How to Select the Best Indoor Dog Gate

When you want to set boundaries and restrict your pet to safe places inside your home selecting the best indoor dog gate is a must. Many dog lovers allow their pets to live indoors with them and this is one of the best ways to safely contain your pet.

You love our pet to bits and you treat him as part of the family however there are situations where there is a need to contain your pet and this is the role that the best indoor dog gate will play. Such situations could be that you are stepping out of the house to do some shopping or you're doing some house chores and you cannot supervise him.

A dog explores the world with his nose and his mouth and installing a dog gate on the hallway that leads to the kitchen will keep him from your garbage bins, stoves, and table food.

The best indoor dog gate is also helpful when you are expecting the repairman and you need to keep the dog away from the repair area. It is also useful when you are expecting many visitors and your friends are not all to keen about your dog sizing them up with his nose.

So what are the considerations in buying indoor dog gate?

1. Get it right the first time.

Measure the width of the area where you are installing the gate. Don't worry that your area is too wide, many gates come with an extension panel to accommodate wider than usual doors or hallways.

Also decide on how tall you want your gate to be. It should be tall enough that he can't jump over to the other side because if he can, then the idea of a pet gate is useless.

When you think about how tall the gate should be, refer to the full size of your pet so that you will not have to buy another one as he grows older, it's financially practical too.

2. Wall mounted or free standing?

Which of the two would you prefer to have? A wall mounted gate is obviously connected to the wall but would you like to bore on the beautiful finish to connect a wall mounted gate? If not you can choose a wall mounted gate that has suction cups so that you can attach it to the wall.

On the other hand, free standing dog gates have legs for balance itself on the floor without wall support. If you're not a permanent resident of the house you're living now, this type of gate is a perfect choice.

3. What materials do you prefer?

A gate can come in wood, iron bar, stainless steel, plastic, or aluminum. Whatever you choose always remember that the best indoor dog gate should be made of high quality and durable materials that can withstand the force that your animal might inflict on it.

Another consideration is that you choose a gate that matches your interior walls so that it blends rather than stand out like a sore thumb.

4. Easy to use.

It's not a good idea for you to jump over the fence, this is setting a bad example to your pet. You should therefore purchase a gate that has an easy to open and close latch even with one hand but cannot be nudged by an adult dog because again it's purpose is to restrict your pet.

5. Quality vs Price.

Don't compromise quality and safety over price. Yes we need to be economical in our choices but know this, the best indoor dog gate need not be expensive for it to be high quality, durable, and reliable.

Opting to buy an indoor dog gate is certainly a smart choice when you want to teach your dog simple obedience lessons or when you just want to keep him away from the baby when you cannot supervise them. At http://www.indoordoggate.com you can find a wide array of dog gates and information for each type. For the budget conscious, Indoor Dog Gate has a wide selection of gates guaranteed to fit your budget.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tina_Sherman

What to Look For in a Dog Gate

Dog gate products are similar to other safety gates, like ones designed for babies. There are a couple of subtle differences, however, based on the types of trouble dogs and babies get into. Child safety gates are intended to protect children from themselves, but dog gates have a bigger responsibility: to protect children, furniture, and other pets from dogs.

Most dog gates are either free standing or pressure mounted. A pressure mounted pet gate has bolts on their sides that screw out to bracket against a fixture like a stair post or door frame. This is the better choice for larger dogs, since these models are more likely to withstand being jumped on or pushed against. Most brands make adult passage convenient by featuring a hinge that allows part of the gate to temporarily open with a release latch operated by a handle or foot pedal.

Free standing dog gates use longer feet to stay upright. The pair of feet that runs perpendicular to the center railing is usually 36 to 48 inches in length, so they're unlikely to pitch forward or backward if pushed or jumped on by a smaller dog. Obviously, free standing brands are less ideal for larger dogs, but an extra wide pet gate (greater than 48 inches) can be used if its width exceeds the doorway it's intended to block, and placed on the inside of the room in which the dog is meant to contain. With either gate type, extra tall dog gates (greater than 40 inches) are recommended, since it's easy to underestimate how high a large dog and jump.

For design-conscious owners, a dog gate products are available in a variety of materials, colors and styles, but you're better off choosing a brand for its ability to contain your dog. Instead of wood or plastic, a metal dog gate is recommended, since it offers less traction to pets attempting to climb the posts, and it discourages dogs from biting them.

If you need to keep your children and pets out of trouble and out of danger, check out Fence and Gate to find out more about what to look for in a Safety Gate.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andre_Kibbe

Buying Guide For Chain Link Dog Kennels

This article is a buying guide for either outdoor or portable chain link dog kennels.

Features to look for:

1. Material. Make sure the dog kennel is made of galvanized steel, which is corrosion resistant. Stay away from anything with aluminum parts since they rust easily. They're fragile and highly corrosive. Galvanized steel also allows for easy cleaning and wipe down to prevent bacterial growth without worrying about rust. The steel frame also helps keep your pet safe since it's so strong and difficult to bend or break.

2. Easy Set Up. The high quality outdoor and portable chain link fence companies make ones that can be set up in as little as a half hour and only requiring one tool, usually a pair of pliers. The easy connect designs are much easier to deal with and set up than the more complicated ones. Some require concrete to be poured and a rather permanent kennel. The ability to move it around easily makes for an easy set up, but will also save your lawn.

3. Easy to Disassemble. Whether you're buying a portable chain link kennel or one that will be stationary in your back yard, make sure the one you're buying comes apart as easily as it went together. If it's a stationary one, you might decide to move it one day or if it's portable you want to make sure it'll be hassle free to take on the road with you.

4. Size. If your dog is going to be spending a lot of time in the kennel, you of course need to make sure it's going to be big and comfortable. Take the time to measure out the area in your yard so that you'll know before you order online and have it shipped. If you're buying a dog kennel for a small to medium dog, make sure to get on that is at least 7 1/2 x 7 1/2 x 4 feet. If you're looking for one for a large dog, make sure it's 7 x 12 x 6.

5. Accessories. There are certain accessories that you might want, so go with a company that offers ones that will fit with your kennel. If the kennel is outside in your back yard, there are covers that easily fit over the top to shield your pet from the sun and rain. Another accessory you might eventually want is dog kennel flooring.

6. Easy Latch. The last feature to look for is a latch that lets you open or close it one handed. This allows you to handle the dog and open or close the door at the same time.

For more information on Dog Kennels and Runs
please check out the Dog Kennel Shop.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jane_Jordan

Aluminum Dog Crates Provide Pet Portability

There are a lot of reasons why you might need a dog crate, such as dog training, frequent traveling, hunting or even as a means of bringing your pet with you on an adventure. You need to be sure to choose a dog crate that is sturdy, safe and will be able to take the punishment of use. This is why aluminum crates are an excellent choice - they give your dog room, access to fresh air, are easy to clean up and are built to last.

The next thing you need to consider is how easy the crate will be to load in and out of your vehicle. Aluminum dog crates are already pre-assembled for easy use. Just put the crate in your vehicle and then put your dog in the crate. Most of the aluminum crates on the market are designed for traveling and are built really well. Their lightweight, yet sturdy design makes them perfect for use in SUVs or even pickup trucks, making it easy to bring your dog anywhere you want to go. These crates make it really handy to use when kenneling your pet during long trips and to just make travel a lot easier.

Look for crates that are made of 100% aluminum materials for the best results. These kinds of crates usually feature rust-free coatings and are built tough. Check to see that the aluminum dog crate you are considering for purchase will work well in all-weather conditions and that it is build solid and strong. Ask the dealer about no-rust rivets and ensure that the padlock assembly is also made of high-quality materials and is rust-proof.

The next thing you need to consider when looking at aluminum dog crates is the overall size of the dog that will be using it. You need to make sure that your dog has enough room inside the new crate to be able to move around and be comfortable during your trip. Compare the crate's size to the size of your dog to ensure that he will be able to be comfortable and secure while he is inside the crate.

You will, of course, need to consider that your dog will need to come out of the crate to "go" occasionally throughout your travels. Unfortunately, accidents do happen and you might not be able to stop somewhere for your dog to go, so be sure that the crate has drain holes in case of accidents. The drains provided in most aluminum dog crates also make them idea for house-breaking a new puppy.

Another thing to take in consideration is the interior size of your vehicle. If you buy a crate that is too large for your vehicle, it will not be a good fit inside your car or the back of your truck. Write down the dog crate's measurements so you can keep this in consideration when you purchase the crate so it will fit well for travel.

Once you have gone through the checklist of what you need in a crate such as size, comfort and room, sturdiness and durability, ease of use and type of materials used, you can then start to look around online and in local stores for the best deal possible. There are many choices available for dog owners that want to purchase Aluminum Dog Crates. Once you find the type and the model that you want, you can then start searching for the best price available. Get started today!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jam_Kreig

Pet Costumes - Adorable Ways to Dress Up Your Dog For Halloween

Whenever Halloween arrives, pet owners do not just worry about their own costumes, but they worry about dog costumes and cat costumes for their pets, as well. This is because trick-or-treating is much more fun when you bring your pet with you. Whether you have plans of turning your rottweiler into a fairy tale princess or your chihuahua into a Frankenstein-like monster or even your poodle into Mickey Mouse, pet Halloween costumes exist for any kind of dog out there.

The best part is that most dogs actually enjoy the attention that they get when being dressed up in Halloween pet costumes. In fact, they enjoy it so much that there is no wonder why pet owners go nuts looking for dog Halloween costumes for their dogs that will match whichever event they plan to attend. Here are several pet costumes that you can take into consideration for your own four-legged friend.

Female dogs usually look extra adorable in princess outfits and tiaras. Since most stores for pet Halloween costumes are aware of this, you should have no trouble finding your dog's size in these dog costumes anywhere. Make sure you look for glittery fabrics, as well, so that your dog will sparkle while you're out. However, no matter which Halloween pet costumes you choose to look at, keep in mind that your dog's well-being and comfort should be top priority, no matter what.

Male dogs, on the other hand, look great in pirate outfits. You can even load up on the accessories when it comes to these particular dog Halloween costumes. Try adding a belt or a tunic, a hat or a sword and even - if you can get it to stay on him, that is - an eyepatch.

If you are looking for pet costumes that are less complicated than that, you should look into witch's costumes, which are the easiest ones to buy. To make things a bit more interesting, try attaching a broom to the costume. Make sure it is made out of break-away material or rubber, though, so it doesn't get stuck on other objects in case your dog decides to run after goblins in the middle of the night.

To ensure that you have the most fun this Halloween, dress your dog in the best pet Halloween costumes out there. Then, take him out for a night of trick-or-treating so other pet owners can get inspired by you. Do not feed your dog any of the sweets that you collect together, though. Instead, have healthier treats available for him at home for when you get back.

Want to see a full list of pet costumes? Then visit this website now and find the best pet Halloween costumes out there today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_Trott 

 

 

10 Tips to Keep Your Dog Safe and Sane on Halloween

Halloween is a fun time of year and a holiday that many of us look forward to.  However, for the family dog Halloween can be a dangerous and stressful holiday.  Plan ahead and be prepared by implementing some common sense and making the holiday safe and sane for everyone involved.

1.  Prepare a Secure Place for Your Dog to Hang Out On Halloween 

Have a place where your dog will be safe, secure and comfortable on Halloween.  If your dog is crate trained then this is the best option hands down.  If your dog is not crate trained, keep him confined in a separate room during peak trick-or-treat hours.  Either option will help reduce your dogs stress caused by the ringing doorbell and exuberant squealing of costumed children.  Keeping your dog confined will also reduce your stress by eliminating the worry of your dog darting out the door every time you open it.

2.  Best Dog Halloween Costume Ever - A Tag and a Microchip

If you do not seclude your dog and he manages to escape out the door, he may find his neighborhood frightening due to it being filled with strange looking costumed creatures. Be sure Fido is wearing a tag with his name and your contact number in case he is too confused to find his way home.  If your dog does not have an identification microchip implanted between his shoulder blades, now is the time to get him one.  The chip is permanent and contains your contact information that is read by a scanner.  If you regularly change your phone number then consider using your vet as a primary contact point.  Contact your local veterinarian, shelter, or pet store for more information about microchipping your dog.

3.  Second Best Costume Ever - Fur

Some dogs will tolerate you putting a costume on them but most find it uncomfortable and stressful.  If you insist on dressing up Fido, be sure the outfit does not constrict movement, vision, hearing, breathing and barking

4.  Appropriate Treats

Dogs and humans should always stick to their own treats and Halloween is no exception.  Chocolate is toxic to your dogs health.  Keep some yummy dog treats handy so Fido can participate in the holiday festivities and do not forget to keep a watchful eye over the candy that you are handing out.

5.  Watch Out for Xylitol

Xylitol is a sweetener used in gum and candy and it is also toxic to your dog.  Watch for products containing Xylitol and keep them out of your pet's reach.

6.  Keep an Eye on Jack

The carved Jack O'Lantern looks great with a flame flickering inside of it and candles can be spooky and provide ambiance.   If your dog knocks over anything that is burning he could be seriously injured or start a fire.

7.  Keep Decorations Out of Your Dogs Reach

Keeping your dog away from candy is not the only hazard to worry about on Halloween.  Pumpkins, decorative corn, costume accessories, etc. may be non-toxic but if your dog eats them he may suffer from an upset tummy or even worse, intestinal blockage.

8.  Kids Outside - Dogs Inside

When the kids go out trick-or-treating keep Fido inside at home.  You may enjoy seeing friends, neighbors and kids dressed up in masks and costumes but this can be confusing and frightening for your dog.  Dog behavior can become unpredictable under stress so play it safe and leave your dog at home.

9.  Know Who to Call In Case Your Dog Becomes Sick

If you think your dog has consumed something dangerous have the following resources available:
Your veterinarian's number, local animal hospital, or after hours emergency vet.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center  888-426-4435.

10.  Do Not Forget About the Wrappers

The candy is has been eaten but have the wrappers been disposed of properly?  Candy wrappers and packaging could lead to choking or other medical issues if your dog finds them and eats them.  Clean up after your little goblins and be on the look out for dangerous debris for the next few days after Halloween.

I know how confusing and frustrating it can be to find reliable dog training information from someone you can trust.  It is to your advantage to understand the process right from the beginning.  Get a jump start towards your dog training success by following proven methods that will eliminate the time consuming, trial and error process sometimes associated with dog training theories.  It's free to check out my site and it may be one of the most important things that you do all day.  Please visit http://www.dogtrainingplace.net to see what everyone is talking about.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amy_Morford

Top 10 Dog Halloween Costumes

At Halloween, kids aren't the only ones who get to dress up and enjoy treats. Hundreds of dog lovers get their pets into the act with dog Halloween costumes. The following are the top 10 costumes for dogs this Halloween.

1. Jailbird

The jailbird outfit with the classic black & white stripes will bring a smile to any dog lover's face. Make sure you get a funny hat to complete the look.

2. Angel

How cute would your little pooch be with a halo and a pair of silk wings? After all, aren't they all little angels?

3. Devil

Okay, maybe they're not all little angels. The bright red color of most devil costume is really eye-catching. Add a red cape or bow tie and a pair of horns and you've got the perfect little devil.

4. Superman

Or should that be Superdog? Put him in the red & blue tights with the big "S" on the chest and you'll have a dog of steel. Top it off with red boots or footies.

5. Bride & Groom

If you've got two dogs, bride and groom costumes are a great way to include them both. The groom costume is especially effective with a breed such as the Bulldog, which often looks a little unsettled anyway.

6. Pirate

Pirate costumes are popular right now with the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, and your dog can help you complete your outfit. A bandana and an eye patch will give your dog the necessary look, and he can replace the parrot as your trusty sidekick.

7. Clown

If you're lucky enough to have a dog that will accept a clown nose for more than two seconds, this is the perfect costume for you. Even without the nose, you can get a pretty good looking clown with a crazy wig and some bright, colorful duds.

8. King or Queen

Your dog probably already gets treated like royalty, so why not complete the effect? Velvet robes, crowns and jewel-studded collars will make your pet into a regal figure.

9. Animals

Maybe your dog would like to spend a day in your cat's shoes? Why not try dressing him up as a different animal even - pigs, cows, bunny rabbits and frogs are just a few of your options.

10. Flowers

If your dog is willing to put up with a hat for the night, there are lots of cute flower costumes you can get. Even if they won't go for the hat, you can get some costumes that have neck pieces made to look like petals or leaves.

Whatever costume you decide on, just make sure you try it on a few times before Halloween night so your dog gets used to it. The last thing you want is having the costume torn up when he's thrashing around trying to get out of it!

Are you looking for ideas for dog Halloween costumes? Check out the Get In Costume website for lots of fun & creative costume ideas. Plus, get a free copy of my special report "The Family Guide To Halloween Safety" at http://www.getincostume.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phil_Sikes

2010 Trendy Dog Halloween Costumes

Why not surprise your friends this Halloween by holding a dog Halloween bash. Hmmm, seems interesting, doesn't it? You could add in a lot to such a party including best costume competition and a dog fashion show.

Pirates Halloween Costumes

 

Clown Dog Halloween

Angel Dog Halloween

Devil Dog Halloween

Groom and Bride Dog Halloween

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jailbird Dog Halloween

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Superman Dog Halloween

 

Celebrate Halloween With Pretty Dog Costumes

Many people look up to Halloween for the glitz and funk that it brings. People compete with one another on who wears the most gothic, frightening and eccentric clothes. Garments are specially designed and matching accessories are bought that look perfectly in sync with the Halloween dresses.

Why not surprise your friends this Halloween by holding a dog Halloween bash. Hmmm, seems interesting, doesn't it? You could add in a lot to such a party including best costume competition and a dog fashion show.

If you like the idea and are planning to hold one such party this coming Halloween then we have some very useful costume suggestions for you. Among many interesting dog clothing are Glow Bones Dog Halloween Costumes. Boney Dog costume is an innovative, stylish, spooky, and fun, two-piece dog costume for Halloween. Its features glow-in-the-dark and thus the details become prominent on the fitted outfit and you can actually see a spooky glowing skeleton on the Glow Bones. The best thing about this costume is that it stands out on a dark Halloween night.

You can add matching hat with ear holes and Velcro closure to go with it. Some precautions to note about these Halloween dog costumes are that you should machine wash them cold on a gentle cycle and line dry. This costume is sure to make your pet the life of the party.

Apart from these there are other customized dog costumes like Dogzilla Halloween costumes, Hot Dog Halloween costumes, Little Stinker Halloween costumes, and Piggy Dog costumes. Many of these costumes also come with matching dog toys to give your pet extra fun on its Halloween party and to stand out from the rest of the dogs.

Then there are the extremely cute dog shirts for the Halloween. These are comfy and glow in the dark. You can even get your dog's name or other things printed on them to give them a unique personal touch. They include I Do My Own Tricks and Daddy's Little Devil t-shirts.

If your dog is a sociable and friendly pet and gets along well with kids and other dogs, then chances are that he will be comfortable wearing a costume. If it is, then you can take it along to pet parades and costume contests in the Halloween season. Many of these are part of October festivals or community Pumpkin festivals.

But you should also keep this thing in mind that not every dog will stay cool, calm and collected about being dressed up for the Halloween. Most of them will only cooperate with you only if the costume that you have selected for them is not terribly annoying to them. For other dogs, however, a costume might be okay and fun, but anything that seems like a hat will have to go. Then there are also some dogs who really do enjoy being dressed up. This is because they love the attention that goes along with it and they seem to think it's a perfectly natural thing to do-wearing pretty costumes and getting attention.

Buy Dog Halloween Costumes and Dog Clothing online at PuppyLaPu.Com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicole_Viscuso

Top Ten Coolest Toys and Accessories For Small Dogs

If you are the owner of a small dog you will be pleased to know that there has never been as much choice available as there is today when it comes to cool, hip, high quality, and practical toys and accessories for your little companion. You can get everything from a flashy designer collar for that special occasion or event to comforting toys that are designed to help your little one feel less lonely when you are out at work. Below are ten of the fabulously cool and trendy toys and accessories that you can treat your canine companion to without breaking the bank.

The comforting snuggle toy: An innovative and practical solution to easing separation anxiety in your small dog, you can now get cuddly terry dogs that are perfect for your little dog to snuggle up to and actually have a simulated heartbeat, making your little one feel as though he has the company of another dog, and easing the loneliness when you are out at work.

Leather pet carriers: We've all seen the superstars parading around with their beloved toy dogs in handheld leather carriers. You can now get one of your own for a really low price, enabling you to transport your toy dog around in true celebrity style. These carriers are sturdy, high quality, and practical, but also very stylish, snazzy, and eye-catching - the perfect accessory if your toy dog is something of a style guru!

Soft harnesses: In stark contrast to the rather cold and clinical leather harnesses that we are used to, the soft harness looks a little like a vest, and fits comfortably and snugly around your small dog. You can get these soft harnesses in a range of fashionable and vibrant colours, so your pooch can look forward to total comfort as well as real style.

Sofa beds: Gone are the days when your pet had to put up with a cardboard box and a blanket when it came to bedtime. These days you can get some fabulous bed designs to suit small dogs, and the comfortable, stylish, and eye-catching sofa style bed is a great choice. Available in a range of colours, these doggy sofa beds are perfect for your little one to kick back, relax, and enjoy sweet dreams after a hard day of fun, play, and exercise.

The knitted sweater: The equivalent of the little black dress that is essential to every woman's wardrobe, the knitted sweater is a must have for your small dogs 'wardrobe'. These sweaters are not only comfortable and very trendy, but are ideal for taking your small dog out in colder weather. Small dogs can be susceptible to extreme temperatures, but with these snug little sweaters, which are available in a range of designs and colours, your dog will be able to enjoy some fresh air without feeling the cold.

The jewelled collar: Many toy dog breeds have really cute and adorable faces as well as beautiful coats, and there is nothing that completes the look better than an elegant and classy looking jewelled collar. You can select from a range of jewelled collars, from designed ones for the upper class toy dog to affordable replicas for those who want to enjoy affordable style. Your toy dog will look particularly impressive at specials events and occasions when sporting one of these eye-catching, sparkling jewelled collars.

The floppy Frisbee: No matter what sort of toy dog you have, your pet will always be intrigued and at excited to see a Frisbee sailing through the air, and a floppy seven inch Frisbee made from nylon is ideal for toy dogs. This type of Frisbee is gentle on the mouth so your toy dog can catch it in safety. The size of the Frisbee also makes it ideal for small dog breeds, so your toy dog can enjoy plenty of fun and exercise with minimal risk of injury.

Hair accessories: You can select from a wide range of fabulous, classy, and elegant hair accessories for your toy dog, and she will look the belle of the ball at that special occasion or event. From pretty bonnets to beautiful ribbons and bows, you can have her looking just perfect in next to no time.

Cotton bathrobe: After a particularly gruelling grooming session, a bath or wash, or after being caught out in the rain, your toy dog will want some warmth and comfort. Rather than chasing your pet around the house armed with a towel, you can invest in a stylish and comfortable bathrobe that is specially designed for smaller dogs, and will enable your pet to enjoy comfort and style.

Dressy outfits: The choice of specialist outfits available for small dogs these days in incredible. You can now get everything from sailor outfits and Christmas outfits for him to fabulous dresses to suit every occasion for her. You can even get wedding outfits and top hats for your toy pooch, which means that he or she can dress for any occasion and always look stylish, fabulous, and eye-catching.

Small dog breeds make perfect pets, but which small dog breed is right for you? To find out visit http://www.allsmalldogbreeds.com/ for comprehensive, accurate descriptions on all 22 of the toy dog breeds.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Luke_Donnelley