So, if you own a German Shepherd, have you ever noticed that your dog quite often puts a paw on you? Have you ever wondered why it does something like this? The truth is, a dog is just like us humans. Whenever they wish to give out signals or wish to communicate something, they do something peculiar. Now, this something often puts us in a puddle where we start to think about what the dog is trying to communicate.

So, if you too are in a similar quandary, then, let’s decode what this sign means.

Puttin A Paw- A Common German Shepherd Bheaviour

If your German Shepherd is putting its paw on you, it could mean anything! From feeling hungry to demanding attention to declaring dominance. Putting a paw on the owner could mean a ton of things.

It is extremely important for all dog parents to understand that dogs are not capable of communicating just like we humans do. So it becomes important to read out signs and signals. One of them is when your German Shepherd Dog puts his paw on you.

For your knowledge, this is a super common behavior pattern of a German Shepherd. But if you are trying to interpret answers for it, let us tell you, they could be many!

Why Does My German Shepherd Put His Paw On Me? Various Reasons

Each of the different behavior patterns of a German Shepherd will come with its set of clues, and putting a paw on the dog parent is no different. If your German Shepherd puts a paw on you, it could mean any of these things –

Your German Shepherd Is Hungry

If your German Shepherd is putting a paw on you, it might be signaling that it has an empty stomach, and that is something that is bothering them. Wanting food could be one reason why a German Shepherd would put its paw on you.

It Needs Your Attention

Dog parents love their fur babies, and that is why they need so much attention. However, there could be times where they could be feeling very attention deprived, and these are the times when they express this deprivation by putting a paw on you.

If this is the reason, try and give them more attention during the day, and figure out if this really is the reason for this behavioral pattern.

Feeling Insecure Or Frightened

Although German Shepherds are robust creatures who do not get scared or insecure easily. However, the feeling of insecurity might sink in. Putting a paw on you might give it comfort, and that could be the reason why it is doing so. This could happen when they are ill, or when they are sensing a tense situation.

It Want Physical Activity Or Exercise

German Shepherds need a lot of exercise throughout the day. If they are not getting enough exercise, or if they are demanding more, their body can give out signals which can come in the form of this. Therefore, always make sure to give your GSD ample exercise during the day.

You’re The Boss or They’re the Boss

German Shepherd are generally extremely muscular and independent dogs. However, they love their owners and their families way too much. Hence, they might show submission by putting a paw on the parent.

However, this could also mean quite the opposite. This might also be their way of showing dominance to their family members.

Should You Allow It?

German Shepherds are intelligent dogs. While the occasional pawing could be an aw moment, but dog parents must watch out before this becomes an annoying habit. Putting an end to this tough habit can be quite tricky. So it is always better to control these behavior patterns well in advance.

This is for the simple reason that whenever your German Shepherd is doing something like this, it is asking for immediate attention. It could be for anything- food, water, attention, or even feeling discomfort. If you begin to cater to all their needs as soon as they ask for it, it becomes behavior and a practice, and you definitely would not want that.

Hence, stopping the pawing and rectifying this behavior becomes a necessity if you wish to keep bad habits far away from your German Shepherd.

Our Verdict

We all simply adore it when our dogs put their paws on us. This could be their way of signaling something that they have been trying to communicate. Right from wanting food, to attention to even indicating a physical discomfort, all pet parents should try to comprehend this behavior.

It is best to notice it time and again, and understand what the German Shepherd is trying to communicate. However, you should also make sure that this never becomes a regular activity, as it can become a situation of crisis for you.

The post Why Does My German Shepherd Put Its Paw On Me? appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

Yes, you have guessed that right!

It is the privilege to serve in the man-dog K9 teams of the police department that really makes these few special German shepherds stand out from the rest.

About the K9

K9 are the police office-dog special units in the police departments that are aimed at employing the canine superpowers of outstanding olfactory sense as well as their trailblazing speed to fight crime and restore justice in society. Interestingly K9 is derived from the English and French word canine (CA-NINE) and their usage dates back to the early 1940s.

Now that we have got you all wound up, here are a few insider notes on how police train their German shepherd dogs:

Selection of the Fittest

I am sure you must be aware of Darwin’s theory of survival of the fittest and his theory of ‘Natural selection’.

The Police department works on the same principle. It selects the best pups among the German shepherds who show early signs of being an athletic genius among its various breeds.

German shepherds are one of the most popular dogs selected by the police department, although they do have competition from Belgian Malinois and the Bloodhound.              

German shepherd pups who display extraordinary intelligence, agility, and control are handpicked to form a part of the batch of student pups that undergo training at the police academy. Although most of them manage to pass with flying colors, a few pups are known to flunk the police examination, in case they get too complacent. It’s our nation’s security that we are talking about, after all!

The selection procedure is taken so seriously that specific breeders are often zeroed down to provide their German Shepherd pups for police service. Also, GSD pups from European breeders are highly considered for this purpose as compared to those of American descent. This is probably because the training certification for German shepherd dogs in Europe is of high credibility.

 The pups are selected and ready to undergo training by the time they are 8 weeks old.

Socialization

Early socialization of German shepherd dogs is very important so that they learn not to perceive everything and everyone as a threat.

One of the criteria for choosing German shepherds for police work is that they should show ample aggression. This is the reason why male German shepherd dogs are preferred and why they are mostly left unneutered.

However, reigning in this aggression is equally important. It may otherwise cause heavy damage to civilian life and property.

The police dog must be able to handle crowds without getting too aggressive. It is thus required that dog is exposed to multiple people and situations so that he does not lose his head easily.

It is also very important that the dog forms an inseparable bond with the human officer assigned to him.  The police officers and the German shepherd dogs assigned to them have to stay together 24X7, 7days a week. The efficiency of the combined K9 unit is thus based on the work chemistry between its two individual units.

Only the best of officers are honored with a position in the K9 unit. The bond between the two is held so significantly that in some countries, the dog gets to stay with his officer even post-retirement.

Thus, early socialization of the German shepherd dog can help him in forming a close bond with his officer in the later stages.

Obedience Training

This is probably one of the most important parts of German shepherd training for police purposes.

The German shepherd dog should be able to follow the exact commands of his officer all the time. This requires rigorous training and repetition.

 This has to be accompanied by positive reinforcement in form of his favorite snacks and treats every time he gets the command right. A loud cry of encouragement or a high five can also do the trick.  And you definitely have to keep the weight in check. After all, it’s a police dog, not your average Joe German shepherd.

Bark Training

Among the various training processes, Bark training is of huge significance for a German shepherd dog that is to be inducted into the services.

The dogs often use their barking to raise the alarm when danger is approaching. It can also be used to intimidate a stranger. The officer should thus be able to control the barking of his dog as and when required. The ‘Speak and Quiet’ method is a good barking training technique.

Speak and Quiet method

In the method, you have to forcefully give the ‘speak’ command to your dog. You have to then give him a treat every time he barks on your command. Do not give him the treat if he barks earlier or later than your command. Similarly, give the ‘Quiet’ command loudly when you want him to stop barking. Likewise, follow it up with a treat for correct behavior.

Here is a myth buster for you!  Many people believe that the commands are spoken in a code language so that the dog and officer have a secret channel of communication between them while being under attack by an invader.

However, this is far from the truth. As mentioned, many police German shepherds undergo training in European countries and thus, learn their basic commands in a foreign tongue. It is just easier to continue with the terminology rather than retrain the dog in English!

Specialized Training

German shepherd dogs of course have to undergo rigorous physical training if they aspire for a career in the police. These include jumping a six feet fence and strenuous running. Apart from that, they also undergo specialized training in scent tracking and bomb detection.

Police German shepherd dogs are sometimes specifically earmarked for drug tracking or bomb detection, although all of them are expected to have basic know-how in this matter.

The Scent Training

The scent training basically revolves around getting the dog to associate the scent of his favorite toys with those of drugs.

The trainer starts with playing with the dog with a toy until the dog gets used to it. He then starts rubbing the toys with various drugs and continues with the playtime.

Finally, he starts hiding the toy in various places. The dog then tries to sniff his favorite toy out and is rewarded when he accomplishes this task.

The procedure is repeated several times and the complexity of the task is slowly increased. But not to worry, our canine friend has a scent of smell that is fifty times stronger than his human companion and he can scan an area faster than ten police officers working together.

Active and Passive Alert

The German shepherd dog is also taught Active and Passive methods to alert their officers. The active ones include barking and digging in heals while tracing a drug. The passive ones may involve sitting or standing straight while picking the intended scent. You sure don’t want your German shepherd’s foot to mess up a wire with too much active posturing if there is a hidden bomb in question!

Summing Up,

The level of training these German shepherds have to go to become our canine protectors is commendable. A civilian dog owner cannot achieve the same level of expertise because the police training is filled with a curriculum filled with nuances and technicalities to get the German Shepherd battle-ready.

However, a few pointers from here and there can help us better our training methodologies with our German shepherd. This is especially true if we want them to train them specifically to be guarding dogs.

On an end note, let us tell you about the most famous police dog who later become a huge movie star and featured in more than 200 motion pictures-Rin Tin Tin. Guess, the police training does have more than one uses!

The post How Do Police Train Their German Shepherds: A few insider notes on the K9 appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

There is no denying that German Shepherds are one of the most muscular and playful dogs for whom running around and being active is a must. But do they really need a big yard?

Let’s find out by looking at and carefully analyzing some of their requirements.

Qualities & Physical Requirements of A German Shepherd

German Shepherds are considered to be one of the most active, agile, and dynamic dogs out there. But did you know that these dogs need to be always in force to be healthy and happy? Well, German Shepherds are the most cheerful and gleeful with owners who indulge in outdoor activities and take their GSD along with them.

German Shepherds have a lot of energy to burn, which is why they love to run and play. Apart from being active and bouncy, they are also hard-working, as they work along with police forces around the world and even serve as farm dogs. You can very well imagine the amount of energy and dedication that these dogs have in them.

Looking at their qualities, do you also feel this breed really needs a big yard for its fit survival?

How Much Space Does A German Shepherd Need Exactly?

German Shepherds are one of the most robust yet lovable breeds out there. However, this is one breed that lives to have an active lifestyle. That is the reason why dog parents often wonder if they need a big yard for this energetic dog. In fact, if you are getting home a German Shepherd, one of the most significant factors that you need to consider and think about is space. This is because these dogs are full of charm, wisdom, and wit, but there are also full of energy. Hence, they need a decent amount of space to run around and play around.

However, if you ask how much space exactly would it need? The answer is simple – ENOUGH space to burn its energies and carry out routine physical activities. Having enough space certainly does not mean that a German Shepherd sure-shot needs big yards only. As long as your German Shepherd is able to burn its energy well and run and play around well, your GDS will be fit as a flea. This certainly does not mean that a German Shepherd cannot survive without big yards.

But does it mean that they can make do with apartments and places where they mostly have to be indoor?

Are German Shepherds Apartment Friendly?

The answer to this is a simple YES. It’s a known fact that German Shepherds love a big yard, but they are highly adjusting and accommodating dogs too. They can adapt in apartments too, which do not have a big yard. The only condition is that they need their daily physical requirements to meet. A GSD typically requires at least 2 hours of physical exercise daily to stay fit physically and mentally.

If that is not met, you might see some behavioral changes like they might bark excessively and chew destructively. In worst cases, a German Shepherd also shows a lot of aggression and rage if their physical requirements are not met. Therefore, it is advisable to take your dog out for long walks, play with him, even if it’s inside the house.

The German Shepherd was bred as a herding dog, and hence, they need high amounts of physical exercise and activity every day. Dog parents can indulge their dogs in daily walking and runs. Also, taking their dogs to dog events every once in a while is not a bad idea.

Nonetheless, all these facts considered, German Shepherds still do best in big yards for many reasons.

Why German Shepherds Do Best With Big Yards?

German Shepherds are incredibly high on energy. They have a lot of energy which needs to be burnt to keep them happy and healthy at all times. If you think this is just the case with Male German Shepherds, let us tell you that this is the case with Males & Females.

Having big yards would always work in your favor because, in an apartment, you will have to make a lot of changes to keep the German Shepherd busy and active. But, if you already have a big yard, you need not worry that much about it.

However, you can still keep your German Shepherd bright-eyed and bushy-tailed even if you have a small yard or no yard at all.

What To Do If You Have A Small Or No Yard?

The idea to have a big yard is to keep the German Shepherd healthy. But, if you do not have a big yard, you need not worry! All you need to do is make some changes in your apartment or house and engage the dog in some great activities, and you are good to go!

For such dog parents who do not have a yard but still want to get home a German Shepherd, such owners can also try mental stimulation for the dogs, as it will keep them busy and give them a task, which will ensure that they are healthy mentally and strong physically. Stuff like dog toys and dog puzzles would keep them mentally stimulated daily, which acts as an excellent thing for the dogs.

Also, make it a practice to take your dog for long walks and play with it occasionally in dog-friendly parks to keep them physically fit so that their cuteness, firmness, and vigor are maintained.

Our Verdict

It is a must for German Shepherds to keep active so that they can be fit as a fiddle, both mentally and physically. Big yards always work in the German Shepherd’s favor, but this only keeps them active and running. However, dog parents who live in small houses or in houses with no yards can still keep their dogs occupied and physically energized by making some changes here and there. It’s not true that a German Shepherd needs a big yard.

However, it is true that these dogs are highly energetic and need to burn that extra energy. However, it’s also a fact that they are adjusting and can adjust anywhere if their physical needs are met.

The post Do German Shepherds Need A Big Yard? appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

German shepherds are a delight when they are allowed to run around freely and chase the wind. However, you do not want them to get too far away from your circle of vision. This is where the magic of the invisible fences comes into play.

They are way cheaper than getting actual fencing, are easier put in place, and are far lower maintenance. Not to mention the fact, that their invisibility gives them that “blends-with-the-nature” kind of aesthetic appeal!!

There are, however, a few variables that need to be given due consideration while selecting an invisible fence for your German shepherd dog like the coverage area, the ease of placing it as well as the collar size and comfort for your dog.

Keeping all this and more in mind, we have selected the best invisible fences that are in business right now:

Popular Invisible Fences For German Shepherds

1. Pet safe Wireless Dog Containment System

It is a wireless fence system that creates a circular barrier of half-acre coverage and saves you from the hassle of underground wiring to create an invisible fence.

It has a simple setup that can be put in place in a few hours. Also unlike traditional fences, it has a static-free re-entry setup, that allows your German shepherd for re-entering the premises without the fear of receiving a re-entry shock.

It has a sound-only training mode and five levels of static on the receiver collar. Any number of collars can be added to the invisible fence and hence multiple dogs can be trained with the same fence system.

The collar is also waterproof that can be used for German shepherds that are eight pounds or above and can fit neck sizes 6 to 28 inches.

2. Extreme Dog Fence- Second Generation-2020

This Second Generation Extreme Dog Fence can cover up to 6 acres. It is an in-ground system and can be covered underground up to 10 feet deep. It, thus, lives up to its name of being a truly waterproof system.

The dog collar used in this Extreme dog fence version is also very light and is also truly waterproof and weather resistant.

It comes complete with sets of training flags and splice kits. It has been honored with the 29th position in Amazon’s bestseller list of dog invisible fences.

3. Pet safe Stay and Play Compact Wireless Fence

This is another great Pet Safe wireless, above the ground fence system. It comes with an added advantage of even greater coverage of 3/4^th of an acre.

Its star feature, that is standout, however, is its ‘Stay and Play’ Mode. This has a tone-only setting and can be used if you do not wish to shock the dog to prohibit him from moving out of the designated area.

This is a feature customized for German Shepherd owners who are soft-hearted and cannot bear the thought of using shock on the canine love of their life.

However, sometimes tough love is the need of the hour. In such scenarios, this fence does not leave you shorthanded. It provides you with an option of five levels of static correction in case your GSD proves to be a little troublesome in staying within the boundaries.

Along with your GSD, this invisible fence can also be used for smaller breeds of five pounds and above. This product holds the seventh position in Amazon’s bestseller list of best wireless dog fences.

4. Sport DOG Brand In-Ground Invisible Fence

It has an in-ground wiring system, which means the wire has to be dug in the underground, as a circumference around your yard. This might be a tedious task at first, but henceforth it is pretty low maintenance. However; the main highlight of this product is that it has a longer range as compared to the wireless variants, and can restrain the German shepherd to a circumference of 1 1/3 acres.

The icing on the cake is the fence system can be expanded to cover up to 100 acres. This is a Godsend remedy for owners of German shepherds who also own large properties and need their GSD dogs as a protective presence against unwelcomed guests.

It has 4 levels of static correction to suit the temperament of different German shepherd dogs and can be used for dogs weighing above 10 pounds or more. Another key feature is its advanced transmitter, with a break alarm and lightning protector, which provides this model with an extra edge. The break alarm issues a quick notification if there is a breakage in the boundary wall while the lightning protector acts as a shield against damage by lightening.

All in all, this invisible fence is for German shepherd dog owners who own large properties.

5. Pet Safe YardMax Rechargeable In-Ground Fence

Why we decided to include this Petsafe Product can be explained with only one word-Yardmax.

This is an invisible fence for you for your German shepherd if he is too smart for a traditional in-ground fence. Traditional fences correct your dog before they cross the designated boundary. However, this YardMax wonder activates its warning tone setting as your dog approaches the boundary and corrects him only after they cross the boundary. By this improvement, your dog ends up getting a 30% more play areas. .Yay!!

Another additional bonus that you can avail of choice is the indoor and outdoor Petz Away pet barrier. These allow you to keep your dog off expensive furniture and other delicate items both inside the house and in your backyard. These compatible accessories are sold separately.

It provides you a secure 1/3 yard for your dog which can be extended to 10 yards on further wiring. This single fence system also gives you the opportunity to add as many pets as you want to it.

So thanks to this fence, if your beloved German shepherd and Tom cat can live in harmony, they can also be restrained into a designated boundary as well.

Wrapping Up,

These invisible fences are essential tools in training German shepherd dogs to respect the physical boundaries that you have set for them. However, they cannot replace a proper training curriculum for dogs and can only replace it. You may also take the help of E-Collars in training your German shepherd in obedience training or if it gets too far away. Here is a list of Best E-collars that are in circulation right now. Also, here are a few tips if you have just set foot in the ‘training your GSD’ arena.

The post 5 Best Invisible Fences For German Shepherds: Electric enclosures to rein in your dog appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

German shepherd is one of the most beautiful and efficient dogs that have been bred so far. Their high intelligence levels make them ideal students for training purposes.

However, it is important to remember that intelligence is a double-edged sword. The same passion that makes them intuitive to varied situations also can make them sometimes stubborn and aversive to your training methodologies.

E collars can be an essential aid for you, especially in phases where your German shepherd is showing particular strong-headedness. Of course, we give this advice with a note of caution. It is important to select the best available E collars in the market so that the safety of your dog is not compromised.

These collars also are to be used in the appropriate amount, keeping in mind that overusing them as a negative reinforcement can hamper the training in the long run. This is because it tends to weaken the emotional bond between the dog and the trainer. At the same time, it only stops the dog from performing a particular action and does not clue him in as to what the correct behavior is.

The best available E collars in the market, which have been designed specially to these specifications, are:

10 E-Collars Specially For German Shepherds

1. Mini Educator E-collar Remote Training collar

Mini Educator E-collar is a highly recommended training collar device for your German shepherd. This is precisely because it aims to train the dog with electric stimulation in the most humane way possible. It has a pavlovian tone which the dog hears for approximately one and a half seconds before the stimulation when the button is held down.

Its transmitter also has a build-in ‘ergonomic’ stopwatch and can also light up if you wish to locate your dog after the dark. Both the transmitter and the biothane collar are water-resistant.

The stimulation received by the dog is humane because it is a blunt stimulation as opposed to a sharp stimulation. Also with its advanced COS (Control of stimulation) feature, the level of the stimulation can be adjusted according to the behavior displayed by the dog. The slight glitch in this otherwise perfect E collar is the battery life. You might have to charge it multiple times if you use it for longer durations.

2. Dogtra Edge long Range Dog Training E collar

This E collar is for trainers who are in advanced stages of training. It is also for German Shepherds who are being trained for professional use in security and other purposes. It has a one-mile range and is aided with Beacon and locates LED light which can be used to locate your German shepherd dog should you lose track of him in the dark.

Its Edge is IPX9K waterproof certified and has a performance receiver and intuitive transmitter which allows for highly efficient one-handed operations. It is expandable design can also be used to train up to 4 dogs at a time.

This E collar also has two correction types: Nick (quick half a second type) and constant correction (up to 12 seconds), which allow for proper adjustment, according to the requirements of your dog. It also has an interchangeable stimulation dial that offers a smooth Rheostat dial with 127 correction levels or an immediate Selector dial with 8 correction levels.

This is a dog e collar that has been designed in consultation with K9 trainers and military personnel; so that it can manage to level with the intelligence and aptitude for the dog it is purposed for.

3. SportDog Brand FieldTrainer 425 Remote Trainer

This is an excellent choice when you are beginning your training or are aiming to train close-working dogs. It has a range of 500 yards and its rechargeable lithium battery is ready for 50 to 70 hours run on a full charge. Its DryTek technology allows it to work in almost all weathers and terrains. It is waterproof and submersible up to 25 feet.

It allows for the tone and vibration of the E collar to be defined according to the temperament of the dog and has 7 levels of static stimulations. These stimulations can be delivered as a momentary flick or as continuous stimulations, depending on the level of training we are on. It can be used on dogs 8 pounds and larger and can support the training of up to three dogs.

4. Educator K9 Handler Remote Training Collar

This is the best E collar for night training. It has an advanced LED Light feature, which allows for excellent nighttime viewing. The night tracking light is controlled by a transmitter which can even float in the water if dropped. So don’t you worry if have the reputation as Mr. or Mrs. Butterfingers.

The k9-802 Collar receiver also has the highest stimulation of all remote trainers in the market. It has a range of 1 mile and can be used for training up to 2 dogs. Its ‘Lock and set’ feature allows for users to set the best stimulation level which can range from 1 to 100. Its 33” Bungee collar comes with thick hair contact points which are apt for large working dogs like the German shepherd and the Doberman.

5. Busonic dog training rechargeable waterproof electric collar

The Busonic dog training collar is an excellent and affordable choice for in-yard training of German shepherd dogs. It has three training modes which include: Beep, Vibration, and safe static Shock modes. The Vibration modes have 1 to 8 levels while the static shock mode has 1 to 16 levels.

It also has an advanced anti-jamming technology which provides a strong signal up to 1000 ft and can support a training environment for up to two dogs. It works for both small and large German shepherds. It is again a humane collar for dogs because the protective mode automatically takes over if the static shock mode is in operation for more than ten seconds.

6. Pet Union PTOZ1 Premium dog training shock collar

This is a dog training collar with four training modes: Light, Beep, Vibration, and Static shock. The Beep mode is for beginner training while the vibration mode is for obedience training. The vibration mode contains 1 to 100 levels of customization.

Its remote with an LCD Screen can reach a range of 1200 feet. It also comes with an Auto Power Protect Mode that helps conserve battery when not in use. It is an easy to pair and affordable choice, especially for dogs from 10 to 100lbs.

7. DOG CARE Bark Collar with Intelligent Bark control

This is an amazing e collar if you are worried about your dog’s excessive and unpredictable barking style. It has two training modes: Vibration and shock. It also gives you an option to choose among 5 sensitivities according to the behavioral requirements of your dog.

It automatically shuts down after activating all its 7 strength levels and resets 30 seconds after your dog stops barking. Its extremely efficient and safe modes thus provide a safe and humane training device to control your dog’s barking habit to the optimum levels.

8. PATPET Dog Training Collar with remote

This is again a humane dog training E collar which has two sets of silicon prongs and metal prongs. The silicon prongs need to be worn in a way so that the top of the silicon prongs contact with the top of the metal prongs. The silicon prongs protect the skin and the coat of the dog.

It also has a super safe protection mode where the training collar will deactivate when the vibration shock is in action for more than ten seconds. It is an IPX7 waterproof dog collar and has a range of about 1000 feet, which makes it ideal for indoor training or short outdoor trekking.

It is the smallest E collar with lithium rechargeable batteries. This dog collar has 8 vibration levels and 16 shock levels and can train up to 3 dogs. Its buttons are designed to provide easy accessibility and training flow and have a three-button compact design. It is also cheaper than most of the other E collars, in case you are working on a steep budget.

9. WolfWill Waterproof Rechargeable No shock Tone Vibration E collar

This is a humane collar with no shock feature for patrons who are concerned about harming their dogs. It has a multifunctional wireless mode that works on 3modes: Tone, light, and vibration.

It has a large area range of 660 yards and can work on a maximum of two dogs. It is especially very useful for training deaf dogs. It can also be used for training very small German shepherd dogs sometimes.

10. TBI Pro Dog Training Collar with remote

It is a long-range E collar that works up to an amazing 2000 ft. It has adjustable and static vibration levels and comes with a long battery life that can last for 15 to 20 days.

It has 3 efficient modes of beep, vibration, and soft shock and has been designed in consultation with K9 experts. It is a waterproof collar and does not need to be taken out even when the dog is swimming.

Wrapping Up,

The significance of proper training of German shepherd dogs can be ascribed to the fact that many of these dogs end up in our defense system as either military dogs or personal protection canine guardians.

E collars, which are thoughtfully designed to ensure the mental health of dogs with the accompanied physical training, can go a long way in producing well-trained and quick-witted German shepherd prodigies.

Of course, the early foundation training of German shepherd dogs lays the groundwork for building their later life training curriculum. To know more about it, read about simple ways to train\discipline a German shepherd puppy.

The post Top 10 E-collars for German shepherds: Your Obligatory aid in German shepherd training appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

One such thing could be sunflower butter and oil. You might be having these in your meals and thinking that if it is good for you, it would be good for the dog too. But, can dogs eat sunflower butter and oil? We all know that sunflower is great for our bodies, but is it a healthy option for dogs too?

Let’s find out!

Is Sunflower Oil Good For Dogs?

When bringing a dog into the family, it is tough to understand what is good for it and what’s not. Generally, we go by the belief that all healthy food items that we humans eat are edible and healthy for dogs too. But is it really true?

Sunflower oil is known for its numerous benefits, but would it benefit your dog too? The answer to this question is Yes, dogs can eat sunflower oil. In fact, sunflower oil is present in some of the dog treats too. Sunflower oil is known for being low in fatty acids, and that is the reason Veterinarians love it for dogs.

To understand why Sunflower Oil is good for dogs, let’s understand this by looking at some benefits that it provides to our furry members.

Benefits of Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is great as it provides the dogs with loads of vitamins and minerals. It is needless to say that sunflower oil is great for dogs in many ways, but only if given in limited quantities. Being rich in Omega-6, the sunflower oil provides essential fatty oils to the dog which its own body cannot make. Omega-6 also helps in hair growth and promotes a healthy immune system, along with the reproductive system.

When applied on paws and the skin, it also makes the paws less dry in winters and the skin glossy and shiny. Moreover, the best part about this oil is that it is super inexpensive and still provides tons of health benefits.

However, there are some cons too, that accompany every good thing. So, we have even listed some concerns for you related to sunflower oil so that you can choose better for your dog.

Concerns Related To Sunflower Oil

We already know that sunflower oil is great for both Humans and dogs, but what we don’t realize is that the best things might not suit the best of us. Some dogs could be allergic to sunflower oil. Hence, before feeding your dog sunflower oil daily, make sure you test it in little quantities, just to check if it is suiting their system or not. Nonetheless, consulting your veterinarian about starting sunflower oil, that too, on a daily basis, would be a good idea.

The bigger concern with sunflower oil is that it has omega 6. It is undeniable that this component of the oil is great for dogs. But the oil is too high in omega-6, which can be harmful if not given in proper proportion to Omega-3. This could be harmful to the dog as it could impact the immune system in a negative way. Also, it can cause inflammation and other dysfunctions in the dog’s body. Hence, always consult a doctor before starting anything new with your pup or dog.

Now that we have understood that Sunflower oil can be good for the dog, if given smartly and wisely, let’s now understand if Sunflower butter is also good for it or not.

Can Dogs Eat Sunflower Butter?

We all love some great spreads like peanut butter, but what we should not do, is give our dogs too much peanut butter, or other treats like peanut butter crackers. Instead, why not indulge in something that is equally tasty but much more nutritious? Yes, we are talking about sunflower butter.

Feeding your dogs some sunflower butter is a great way to compensate some sunflower seeds into their diet. Dog owners can also make this butter at home and feed them as a healthy snack.

While other spreads like peanut butter can be way too risky for the dog, sunflower butter is great for the dogs in plenty of ways. Here are a few benefits of why sunflower butter would be a smart choice for you:

Benefits of Sunflower Butter

Sunflower butter is a great choice, especially if made at home. While other spreads can have high sugar and Xylitol in them, sunflower butter would be absolutely sugar-free, which makes it a great and healthy option for your dog.

Sunflower butter is also great for dogs who have nut allergies. Also, he might not even tell the difference between regular peanut butter and this wholesome sunflower butter.

However, if you are someone who is purchasing this sunflower butter from a grocery store and not making it at home, then make sure to check the ingredient list thoroughly, as your grocery-bought sunflower butter should not have any Xylitol in the list.

But, if you are making it at home, make sure that the seeds that you are using to make this butter are unsalted and unflavoured, as both these things can take out the main essence of the butter.

As we mentioned, sunflower butter is made from sunflower seeds, so now you might be thinking that can dogs eat sunflower seeds so that you do not have the hassle of making butter out of it? The answer to this question is YES, dogs can eat Sunflower Seeds too. However, you just have to give it to them smartly and correctly.

Sunflower Seeds For Dogs

Sunflower seeds are excellent for dogs, but only when given appropriately. The thing with sunflower seed is that it should always be peeled and should never be salted if you are feeding it to your little furry member.

This is because the outer shell can give your dog gastrointestinal distress and diarrhea, and the high salt content can shoot up his blood pressure, just like humans.

Besides that, sunflower seed is highly nutritious as it is rich in protein, healthy fats, vitamin E, B1, B3, folate, copper, magnesium, and many more nutrients, keeping the dog healthy and happy.

Our Verdict

There is no denying that both sunflower oil and butter are great for the dog if given in small and reasonable quantities. This delicious, healthy snack should be just 10% of his daily calories intake.

All in all, sunflower butter and oil are excellent for the dog, and they can be a healthy snack for your four-legged furry friend. If you have some at home, you can always share it with your pet. Also, you can include drizzles of sunflower oil in it’s meal to make sure your dog is fit, fine, happy, and healthy always!

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Being cautious early is better than running for a cure later on. So, if you are in the mood to feed your dog some kinds of summer fruits, you must take certain precautions. One such fruit is cantaloupe. This fruit is though beneficial for dogs to consume. Still, there are certain limitations to it.

Is eating cantaloupe beneficial for dogs?

Yes! It offers numerous nutritional benefits beyond your imagination. It is rich in vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, potassium, beta-carotene, magnesium, thiamine, niacin, fiber, pantothenic acid, and folic acid.

The cellular aging of dogs and the onset of various diseases can be prevented by certain substances present in the cantaloupe, such as vitamin A and vitamin C. They act as antioxidants. Consumption of cantaloupe helps to fight constipation and dehydration in dogs. Its low-calorie content and high-water content make it a tasty way to rehydrate the body without adding body weight.

The high water and fiber content in cantaloupe strengthen the digestive system of dogs. It helps maintain the nervous system, red blood cells, and overall good health of your dog!

Is it safe for dogs to eat cantaloupe with rinds?

Though cantaloupe is not toxic for your dog, the rinds are! It shouldn’t be considered a regular snack for your dog. Rinds are very hard to swallow and digest. Multiple digestive issues can occur because of eating too many rinds. Also, it is very tough and waxy, which makes it difficult to chew.

The possible gastrointestinal tract issues resulting from the consumption of cantaloupe rinds can also damage bowel movement. The toughness of the rind may also cause a choking hazard for your pet. With that in mind, it is safe to say that no, your dog absolutely cannot risk eating rinds!

How to serve cantaloupe safely?

You must feed cantaloupe to your dog by cutting it and preparing it just as you would do it for yourself. You need to remove the rind first and later deseed by opening it up. Cut it up in small edible chunks.

One way is offering a small piece from a fruit salad. You can also freeze a small chunk in ice and hydrate it as a summer treat. Also, you can dehydrate it and serve it as an easy dried fruit snack.

Just as human beings must consume fast foods occasionally to be healthy, dogs must be served cantaloupe as a special treat and not any regular meal.

The skin or peels of cantaloupe must be avoided while feeding the pet. Constipation and blockage of intestinal passage can result from the hard peel.

Certain fruits contain cyanide in their seeds. For instance, peaches, cherries, and apples have cyanide in their seeds. One must remove the seeds before feeding the pet. On top of that, a high amount of sugar in the cantaloupe may affect your dog’s health, especially if he has diabetes.

And remember, don’t consider cantaloupe as a regular treat for your dog, and even if you do, it should be 10% of the overall daily diet. Lastly, always serve cantaloupe in control.

What to do if your dog eaten cantaloupe rinds?

Please do not panic after your dog has eaten rinds. Most probably, you’ll see your pet go through gastrointestinal issues such as stomach ache, vomiting, or a bowel movement disorder. Not feeding in moderation can give your dog diarrhea. Also, feeding cantaloupe daily can lead to canine obesity. You may notice changes in your pet’s stool consistency. However, these symptoms should not stay longer than 24 hours, but if they do, make sure you visit the vet.

Summing Up,

Please keep your dog cheerful with every treat they eat. Don’t miss out on cantaloupe’s nutritional benefits, but also take precautions before serving it to your dog. Remember to make sure it is free from rinds at all costs and follow the proper ways to feed them.

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Is it safe for dogs to consume rosemary extract?

Yes, rosemary extract is completely safe for dogs. Research and surveys conducted over years have proved that rosemary extract is not only safe for dogs but is also beneficial to their health. So, in case you have been contemplating on including this ingredient in your dog’s food or if you have been planning to shift to dog food that has rosemary extract, you needn’t be skeptical. Rosemary extract, in a certain quantity, is absolutely safe for consumption by dogs. 

Rosemary extract as a Dog food ingredient.

Generally, in dog foods, a maximum of 50 milligrams of rosemary extract is used per kilogram of production. The FDA approves of it and considers it completely safe for dogs. Rosemary extract is added to dog food for two reasons –

• To add natural antioxidants. Dogs need antioxidants in their diet. This improves their immune system and helps with bone related troubles. Thus, rosemary extract can be useful for senior dogs who suffer from moderate to severe bone problems.
• To increase the shelf-life of the packaged food. This is because rosemary extract has preservative capabilities.

Rosemary extract has been used in dog food for the last 20 years. The credibility and safety of an ingredient can be proven by how long it has been in the market. With the backing of significant research, rosemary extract has been a vital ingredient in pet food and has caused no negative reactions in dogs.

However, every dog is different. Even if it is safe for dogs, your pet might not like the taste of it. That is why, it is advisable that if you are trying to include it in the pet’s food for the first time, give them a small quantity at first and observe if any problem arises both in terms of physical health and taste. 

Benefits of Rosemary extract for your Dog.

Rosemary extract has several benefits which can help your pet in many ways. Let us look into some of them –

1. Boosts Digestion – Rosemary extract has anti-microbial elements and that is the reason why it helps in gastrointestinal functioning. It improves gut health and leads to better digestion. Digestive abilities in dogs depend on a lot of factors such as the breed, size, age, physical activity and mental health. If your dog has been having trouble with bowel movements and digesting food, introducing rosemary extract in their diet can be helpful. 

2. Packed with antioxidants – Antioxidants are important for dogs. It helps in getting rid of free radicals from a dog’s body. Having more free radicals in the body than necessary can cause long term damage in your dog. Research has shown that excessive free radicals can cause cell damage which can lead to different kinds of diseases in old age such as cancer and heart-related trouble. That is the reason why rosemary extract should be introduced in your dog’s diet. Antioxidants also help with skin allergies and eye problems. Introducing a small quantity of rosemary extract can thus prove effective to your canine friend skin and vision. 

3. Improves heart health – This is always one of the biggest concerns of dog parents. A dog with a healthy heart has reduced chances of acquiring complicated diseases. This also means they can stay with you for a longer period. Although a healthy diet and enough physical activities should take care of the heart, not every dog is the same, not every day is the same for them as well. After a point in life, dogs tend to get lazy and that is exactly when the heart damage starts. Along with forcing your pet to go out for a walk, you can also introduce Rosemary extract in their diet. It also has antispasmodic abilities which can help in preventing spasms. However, in case your dog already suffers from a heart condition, you should consult your vet before introducing it to the diet. 

4. Improves Brain Function – Rosemary extract has been associated with improving brain health as well. Research has proved that it helps dogs who have a history of anxious behavioral disorders. It can also be helpful to reduce stress in dogs. If your dog has problems interacting with other dogs and other humans who are not their parents, it might suggest that they are facing anxiety or stress. Dogs can feel the vibe around them. So in case there is a death or a mishap in the family, it can perceive it. Such situations can be stressful for them. In case such stressors exist in the dog’s environment, rosemary extract can help.

Precautions to be taken before feeding Rosemary extract to your dog.

Although rosemary extract is completely safe for your dogs, it is important to look out for certain things when you plan to introduce it to your dog’s diet, be it in a home-cooked meal or packaged food. 

1. The first and the most important thing to understand is that rosemary extract and rosemary essential oil are two very different things. While rosemary extract is meant for consumption, an essential oil, by default is not meant to be eaten. Rosemary essential oil is not safe for dogs. Make sure you never confuse the two. 

2. Everything that your dog consumes should be in moderation. When it comes to herb extract, such as rosemary, it is safe only in a certain quantity. Make sure not to overdo it. The average amount that is present in dog food is completely fine. However, if you plan on making something for your dog and adding the extract to it, you should look out for the quantity. 

3. Finally, it is always advisable to consult your dog’s veterinarian if you are planning on introducing this or any new ingredient in the diet. Nutritional requirements differ in terms of breed, age and medical history. Before you make any dietary changes, consult the expert who is aware of your dog’s medical history. 

Our Verdict

As ingredient rosemary is not only safe but also highly beneficial for dogs. Rosemary extract is an ingredient used in dog food and chances are, your dog has already been consuming it. All in all, with its benefits, rosemary extract can make your furry friend healthy, active, happy, and intelligent.

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Should you feed your dog dried pineapple? Meh!

Confused?

Let’s translate this into human lingo. Can you have a chocolate fudge pastry for breakfast every day? Of course, you can. Should you? Not if you don’t want to replace your entire wardrobe with clothes from the plus-size store.

Pineapple is a majestic fruit on its own: stands tall, wears a crown, and erupts in sugary syrup in the middle. In fact, the pineapple was such a novelty in the seventeenth century that King Charles had a portrait of this fruit made with him.

Then why do we wish to keep this royal fruit away from your no-less regal dog companion? A few pointers to assure you that we are very much on your side:

Is Dried Pineapple Safe for Dogs?

1. Slow sugar poison

Pineapple is a fruit that is rich in fructose, glucose, and sucrose; all-natural sugars that can play havoc on your dog’s blood sugar. It is especially a slow poison for dogs that are prone to diabetes.

Dry it up, and this poison loses its slowness and can fasten your dog’s journey to judgment day. When the pineapple is dried, it loses its water content and moisture. What it does not lose is its natural sugar content.

So the same piece of fruit now has higher sugar content. If it is not given to your dog in moderation, his blood sugar can shoot through the roof.

2. Weight woes

Even if your dog is not particularly prone to diabetes, dried pineapple in excess can cause significant weight gain. Obesity in dogs, just like humans, can make them sluggish and low in energy.

Seems like there is a lot you are putting on the line, considering their much healthier options among even dried fruits available for you to treat your dog with.

3. The digestive predicament

Not all dogs take a shine to pineapple as a fruit in general and dried pineapple in particular. You have to start feeding your dog dried pineapple by introducing it to him with a small bite. If your dog reacts adversely to it or develops any allergic reaction, take him immediately to the vet.

Some dogs also develop stomach sensitivity with dried pineapple, even in moderation. They may suffer from diarrhea, which may aggravate dehydration.

(On that note, we will like to squeeze in a small reminder: if your dog is particularly sensitive in matters of his dietary requirements, it is also advisable to get pet insurance. This will help you manage the monthly bills, in case there are to be frequent visits to the veterinary doctor.)

4. Give it as God made it

If your dog does in fact have a craving for dried pineapple (that is, you were stupid enough to introduce it and use it excessively during the positive reinforcement training), it is best to go natural.

Cut your pineapple into small, bite-sized pieces and dry them up in the sun. This is way better than buying dried pineapples from over the counter at the mall. This is because these market-bought dried pineapples contain added artificial sweeteners, flavors, and preservatives.

Some of these contents can also prove toxic to the dog. Case in point is xylitol, which is an additional sweetener in foods aimed at human consumption. Since it is mentioned in the ingredients in minuscule letters, you may not even think twice about it. However, even in small quantities, it can prove toxic for dogs.

It is better not to risk your dog’s health with hidden contents that may or may not find mention on the bottle label.

5. Pineapple positives

Yes, we understand that pineapple is full of Vitamin C, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Manganese, iron, copper, calcium, folate, phosphorus, etc, etc, etc….Not to mention the huge fiber content that can really clear up your dog’s intestinal tracts.

If it is so important for you to feed your dog pineapple, we advise you to do so in its natural form, with its 86% water content still intact. This can have an excellent hydration effect on your dog, especially on those hot days when the sun is the least merciful.

However restrict this pineapple treat to the soft, fleshy part of this fruit only. The outer skin or inner hardcore can lead to a choking hazard for your dog.

Summing Up

Do not feed your dog dried pineapple if you can help it. If not, keep it at less than 10% of the dietary calorie intake and not as a daily treat. For healthier sugary treats, check out our articles on cottage cheese and coconut yogurt as awesome treats for your doggy friends\soul mates.

The post Can Dogs Eat Dried Pineapple: Is the crown fruit canine-friendly? appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

It is said that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. However, all human rules don’t always apply to the canine body metabolism, and a doctor and a vet might not share the same opinion on a common food item. So while apple sauce with cinnamon might have been shown the green light, there are still dietary rules for the dog’s digestive route that you need to follow.

Here are thus a few precautionary pointers for you to help you treat your dog to a cinnamon apple sauce the right way:

1. The Moderation Mantra

Moderation is the key to all healthy diet plans. Apple sauce is a great way to enrich your dog’s body with the goodness of Vitamin C, K, calcium, and fibers that come with an apple, minus the choking hazard risk of feeding him small, cut-up apple slices.

Apple also contains pectin, which helps lower cholesterol levels. It is an excellent dietary addition if your dog suffers from digestion problems. And Cinnamon adds a touch of exotic flavor to the apple sauce.

Cinnamon, in moderation, is essentially non-toxic and healthy for both humans and dogs.

However, Apple sauce with cinnamon should never be a part of the daily dietary plan for your dog. It should be ideally restricted to twice a week and should not exceed more than five percent of the dog diet on a given day.

2. Stick to our advice

Apple sauce available in markets often contains added sugar and preservatives. Be especially on the lookout for xylitol, an added sugar that can prove particularly toxic to dogs.

It will be wise to remember that dogs are prone to blood sugar-related problems like diabetes and pancreatitis. Xylitol can end up increasing blood insulin in dogs to dangerous levels.

Cinnamon is non-toxic to both humans and dogs in moderation. However, in large quantities, it can cause both skin irritation as well as act as an irritant to the digestive system. Increase the quantity and say hello to both vomiting and diarrhea. It can also lead to lowered blood sugar, as well as heart and liver anomalies.

Thus, it is important that you stick to our advice on the above-mentioned dietary restrictions. Even if your dog pulls its best puppy face to get his favorite apple-cinnamon delight.

3. Be age-sensitive

Apple sauce can be like dog beer sometimes, the pup has to sometimes reach a certain age before he can have it. This is because puppies have a more sensitive digestive mechanism with respect to certain food items than fully grown dogs.

And some puppies may suffer up from diarrhea after having apple sauce, which can quickly escalate into acute dehydration. Start with a small lick to see if your pup is the kind that doesn’t warm up to apple sauce easily.

4. Go organic

If your dog is particularly prone to diabetes, unsweetened apple sauce is your best bet. Organic apple sauce without added preservatives and sugar should be a quick pick for you.

However, it is best to prepare your apple sauce and cinnamon treat at home if you are not sure of the contents of the over-the-counter apple sauce.

All you have to do is take a few organic apples, boil them for 10-15 minutes and then strain and mash the apples. Be sure that you do not add apple seeds or stems to the stew, as they contain traces of cyanide that can be toxic to the dog.

Add just a touch of cinnamon in them and then cool it for a while. However, do not overdo the cinnamon powder, especially in front of your dog. This is because dry powder can induce coughing and sneezing in your dog, which can aggravate severe breathing problems.

And if you are feeling lazy about making your own sauce, remember, it will probably take you as much time as driving to the nearest mall. Plus you will be ensuring that your dog gets a hygienic and healthy reward for being the cute sweet heart that he is.

5. Freeze the feast

The best way to serve the apple sauce with cinnamon is to freeze it in the ice tray in the shape of small ice cubes. This way your dog can lick and play with it while devouring the delicacy. This can be especially refreshing on a hot, summer afternoon.

You may also use it as a reward or positive reinforcement while he is undergoing training.

If however, you wish to feed him treat in a sauce form only, do it by allowing it to lick it off your fingers. This way, you can moderate the quantity. Also, this removes the risk of your dog accidentally gulping the spoon along with the apple sauce.

Our Verdict

Apple sauce with cinnamon can not be a daily treat, but it sure is a nutrition bonus if given occasionally and in moderation. We hope that ‘to give or not to give, is no longer the question’. And if you are suffering from any other Shakespearean dietary dilemmas, check out if your dog can have cottage cheese. Or if coconut yogurt is a good idea.

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