Yellow Labrador Retriever with tear problem - part II

From: Keith and Joan (New Zealand)
Labrador Retriever: Chester Charles
Subject: Yellow Labrador Retriever with tear problem - part II

To read part one of this e-mail visit: Yellow Labrador Retriever with tear problem - part I

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hi Joan and Keith,

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Disclaimer

Thank you for the replies to my questions and for the photos of Chester Charles. He is a great looking Labrador Retriever!

There are many different reasons for excessive tearing and eye discharges with our Labrador Retrievers. Based on the symptoms that you provided with the answers to my questions, I will list what I believe may possibly be Chester Charles problem.

I'm not quite sure from the photos of Chester Charles, but that looks like staining to his fur under his eyes. The medical term for this condition is called Epiphora. What happens is that excessive tears drain down Chester Charles face, and over a period of time, exposure to the moisture causes irritation and infection. The fur in that area becomes stained a brown to reddish color due to the tear pigments. Do you notice any order to that area?

Irritations to your Labrador Retrievers eye’s will produce more tears, as this helps flush away any irritants that might have contaminated the surface of the eye.

Discharge from the eyes that continues throughout the day, may be a sign that your Labrador Retriever has an infection. Eye infections are fairly common, and can just occur on their own, or can occur when something gets trapped in your Labrador Retrievers eye. They can also occur when the cornea gets scratched.

Signs of an eye infection can be seen with Chester Charles eye discharge appearance. It will often appear thick, with a green, gray or yellow color. It can also form crusting on the eyelids.

Allergies can also cause discharges from the eyes, but they are usually clear and can be sticky. Your Labrador Retriever may scratch his eyes and they may be bloodshot as well, but from what you state in your answers to my questions, Chester Charles is not displaying any of these symptoms.

There is also a condition called Entropion, which is an inward rolling of the eyelid edges. The eyelids roll inwards so that the hairs rub against the cornea, causing significant discomfort to the cornea. Entropion often affects the outer aspect of the lower eyelids of one or both eyes. Entropion can cause tearing, rubbing of the eyes, thick discharge from the eyes, and wetness on hairs adjacent to the eyelids. Surgical correction is required as treatment.

What I would definitely recommend to you Joan and Keith, is to get Chester Charles to your veterinarian to have his eyes checked, especially due to the fact that Chester's eyes have been tearing for as long as they have. Not to mention the fact that the eyes are something you don't want to fool around with.

Some things you can do for Chester Charles eyes:

First thing in the morning, gently wipe away any discharge, sleepers from the eyes with a moistened tissue. You can moisten the tissue with a good cleaning solution, which you can get from your pet store or veterinarian, although tap water is fine. Make sure you use a separate tissue for each eye.

You can also take a look in the eye to see if there is anything stuck inside the eye and remove with a moist tissue. Never dig or use tweezers in your Labrador Retriever's eye.

If that is staining under Chester Charles eye, there are products such as Tear Clear and other tear stain supplements that can help, as well as wiping the area with peroxide. Use caution not to get any in the eye if using the peroxide.

Make sure you are feeding Chester Charles high quality nutritional dog food. If you need recommendation, please let me know.

I hope this is of help to both of you and most of all Chester Charles. If you don't understand anything, or have further questions, please don't hesitate to write.

Also please keep me up to date with Chester Charles condition and anything the veterinarian tells you, should you decide to take him.

Take care of yourselves and Chester Charles,

Fay

Reader's E-mail - Joan and Keith's Response:

Dear Fay,

Thank you for your prompt reply about our Chester Charles eye problem. I think you had it right and I now feel it has been a dust problem, as we have been having our 5 acre property split up.

I will follow your advice and let you know later if we have success.
Best wishes and Cheerio from Joan.

PS: We have had a lot of success with Colloidal Silver as a healer.

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador retriever tears labrador retriever eye problem labrador retriever health labradors labs retrievers pets dogs

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Yellow Labrador Retriever with tear problem - part I

From: Keith and Joan (New Zealand)
Labrador Retriever: Chester Charles
Subject: Yellow Labrador Retriever with tear problem - part I

Part one of a two part e-mail question

Reader's E-mail - Keith and Joan Write:

Hello my name is Keith. We have a cream Labrador who is 7 years old. He is beautiful.
He has a tear problem. Not terribly bad but have you any suggestions for cleaning them please.

Thank you,
Keith

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hello Keith,

Thank you for writing. My apologies for the delay. I receive many e-mail questions, and having a full house myself, it takes me some time to answer all of them.

I have a couple questions I need you to answer in order to be of some help to you.

Is the tearing from one eye or both?

Is it heavy, constant tearing?

How long has the tearing been going on?

Is tearing clear or colored?

Are the eyes red?

Is your Labrador Retriever pawing or scratching his eyes?

Are the pupils dilated?

Does he squint his eyes?

Any ear problems?

What is your Labrador Retrievers name?

With all the email questions I receive, I always ask a favor of the person writing. If you have any photos of your Labrador Retriever, that you could email me, I would love to post them to the Labrador Retriever Pictures blog. You DO NOT have to send a photo to receive an answer to your question.

Please answer these questions at your earliest convenience, and I will have an answer for you right away.

Talk to you soon,
Fay

Continue Reading...

Reader's E-mail - Keith and Joan's Response:

Thank you so much for taking time to answer our query. I will attach a couple of Photos if I may.

Answers to your questions:

Tearing from both eyes but mainly the right.

Yes it is constant not terribly heavy all the time.

Approx 2 years.

Slightly coloured.

No black rimmed.

No he does not wipe them much even.

No.

No he does not seem to squint.

No ear problems.

His name is Chester Charles. He is 71/2 years old and bred from Gun Dog breed.

Loves swimming in any water.

Terribly spoiled and overweight, although we are working on that.

Any guidance would be really appreciated. Thank you and take care.

Joan and Keith

To read part two of this e-mail visit: Yellow Labrador Retriever with tear problem - part II

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador retriever tears labrador retriever eye problem labrador retriever health labradors labs retrievers pets dogs

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Yellow Labrador having Seizures/Tremors - part II

This is part two of a two part e-mail question. To read part one of this e-mail visit: Yellow Labrador having Seizures/Tremors - part I

From: Russell (USA)
Labrador Retriever: Haley
Subject: Possible tremors or seizures

Reader's E-mail - Russell Writes:

Fay,

Thank you SO much for your willingness to help. Below are the answers to your questions

1. Haley is going to the vet on Friday.

2. Nothing listed occurred during her episode.

3. It started happening while she was awake. The other night was the first time I have seen her do it in her sleep.

4. The first time it only lasted a few seconds and each episode, although infrequent seems to be progressing in time. It lasted about 2 min on and off this time.

5. No other Haley problems.

6. Current on all shots.

I'd be happy to attach a few pics of Haley...

Thanks again!

Russ

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hello Russell,

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Disclaimer

My apologies on the delay as I receive many questions at the All About Labradors blog and it does take me some time to answer all of them. Thank you for the photos of Haley, she is just to adorable.

First off, the most important thing here, and one in which you are doing, is taking Haley to your veterinarian for a complete examination.

Here are some possible conditions I have found for you that can be causing Haley's problem:

Continue Reading...

Hypoglycemia - an abnormally low blood glucose (sugar) levels. Signs of hypoglycemia include nervousness, lethargy, seizures, lethargy, tremors, weakness, incoordination, and in severe cases your Labrador Retriever may become unconscious.

It is important to always have a source of sugar (honey, Karo syrup, maple syrup, granular sugar) with you for Labrador Retrievers dealing with hypoglycemia.

Your veterinarian can diagnose hypoglycemia with a quick blood test that checks your Labs blood glucose or blood sugar.

Have you noticed any of these episodes occurring after physical activity or on an empty stomach. You might want to try feeding Haley two or three meals instead of just one.

Epilepsy - is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent seizures. This is a big subject with so much information on epilepsy and other diseases that can cause seizures. I have found two websites for you that I believe may be quite helpful to you and has far more information and knowledge on the subject than I can provide.

The Epi Guardian Angels Website:

http://www.canine-epilepsy-guardian-angels.com/

Naturally Treating Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders - this website covers types of seizures, causes, supplementation and a very informative section on factors that may trigger a seizure.

Website: http://www.purelypets.com/articles/epilepsyarticle.htm

Here are three videos I want you to take a look at to see if it is similar to what Haley is doing:

http://video.google.ca/videoplay?docid=539296077706955474

http://video.google.ca/videoplay?docid=992683019408822522

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nucc0rajrPI

There is a condition called "idiopathic head bobbing syndrome" that deals with the head bobbing either up and down or side to side. I found limited information on this, but visit this website -

http://www.homestead.com/bulldogsworld/headtremor.html .

Scroll down to just about the bottom of the page where it states - I had sent the video of Zimmer's head shakes to my vet who in turn sent it to a neurologist, Dr. Eric Glass at Red Bank Veterinary here in NJ.

Does Haley take any medications (Heartworm, Frontline, etc) or had any vaccinations around the time of these incidents?

I'm asking because I read an interesting article called Are "Spot On" Flea Killers Safe which you can read here:

http://www.apnm.org/publications/resources/fleachemfin.pdf

It list ingredients in some of these products and the effects on animals. In Frontline there is an ingredient called Fipronil that can cause twitches and tremors.

You might want to keep some sort of journal to record everything that happens before the behavior and after the behavior (does it happen after walks, after she eats, after she plays, how long it lasted, how frequent, etc). Maybe you can find a pattern by doing this.

I hope this information can be of some help to you Russell. Please keep me informed of Haley's condition, and any information you get from your veterinarian as it will be helpful to me and to all of the readers at the All About Labradors blog.

Take care of yourself and Haley,

Fay

Reader's E-mail - Russell's Response:

Fay,

Thank you SO much for your information. At the very least it helps provide a limited universe of potential ailments. We have taken Haley to the vet and are awaiting results. Your research and knowledge has helped ease the anxiety by letting us know possible causes so I would like to thank you for that. Hopefully the vet will come back with positive information. I will let you know what the outcome is. Hope you enjoyed the 4th of July holiday.

Best Regards,

Russell

To see some photos of the beautiful Haley, visit: Haley 11/21/07

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador retrievers labradors labs labrador health labrador seizures retrievers pets dogs

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Yellow Labrador having Seizures/Tremors - part I

This e-mail was sent in by Russell, who is having a problem with his yellow Labrador Retriever, Haley having seizures or tremors. This is part one of a two part e-mail question.

Reader's E-mail - Russell Writes:

Hi,

My name is Russell and my wife and I have a Yellow Female Labrador named Haley who is about a year old. I came across your blog when Jennifer (my wife) and I were conducting research on a condition we noticed in Haley for the first time about two weeks ago. I saw it tonight for the first time and it concerned me. Haley was sleeping on the couch when her head began moving side to side as if she was saying "no" fairly rapidly. We woke her up thinking she was dreaming but she continued with this behavior/condition for 3 minutes longer. I managed to get a short video clip of it to show my vet. Have you ever heard of this happening to labs? Is it common? Do you think this could be seizures or tremors? Can it get progressively worse?

I read on some other blogs where dogs were having tremors and when their owners changed their diets the tremors stopped. We feed Haley 4 cups 1 time per day of Iams Dry Puppy for Large Breed dog food. She's moderately active. I should mention that when she has these tremors she is otherwise normal. Just kinda sits around looking around the room as if nothing is happening. To our knowledge she has not gotten into any thing around the house that might prompt it.

I'd certainly appreciate any insight you or your readers might be able to offer. Thank you in advance.

Best Regards,
Russell

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Continue Reading...

Hello Russell,

Thank you for writing and visiting the All About Labradors blog. I'm sorry to hear about Haley's problem.

To answer your question, yes I have heard of this happening in Labrador Retrievers, and yes this could be seizures or tremors. Not that I am saying this was a seizure, but the Labrador Retriever breed does have a high incidence of seizure disorders.

In order to try to be of more help to you, I need to ask you a few more questions.

When are you taking her to the veterinarian?

Did any of these things occurring while Haley was going through these episode:

Foaming/Drooling at mouth
Urinating
Any smell to her during or after
Paddling of the feet
Rapid or weird eye movements
Any problem with her sight after these episodes

This only happens while she is sleeping or when awake also?

This condition lasted how long? How long the first time?

Any other problems with Haley now or in the past?

Haley has had all her shots?

Make sure you keep a record of all future incidents: when they occurred, how long they last, and what happens during the incidents for your veterinarian. (Good job recording the incident)

Russell, please get back to me with the answers to these questions and we will see what we can find out to try to help Haley.

Talk to you soon,
Fay

P.S. With all the email questions I receive, I always ask a favor of the person writing. If you have any photos of your Labrador Retriever, that you could email me, I would love to post them to the Labrador Retriever Pictures blog. You DO NOT have to send a photo to receive an answer to your question.

Reader's E-mail - Russell's Reply:

Fay,

Thank you SO much for your willingness to help. Below are the answers to your questions

1. Haley is going to the vet on Friday.
2. Nothing listed occurred during her episode.
3. It started happening while she was awake. The other night was the first time I have seen her do it in her sleep.
4. The first time it only lasted a few seconds and each episode, although infrequent seems to be progressing in time. It lasted about 2 min on and off this time.
6. No other Haley problems.
7. Current on all shots.

I'd be happy to attach a few pics of Haley...

Thanks again!
Russ

To read part two click: Yellow Labrador having Seizures/Tremors - part II

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador retrievers labradors labs labrador health labrador seizures retrievers pets dogs

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

New Greenies Free Samples - All About Labradors

For those of you that have never tried Greenies, here is you chance to see if your Labrador Retriever likes them.

There are three different free samples offered on the Greenies website:

Greenies for dogs 6+ months and over 5lbs

Greenies Lite™ Low calorie

Greenies Senior™ for dogs 7+ years

For those of you that have used them before and still use them (myself included), the Greenies Lite™ Low calorie is new.

Quote from Greenies: "Introducing new Greenies Lite™

Designed to address weight concerns.

All of the oral care benefits and great taste of Greenies® with less calories.

Clinically proven to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

Highly soluble and formulated for easy digestion."

If your interested in trying any of the Greenies free samples visit their website at:

http://www.greenies.com/en_US/2k6Sampling/

Technorati Tags: free greenies samples greenies samples all about labradors labrador retriever labradors labs retrievers dogs pets dog treats

Categories: Freebies_

Continue Reading...

Yellow Labrador Retriever losing hair in patches - part two

This is part two of a two part e-mail question. To read part one of this e-mail question visit Yellow Labrador Retriever losing hair in patches - part one

Subject: Yellow Labrador Retriever losing hair in patches on various parts of her body

From: David (USA)

Readers E-mail - David Writes:

David's answers to my questions are colored in green.

How long has the problem been present and has it occurred before?
Not long only a couple of weeks.

Is the hair missing, broken or chewed off short?
Looks like it fell out

Are the areas of hair loss itchy for Winnie?
She doesn't scratch at it.

Is she constantly licking the areas of hair loss?
We haven't seen her do it.

Are all the hairless area raw and inflamed?
No, kind of scabbed and thick skinned

Are the areas a particular shape?
No, just balding

What do you feed Winnie?
High protein, high fat food

Does Winnie's paws itch?
We have never watched her rubbing or chew on them

Does Winnie scoot?
No

Do you find yourself itching?
No, but there are a lot of ticks around.

What do you bath Winnie in?
Whatever shampoo we use

Is Winnie an emotional or nervous dog?
No really mellow and gentle

Any fleas present on Winnie?
Not that we can see, this is more of a tick area.

Any discoloration or darkness to skin where hair loss is?
No, just scabbed and in some spots are bloody.

How is the rest of her coat (oily, dry, smelly, etc)?
She has never had a smooth coat of fur. It has always been kind of frizzy feeling, but she does stink now no matter how much i wash her.

Thanks
David

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hi David,

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Disclaimer

There are many different reasons for hair loss with our Labrador Retrievers. It can be anything from parasites to infections, hormone problems to nutritional deficiencies. Many of these conditions we can usually eliminate due to your answers of no itching or licking going on.

Continue Reading...

What might have occurred with Winnie is something that happens with many dogs during pregnancy, that being excessive shedding of the hair.

Many female Labrador retrievers who are nursing puppies will lose a large amount of hair. With dogs, the hair is not always growing. The growth phase of the hair cycle during which new hair is formed is called anagen. The resting phase of the follicle in the hair cycle is called telogen.

During pregnancy and nursing, hairs may enter the resting phase (telogen) prematurely and shed simultaneously, resulting in what is called "blowing the coat". The hair loss at this time may come out in large clumps.

What you also must know, is that this is not abnormal, it happens in many pregnant and nursing bitches. The hair will grow back. You might even observe a different texture to the new hair or a darker coat.

It is important that you make sure you are feeding Winnie a high quality food during the nursing phase.

What I would recommend David is a appointment with your veterinarian especially considering she just had a litter not long ago. Not to mention the fact that you state she has never had a good coat and she smells no matter how much you wash her.

A rancid odor is usually often the first sign of a skin infection. Infections will usually cause scaly red rashes, open sores, boils and/or pimples.

A healthy Labrador Retriever, eating a good diet and brushed regularly, usually will not have an odor problem unless it finds something foul to roll in. The brushing ( which is great during the "blowing the coat" phase) will help to keep your Labrador Retriever clean.

I would definitely recommend getting a good shampoo for Winnie, not just using whatever shampoo you use. Your veterinarian can advise you on a good choice. Also remember healthy Labrador Retrievers don't need to be bathed frequently, as I only bath mine when absolutely necessary.

As for the bleeding to the ankle you want to make sure you keep the area clean. You can give Winnie periodic soaks in a soothing mix of cool water and colloidal oatmeal (Aveeno). Be advised that a sore that doesn't heal means that something more serious is going on.

I hope this helps you out David (and Winnie). Please keep me advised on her condition, and if you do take her to your veterinarian, let me know what they say as it will be useful to the other readers of the All About Labradors blog.

Take care of yourself and Winnie,

Fay

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador health labrador retrievers labradors labs retrievers dogs pets

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Yellow Labrador Retriever losing hair in patches - part one

Today's readers e-mail question come from a nice young man named David (USA). His yellow Labrador Retriever, Winnie has a problem with patchy hair loss on various parts of her body.

This is part one of a two part e-mail question.

Reader's E-mail - David Writes:

Hello. My name is David and I am 17 and I have a yellow Lab named Winnie. She is losing hair in patches on her legs, chin, elbows and ankles. Her ankle seems to be the worst spot though. It is swelling and is starting to bleed.

She is an 8 year old female and about 5 weeks ago had a litter of 12 puppies. Have you ever heard about this on a lab? Is there a treatment for this? Or is the Vet the only way to go for her. I really don't want her put down. If there is any information you can give me I would really appreciate it.

Sincerely
David

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hello David,

Thank you for writing, I am sorry to hear about Winnie's condition.

In order for me to try to be of some assistance to you, I have a couple of questions in regards to Winnie's condition. Please try to be as specific as possible with the answers to the questions.

How long has the problem been present and has it occurred before?

Is the hair missing, broken or chewed off short?

Are the areas of hair loss itchy for Winnie?

Is she constantly licking the areas of hair loss?

Are all the hairless area raw and inflamed?

Are the areas a particular shape?

What do you feed Winnie?

Does Winnie's paws itch?

Does Winnie scoot?

Do you find yourself itching?

What do you bath Winnie in?

Is Winnie an emotional or nervous dog?

Any fleas present on Winnie?

Any discoloration or darkness to skin where hair loss is?

How is the rest of her coat (oily, dry, smelly, etc)?

Anything else you can tell me that you think will be helpful in regards to Winnie's condition.

One last thing David, with all the email questions I receive, I always ask a favor of the person writing. If you have any photos of your Labrador Retriever, that you could email me, I would love to post them to the Labrador Retriever Pictures blog. You DO NOT have to send a photo to receive an answer to your question.

Please get back to me at your earliest convenience with the answers to these questions. I will reply as soon as I get your answers.

Talk to you soon,

Fay

To read part two of this e-mail question visit Yellow Labrador Retriever losing hair in patches - part two

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador health labrador retrievers labradors labs retrievers dogs pets

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Free Sample Of Natures Variety Dog Food

Found another free sample of dog food for you to try. This one is from Natures Variety. I have not tried this one yet so I can't give you information on what I think of their products or how my Labrador Retrievers responded to their products.

Here is some information from their website:

"The Nature's Variety line of natural pet products was developed by families who have been engaged in sustainable production agriculture for over 140 years - raising quality livestock and growing crops in America's heartland. For the past 30 years, we have been primarily focused on the meat processing business. Our experience in processing meats for human consumption gives us an ongoing advantage in providing superior, nutritional pet products.

Nature’s Variety holistic diets are rich in meat, poultry, or fish protein. Our diets include dry kibble, cans, and raw food."

Visit the Natures Variety website to learn more about their products and make sure you read the testimonials. If you feel like this is a product you would like to try, you can also request a free sample.

Technorati Tags: all about labradors, labrador retriever, labrador, labs, retriever, dogs, pets, free dog food sample dog food

Categories: Freebies_

Continue Reading...

Is it to cold for my 2 year old Labrador

Today's e-mail was sent in by Matt (USA). He wanted to know if it's to cold for his two year old Labrador Retriever.

With the weather getting colder in certain parts, I receive many of these same questions.

Reader's E-mail - Matt Writes:

I know labs have a really good tolerance to cold weather, but how cold is too cold? He's two years old and I take him to play everyday, but in the winter it gets snowy and in the twenties and lower and I was wondering if that's alright for him. I've got a neoprene hunting vest for him, but is that even necessary or should his coat keep him warm enough? Thanks.

Matt

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hi Matt,

Thanks for writing.

I get these questions from many Labrador retriever owners when the weather gets colder. Depending on who you talk to, you will get many different opinions on this. I'm sure I will get plenty of email from others in response to this answer.

The Labrador retriever has a short, dense, water-repellent double coat that provides great resistance to cold weather, icy water and different kinds of ground cover. Their double coating helps them tolerate cold temperatures keeping them fairly comfortable in the cold weather.

Taking him out for short periods of time in extreme temperatures to walk, play and relieve himself are not a problem. Remember, this is a breed that hunters have outdoors for hours on end and in ice cold waters.

Here are some things to remember:

Your Labrador retriever’s health is very important in colder temperatures. Make sure your "Lab" has had a recent checkup with your veterinarian and has a clean bill of health. The colder weather can aggravate certain health conditions (muscle myopathy, arthritis) in your Labrador.

Make sure your Labrador gets some extra calories and water. Don't worry; the extra calories will be converted into energy which is needed to maintain body heat in the cold.

Watch for frostbite in his ears, feet and tail. An alternate lifting of the feet could be an indication he feels the effects of frostbite. Skin discoloration, pain, swelling and blisters are signs. Just like with us, shivering will indicate he is feeling the effects of the cold weather.

Make sure to check his paws when you come in from a winter walk or play session. Salts and other chemicals on the grounds can irritate his pads causing cracking. Ice balls can form in paw crevices, along with mud and dirt being trapped which could be harmful to him.

I always make it a point to wipe my Labrador Retrievers paws, lower leg, and belly area after being out in the winter weather, just to make sure they didn't picked up any salt or chemicals that can cause problems. I have tried the dog booties with no luck. Neither Labrador liked them and would try to bite at them.

As far as the neoprene hunting vest goes that’s up to you. As long as your Labrador retriever is running and moving about he should be fine. It’s when they stop moving around you have to watch that he doesn't get cold. If I was going to have my Labradors out for a few hours in the extreme cold, I would use them. They provide excellent insulation and also protect your dog's underside.

I hope this helps you. Feel free to write if you have any other questions.

Take care

Fay

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador health labrador retrievers labradors labs retrievers dogs pets

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Dogs only come in two colours, researchers say

Technorati Tags: all about labradors labrador retrievers labradors labs retrievers dogs dog colors pets

Categories: Labrador/DogNews_

Continue Reading...

Life's Abundance Pet Food Sample

Hello All About Labradors blog readers. Hope all is well with everyone and your lovable Labrador Retrievers. Here is a new free dog food sample you can request.

It's from HealthyPetNet and they make the Life’s Abundance® brand of dog food.

"Life’s Abundance® is made using only fresh, human-quality ingredients such as premium all natural chicken and top quality catfish with the best fresh fruit, vegetables and select farm foods. Life’s Abundance® also contains a superior blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Contains no artificial flavors, colors, sugars, or chemical preservatives."

Included in your sample is:

1/4 cup of the Life's Abundance Pet Food of your choice (1/4 cup of each if you choose the combo)

One healthy treat

One pet supplement

*Shipping Costs

Free Life's Abundance Pet Food Sample offer valid for Unites States and Canadian residents over the age of 18 only.

To learn more about HealthyPetNet, their company, products ingredients visit

http://www.healthyanimaldiet.net/products-page/

To request your free sample of Life's Abundance Pet Food visit

http://www.healthyanimaldiet.net/freesamples/index.php

Technorati Tags: free dog food sample dog food all about labradors labrador retriever labradors labs

Categories: Freebies_

Continue Reading...

Stop my eight week old Labrador from nipping - part II

This is the second part of a two part e-mail from Jenny.

To read part one visit: Stop my eight week old Labrador from nipping - part I

Reader's E-mail - Jenny Writes:

Thanks Fay for this i will let you know if this works. My local pet store told me that Ben (that is his name) is too young for Kong toys, is this correct? He is 10 weeks old.

He has also started to take an interest in the wall paper, he only licks it at the moment but i am concerned that he will start to bite the wall, is there anything i can do to nip this in the bud.

Apart from this he is adorable and very good. He is almost toilet trained, sits and gives his paw on command and loves to retrieve his toys. Now i am beginning to get him use to the lead, by walking him around the garden. He has his last injection on Saturday and microchiped, I have decided to have him castratred when he is 6 months old, this is on the advise of the vet. Can't wait to start walking him.

Jenny

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hi Jenny,

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Disclaimer

Thank you for all the wonderful photos of Ben. He is so so adorable!!

In regards to the Kong toys, my Labradors both started with Kong toys, the day they were brought home (nine weeks), and I haven't had a problem with them. As a matter of fact, on the Kong website itself, it list Kong products for puppies in the seven through twelve week age.
Here is the link to the Kong website and a booklet on the site called Growing Up with Kong.

Just remember to supervise Ben's use of Kong toys until you are confident they can be used safely without supervision. Make sure you also provide the appropriate size toy for him and to inspect the toys daily for any broken or loose pieces. Any worn or damaged toys should be replaced immediately.

I have noticed with my two Labrador girls, as I am sure many other Labrador Retriever owners have, that they chew through toys quickly, that's why I buy the extra hard, and for power chewers Kong products.

There could be a couple of different reasons Ben is licking the wall paper. Ben could be lacking something in his diet (vitamins/nutrients). You want to make sure that you feed him a good, nutritious dog food (your veterinarian can recommend one to you) and that he is having normal stool production. If you do decide to change Ben's dog food, make sure you do it gradually so it doesn't upset his digestive system (mix some of the new dog food into some of the old dog food for a couple of weeks).

There is also a possibility that Ben could also have some sort of anxiety problems - phobias, separation anxiety, and obsessive compulsive behaviors. Possibly a cry for more attention, pent-up energy and/or boredom.

Our Labrador Retrievers need plenty of exercise and play time. Long walks, runs and plenty of play time everyday, may help to cut down some of the problem. When you do catch Ben licking continually you can try to provide a distraction (play toys, balls, etc.). Once again, I recommend the Kong chew toys filled with treats, which can provide him with plenty of challenge, and distraction. The Kong toys are excellent for providing physical exercise as well as mental exercise.

If Ben continues licking the wall paper and starts licking other things continually (floor, doors, etc.), you may want to consult with your veterinarian to make sure that no medical condition exists. You might also want to ask for a recommendation for animal behaviorist in your area or you can find one by visiting Animal Behavior Society website at http://www.animalbehavior.org/.

Having Ben neutered is a great decision as well as having him microchiped. Sounds as though Ben is doing quite well with his training.

Hope this provides some more help to you Jen. Please keep me up to date on how Ben is doing and if you have any other questions, now or in the future, please don't hesitate to send me an e-mail.

Take care of yourself and Ben,

Fay

To see the wonderful photos of Ben visit: Ben 11/18/07

Technorati Tags: all about labradors, labrador retrievers, labradors, labs, labrador training, retrievers, dogs, pets

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_ Training_

Continue Reading...

Stop my eight week old Labrador from nipping - part I

Jenny (UK) sent in this e-mail in regards to Ben, her 8 week old Labrador Retriever who can not seem to stop nipping.

This is part one of a two part e-mail.

Reader's E-mail - Jenny Writes:

Jenny (England)

Hi I have just bought a 8 week old black lab puppy I have had him 2 weeks and cant seem to stop him nipping and his teeth are very sharp. Do you have any advice please?

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hello Jenny,

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Please read the full Disclaimer

Thank you for writing and visiting the All About Labradors blog. Congratulations on the purchase of your new Labrador Retriever.

What is his name?

Is this your first Labrador Retriever?

Yes, I do have some advice for you. I have an article on the blog entitled Labrador Retriever - Training your puppy to stop biting and nipping, which you can read over at this link:

http://allaboutlabradors.blogspot.com/2006/04/labrador-retriever-training-your-puppy.html

Read the article and apply some of the listed methods and you should be on your way to nipping your Labradors biting habit in the bud.

Just so you know, in regards to the article, I do recommend Kong toys for your Labrador Retriever as they provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Make sure you buy the appropriate size for your Labrador and discard the toy when pieces start to break off. I am also a big supporter of using the crate for training.

If you don't understand anything in the article, please don't hesitate to write. If you have any other questions in regards to your Labrador Retriever just drop me an e-mail. You can send as many questions and e-mails as you want, I don't mind.

One last thing Jenny, with all the email questions I receive, I always ask a favor of the person writing. If you have any photos of your Labrador Retriever, that you could email me, I would love to post them to the Labrador Retriever Pictures blog.

If you do send a photo, and would like any caption to appear under the photo (Ex: Fido eating the garbage, my trip to the beach, dressed up for Christmas, etc.) make sure you let me know.

Take care of yourself and your new Labrador Retriever,

Fay

To read part two visit: Stop my eight week old Labrador from nipping - part II

Technorati Tags: all about labradors, labrador retrievers, labradors, labs, labrador training, retrievers, dogs, pets

Categories: ReadersEmail_ Training_

Continue Reading...

Labrador Retriever Mating

This question was sent to All About Labradors from Mohan (USA). Mohan has a question or two in regards to mating his female black Labrador Retriever.

Reader's E-mail - Mohan Writes:

Hello,

I have a question. We have a black bitch labrador . Is mating OK with a fawn (yellow) colored labrador male? Is there any chance of the puppies having spots or patches of two colors?

We think that the puppies can either be full black, or full yellow or full brown and can not have patches or spots of different colors. Is this understanding correct?

Regards
Mohan

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hello Mohan,

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Disclaimer

Thanks for your question and please except my apologies on the delay in answering. I receive many questions (much more than I ever dreamed of) and it takes me some time to answer them all.

You are correct that you can get full black, full yellow, or full chocolate with the color all coming down to the genes carried by the Labrador Retrievers. This is somewhat hard for me to explain and I'm not quite sure I can explain it correctly, so I have listed a website below that can explain this in full to you and has a chart that shows you what you can expect.

http://www.lockeonlabradors.com/coat_color.htm

As for different color spots and patches:

The American Kennel Club (AKC) gives just 3 colors for Labrador Retrievers:

1. Black Labrador
2. Yellow Labrador
3. Chocolate Labrador

Any other color – or a combination of colors – disqualifies a dog for registration as a Labrador Retriever.

A small white spot on the chest of a black Labrador Retriever is permissible.

For further information on coat colors and disqualifications in Labrador Retriever colors visit:

http://www.akc.org/breeds/labrador_retriever/index.cfm

Hope this helps you out Mohan. If I can be of any other assistance to you, please don't hesitate to write.

Take care of yourself,

Fay

Reader's E-mail - Mohan Writes:

Hi Fay,

Thank you very much....!
I appreciate your help...!

-Mohan

Categories: General_ ReadersEmail_

Teachnorati Tags: all about labradors labrador retriever black labrador retriever labrador lab labrador mating labrador retriever colors

Continue Reading...

Chocolate Labrador Retriever with nose problem - part II

This is part two of a two part e-mail question.

To read part one of this e-mail visit: Chocolate Labrador Retreiver with nose problem - part I

Reader's E-mail - Bob Writes:

Hi Fay,

Thank you for the response, this is quite unexpected, i never thought anyone would actually answer and i thank you very much for that.

As you know Lexie has this nose problem i wrote to you about before. I will try to answer your questions as detailed as i can so there is no confusion at all.

Has the vet done any testing on Lexie? No our vet seems to think its not a big deal health wise and figures we shouldn't really worry about it, but naturally we think it is a big deal and we don't want our poor Lexie to have what must be such an uncomfortable and irritating condition, (even though she doesn't seem to notice it.)

What kind of foods did we try and what is she eating now? Right now Lexie is eating Timberwolf food if your not familiar with it, it is actually suppose to be some of the best dry dog food on the market ( but i may be wrong ). We also give her trippett canned food also probably 1 cup of trippett and 2 cups of Timberwolf a day. Also we have just recently started giving her fish oil pills with both of her daily meals. 1 pill per meal, and we feed her twice a day.

What else do we feed Lexie ? Well we don't ever feed Lexie table food and for treats we feed her Old Mother Hubbards dog treats. We sometimes give her carrots (heard that was good for them ) and we also sometimes give her compressed bones to chew on.

Is Lexie an inside dog ? Yes she lives in the house and never really spends more than 30 minutes outside unless we are with her.

How long has the discharge been going on ? Well we seem to remember it starting about the one year old mark, may have been sooner but I'm pretty sure it was around the one year mark.

She never lost the pigment in her nose ? No she hasn't actually, even when pieces of skin fall off her nose they are still Brown colored (chocolate Labrador).

What kind of bowls does she eat and drink from ? She drinks and eats from stainless steel bowls, i just read that stainless steel is the best thing for them and its just lucky that we have always given her food and water in stainless steel dishes.

Any discharge from the eyes, sneezing, coughing, itching, diarrhea, constipation (be specific with anything)? She has what seems to be the normal amount of eye crutts (i guess you can call them) but other than that she has never had a cough and she seems to sneeze normally. We do find that when she is on her back she tends to sneeze a little more than usual but this doesn't happen very often. Lexie does have allergies to most of the Yearly vaccinations. She reacts to the Rabies shot the lepto shot and annual shot which im not exactly sure what it has in it. Her allergy reactions are quite severe and we have had to bring her to the emergency dog clinic on two separate occasions. She swells a lot and we fear she may stop breathing. So now before we go to get shots we were told by the Vet to give her 3 benedril pills before she gets the shots now, to reduce the reaction.

Any redness or inflammation to nose? No not at all, she seems to have what looks to be a healthy nose except for the skin falling off and the raw skin where she licks a lot on the nose.

Any other medical problems now or in the past (problem with paws, mouth, etc)? Nothing except the allergies i mentioned before. There are two things i would like to add that might help you also.

We have talked to Lexie's Breeder and she has never seem this in any of her litters. The lady we bought the dog off of is a private breeder and is very involved with the puppies she has sold. When we asked her about it she told us that she has never heard any feed back from other owners about a nose issue and when we saw the dogs mother and father and grandmother none of the dogs had any type of nose issue.

Continue Reading...

Another thing is the fact that since our dog has such bad allergies we kind of thought that maybe Lexie was allergic to the two cats we have. I don't know if this is possible but we thought we would include this in here so you have all the information. We tried to separate the cats and the dog when we went on a trip to visit family , the dog came with us and the cats stayed home and during that week we didn't see any noticeable change in the dogs nose, so either it isn't the cats, or we just didn't separate them long enough.

Well here is all the info i could possible think of, i hope it helps and hopefully for Lexie's sake you might have the solution to her problems. If not we do appreciate the help and we would like to thank you for trying. Hope this helps.

Bob

All About Labradors Answer:

Hello Bob,

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Disclaimer

Thanks for the response to my questions, Once again my apologies for the delays as I am far behind with all the questions I am receiving. Thanks for being so patient!

This is a tough one for me to answer as I don't see Lexie's nose and can only go on what you tell me. Even though it doesn't seem to bother Lexie and the veterinarian believes its not a big deal health wise (many dogs do have dry, scaly noses with no other problems), you might want to seek a second opinion. Remember, I am not a veterinarian and would never second guess any veterinarians diagnosis. Another veterinarian might recommend doing a skin biopsy, blood work, etc.

Some things you can use for the scaly nose:

Vaseline (which you are using) will help to keep the nose moisturized.

Oxyfresh's Pet Gel (contains Aloe Vera) and can be found at oxyfresh.com

Bag balm.com - been around for ever, also helps sooth and relieve dry, chapped skin conditions.

Aloe Vera - the natural 100 percent pure kind (found in health food stores), not the Aloe Vera mixtures.

Make sure the products are rubbed into the nose thoroughly.

As for Lexie's discharge from the nose, being that it's clear and watery, it is usually caused by colds or allergies. I'm sure we can rule out the cold being that you state this has been going on for a year.

Being that this runny nose has continued this long, a food allergy can be very possible, for it (runny nose) has been year round. Food allergies can be complicated to recognize and to treat, with testing being done with a special hypoallergenic diet.

This diet consist of a changing of the food to something Lexie hasn't eaten before, which is fed for a set period of time (usually it takes at least twelve weeks on the new food), to determine if this is the problem.

You have told me that you have changed foods, three different times and it hasn't worked. You have to remember to give it some time, not just a few weeks. The foods you mention are decent foods.

Another important thing to remember during a food trail is the specific food you choose, should be the only thing Lexie should be feed during the trial. No medications (unless absolutely necessary), no treats, nothing else. Just one food and that's it. I can recommend some other foods if you would like to try the food trial again.

Food allergies may occur with other allergies, such as atopy (inhalant allergy).

Inhalant allergies - allergy to something your dog inhales, such as pollens, grasses, dust mites, house dust, molds. Inhalant allergies usually involve a mild to intense scratching over the body.

Some things you might want to do around your home:

Keep Lexie out of rooms several hours when you vacuum.

Wash Lexie's bedding in very hot water

Try to avoid stuffed toys and letting her sleep on stuffed furniture

Keep Lexie out of carpeted rooms

Use dehumidifiers

Keep Lexie out of basement (if you have one)

Other allergy testing can be done by your veterinarian, such as blood tests or intradermal skin testing. The better allergy test is intradermal skin testing, which is usually done by a veterinary dermatologist. You may want to visit a veterinary dermatologist (you can ask for a referral from your vet) if he/she is not one themselves. Veterinary dermatologist are specialists that tend to see chronic and odd cases, and often recognize unusual syndromes a general practitioner may miss.

The fish oil you are using is very good for Lexie and I would continue giving it to her. Also, the stainless steel bowls are the best as some Labrador Retrievers do develop a contact allergy from the use of plastic bowls.

I hope this helps some Bob. Please keep me informed on Lexie's condition and anything else the veterinarian tells you, should you bring her in for more testing.

Take care of yourself and Lexie,

Fay

Technorati Tags: all about labradors blog, labrador retrievers, labradors, lab, chocolate labrador retriever, labrador retriever health, labrador health, retrievers, pets, dogs

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Chocolate Labrador Retriever with nose problem - part I

This e-mail comes from Bob and Ericka in Canada. Their 2 year old chocolate Labrador Retriever named Lexie has a few problems in regards to her nose. This is part one of a two part e-mail.

Reader's E-mail - Bob and Ericka Write:

Hi,

My 2 year old Chocolate labrador Lexie has had a bit of a nose problem for the past year or so.

Description:

Basically her nose is scaly but still has the brown pigmentation. But in the area's where her tongue can reach the skin on her nose is moist but very raw from licking it alot. She always seems to have a runny nose and its a very clear liquid.

We thought at first she might have a cold, but she has never had any other symptoms of one. Then we thought she might be allergic to her food, so we change it for awhile, then the vet asked us to put her on non alergen food, that didn't help either. So now after trying maybe 3 different foods and also trying to add trippett dog food to her diet on a regular basis she still has the scaley runny nose. We are currently giving her fish oil capsules daily to see if they might work but it is to early to see any noticable effects.

We also have two cats and were thinking she may be allegic to the cats but we havent really been able to get Lexie in an environment away from the cats to be sure.

The weird thing about this whole thing is that it doesn't seem to bother Lexie in the slightest, she never tries to scratch it or rub it on anything and we constantly put vasaline on her nose to put a bit of a film on it so she wont be actually licking it raw.

We have been looking and asking all over the place for answers and have had no luck.

What ever insight you have would be appreciated. Thank you

Bob and Ericka

All About Labradors Answer:

Hi Bob and Ericka,

Thanks for writing and visiting All About Labradors blog. My apologies for the delay, as I receive many questions and with a full household and answering every question, it takes me some time.

A couple of questions I have in order for me to try to be of some help to you:

Did your veterinarian doing any kind of testing on Lexie?

What kind of foods did you try and what is she eating now?

Besides the dog foods, do you feed her anything else (treats, table scrapes) Be specific with anything else you feed her.

Is she an inside dog or outside dog (lives inside or out)?

How long has this discharge been going on?

She has never lost the pigment from her nose?

What kind of bowls does she eat and drink from (plastic, stainless steel)?

Any discharge from the eyes, sneezing, coughing, itching, diarrhea, constipation (be specific with anything)?

Any redness or inflammation to nose?

Any other medical problems now or in the past (problem with paws, mouth, etc)?

With all the email questions I receive, I always ask a favor of the person writing. If you have any photos of your Labrador Retriever, that you could email me, I would love to post them to the Labrador Retriever Pictures blog. You DO NOT have to send a photo to receive an answer to your question.

If you do send a photo, and would like any caption to appear under the photo (Ex: Fido eating the garbage, my trip to the beach, dressed up for Christmas, etc.) make sure you let me know.

Please get back to me with the answers to these questions, and we will see what we can do for Lexie.

Talk to you soon,

Fay

To read part two visit: Chocolate Labrador Retriever with nose problem - part II

Technorati Tags: all about labradors blog, labrador retrievers, labradors, lab, chocolate labrador retriever, labrador retriever health, labrador health, retrievers, pets, dogs

Categories: LabradorHealth_ ReadersEmail_

Continue Reading...

Male Labrador Retriever urinates in my house - part II

This is part two of a two part e-mail from Lyn in Australia who has a problem with her 12 week old Labrador Retriever urinating in her home.

Part one of this e-mail can be read here: Male Labrador Retriever urinates in my house - part I

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

The information given here is to help you learn more about your Labrador Retriever and not to replace your veterinarian's advice. Read full Disclaimer

Hello Lyn, Thanks for being patient and for the great photo of Tyson! He just so cute.

I'm sure I don't have to tell you this Lyn but the first thing you have to remember is that Tyson is just a baby and will have his accidents.

What I believe may be happening here is that Mr Tyson may be confused. Its harder to train an indoor/outdoor pup because of the change in environment. What I mean by this is when Tyson is outside, he can do anything he wants, eliminate anywhere he wants, but not so when indoors. This is making it harder for him to distinguish from inside to outside, and he is not learning where to eliminate.

First off Tyson needs to have one spot to eliminate himself. If you consistently take Tyson to the same location, he will associate this as the place to go. If he constantly eliminates in that spot in the garden then make sure this is the spot he continues to go (even though I'm sure you'll want to change this location, otherwise you won't have a garden in that spot for long). Once the association is formed, he will be more likely to seek out the same area, whenever the need to eliminate arises.

What I didn't ask, and I'm not sure of from your e-mails is if you have him on a leash when you take him out or you just let him out into the yard to eliminate.

He must be on a short leash when he is taken out to keep him close. Believe me, he will become bored quite quickly with a small area to explore and will start sniffing around the ground (elimination behavior). If he takes a little longer, as one of my Labradors did, you can try walking him in a short tight circle.

You can also praise Tyson when you notice signs that elimination is coming, such as sniffing and/or circling. It doesn't have to be crazy, bang on the drums praise, just a soft "good boy" or "good Tyson" will be sufficient.

Make sure you pickup and discard of any stool immediately.

What happens when you take Tyson out and he doesn't eliminate himself ? Take him back inside, wait about 15 -20 minutes and take him right back out to his area. Make sure you keep constant watch of him when inside if he didn't relieve himself, for signs of elimination behaviors.

I do recommend the use of a crate. A crate provides a safe haven for your puppy allowing him to relax. It will help him rest, slowing down the body, reducing the need for water and relieving himself. It is also an effective housebreaking tool, because dogs have a natural reluctance to soil where they sleep.

If you do use they crate for Tyson, make sure it will be the correct size for him as an adult. Try to purchase a cage with a dividing panel so it will be the appropriate size for him now. You only want to have enough room for Tyson to stand up, stretch and turn. To much room, and Tyson could learn to sleep in half of the crate and relieve himself in the other half, which will just defeat the whole purpose of the crate.

Is there a possibility that someone can come to your house during your working hours to take Tyson out? Maybe you or your partner can come home some time during the day to take him out. This way you can do away with leaving him outside all day.

You can take him out first thing in the morning, then after he eats, and maybe just before the last person leaves for work. Then depending on how long your gone, maybe someone can come over (approximately every four hours) to take him out to relieve himself.
Continue Reading...

You also didn't tell me if there are any accidents at night. I assuming Tyson doesn't have accidents at night or you would have said something. Which means he has learn pretty good control already.

Here's a PDF book on crate training that can be of great help to you: Crate Training Your Dog http://www.ddfl.org/behavior/crate-train.pdf.

For toys to put in the crate, I love and recommend the Kong toys. They provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Just make sure you get the appropriate size for your Labrador and discard when any pieces start to fall off.

As far as Tyson biting and destroying things goes, you must understand he is going through a critical period right now. Labrador Retrievers between the age of 12 -16 weeks go through a phase called Seniority Classification Period. It is during this period that Tyson will be to challenge you to see who the pack leader is going to be. He will bite you in play and as a challenge to your authority. What is important here is that you establish yourself as the pack leader or the Alpha.

Here's an article that can help you out : Establishing Yourself as Pack Leader

http://www.cbrrescue.org/articles/packleader.htm

Games such a tug of war, wrestling and any form of rough housing with Tyson should be discouraged. Such play is aggressive inducing. What you may see as having fun with your Labrador Retriever with these games, may be perceived by Tyson as a situation to dominate.

Also during this period, no biting or mouthing should be allowed. For more information on this, there is an article on the All About Labradors blog entitled Labrador Retriever – Training your puppy to stop biting and nipping , that will be helpful to you.

http://allaboutlabradors.blogspot.com/2006/04/labrador-retriever-training-your-puppy.html
Remember, take Tyson out to the same location to relieve himself. Closely watch him when inside for signs of the elimination behavior. Never scold him for accidents. If you observe him eliminating in the house, provide a distraction (such as a clap of you hands together) and interrupt the behavior. Pick him up and bring him outside to his spot and offer praise.

If you don't want to go the crate way, which I really do recommend you try, let me know as I do have another idea that may work even though I have never tried it.

Let me know if you don't understand anything here Lyn or if you have questions on anything else. Please keep me informed with how his training is coming.

Take care of yourself and Tyson,

Fay

Reader's E-mail - Lyn's Response:

Hi Fay

Thank you so much for all that information and advice. I might be biased but yes he is cute.

He seems to have designated a spot in the garden where he relieves himself during the day and heads for that same spot at night just before bedtime. Last night he went straight to the back door and hit it so he could be let out, which I praised because it is the first time he has done that without giving any signs that he was ready to relieve himself. You asked about nighttimes, he does have the occasional accident which is again near the back door, so I know he is at least getting the idea that outside is the place to go.

Last time I wrote to you I think I mentioned that he was weeing as soon as he came inside, he hasn't done that this week.

As far as his dominance of the household goes, he was trying to dominate us, for example going in and out of doors, but he now waits for us to go out first or in first and then he follows, also when he is outside and demanding to come inside by hitting the door, I have been making him wait by letting him see me doing something first such as loading the washing machine or putting the jug on and making a coffee before letting him in. Also when we got home from work we used to open the gates and go inside through the back door, this week we have been leaving the cars in the driveway and going in through the front doors, getting changed and then going outside and playing with him. I don't know if this is the right thing to do, but it is making him wait for what he wants instead of jumping everytime he wants something.

He has been going to Puppy Kindy for the last 4 weeks and has learnt all the basic commands including stay which we reinforce every chance we get. He is very attentive and responsive with me especially.

I will read all the information you have given me and will keep in touch and let you know how he is going, thank you again Fay your advice is greatly appreciated.

Lyn

All About Labradors Blog Answer:

Hi Lyn,

Your welcome, but don't thank me yet, wait until we get Tyson's problem solved. There is no problem being biased as I am with my two Lab girls!

That's great that he is found a spot to go (like I said before, it might not be a garden for to much longer). The hitting of the back door is also an excellent sign. I have actually known of Lab owners who had attached a bell to the door and have gotten their Labrador Retrievers to ring the bell when they had to go out.

Sounds as though he is starting to realize his proper area to relieve himself.

Good job with the door work, as you are always first to do things, not him. You establish the Alpha position.

Yes you are doing the right thing by going in through the front doors and not letting him control the playing and what he wants. Keep it up!

Have you owned a dog before? The reason I asked is because you have a good knowledge of what to do in regards to training.

The puppy classes are excellent for him. He will learn obedience and the much important socialization.

Read over the info I sent and keep me informed of how everything is going.

Will talk to you soon,

Fay

To see photos of Tyson and his new housemate Bindi, click: Tyson and Bindi 01/15/08 (Updated)

Technorati Tags: all about labradors, labrador retrievers, labradors, labs, labrador training, retrievers, dogs, pets

Categories: ReadersEmail_ Training_

Continue Reading...