TorontoBarks.com

These days we are all looking for ways to get things done. Our to-do list is never ending and on our quest for reaching our goals, we have overlooked the joy of the journey. How does this affect our dogs?

We are all taught in elementary math that a Negative plus a Negative will never equal a Positive. Keep this in mind when working with dogs. If you correct, scold, punish every time a dog displays a negative behaviour, they only learn that this is what you don't want. They aren't being taught what you *do* want.

When a child wants to go to at a friend's house, a responsible parent asks some basic questions. For example: will a parent be home? Does the family have a pool? Is the yard fenced? Rarely does it occur to a parent to ask if the family has a dog and if so, what steps will be taken to ensure that there are no incidents.

She is a lovely girl – affectionate, gentle and sweet. She is wonderful with people and meets and greets all humans with a tail wag. She acts much younger than her 7 years and will do best in a home with an active couple who enjoy several long walks each day and maybe even some play time in the yard. She has no health issues, is spayed, vaccinated, microchipped and is ready to be loved by that special family!

Balance is becoming a main focus in the dog training community.  Striving for the perfect combination of rules and leniency that will ensure our dogs have self-confidence and manners, yet still have joy inside, is a worthwhile ideal.

Level, having recently retired from life as a racing greyhound, will be four years old in July. Level is in foster care while he waits for his forever home. Could it be with your family?

“I couldn't do that to him” and “But he's not aggressive!” and “It doesn't bother me” I hear these three responses all the time when I ask people why they haven't spayed or neutered their dog, and to be honest, there's nothing that gets me more riled up. I am a firm believer in research. Do research before you get a dog; research the breed, the health/temperament, the costs...

If I had it my way, there would be no ban on Pit Bulls - there would be a ban on retractable leashes on city streets and in dog parks. You may be shocked and appalled at such a bold statement, but allow me to explain. Retractable leashes are wonderful in the hands of experienced dog-owners whose dogs are well trained, non-aggressive and under control. They are a great tool when hiking in the country or on trails...

This lovable wee gentleman is wondering why his new family hasn’t taken him home yet. With his adorable turned up nose, it’s hard to resist this mini-mite. Weighing in at 10 pounds, he easily fits into your arms or lap for snuggles. At best guess Cheech is a mix of Rat Terrier and perhaps Boston terrier or Chihuahua and is only about a year old.

As your dog ages his risk for joint problems and obesity rise. His body is aging and he may not be able to move like he once did, but he still needs exercise. His metabolism, just like yours, slows as he ages. He may still need the same amount of food he always has, but now it could cause him to gain weight. With regular exercise you can help boost his metabolism and keep him trim and healthy.