Animal Planet's "Dogs 101: Boston Terriers"

An episode of Animal Planet's "Dogs 101: Boston Terriers" that we shot with special guest Rose McGowan.

Boston Terrier Training - Leading the Boston Terrier's Pack

Boston terrier training should start with the idea that you are the leader of your Boston's pack. Like all Dogs, Boston terriers are pack animals. If you are not acting like the pack leader, your Boston will step into the vacuum and take over that position. Training is essential when you get your puppy from a Boston terrier breeder. You may also need to do some training for an older Dog you get by going through Boston terrier adoption.

One important consideration is what kind of leash to use in Boston terrier training. The "choke" collar is not a good idea. A Boston terrier has a delicate trachea, or windpipe, and the choke collar can injure it. Prong collars are not advisable since the pinch relies on pinching the Dog when you pull at the collar. It's better to use halters on Boston terriers.

If you decide to do the Boston terrier training yourself, you may want to get a book or video on dog training. Some outstanding training books have been written by Cesar Milan, the Dog Whisperer, whose methods are featured on a National Geographic television show.

Another approach is to give your Boston terrier training at a class with other dogs. It's great fun to learn training methods with other dog owners. In a class, your Boston gets experience socializing with other people and dogs. If you have children, be sure to bring them with you. Children are greatly amused by the concept of school for dogs. At class, your children will learn the training methods along with you and your Boston. That will help to make your Boston terrier training efforts consistent among all the family members.

Some people like to have professional trainers train their dogs. That's fine if you have the money, but Boston terrier training is easy enough that shouldn't really need a professional. If you decide to use a professional trainer, be sure to practice commands with your Boston so he or she knows you are the alpha dog.

One thing to be aware of with Bostons is that they are very smart and will get bored with too much repetition. Your Boston may do very well with a command at first and then play around instead of obeying. That's a sign that he's bored and you should practice more later. Boston terrier training will be a lot of fun if you are a wise leader of your Boston's pack.

Discover how over 64,207 dog owners have already solved their dogs' behavior problems and also get plenty of additional information such as case studies, best Boston Terrier training techniques and more.

Get more Boston Terrier training, breeding and care tips for Free at: Boston Terrier Center

What Can Poison a Boston Terrier?

The Boston Terrier, just like other Dog breeds, are very curious animals. With abilities such as scenting, hunting, tracking and the likes, in addition to their intelligence, there is no doubt that Dogs are indeed one of the most curious animals in this planet. While this curiosity makes them perform better at work, this can also cause issues that can threaten their lives. As curious animals, they can get into and eat just about anything - chocolate, medicines, household chemicals and so on. While these things are beneficial to us, humans, this doesn't goes the same when it comes to Dogs. There are various household items identified as poisonous to Dogs.

Chocolate

Chocolate, especially baking and dark chocolate is dangerous to dogs because of the substance called theobromine. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhea, increased urination, increased in activity and in worst cases, seizures and heart arrhythmias. If you know that your dog has eaten chocolate and is showing all or any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately with the information as to the weight and type of chocolate eaten by your Boston Terrier.

Cleaning Products

While cleaning products are a must-have to every homes, you should make sure to keep these products away from your pet's reach. Cleaning products poisonous to animals include bleach, dishwashing gel and detergents, laundry detergents, toilet bowl cleaner, fabric softeners and other detergents. Symptoms of poisoning include burning in your dog's mouth, eyes, nose, stomach and skin. It can also cause drooling, vomiting and abdominal pain.

Medicines

Tylenol, aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and psuedophedrine are some of the over-the-counter medications dangerous to animals. Ingestion can cause kidney damage, liver damage and stomach ulcers though diarrhea, vomiting, seizures and anemia may also occur. Seek out your vet's attention immediately.

Insecticides

Insecticides are another household items that can pose threat to Fido. Lawn insecticides, lead and mothball poisoning may cause vomiting, diarrhea and anemia. Poisoning can cause central nervous system excitement and seizures and may lead to liver failure.

Household Plants

Common household plants poisonous to dogs are chrysanthemum, poinsettia, amaryllis, asparagus fern, lilies, aloe and ivy. Symptoms of toxicity may include rashes, swollen mouth, painful tongue, ore lips, vomiting, abdominal pain, cramps, tremors and sometimes heart, respiratory and kidney problems.

If signs are present and suspect that your dog is poisoned, no need to wait further. Seek your vet's advice immediately. And remember, to prevent endangering your pet's life, puppy-proof your home before the puppy arrives.

Richard Cussons wants to help every dog owner provide a safe home for their Boston terrier. Know more about this breed and how to achieve positive result in Boston terrier training.