are hurt. A soft piece of string wrapped around his nose and tied behind his ears makes a good emergency muzzle. It is very effective in preventing him biting you as you provide basic first aid.
When he is muzzled, remove him from danger. If he has been hit by a vehicle, he needs to be moved off the road to avoid him being hit again. To do this, slide a blanket or large piece of cardboard under him and use it to lift him into a car for the trip to the veterinarian.
Your rough and tumble Labrador Retriever may get a cut or deep wound on his skin. If there is bleeding, put pressure on the wound with a folded piece of clean cloth. Don't remove it, even if blood soaks the cloth, as this will dislodge the blood clot that's forming, and bleeding will worsen. Just apply another cloth on top and maintain even pressure, then take him to your vet to see if he needs sutures.
Abrasions and scratches can be cleaned with either saline, or a dilute iodine solution. Watch for any signs of infection, such as an increase in discharge, or reddening at the edges of the wound. If you're in any doubt, take him to your vet for a checkup.
Dog fights are very frightening, and both dogs can come out of it a bit worse for wear. Bite wounds always need to be checked by your vet. Even a small puncture wound can have quite severe muscle damage under the skin. They're very painful, and can easily become infected. Antibiotics and pain relief can have your Labrador smiling again very quickly.
In the summer months, high temperatures can lead to heat stroke. Dogs can only disperse heat from their body by panting. They don't have the same type of sweat glands that we do. Labradors Retrievers love to play, and often don't know when to stop. This can cause overheating, lethargy and disorientation. Gentle hosing with tepid water will help to get his temperature down, but heatstroke can lead to internal organ failure and there may not be any indication of this in the early stages. This is another instance where it's absolutely vital to take your Labrador to your vet for follow up care. It could save his life.
It's a rare Labrador Retriever that doesn't eat everything in sight, and this can put him at risk of being poisoned. If you think he has eaten something toxic, take him and the packaging, if you have it, to the vet as soon as you can. That way, he can identify the ingredients in the poison, and start treating your dog with the appropriate antidote. Don't induce vomiting unless your vet advises you to do so; some poisons are very irritant and can do even more damage to your dog as they are vomited back up.
There are dog first aid courses available in many areas, and although you may never need to use that knowledge, it's a comfort to know that if anything did happen to your Labrador, you'd know just what to do to help him.
This guest post is brought to you by Dog Fence DIY's staff veterinarian Dr. Susan Wright. Dog Fence DIY has a large variety of electric fence for dogs at the best available prices. This system will also include the proper installation needed as well as the training for your pet.
This is for a trial promotion Dingo is doing where you can get a free dog treat sample pack if you agree to provide them with feedback in 3-4 weeks regarding your dog(s)' experience.
Information from Dingo: "We're glad you've taken interest in Dingo.
Dingo is a rawhide chew with real meat in the middle. 9 out of 10 dogs prefer Dingo versus other rawhide bones.
Dingo Meat and Rawhide Chews are preferred by 9 out of 10 dogs versus other rawhide chews. We are confident that your dog(s) will love Dingo too; therefore we would like to send you a Dingo Sample Pack in 2-3 weeks.
In return, we'd like you to give your dog(s) the Dingo treats and then agree to provide us quick feedback in 3-4 weeks regarding your dog(s)' experience."
Most breeders charge an average of $800 for one of their purebred pups that is if you agree to spay or neuter the puppy. If you plan to show or breed the dog the price increases. Show dogs sell on average for $1,500. If you are particularly attached to a certain breed and can not imagine yourself with any other then this might not seem like a large sum of money. While you might not mind parting with the cash, there are certain things you should expect for your fee:
1. A three generation pedigree tree should be provided at minimum. This means that your breeder should know who your puppy’s parents, grandparents and great-grandparents are on both the side of the bitch and the sire. Most reputable breeders are in business for long periods of time and can typically trace the bloodline back much further.
2. Titled Champions should be in the bloodline. Somewhere in the puppy’s pedigree there should be a sporting, working, or conformation title winner. The puppy would preferably be a direct descendant, within the first two generations, of the title winner.
3. The hips and elbows of both parents should be certified as “Good” or “Excellent” by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals on both parents. Joint problems including osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are often hereditary and dogs with these problems should not be bred because it will almost certainly pass along to the offspring. These conditions cause extreme pain in the dog himself and are expensive to treat as well.
4. Eyes should be certified free of genetic abnormalities. Eye disorders and diseases such as glaucoma, inverted eyelids and progressive retinal atrophy are hereditary and dogs with these conditions should never be bred. While some eye disorders are mere inconveniences, others can be serious and require continued treatment.
5. You should have a guarantee that your dog is free from inheritable diseases and conditions. There should be language in the agreement that allows for the replacement of the dog or refund of the fee in the event that your dog is diagnosed with an inherited disease.
6. A good breeder should also include language in an agreement regarding care of the dog if you should no longer be able to. If there is ever any reason that you are unable to keep or care for the dog then the breeder should always offer to take the dog back. This protects you and also makes sure that the breeder gets “their” dog back.
7. Any help or advisement that you need to help you become a better dog owner. Every breed has its own characteristics and special needs and your breeder should act as a guide and confidant.
8. Your breeder should also provide proper care and grooming information. They should be able to tell you what disorders to look out for, how many hours of playtime they need and what their specific grooming requirements are. They are an expert on the breed and should be able to tell you exactly what you need to do to ensure proper care, training and socialization.
9. Sample of the currently fed food, generally enough for the first few days, or more. This will give you time to find the specific brand of food your puppy is used to while letting him remain on his current diet. Switching foods often and suddenly can cause stomach upset and diarrhea so it is best to maintain the same diet if it is nutritionally sound.
10. A dog with a good, even temperament who is a good match for your home. Your breeder should have done their back ground check on you and should be able to tell after the interview and application if the dog will fit well with your family dynamic and life style.
Provided by Vanessa Werth of www.pet-super-store.com: Where you can find a great selection of indoor dog gates and wooden dog crates.
It was time for another painful good-bye. As I sat on the vet’s floor with Licorice’s gray head in my lap stroking him and crying, I thought about the two new Labrador brothers that were waiting to join me. Their arrival coincided with my prolonged and painful recovery from the loss of my 27-year marriage through divorce, and the deaths of my two previous teachers, Shadow and Licorice.
My new pups taught like University professors, yet, they were only babies. I named them Hana and Saba after my two favorite places on Earth. Shortly after I brought them home, I became dreadfully ill with flu-like symptoms and a horrific cough that lasted for weeks. My job of caring for and house-breaking new pups became infinitely more difficult. While I struggled to get well, Mother Nature’s much-needed rain made my forays outside with the puppies taxing.
Hana was excellent about doing what he needed to. Saba, the dog that loved leaping around in water, hated the rain. Each time I’d have to don my rain gear and umbrella and accompany him only to have stubborn Saba sit by my feet under the umbrella. Of course, the trick was to outwait him, which is fine if you’re healthy and you have patience a’ plenty. I had neither good health nor patience.
After standing in the rain for too long, I picked Saba up, shouted angrily at him and stormed into the house. He looked at me with adoring eyes questioning my startling outburst. Instantly, I felt immense remorse and shame. There was simply no excuse for losing my temper with him. At ten weeks old, Saba was too young to understand. Guilt overwhelmed me, and I felt worse emotionally than I felt physically.
After about an hour of me thoroughly admonishing my Self, tiny, sweet Saba strolled over and plopped down on my foot. With his simple touch, tears flowed and all my self-loathing disappeared. Saba’s lesson of forgiveness was so powerful. My heart melted with his teaching – this little creature that forgave my indiscretion so quickly. His gesture allowed me to let go of my guilt and shame and move out from the shroud of negativity that engulfed me.
Animals are masters of living in the Now, and Saba’s instant forgiveness was perfect proof. If only people had the same degree of forgiveness that dogs possess, our world would be at peace. I truly believe that others reflect that which we most need to learn. Saba mirrored my need to forgive my Ex and finally accept that our divorce was neither “right” nor “wrong,” it just was.
The immediate release I felt when Saba forgave me was extraordinary. It took me some time to emulate Saba, but I have achieved forgiveness, which has allowed me to release the last of my anger and resentment.
Hana and Saba looked at me with adoring eyes, which melted my wounded heart. With their heads on my foot, they were saying, “You’re special, and we love you,” which filled me with warm, loving sensations. My self-esteem soared for the first time in ages. My love for them was so intense that it almost hurt. From the first time I saw them I felt the smile return not only to my face, but deep within my heart and soul.
The healthier I got the more I began to enjoy my new puppies and learn their powerful lessons. While I taught them to sit, stay, down, and not pee in the house, they taught me profound lessons about myself: how to trust again, how to love again without condition, how to stay in the present moment and make the most of each one, how to live in joy, how to take life less seriously, and my most challenging – how to forgive and let go.
Their presence in my life was in perfect timing to help me let go of whatever residual negativity I was clinging to. It is impossible to be unhappy around them. They look at life from one perspective only – play. The simplest thing becomes a toy. Their happiness, joyful exuberance, and life-loving, blissful nature provided powerful lessons for the woman who’d misplaced those childlike traits. The obligations and responsibilities of life had buried them along with so much else.
Every day, these two dear souls teach me that I am worthy of being loved and that I am capable of loving. When they look at me with their soulful loving glances, they pierce any semblance of negativity within me. The unconditional love in their eyes is like a powerful laser straight into my heart. I knew these two special souls could help me regain my happiness, my joy, and my passion for life, all of which had been missing for too long. I couldn’t have attracted more skilled teachers. They had big paws to fill following dear Shadow and Licorice, but they’ve filled them admirably. Hana and Saba are living up to their names – two of the most healing places on Earth!
Nancy A. Kaiser lives in the healing Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina surrounded by her family of dogs, cats and a horse. She is the author of Letting Go: An Ordinary Woman’s Extraordinary Journey of Healing & Transformation, about her recovery from trauma with the help of animals and nature. Nancy operates Just Ask Communications, a practice devoted to healing the human-animal bond through enhanced communication and understanding. Nancy consults via phone, in-person and on Skype.
The skin of your Labrador Retriever's ear canal is just like that of his body, so that anything which causes irritation to his skin also has the potential to affect his ears. Anything that changes the environment inside his ear canal can lead to bacterial or fungal infection. You can't miss it when your dog has a sore ear - he'll shake his head and often whimper as he scratches his ear. Closer inspection reveals a red, painful ear and possibly excessive discharge from the ear canal.
Labradors may be more prone to ear infections for two reasons. The first is that they love to swim, and damp ear canals are an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Secondly, they have floppy ears, so any moisture is retained and the ear canals don't get the opportunity to dry out.
There are other causes of infection and inflammation in a dog's ears that aren't specific to Labrador Retrievers. Hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism can affect the ears of any dog, and lead to infection. Also, while allergies usually affect a dog's skin and make it itchy and irritated, they can also make the ears inflamed.
If your Labrador has ever had an ear infection, you may already know that they can be very tricky to completely clear up. It can sometimes take several weeks to get those ears back to normal.
There are several steps to managing your Labrador Retriever's sore ears. Firstly, you need to identify what's causing the problem. The bacterial and fungal infections are usually secondary to an underlying issue, and unless that is resolved, the infection will recur.
You'll need to schedule a visit to your veterinarian. He'll have a look inside your dog's ear canal with his otoscope and take some of the discharge to look at under his microscope. This can give him a good idea of what germs are causing the infection. He may also recommend that the sample is sent to the lab to see what antibiotics are appropriate to kill the bacteria.
Treating your Labrador's ear infection is fairly straightforward.
Use a gentle cleanser recommended by your vet to clean away any sticky discharge. This will help the antibiotic drops to work better. Apply antibiotic ear drops once or twice daily according to directions to kill bacteria and fungi.
Preventing the ear infection recurring is often trickier. If your dog has skin allergies, you'll need to manage that problem or the ear infection will just keep coming back. This may mean the use of corticosteroids, hypoallergenic diets and fatty acid supplements to reduce inflammation.
If your Labrador Retriever is a real water baby, regular use of a product to dry his ear canals will help prevent the accumulation of moisture that predisposes to infection. Again, your vet can help you choose the right product.
Ear infections are painful and persistent, and can affect your Labrador's quality of life. Treat them quickly and aggressively and he'll be feeling better in no time.
Dog Fence DIY's staff veterinarian Dr. Susan Wright has written this article especially for you. Dog Fence DIY has a variety of innotek sd 2100 systems that will include proper installation and training. We offer a wide variety of pet containment systems at the best available price to you.
I received an e-mail from Kyla Duffy, founder and co-editor of Happy Tails Books. Kyla, along with co-editor Lowrey Mumford, founded Happy Tails Books as an effort to educate people about the joy of dog rescue and the horror of puppy mill breeding. She asks that you please help put an end to animal cruelty and shelter overpopulation by choosing adoption over pet store purchases and understanding the breed before adding them to your family to ensure your new dog is a good fit."
You can read more about Kyla, Lowrey and Happy Tails Books by visiting our previous post: Happy Tails Books
Well, Kyla wanted to let me know about a preview of their new book, "Lost Souls: Found! Inspiring Stories About Labrador Retrievers".
I read through the inspiring stories in this book and they are amazing. You will be taken on journeys with the authors who are guardians and/or fosters of adopted/rescued Labrador Retrievers, making you cry and/or laugh along the way.
Kyla has been kind enough to share the stories with me (Thank you) and has let me post a link so all of the readers of the All About Labradors blog can read it also.If you would like to read the wonderful stories in this preview visit:
Dog health food could be the answer you've been looking for. By making your own or getting truly natural food for your best friend, you can avoid the potentially life threatening side effects of commercial dog food. Labels with misleading terms can make it almost impossible to wade through the ingredients list and find a truly nutritional dog food.
So when was the last time that you actually looked at the ingredient list on your dog's food? Go ahead and have a look now. Do you know what meal is exactly? What about the preservatives? What are they doing to your dog?
Well, from a nutritional point of view you need a certain ration of protein, fat and carbohydrate to give your dog their full spectrum of nutrients. Often you'll see ratios like 40% meat 50% vegetables and 10% grain. While not wrong, this can be a bit confusing. The actual ratios that you want to achieve are based on protein (25-30%), fat (30-35%) and carbohydrate (35-45%). Then you need to look at exactly what ingredients make up those ratios. I mean, lean meat isn't going to add much to the proportion of fat, compared to a really fatty type of meat.
Often you'll hear carbohydrates being dismissed as an unnecessary part of a dogs diet, however this is only true when an excessive amount of the food is made of low quality grain fillers.
Sometimes, pet food companies use cheap grains as a filler for the food so the ratio might be more like 70-80% carbohydrates, so this isn't going to be the best for your dog in the long run. And can lead to allergies and dermatitis just like in humans. After all it's a bit hard to imagine a German shepherd grazing on the African Savannah isn't it? They aren't herbivores so we shouldn't feed them like they are.
And what about preservatives? A common and hotly disputed one is ethoxyquin. This is used to preserve that fat component from breaking down, but it has been linked to problems ranging from dermatitis to cancerous tumors and dramatically shortened life spans. Unfortunately pet food labeling requirements aren't as strict as human ones, so some companies are adding this horrible preservative but aren't actually listing it on the label. Which makes it pretty difficult to track down, if you want to keep using commercial dog food but keep your dog healthy. This is one of the most dangerous additives but not the only one that is routinely added to dog food and hidden.
But what about the actual protein and fat content? What exactly are the proteins used? Some research has found a range of horrible animal parts that have been put into dog food. Offal and by products of other animals and even euthanized pets, their plastic tags and lethal chemicals intact! So just because there's 30% protein, that doesn't mean that it's something you'd be wanting your dog to eat!
It's easy to see why more people are beginning to make their own dog food. In many cases it'll be cheaper and far better quality. You can give your dog a variety of meats, you can control the quality and you can eliminate all those nasty chemicals. And it doesn't take long either. Many people cook up a batch once a week and freeze it. Or you can opt for a baked biscuit type of food with all your dog's favorite goodies in there.
Dog health food is fast changing from a luxury for pampered pooches to an essential component of keeping your best friend healthy. They trust us to give them what they need, so it's up to us to get educated about what really goes into their food.
How would you feel if your dog died at a young age and it was completely preventable, could dog health food help to save them? We need to know what goes into the food that we feed our dogs and if it's making them sick. Our newsletter is chock full of tips for healthy eating, delicious recipes and information about what really goes into commercial dog food. Click here to subscribe http://www.dog-health-food.com.
"The N-R-G dog food family is dedicated to using the science of ingredient driven nutrition to provide balanced nourishment for canines. Our dog food diets have evolved over 15 years.
For generations we have been breeding, working, and interacting with canines while providing balanced whole food nourishment.
N-R-G dog food founders pioneered the dehydration of canine diets. We have spent a decade developing our process to maximize nutrient retention.
N-R-G dog food is truly an artisan pet food. Our whole food diets are hand made using free range meats and fresh vegetables to maximize the availability of micro nutrients. Our squash and oats are grown here on our farm and sourced from growers that are committed to minimizing the use of chemical weed control."
Visit the N-R-G Dog Products website to learn about the benefits to giving your four legged best friend N-R-G dog food and to request your free N-R-G dog food sample.
Exclusively Pet, Inc is offering a free sample of their dog cookie treats.
Information from Exclusively Pet, Inc: "Designed to look like popular people cookies but formulated specifically for your dog, Exclusively Pet creates treats for the most finicky of dogs! Have your dog try our vast assortment of treats."
Visit the Exclusively Pet website to learn more about their products and to request your free dog cookie sample (.5 ounce sample).
Samples available for U.S. residents only. One sample per household. Don't forget to hurry with this one as free samples go extremely fast!!!
When selecting a Labrador Retriever, consider the amount of energy required to maintain the breed, as labs are generally quite active sporting dogs who are great around children. Discover the Labrador's wonderful and playful temperament with helpful information from an experienced dog trainer in this free video on dog breeds.
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