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Pet Health Library

Behavior & Training

  • It takes a will of iron to pull a sled for miles over frozen tundra, so Siberian Huskies can be a bit obstinate. However, they are also smart, fun-loving and always ready for a game.

  • Dogs can become stressed just as we can. Since we know how stress makes us feel, we want to help lessen our pet’s feelings of stress too. There are many signs of stress that can mimic normal dog behaviors. Being aware of your dog’s regular demeanor allows you to understand changes in behavior that may indicate stress. If your dog becomes consistently stressed, see your veterinarian.

  • The Silky is truly a terrier; thus, they can be scamps, scattering laundry about the house, staring down the pet guinea pig in its cage, barking a welcome or warning to all who walk down the street. Yet, they can be charming, fun and great companions.

  • Still the strong diggers with good hearing and good sense they were originally bred to be, Skye Terriers think for themselves and do their jobs without instruction. Crackerjack vermin hunters, personal guardians, and devoted companions, Skyes take life seriously and won't give up or give in when they think it's important.

  • The Smooth Fox Terrier loves to play, and he's always up for a good game of fetch (although he might not bring the ball back), tug-of-war (he doesn't like to lose), or just lots of running around, hiking, exploring, sniffing, and barking.

  • Dogs, like people, need to practice their social skills. Spending time with other dogs will help your dog hone his ability to read his friends’ body language and to communicate effectively. These skills decrease the development of dog related fear and aggression. Play groups in an organized or more relaxed setting are beneficial for both your growing puppy and adult dog. Canine and human socialization occur simultaneously and dog owners enjoy meeting new friends, too. Watching dogs play is a great way to reduce your stress level. Socializing should be pleasant for you and your dog, so find a comfortable group and setting and have fun!

  • Socialization is the process during which the kitten becomes familiar with people, other animals, and many aspects of their environment. Kittens are primed for socialization when they are between two and seven weeks old. As soon as kittens have settled into their new home, they can begin gentle exposures to a wide range of stimuli that they may encounter as adults.

  • The Wheaten's terrier alertness is tempered by the steady temperament of a dog who is used to helping out around the farm. These dogs love their people and their people's friends, and like to demonstrate their love by jumping up on all concerned.

  • Spanish Water Dogs are very active and have strong herding and guarding instincts – they are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate, making them excellent guardians. They tend to be Velcro dogs – while they accept the whole family, they tend to attach to one person in particular.

  • The Spinone Italiano is a superb companion for the hunter or outdoorsman. These dogs follow directions, stay within close range, and willingly plow through heavy brush and dive into ponds. When not hunting, a Spinone Italiano will join you on a hike, let a toddler snuggle next to her, or play tag with the kids.