Step By Step Directions on How to Clip Your Dog’s Nails

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Attention: Safety Rules for Dogs and Kids Playing Together

Learn How to Take Great Pictures of Your Dog

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Step By Step Directions on How to Clip Your Dog’s Nails

Most dogs don’t enjoy nail cutting and are often afraid of it. Many dogs object to nail cutting because someone has clipped their nails too short in the past and hurt them, or they are afraid of the sound of the nail clippers. If you do not have much experience just nip the very tip of the nail with the clipper so that there's no way you're going to cut too far and hurt him. Accidents happen once in a while and even the best groomers occasionally draw blood. Nails can bleed heavily and it's best to have something on hand to stop it. Effective product that is designed especially for this purpose is Kwik Stop.

First, make sure you have a sharp nail clipper. The best kind is the one that looks like little pliers and has two blades, top and bottom. It cuts faster with less effort. Second, find a helper that is going to hold the dog’s body and give treats. Third, hold the dog's ankle, lift the foot and turn the paw backward so that the pads are facing up. After you've nipped the first nail, praise your furry friend by giving a treat (but don't let go of his foot) and move on to the next toe. Your grip should be firm. The dog shouldn't be able to pull his foot out of your hand. It may take some time just to get the dog to tolerate your holding his foot but be very firm about. It works best if you keep your voice low, deep and calm and use a tone that shows him you do not intend to compromise. Forth, take a break after completing each foot. Last, but definitely not least, reward your furry friend with treats and praise for good behavior.

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Attention: Safety Rules for Dogs and Kids Playing Together

Parents have a real reason to be concerned about kids and dogs leaving or playing together. Statistics show that most dog bites causing injury involve medium to large sized dogs and children under the age of five. Young babies and children should never be left alone with a dog. Most dogs, even the well-trained ones, do not consider children as figures of authority. Dog’s reactions are instinctive. A dog will react to situations according to what his instincts tell him. At the same time, potential relationship between a child and a dog could be precious. Families can create lots of fun and endless games by teaching the dog and the child to respect and appreciate each other.

By following some simple rules most dogs and kids can stay friends happily ever after. Children should be taught to never hit dogs with their hands or an object, to lower their voices when playing with the dog, and to leave the dog alone when he's sleeping, eating, or ill. Dogs should be exposed to socializing with small children at an early age. Socialization can be as simple as walking the dog near a playground where children are making noise, running, and playing. Also, remember that what your dog tolerates from your own children may not be tolerated from someone else's. Take extra safety precautions when other children visit.

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Learn How to Take Great Pictures of Your Dog

It is preferable not to take the dog outside; there is too much distractions and wind. In case you decide to shoot outside, the best time would be in the early morning or late afternoon. This is the time when the sun is low enough on the horizon so there are less shadows. Make sure the sun is more to the side of the dog rather than straight on. This will give a more 3D look to your photos. The background should be at least 10 feet away from the dog - the plainer, the better. A park with trees and hills in the distance is a good one.

Make sure your furry friend takes up as much of the picture plane as possible. A 3/4 view of the body is flattering for most dogs, but feel free to experiment. You need at least one other person to help with the dog. To capture the dog’s attention you need a helper just behind the photographer making catchy noise (be creative). For every good picture you get, you might get at least 4 - 5 that are not good. Make sure you have lots of film with you - you never know when your dog will give you "that special look".

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