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Dog Clippers

April 1st, 2009 No comments

Dog Clippers - First Aid Kit


There are several essential items of grooming supplies that you need for your dog grooming such as shampoo and conditioner, as well as towels, brushes, and combs. However there are specialized items as well, and among these, the most important is probably dog clippers.

Dog clippers consist of motorized blades that are capable of shaving dogs close. Most clippers come in packages that include attachments such as blades and combs of different shapes and sizes. There are dog clippers that are made special for bigger dogs.

Make sure the dog hair is completely dry before using the clippers. May be you wish to give your dogs specialty cuts, then you should follow the directions that come with the clippers. You can also get books that have diagrams on giving special cuts. The clippers come with attachments that cut hair to the desired length for whatever effect you are trying to achieve.

You should prepare Dog clippers in your dog first aid kit bag. Using dog clippers, you will be able to quickly remove hair from the injured area in order to see the degree of injury. A wound will look much worse than it really when hair is matted to the area. Check your clippers from time to time to make sure that they are operational and that the blades are not rusted.

For Dog nail clippers, there are 3 shapes. Guillontoin style used for removing and trimming toe nails of medium size and larger breeds. Scissors style clipper is usually used for cat nails. Plier style dog nail clippers are used to trim nails of smaller dogs. Plier style is more common among professional groomers. You must be carefully using toe nail clippers as if you cut the nails too short you will nick the vein that runs part way down the nail.

Electric Dog Clippers

If you are using an electric dog clipper you will need to use special ones that have interchangeable blades that have more separate and wider teeth, which are less dangerous than the common ones. In certain modern cuts and in some terriers you will need to even out the sheared area with the longer areas. In order to do this you will need to cut in the direction of the dog’s hair, gradually separating the machine from the skin, specifically on the sides. All of the areas should be cut at the same length and at the same time so that you don’t have to be constantly changing the blades. Remember that if your dog seems to be nervous or uncomfortable you will have to stop. Keep in mind that a dog needs to learn to get used to the sound of a buzzer, so go easy on him and show him the machine while talking to him and soothing him so he gets used to it.

You might be interested in reading other information on: dog carrier or  dog clothing

Dog Boots

April 1st, 2009 No comments

Dog Boots - Protect Dog Feet


Although many dog owners buy dog shoes or boots because they look nice or cute, dog boots or dog shoes have many functional purposes as well. Dog boots not only enhance the life of a dog, but save them from many preventable injuries. They are useful both in winter and summer.

Whether it’s frozen ice, snow or hot pavement, dog boots are not for fashion only, they’re a necessity. In cold wintertime, when they’re walking on the ice and snow during winter, a dog’s paw can get frostbite, as a result of its prolonged exposure to the snow. Sharp ice on frozen skin or paw can cause an injury. The chemicals used to melt the snow or ice is also especially cause for concern.

Nowadays, there’s an increasing number of dog owners who take their dogs with them when they go hiking, camping, boating, cycling-all and others enjoyable activities that promote health and fitness. Needless to say, most dogs love this. Taking your dog with you into the wild for an outdoor adventure can mean exposing him or her to some fairly harsh elements.

When planning our outdoor activities with your dog, prepare all sorts of protective clothing that you’ll need to keep you and your dog dry, warm and comfortable throughout your adventure trip.

It’s strongly recommended getting your dog boots especially if your dog has not been on a hike before.  Without dog boots, they will get a torn pad, cuts and scrapes or any of the other injuries after a hike. Just like your favorite hiking boots, choose dog boots that are easy to put on and take off and have durable breathable uppers for support, stability and comfort.

One thing I would advise is not to leave boots on a dog’s feet all the time. At a safety place your dog may be better off without them, as they can easily walk out of these boots. He will enjoy himself more walking on his own paws, with some occasional care and maintenance from you.

Boots help keep doggie paws clean as well, so you don’t have to worry about what they’re tracking around the house after being out. In the market, there are also reflective boots and light boots that can be used in the summer as well. The reflective boots are great for walking at night to have protection from car traffic.

This footwear not only protects dog feet from weather dangers but protect several service dogs in hazardous environments.

You might be interested in reading other information on: dog houses or  dog leash

Dog Leash

March 26th, 2009 No comments

Dog leash training - a great way to discipline your dog


Taking your dog for a walk means you need a dog leash. Learning how to control your animal using dog leash training is an important respect lesson for both of you, and should be used regularly to achieve the highest results.

A pet store is the best source for buying a dog leash because the staff can answer questions regarding the type of leash you needed, they supply a wider variety of leashes.

From many types of dog leash with different designs, colors and materials in the market today, make sure you buy a good flexibility and durability one. The most important factor to keep in mind is the size of the leash. Depending on the size and breeds of your dog, you should buy a leash that strong enough to hold him. If your dog is smaller, you don’t want to buy a leash that is too large. Make sure the leash you choose is the proper size and does not harm the dog in any way.

Avoid chain leashes, retractable leashes, fancy plastic leashes, and wide leashes until you can control your pooch with leash better and easier. A retractable leash can automatically control the leash length. The advantage is you can keep your dog within close range or let the animal travel several feet ahead or behind. But this retractable leash is not recommended for puppies or very small dogs because the potential for harm is greater. They may dash in front of a car or get into a dangerous situation.

For beginner you could get a plain leash, where you are responsible for controlling the length while walking your dog by pulling and tightening it up. Choose a dog leash with proper length. Most dog trainers recommend a dog leash that is relatively short, so it would be easier for you to grab the dog if you want to stop him when he moves to the wrong direction.

For the first time, let the puppy smell the leash. Then attach it to its collar or harness that should be well adjusted, but without pressing too much, make it comfortable. Train it at home and then do it in less quiet places. Later, with some dog leash training and a few commands he recognizes, you’ll control him in almost any situation.

It will take time for your dog to adapt to the leash. You will find that dog leash training can be tough at first because the dog tug or pull the leash. Never reward him for it by agreeing to be pulled along. This might be frustrating at first, as you’ll find that you’ll have to stop and go several times. However, be patient and consistent with your response. Your dog will soon understand that tugging will not be tolerated.

When your dog pulls on the leash and you continue the walk, you are rewarding the behavior of pulling. Quickly snap the leash and release it in one smooth move so the collar tightens and loosens quickly. Stop walking and stand still. The dog will get confused and probably turn towards you. Wait for calm before continuing.

Be extremely patient in guiding your puppy or small dog because, at first, he may attempt to grasp and untie the collar on his neck. Most veterinarians are recommending that small dogs wear harnesses instead of collars to anticipate sensitive neck or collapsing trachea because being choked on a collar.

A dog leash training can only be successful if you are consistent with your training instructions. Don’t switch up the words for it may confuse him.

There is a wide variety of leashes available in the market today. Leashes can be made from a number of different materials and may come in different sizes and widths. Among the most common materials used for leashes are leather, nylon and chain.

For maximum comfort for both you and your dog, it would be advisable to choose a 6-foot leash made from good quality leather and use it during your dog training sessions.

Among the many advantages of using leather leashes are the following: It can provide more comfort for you and your dog during trainings. Unlike nylon leads, good quality leather does not cut or burn your skin. And unlike chain leashes, leather leads do not produce earsplitting noises.

Also, check out these others interesting post:  dog clothing or dog carrier