Animal training

Teaching a dog to drop objects is a very useful exercise for training, playing and avoiding the destruction of valuables! During this exercise, as well as teaching your dog to release things, you can let them have fun playing tug of war or fetch. Most coaches who compete in canine sports take advantage...

Pit bulls are one of the most popular breeds exploited for dog fighting. For this reason, more and more people get the impression that they are dangerous. In this article from AnimalWised, we will go through whether pit bulls are violent breeds, how to avoid dog fights and lastly, how to safely make...

The American pit bull terrier, or simply the pit bull, is a very well known breed. They are regularly considered to be one of the most aggressive dogs, often bought to reinforce security at home. But the truth is that they aren't responsible for this social controversy. Rather, they have been the victims...

Most people think pit bulls are dangerous dogs, but nothing is further from the truth; if you educate them well when they are young, you will be left with an obedient, loving and faithful companion. However, they are considered potentially dangerous dog breeds in some countries. So, before adoptoing a...

Do you feel a sudden prodding on your face or wake up ten minutes before the alarm clock rings? If its your favorite furry friend that's waking you up every single morning and won't let you rest the amount of time you'd like to, you may be asking yourself why this may be, if you should worry or not, and...

If you have decided to adopt or foster an adult cat but you cannot socialize them with fellow cats or dogs, you have came to the right place. In this AnimalWised article we will tell you all the factors that influence the socialization of cats and your best options to integrate them into your home. When...

The Shiba Inu is one of the oldest types of spitz. They are very popular in Japan and are gradually getting more popular in the West. They are very loyal to their owners and are perfectly suited to any environment - both city and countryside. They are very independent, intelligent and strong dogs. Although...

Few dogs are as faithful and loyal as the American Akita, with their evident protective instinct and willingness to go out their way for their human family. These are characteristics which need to be taken into account when you try to train them. However, we should also mention that these dogs are naturally...

If you are fortunate enough to share your life with a dog and you want to offer them the best in life, you will need to get clued up on all their needs. For example, we always enjoy playing with our dogs, but are we aware of what things we can give them to play and which we cannot? Just as there are...

Anyone who shares their life with a cat will have experienced the following scenario. You are quietly doing something and suddenly your feline has pulled down what you left on the table. You ask yourself: Why do cats throw things to the ground? Is it simply to annoy us? Do they want our attention? In...

The most effective way to strengthen the bond between a dog and their owner is to take them for frequent walks. Besides the bonding process, the benefits of dog walks go much further. They help manage their stress levels, keep them healthy and discipline them in a pleasant way. Sometimes our pets need...

Who doesn't want their dog to learn tricks? Surely no one raised their hand?! Just as I assumed...seeing your puppy spinning, lying down or playing dead is very entertaining. But best of all, you are not only encouraging their intelligence, you are reinforcing their training and strengthening your relationship...

If you are thinking of adopting a schnauzer or if you already have one living with you, it is vital to know everything about the breed. Their character, their qualities and the best way to educate them from an early age. Through this, you will achieve an adult that is a balanced, sociable and happy dog. In...

Despite what many people think, cats are able to learn simple (and later more advanced) commands, as long as we use positive reinforcement. AnimalWised are here to explain how to train your cat to give their paw, so that you can interact further and strengthen your relationship. It is very gratifying to see your...

Many people wonder why their pets eat when they are with family, but as soon as their humans leave, they stop. What happens in the minds of dogs and why do some lose their appetite? This is not an abnormal behavior. It's probably more common than most believe. Remember that feeding is the basis of...

If you live with a dog, you should know that taking them out on daily walks is more than just a healthy activity to do together. It enhances your relationship with one another and is also a fundamental activity which allows your dog to enjoy a full state of well-being. Some dog breeds have different...

We are constantly discussing our need to integrate positive habits and a concrete routine into our daily lives. But, what about the routines of our pets? Ever since we domesticated dogs and cats, have we ever doubted the way of living we give our pets? In this AnimalWised article we will show you some...

The cane corso or Italian mastiff is one of the most impressive Italian dog breeds. The name derives from the Latin "cohors", which means "protector, guardian of the farmyard". Training is not difficult with this breed if it is done correctly and using positive reinforcement. If you are considering adopting a...

Although there are many dog training techniques, all of them can be classified into two broad categories: techniques based on learning theories and dog training techniques based on canine ethology. AnimalWised will detail what they are and how to apply them. Techniques based on learning theories centre...

Training a dog looks easy when you see a skilled and experienced trainer. However, not all trainers have the same skills and the same experience, and mistakes in dog training are more common than one might think. If you are planning to become a trainer or going to start training your dog on your own, it...

Teaching your dog to lie down with a command will help it develop self-control and will be very useful for you in your everyday life with your pet. Note that it is an exercise that is not easy to teach all dogs, because it puts them in a vulnerable position. Therefore, you have to be very patient to train...

For some people, travelling by car is an integral part of their daily routine. So, we must accustom our dog to this properly, in order to continue life as normal. It is vital to ensure that travelling with pets is not a problem. But what happens if your dog cries in the car or is too scared to get into it? In...

Socialization is the process by which dogs learn to relate to other dogs, animals and humans. Through socialization, dogs learn to get along with other pets and to differentiate adults from children. Habituation, on the other hand, is the process by which dogs learn to ignore environmental elements that...

Advice to prevent a dog from pulling the leash will depend on the specific case of each dog. This is not a widespread problem or down to a lack of understanding. It is, in most cases, a problem directly related to the dog's well being. In this AnimalWised article we will give you the key to finding good...

Having your dog feel comfortable in a travel cage or carrier is one of the most important things you will have to teach them. It is very useful to prevent them from being uncomfortable, stressed or trying to escape. Note that the travel carrier need not be a prison for a dog. It should be their den, the...

Do you have a destructive dog that chews on everything or digs up your garden? Well, in this AnimalWised article we will give you 8 tips for destructive dogs that are useful or perhaps essential to help your dog reduce their anxiety. An anxious dog can often turn into a destructive one. If your dog has...

To a cat, a hanging cable or wire is an enticing toy. The same goes for cords, rubber bands, ropes and ribbons - any hanging household item! For your cat it is the best distraction to play and do its thing with them. Your cat is probably a specialist in munching through electrical cords. They will have...

We know that cats are independent creatures. Yet, studies from experts in feline behavior have suggested that cats can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone. And although it is not known for sure what can cause it, some say that it may be due to genetic and environmental factors. Cats with separation...

Stress is an adaptive mechanism intended to ensure survival in dangerous situations. However, it can also be a disease with serious physical and behavioral repercussions. The cat is especially susceptible to pathological stress. This is because they feel the need to exercise full control over their...

Dog lovers will defend that their pups are undoubtedly man's best friend. But, before we can appreciate all their qualities, we must ensure we train them the proper way. Contrary to what people may think of dog training, this process does not only allow us to teach our dog and balance their character....

How many times have you wished you could ask your pet: "What did you just do?" Developing communication between you and your dog is a beautiful and exciting process. Although for some owners, it is very frustrating as they do not get results. The basis of all communication is affection and patience, although...

Dogs can be possessive with their toys: this is not a problem when they simply try to avoid us when we attempt to take them away, but it can become worrying when dogs growl or threaten to bite when approached. In that case, the dog is sending us a clear message: "This is mine, take another one". When...

Beagles are a scent hound breed, whose not-too-distant ancestors hunted in packs over long distances. They are therefore very energetic dogs, although they are also very loving and sociable. Beagles need to burn off lots of energy and practice tracking, as it is part of their nature. It is your responsibility...

Living with a dog is the source of many great experiences, fun anecdotes, and usually a beautiful, long-lasting friendship. However, cohabitation means that conflicts and accidents happen from time to time; the dog may become stressed if not paid enough attention, or they may develop behavioral issues. Other...

The arrival of a baby is a truly joyous event, but can also bring stress, worry and big changes around the house. A new child, especially if it's the first, is a challenge for the parents - and also for the family's pets. If you have a dog, you will have guessed that they will feel agitated at finding...

Obedience training basically consists in educating a dog to respond positively to our orders and indications. This is basic in any dog's education, as it lays the ground for a safe and happy cohabitation. Unlike what many believe, canine obedience is not a synonym of dog training, as obedience is only a part...

Dogs are generally very social animals who enjoy the company of other pets and people. However, a dog may become aggressive because of certain circumstances: this is a very serious behavioral problem that may jeopardize its safety and that of people. If your dog is aggressive with people, you should look...

Did you know aggressiveness is one of the most common problems in domestic cats? Although we must not make the mistake of associating cats with aggression, as they are usually quiet pets, we must remember that cats are not as sociable as dogs. A cat does not see why it should accept another cat: in...

Bite inhibition is perhaps the cornerstone of the socialization process of any dog: a dog that has not learned to inhibit their bite is a dangerous dog that can cause damage even when playing. On the other hand, a dog that knows how to inhibit their bite can prevent damage even when it bites, in order to warn...

Does your dog have a lot of energy? Many owners conceive this to be a negative trait, since a dog with lots of energy needs ways to channel it; otherwise, it may lead to unbalanced behavior. However, excess energy by itself is not negative. An hyperactive dog simply has certain requirements that the...