Do you need to do some dog training with your dog, but you don’t have a lot of time to spare and you want to do something that gets good results? If you have a puppy to housetrain, a dog to leash-train, or some other challenge, the methods that use rewards lead to quick learning.

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

Because dogs are enthusiastic about this method, they learn more quickly. The reward can be a tiny bit of food, some affection, or some play time. What you use depends on what you have handy… anything the dog likes can be used as a positive reinforcement.

You might not even touch your pup while doing the training. Since many dogs have been hurt by people’s hands as a result of overly forceful training attempts, the dogs may be wary if you try to force them to do something.

Says positive training pioneer Dr. Ian Dunbar, “I have always taught people to never touch a dog to force him to comply, but rather, to touch him afterwards as a reward if that’s what he enjoys.” Dr. Dunbar, a veterinarian turned dog trainer, founded the Association of Pet Dog Trainers which is an international organization of dog trainers committed to using positive reinforcement dog training methods. Dr. Dunbar’s methods are widely respected. Cesar Millan visited him and wrote a chapter about the reward-based method in one of his books.

Other well-known dog trainers agree. “Training a dog using dominance causes the dog to respond out of fear, which results in psychological problems for the dog, does not identify or solve the root problem, and ultimately damages the owner-dog relationship,” says dog trainer and star of the television show It’s Me or the Dog, Victoria Stilwell.

So back to you and your dog. What do you want to work on next? Does your dog need housetraining? Does he need to learn to walk nicely on a leash when you go out in public with him? Do you want to teach him to sit, to stay, or to roll over? If training that is fun and easy to do sounds good to you, find out more about positive dog training.

Technorati Tags: Dog Training, dogs, Pets, positive dog training, positive reinforcement dog training

Photographing your pet can be an very rewarding experience. Done well, it will allow you to immortalize that significant member of your family. As with anything, it’s best to proceed with a goal in mind so you know where to start. What are you trying to accomplish? Are you trying to capture your pet’s fun side? Are you trying to setup a funny photo using a prop such as a fun hat? Is this an interactive portrait between your pet and your spouse? Sit down and describe this goal, because it will help you in preparing properly. Nothing is worse than spending an hour going to your favorite scene with equipment in hand and realizing your forgot a favorite prop.

Now that you have decided onset your goal, it’s now time to come up withthe proper setting. Indoors vs. outdoors. Near the fireplace with an open fire in the background, or in a studio. At the beach or in the woods. As you think about the proper setting, think about how your pet will react to that setting. If you decide the local park is the best place, you must consider about your pet’s resistance to distractions. Is he/she able to resist running after every animal or person? The more you know your pet the better off you will be.

• Additional Flash
• Leash
• Props
• SLR Camera
• Reflector

Hopefully, you’ve brought everything you are going to need, right? Now, it’s time for setup. Be organized; get everything arranged in a logical fashion. The last thing you want to be doing is fiddling around for equipment when you need to be shooting pictures – most pets have no attention span and you have got to be ready to snap that picture when the moment is there. How is you animal’s personality? Is he/she super jumpy? If yes, then perhaps some light exercise would be in order - nothing too heavy, but just enough to help him/her calm down. Give your pet some last minute hair care,just touch-ups. If you are ooutdoors, how is the wind? Is it too strong? Is the sun too bright? Remember, overcast is much better for lighting.

One of the most important things to practiceis to bend down to your pet’s level, as much as you can. In addition, when you are at your pet’s level, it’s easier for you to get it to look at you. If you’ve never crawled around on the ground before, you might feel a bit foolish, but trust me, it makes all the difference in the world. If you prefer to hire a professional simply Google your city for a professional. In San Antonio I used the term San Antonio pet photography and San Antonio dog photography and had several great web sites to pick from.

When selecting a professional make sure to ask about what in given for the price listed. You should ask for a DVD and use rights so you can use the images as you want for personal use. If you are wanting to shoot for business use then the rules change and you should expect to pay more for commercial use rights than limited personal use rights.

Technorati Tags: cat, dog, pet, pet photography

When it comes to choosing a dog breed, the decision you make now will impact on your life for the next 10 to 15 years. A hasty, ill-informed choice now could have disastrous consequences later on.

It is imperative that you choose a dog that is a good match for your lifestyle. You can start by answering the questions set out below.

1.What is the size of your property?

While a huge property is not absolutely necessary to keep a dog, it should be obvious that certain dogs need more space than others. Keeping a highly active dog, like a Malamute or Border Collie, in an apartment is not only cruel, but a recipe for disaster. You will end up with a highly stressed and, most likely, destructive dog.

If you have limited space choose a more laid back breed instead. But remember, all dogs need at least some outdoor time, and regular exercise.

2. How much free time do you have?

Your number one responsibility as a dog owner is the well-being of your dog. Among other things, this includes daily walks and exercise. How long should they be exercised for? Well for most dogs, an hour per day will be sufficient. However, some breeds, particularly those from the herding, sporting and working groups, need even more than that. You’re looking at 2-3 hours per day to keep them satisfied.

Are you prepared to make that commitment? If not you should go for a dog with lower energy levels - a laid-back Pug perhaps.Another consideration regarding time, is training. All dogs will benefit from at least some training. Some, like Poodles, Labs, and Golden Retrievers are relatively easy to train. Others, including most of the hound group, can be a real challenge.

3. What’s Your Activity Level?

If you love the active outdoor lifestyle, or if you have the kind of job where you can involve your dog, you’d probably do well with a dog that is a good match for your level of energy. Best choices are from the working and herding groups, but be warned, these guys don’t just like to work, they absolutely demand it.

Another good option is the gun dog group. These dogs also have exceptionally high energy levels, but are less demanding than, say, a Border Collie.

4. Do you have children, and how old are they?

It should be obvious that if you have children, you’ll want a dog that is good with children. Labradors and Golden Retrievers are renowned for their sweet natures, which explains the enduring popularity of these breeds.

But there are actually many breeds that are excellent with kids. Boxers, for example, are renowned for their gentleness when playing with children.Be aware that smaller breeds, like Dachshunds and Chihuahuas, are not ideal for small children as they can be quite snappy, especially if provoked.

{Choosing a dog is an important decision and one that will impact on your life for the next 10-15 years. It is therefore advisable to make an informed decision. The questions above will get you started.|Choosing a dog is a big decision. What you do now will affect your life for the next 10 years and more, so choose wisely. Answer the questions above and you’ll be off to a good start.|Picking a dog is and important decision, and one you’ll want

Want to learn more about dog breeds a-z, dog care, dog training tips and other helpful dog advice? Visit www.dogsanddogtraining.com

Technorati Tags: dog, dog breeds, dog breeds a-z, Dog Training, dogs, train

Dogs communicate using a complex “language”, based on physical cues. Learn to understand this language and you’ll develop a much better understanding of your dog’s needs, wants, and moods. You’ll also give your dog training efforts a serious boost, as you’ll be communicating on a level your dog readily understands.

Unfortunately, no-one has yet written a handy reference guide, but by following the guidelines set out below you’ll quickly be up to speed on what your dog is trying to tell you.

Here are some of the most important body language cues you’ll see from your dog.

Standing Very Still - Dogs adopt this stiff, rigid stance as a signal that they want you to back off. You’ll also see the behavior when a dog is protecting something. For example, if he’s protecting his food bowl, he may stand rigid, and begin growling, to ward off another dog.

Showing the Teeth - Dogs don’t just attack out of the blue, they normally give a warning first. Flashing the teeth may be first warning that a dog is about to attack. Your best bet when this happens is to stand down.

Growling – Along with flashing the teeth, the dog often will start growling. If this doesn’t get the necessary response the dog may well attack.Many people scold or punish the dog for growling or showing its teeth. This is dangerous because if the dog is not allowed to give a warning he may escalate straight to an attack.

Raising the Hackles - When a dog is frightened, you’ll often see him raise the hackles on the ridge of his back. This has the effect of making the dog look bigger, in the hope of chasing any intruder away. A fearful dog is often the most likely to attack, so be very wary of a dog with his hackles raised.

Tucking the tail between the legs - A classic sign of fear or timidity, but can also mean the dog is anxious. This may have any number of causes, the owner leaving the house for instance, or the dog being introduced to a stranger.

Putting the head down - Depending on the situation this could indicate submission, or the dog may be saying, “let’s play”.

Raising the Paw - A popular trick that you often in the movies. This generally means, “I want to be your friend”.

Wagging The Tail - The tail is a very important tool for dog language, but a wagging tail is often misinterpreted. Many people think it means that the dog is happy, but this is only true if the tail is being wagged in a relaxed motion.A tail that is flicked side to side in short rigid movements suggests agitation. And if the tail is tucked between the legs and wagging slightly, the dog is insecure and fearful.

In the canine world, body language will always carry more weight than words. Yes, a dog may learn voice commands, but they will always be secondary to posture and movement.

Even a basic knowledge of dog language will be of huge benefit in understanding your dog.

To find out more about dog training, dog care, dog care and other helpful dog info drop by at dogsanddogtraining.com

Technorati Tags: Dog Training, dog training tips, dogs

The modern lifestyle places plenty of demands on your time. If you’re a dog owner, one of the things most likely to suffer is the amount of time you spend with your dog.

Exercising your dog is one of those things that is easy to put off when time is an issue - it’s not as though the dog can complain or anything - but I’d encourage you to make time.

All dogs, regardless of their breed, age, or size need regular exercise. And as a dog owner it is your responsibility to see that they get it.

Here are 5 tips to help you with the “what”, “where” and “how much”, of exercising your dog:

1. What Is The Right Amount of Exercise?

There are a number of factors that will determine how much exercise is appropriate for your dog. The first of these is breed, with herding, working and sporting dogs needing more exercise than companion and guarding breeds.

Big dogs generally need more exercise than smaller dogs, though if your small dog happens to be a terrier you can scrap that guideline. Healthy adult dogs need more exercise than puppies or older dogs.

These are generalizations. You’ll have to do some research to find out about your specific breed’s typical exercise requirements.

2. Start Slowly, Scale Up Gradually

Don’t go from zero to intense in a single bound! If you just started an exercise routine with your dog, then begin with a short walk and gradually build up to longer distances - for your own sake as much as the dog’s!

3. The Best Exercise for Your Dog

Not all dogs have the same level of energy. A two mile walk would just be getting started for a Border Collie, while for a Pekingese it would be exhausting.

Don’t over exercise your dog. It could be result in injury, even possibly, death. Find out what the breed needs and adjust accordingly.

4. The Games Dogs Love To Play

So far we’ve spoken mainly about walking, but you should also make games part of your routine. The great thing about games is that they challenge the dog physically, as well as mentally.

Choose a game that taps into your dog’s natural instincts. For example, Labs will chase and fetch a ball all day, while Beagles love finding hidden objects.

Just about all dogs love tug-a-war, and games like tag and hide-and-seek are also quite popular with the canine fraternity.

5. The Great Outdoors

If you’re a person who loves the great outdoors, you should involve your dog in these activities. What better way to bond with your dog?

Be aware though that these activities are not suitable for all dogs. In particular, you should avoid over-strenuous exercise with dogs that suffer from breathing problems, like Pugs and Bulldogs.

Follow these five tips and you’ll have no problem designing an appropriate exercise routine for your dog. You’ll be rewarded with a healthy, balanced dog, who loves to spend time with you.

If you want to find out more about dog training tips, dog care, dogs 101 and other useful dog advice check out www.dogsanddogtraining.com

Technorati Tags: dog, dog obedience training, Dog Training, dog training tips

There are a large amount of misapprehensions about natural pet care. Some people think it isn’t as effective as conventional medications. Some individuals think it is not safe and are concerned about the side-effects. A few individuals think it is too pricey. Some people, not surprisingly, have not heard of natural care for pets in any way. This article, as you can guess from the title, wants to throw some light on pet care and gives you some guidelines to take care of your pets naturally.

Firstly, let me tell you what natural pet care is all about. It involves treating and preventing your pet’s health issues in the most natural demeanour achievable. Put simply, it isn’t nearly treating illnesses, but preventing them by buttressing the immune system of your pet. Now, let us take a look at some of the most typical myths about holistic pet care.

Misconception 1 - Natural medications aren’t as effective as conventional medications.Herbal and homeopathic medications can be particularly effective. Medical research behind traditional products are generally better documented than natural approaches, however the role of natural products and anti0oxidants in particular, have recently proved to be favourable to humans and pets. While natural products cannot replace traditional medicines altogether, they’re definitely a good selection for people who are looking for a efficient and safe way to treat their pet’s health issues.

Misconception 2 - Natural medicines aren’t safe for pets.It is sort of ironic that plenty of folks are convinced that natural pet care isn’t safe for their pets. Do you know why? The majority who select natural treatments do so because they have less or no side effects vs. Many prescribed drugs available on today’s market. Since most of the ingredients in these natural treatments are utterly organic, the chances of allergic reactions or other such side-effects are lower.

Misconception 3 - Natural medications are too pricey.Many owners provide good dose of natural cures every day as a strategy of avoiding more expensive illnesses. A month’s supply of these natural supplements costs slightly below $50.or less than $2 a day. While $50 is lots of cash, they can aid in avoiding costly issues. These products aren’t only safe, and cost-effective.

Misconception 4 - Herbal cures are usually manufactured by quacks with fake degrees and aren’t approved by the FDA. There are several prime quality herbal diet supplements for pets on the market today. They’re approved by the FDA and are extraordinarily safe. Nevertheless this does not mean that there are no fake herbal products on the market at all . Just like any other field today, natural pet care has its own share of fake experts too. To avoid such unacceptable products, you have to go for a good natural remedy which is manufactured under the observation of a professional pharmacist and meets the guidelines set by the DSHEA ( Diet Supplement Health Education Act ).

I’m hoping the work explained your doubts on natural pet care. Consider the advantages and the drawbacks of treating your pets naturally and make an educated choice today. Click here : http://naturalpetcareshop.com/ and homemade dog food fore more data.
.

Technorati Tags: holistic pet food, natural flea remedies, natural pet care, organic dog food

You travel оftеn аnd leaving уоur dog іѕ јuѕt nоt аn option. Fоr times thаt уоu nееd tо transport уоur dog bу crate, іt іѕ highly important thаt уоu train іt аhеаd оf time іn order tо save уоurѕеlf frustration. Thіѕ article wіll gо іntо specific methods уоu саn dо tо prepare уоurѕеlf аnd уоur dog.

Want to know more about dog training aids, then read the advices below now.

When training а dog, mаkе ѕurе tо stay consistent. Kеер а list оf commands tо uѕе аnd mаkе ѕurе еvеrуоnе whо mіght nееd tо command thе dog knоwѕ them. Alѕо mаkе ѕurе tо bе оn thе ѕаmе page rеgаrdіng rewarding good behavior аnd nеvеr rewarding bad behavior. Hаvіng dіffеrеnt people respond differently саn confuse thе dog аnd mаkе training mоrе difficult.

When training а dog іt ѕhоuld аlwауѕ bе dоnе іn а positive, motivated environment. Reward уоur dog durіng thе training session, раrtісulаrlу whеn іt dоеѕ whаt уоu аѕk оf it. Uѕіng punishment аnd negative training techniques wіll оnlу mаkе thе dog afraid оf уоu аnd lеѕѕ lіkеlу tо wаnt tо рlеаѕе іtѕ master.

Plan training activities wіth уоur dog durіng а time whеn interruptions аrе minimized. Training gоеѕ muсh faster whеn bоth уоu аnd уоur pet саn focus оn thе training activities wіthоut bеіng distracted bу оthеr activities оr disturbances. A focused 15 minute session іѕ mоrе effective thаn ѕеvеrаl sessions whісh аrе interrupted bу distractions.

The fastest wау tо train уоur dog tо sit іѕ tо utilize positive reinforcement. If уоu command уоur dog tо sit аnd hе оr ѕhе sits fоr а decent amount оf time, thеn уоu саn give thе dog а treat. Thе dog wіll thеn recognize thаt whеn уоu ѕау sit, іf thеу succeed thеу wіll gеt а treat ѕо thеу wіll eagerly sit longer аnd longer.

Being patient, уеt persistent аnd assertive іѕ thе key tо training уоur dog tо behave well. Obedience соmеѕ wіth rewards аnd punishments, аnd уоu can’t give uр оr thе dog won’t change. Mаkе ѕurе thе dog gеtѕ time outdoors tо play аnd expend energy, аnd realize thаt іt takes time tо train.

Correct bad behavior immediately. Thе common mistake mаnу people mаkе іn thе care fоr thеіr dog іѕ allowing bad behavior tо gо unchecked untіl іt bесоmеѕ а problem. Proper training оf а dog involves recognizing bad behavior rіght аwау аnd correcting it. It іѕ harder tо correct а problem оnсе іt hаѕ grown оut оf proportion.

Start training уоur dog early. Mаnу people bеlіеvе thаt vеrу young puppies аrе tоо young tо learn. Thе reality іѕ thаt еvеn puppies аѕ young аѕ ѕіx weeks оld аrе аblе tо bеgіn thе basics оf training, аnd starting early ensures thаt уоur puppy wіll hаvе а strong foundation fоr mоrе advanced training later.

Using а dіffеrеnt tone оf voice fоr dіffеrеnt purposes, іѕ а great teaching tool іn training уоur dog. Commands, corrections аnd praise ѕhоuld аll hаvе thеіr оwn tone іn order tо hеlр уоur dog distinguish саuѕе аnd effect wіth hіѕ аnd уоur behavior. Bе firm аnd sharp wіth commands, uѕе а louder tone fоr corrections, аnd уоur natural voice fоr praise.

Housebreaking а dog takes time. Mаkе ѕurе thаt уоu tаkе thе dog оut fіrѕt thіng іn thе morning аnd kеер tаkіng hіm оut thrоughоut thе day. Alwауѕ tаkе hіm tо thе ѕаmе spot whеn tаkіng hіm оut tо potty. Thе dog wіll learn tо associate thіѕ spot wіth hіѕ business. If аn accident hарреnѕ clean іt uр аnd ignore thе dog. Thіѕ wіll lеt hіm knоw thаt уоu аrе unhappy wіth him. Dо nоt physically discipline thе dog оr rub hіѕ nose іn it, dоіng ѕо јuѕt intimidates thе dog аnd mаkеѕ accidents mоrе lіkеlу tо occur.

When уоu train уоur dog іt іѕ important tо reinforce еvеrу еxаmрlе оf behavior уоu wаnt tо encourage. Whеnеvеr уоur pet behaves ассоrdіng tо уоur wishes іt ѕhоuld bе rewarded. Thіѕ wіll prevent уоur dog frоm bесоmіng confused аnd establish positive reinforcement associations. Behavior thаt іѕ rewarded іѕ behavior thаt wіll bе repeated аnd eventually bесоmе habitual.

Learning tо tаkе advice, іѕ јuѕt аѕ important аѕ whаt уоu аrе aiming tо achieve. Thе tips frоm thіѕ article саn bе а great addition tо whаt уоu mау аlrеаdу knоw оn hоw уоu саn improve оn dog training. Educating уоurѕеlf furthеr оn dog training саn prove tо bе а ѕurе wау tо аn obedient pooch.

Do you want to find out more about ways to train your dog? Then read more about how to train an aggressive dog right now.

Technorati Tags: animal training, dog advice, Dog Training, Pets

Any study of dog behavior has to start with an analysis of the behavior of the wolf, ancestor of all domestic dogs.

Wolves are exceptional predators with a complex set of behaviors, signals and communication methods guiding their behavior. Their bodies and brains are the result of millions of years of evolution that has resulted in perhaps the ultimate co-operative hunter.

DNA evidence now proves conclusively that the wolf is the sole ancestor of the domestic dog. So it is not surprising that dogs have many of the same instinctual behaviors as wolves.

Once you accept this, a lot of your dog’s behaviors will begin to make sense.

Here are some of the behaviors common to dogs and wolves.

Pack Hierarchy: The wolf pack has a simple, but effective hierarchial structure. At the top is the alpha male and his mate. The rest of the pack are usually their offspring although it may include other, non-related wolves. All however, unquestionably follow the alpha male.

Dogs also look for leadership in their human “pack”. Where none is present, they will feel compelled to take up the role themselves, leading to dominance issues.

Body Language: Wolves (and dogs) use a complex body language to communicate and usually, this “language” carries more weight than any form of vocalization. Body language uses the tail, ears, eye contact, body movements, posture and facial expressions to get the message across.

Humans often misinterpret these signals. For example, tail wagging is often misconstrued as a sign of happiness, when in fact it usually indicates uncertainty.

Territorial Aggression: In the wild, wolves will stake out a territory, then patrol and defend it against intruders. The same behavior can be seen in dogs. They will naturally protect what they perceive as their territory, whether it’s their home, a favorite toy, or even a person they regard as “theirs”.

Social Interaction: The social structure of the pack promotes co-operation, while play and social interaction helps the pack develop the co-operative hunting skills that are central to their survival.

For the same reason it is important that you interact with your dog through play, walks, and training. It is also important to socialize your dog, or he’ll start seeking everyone outside his immediate “pack”, as a threat.

Pursuit: A wolf pack hunts by pursuing a prey animal until it is exhausted and easily subdued. Their instinct is to chase anything that moves away from them.

Dogs are the same, chasing the neighbor’s cat, the mailman or a passing cyclist.

Retreating: An injured animal in the wild has little chance of survival, so a wolf will usually back down rather than risk injury in a fight. Dogs likewise will usually rather flee than fight.

Vocalization: A wolf has the same vocal abilities as a dog and contrary to popular belief they do occasionally bark. However, as vocal signals would frighten off prey, or alert enemies, they tend to use their voices sparingly.

Dogs, on the other hand have spent thousands of years in the company of humans and have learned that we communicate mainly by voice. They therefore have no problem expressing themselves with a bark, a while or even a howl if the mood takes them.

Want to read more about dog training, dog care, dog behavior and other interesting dog information? Visit www.dogsanddogtraining.com

Technorati Tags: dog obedience training, Dog Training, dog training tips, dogs

Dogs are the most diverse of all animal species. Within the genus Canis lupus familiaris, you’ll find a dizzying array of sizes, body shapes, coat lengths, and coat colors.

However, it may surprise you to learn that all of these breeds are virtual anatomical facsimiles of each other. Yes, you heard right, a Chihuahua and a St Bernard have virtually the same body structure.

It is broadly accepted that the dog, as we know it today, descends from the wolf. We may have changed the appearance of dogs in countless ways, but under the hood, the basic anatomical model is that of the wolf.

In common with wolves, dogs have;

* A skeletal structure made for running and chasing prey.

* Flexible front limbs with disconnected shoulder bones that serve as shock absorbers when the dog is running.

* Heavily muscled hind legs allowing for a burst of speed off the mark, as well as for leaping on prey.

* Small feet with fused wrist bones which allows them to make rapid changes of direction when running at speed.

* A cardiovascular system that gives them the endurance to track prey for hours without getting tired.

* A tail which is used for signalling and is very important to pack hunters.

* Powerful jaws with specialized teeth, for catching, holding and tearing prey.

More Interesting Facts About A Dog’s Anatomy

Although many of the physical characteristics of modern dogs are due to selective breeding recent research suggests that numerous changes may have occurred naturally.

Every dog coat color is either a variant of yellow, or a mutation of the beta defensin gene, which produces a black coat.

Dogs regulate their body temperature via a complex system that includes, panting, sweating through the pads of the paws, and a “heat exchanger” that prevents body heat from reaching the brain.

All dogs have 42 teeth – Six pairs of sharp incisors in the front of the mouth, two pairs of large canines (fangs) plus premolars and molars.

A dog has three eyelids in either eye, a top and bottom eyelid plus a third lid that can be swept across the cornea to remove debris and acts as a kind of windshield wiper.

A dog’s skeletal structure includes 361 bones, but the size, shape and placement of the bones differs significantly from breed to breed.

If a dog is taken by surprise or if it is alert to danger, it will sometimes raise the hackles on its back. This caused a ridge of hair along the spine to stand up and is made possible by tiny muscles at the base of each hair shaft.

Dogs have a very poorly developed sense of taste. This is actually key to their survival, as a dog will eat things that most other animals give a wide berth.

Dogs are one of the most successful species on earth, and much of this is down to their supreme adaptability, and an anatomy that is perfectly suited to their environment.

If you want to discover more about dog training, dog care, dog breeds a-z and other helpful dog info drop by at http://www.dogsanddogtraining.com

Technorati Tags: dog obedience training, Dog Training, dog training tips, dogs

Dogs are incredibly intelligent creatures who love learning. Get a few dog owners together and they’ll soon be sharing stories about their “genius” dogs.

Unfortunately, many dog owners never take the trouble to provide their dogs with mental stimulation. A pity really, because this can be achieved with not much work, and just a little bit of thought.

And you’ll end up with a happier, calmer, more fulfilled dog.

Here are seven easy activities to get your dog thinking.

1. Canine IQ: Go to Google and enter “canine iq”. The search turns up a series of tests designed to find out how smart your dog is. The results are less important than the activities which will work your dog’s brain.

2. Solving Simple Problems: Hide an object and get him to search for it. Place a treat just out of reach and let him find a way to get to it. Dogs are great puzzle solvers, so he’ll enjoy this activity.

3. Basic Training: Training is a must for all dogs but an added benefit is that training forces the dog to think. It requires a considerable amount of focus to understand commands and know how to respond.

4. Teach a Trick: Once your dog has the basic obedience commands under his paw, you’ll be amazed at the complex tricks you can teach him.

Obviously, some breeds are easier to train than others. It is always going to be easier to train, say a Lab or a German Shepherd, than it is to train a Dachshund or a Bulldog, for example.But if your dog is reasonably bright, and you are prepared to put in the time, you can teach any number of “movie-type” stunts and tricks.

5. Make Your Dog Earn His Keep: Dogs in the wild have to work for everything they need, and despite centuries of domestication pet dogs are still prepared to do the same. Get your dog used to working for what he wants. Train him to sit before he gets a treat, teach him to fetch his leash before going for a walk, or his favorite toy before playing a game.

6. What’s Your Dog’s Day Job? Just about every breed of dog was bred with a particular job in mind. They still have the ingrained traits needed to do those jobs, so use this to your advantage.Witness your Sheltie trying to herd the family cat, or your Beagle following a scent when he’s on the lead and you’ll understand my meaning. Find creative ways to put these natural instincts to work.

7. Canine Sports: These days there are hundreds of events all over where dog owners and their dogs can get together to participate in sports like fly-ball, agility and coursing.These sports are great for working both body and brain, dogs seem to absolutely love them and they’re great fun for humans too.

Try the 7 exercises above with your dog and prepare to be amazed at what you and your canine companion can achieve.

Visit dogsanddogtraining.com to discovermore about dog obedience training, dog care, dog training tips and other interesting dog information.

Technorati Tags: dog, dog obedience training, dog training tips, train