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Taking Care Of A Small Dog Tips And Suggestions
by Ray Harris
If you're taking care of a small dog, the basics are much the same care as we would dogs of larger sizes, basics such as food, water, shelter and good deal of love. But it's easier to prepare their meals since smaller portions are required and their smaller body size makes bathing and grooming easier, and the mess to clean up is smaller as well.
Food Tips For Taking Care Of A Small Dog
Dry food with small bits are the best choice for a smaller dog, because the bits are easier for them to bite and chew. Smaller dogs seem to have some difficulty with chewing larger bits of food since they have a smaller mouth. Their teeth can also break easier since their teeth are smaller than the teeth of larger dogs.
While taking care of a small dog, be sure to give them the appropriate portion of food, since some dogs will eat whatever food is in their bowl. Over eating can distend their stomachs and cause discomfort. One cup of food will usually suffice and provide all the nutrition they require.
Taking Care Of A Small Dog - Grooming Tips
Grooming basics are pretty much the same, regardless of the size. However, grooming a smaller dog is easier since it's easier to
lift or turn them around. If your dog spends lots of time resting or you carry the dog around a lot, their nails should be trimmed more frequently. Their nails will wear down if your dog is more active or runs around a lot. The nails of larger dogs tend to wear down faster since they are heavier as well.
Another tip for taking care of a small dog is daily brushing. If you brush or groom them frequently, their hair doesn't tangle as much, so it makes the job quicker and easier. The brushing routine is pretty much the same as it is for larger dogs, but you should brush more gently. When choosing a brush or comb, you should choose brushes and combs of a smaller size. In other words, choose a size that best fits the size of your dog. Also choose a brush with softer bristles since these are also more comfortable for the dog, and they don't scratch the skin as much.
All in all, we can conclude that taking care of a small dog is a little different than the care afforded for larger dogs. One would think that a small dog is not as expensive since they don't eat so much food and so on, but the owners of smaller dogs tend to pamper them more, so they might end up spending more on them.
Ray Harris http://bestdogcarepro.com. Ray is a expert in dog care. If you would like more information on dog care, go on over to http://bestdogcarepro.com today.
About the Author:
Ray Harris is a dog care expert.
Tips To Owning A Quiet Bird
By Angela Dean
When most people hear "parrot", they cringe and think of days down the road when they'll be needing hearing aids. That cute parrot can quickly turn into your worst nightmare. And while parrots can be loud screamers, most owners do not realize that they are usually the reason for the screaming. No bird will ever be truly quiet; however with a little work from you your bird could become a soft talking feathered friend. Here are a few tips to help you achieve that quiet dream bird.
Spend Time with Your Bird
Birds will scream if they're lonely. They call for their flock mates. If you and your family are in the living room watching TV and your bird is in the room down the hall, more than likely you have a very loud screamer. Try moving your bird's cage to a place where the entire family can get together.
Buy a Bigger Cage
If you and your family are out of the house for most of the day, more than likely your bird is stuck in its cage. Try getting a larger quality cage that will last, it may cost a bit more but it's worth it in the long run. More space allows for more exercise and more toys to help cure some boredom.
Build a Play Area
A play area is a wonderful way to cure screaming. This can consist of a simple stand with food/water cups to a large tree with toys. Your bird will enjoy getting to spend time out of its cage.
Don't Yell At Your Bird
When a bird is screaming to get its owners attention, most of the time the reaction is to yell "SHUT UP!" or "BE QUIET!" at the bird. To your bird this sounds a lot like you're joining in on the scream fest! This can create even louder screaming! Try whispering instead, if a bird is screaming and you whisper then it has to lower its voice to hear you talk.
Don't Reward Your Bird for Being Loud
Another common mistake owners are guilty of is stuffing a nut or piece of fruit in your bird's mouth when it's screaming. A treat stops the screaming, but guess what? You just rewarded your bird for screaming. Your bird will soon learn to scream every time it wants something. Like a spoiled child they want it and they want it NOW!
Try Taking Your Bird with You
Providing your bird has its wings clipped or will wear a bird harness, try taking your bird with on family outings. If you're going to the park take your bird with you! An acrylic bird carrier is an affordable investment and you will enjoy a quieter and happier bird.
And the most important tip -
Don't own a bird if you're never home, it's not fair to the bird. Parrots can have the mental capacity of a 3 or 4 year old and do get bored, frustrated and angry sitting in a cage all day. This is the main cause of screaming and biting.
Angela has been working with birds for over 15 years. Along the way she has learned much about the feathered kind and strives to help those with troubled parrots.
More tips and supplies can be found at her website - http://www.birdsandart.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Angela_Dean
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