Basic animal education
Learn more about basic animal education by exploring our site and become a true expert on the animal kingdom. You'll find content created for the best professionals with pictures, videos and opinions.
61 articles
![Why Does My Dog Greet Me With a Toy?](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/7/7/why_does_my_dog_greet_me_with_a_toy_4779_300_150.jpg)
A dog will bring a toy to greet you as a way to show you love, but also as a request for engagement. Generally speaking, it is a very positive behavior which indicates a strong bond between dog and guardian. In saying this, each dog has their own unique personality and set of behaviors. When a dog brings...
![Do Dogs Think Humans Are Their Parents?](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/3/8/do_dogs_think_humans_are_their_parents_4836_300_150.jpg)
Many dog guardians call themselves ‘dog parents’, even referring to their furry companions as ‘fur babies’ or similar. It is understandable we think of ourselves in a parental role when it comes to our dogs. Not only do we provide all of their basic needs and offer them protection, but they look to...
![Alpha Cat Behavior](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/6/4/alpha_cat_behavior_4465_300_150.jpg)
Sometimes, when two or more cats live in a house, there is conflict or fighting between them. When this happens, many caregivers attribute the aggressive behavior of one of the cats to an alpha or dominant character. The concept of dominance, however, is often misused. There is a tendency to view some...
![How to Train and Communicate With a Deaf Dog](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/8/3/how_to_train_and_communicate_with_a_deaf_dog_4382_300_150.jpg)
Training and educating a deaf dog can be a real challenge because we are used to communicating with our dogs through words. However, our dogs mainly use body and non-verbal language to express themselves, communicate and interact, both with us and with other animals and with their environment. For this...
![My Dog Is Scared of Water](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/4/5/my_dog_is_scared_of_water_546_300_150.jpg)
A dog's approach to water is as variable as our own. Some will bound in to any body of water with glee, others will only cautious approach a lapping wave and others still are acutely frightened of rivers, lakes and oceans. The reasons some dogs are scared of water and others not are also varied. Many...
![Why Does My Dog Nibble on Me With Its Front Teeth?](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/7/0/why_does_my_dog_nibble_on_me_with_its_front_teeth_4078_300_150.jpg)
Those who have owned or been around dogs for a long time know that dogs, especially puppies and those going through puberty, sometimes nibble on their guardians or objects without apparent reason. This behavior is also referred to by some pet owners as "cobbing" or "corn on the cob" and consists of small,...
![How to Build a Playpen for Dogs?](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/7/0/how_to_build_a_playpen_for_dogs_4072_300_150.jpg)
One of the main advantages of having a dog house or a dog pen in the house or garden is that they are very versatile. Among other things, it can be used to educate your puppy, control its space and protect it from danger. In addition, many of them can be folded and easily transported, making them ideal...
![How to Potty Train your Puppy to Use a Disposable pad](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/6/0/how_to_potty_train_your_puppy_to_use_a_disposable_pad_4068_300_150.jpg)
Puppies are not allowed outside until they have received their first vaccinations. One of the most common concerns of puppy owners who bring a puppy home is teaching the puppy to go potty in a specific place so owners do not have to constantly clean up the whole house after the puppy. Some prefer newspaper...
![Negative Effects of Dog Punishment](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/6/0/negative_effects_of_dog_punishment_4067_300_150.jpg)
There are things our dog can do which are frustrating. As animals, they interact with their environment in different ways and do not always understand the boundaries of human society. This is why it is so important to socialize and educate dogs from a young age. Eventually they will learn what is appropriate...
![How to Introduce Your Dog to a New Dog](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/0/0/how_to_introduce_your_dog_to_a_new_dog_4002_300_150.jpg)
Although dogs are social creatures, that does not necessarily mean they get along with every member of their species. Sometimes conflicts can arise, especially when two or more dogs are first introduced. These problems are often caused by a lack of social skills, difficulty sending or interpreting communication...
![How to Socialize a Kitten With Other Cats](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/6/0/how_to_socialize_a_kitten_with_other_cats_2069_300_150.jpg)
When a kitten arrives in our home, we hope to give them the best start in life. We want to do what we can to ensure their health and happiness, something for which proper socialization is essential. However, not all cats come from ideal situations. Adopting a cat from a shelter or even bringing a feral...
![My Dog Plays Too Rough - Stop Aggressive Play](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/2/9/my_dog_plays_too_rough_stop_aggressive_play_3922_300_150.jpg)
It is a mistake to treat dogs as if they were humans. They do have their own personalities and we can love them like family, but they have canine needs and behaviors which shouldn't be contradicted. For some, this leads people to believe dogs can be aggressive when playing and it doesn't mean anything. While...
![Common Puppy Training Mistakes](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/1/7/common_puppy_training_mistakes_1711_300_150.jpg)
Any dog guardian should understand the responsibility of a dog's care long before they have made the step to adopt one. The care needs of each dog varies according to their individual circumstance. Importantly, a puppy will have different training needs compared to educating an adult dog. With the best...
![The Best Treats and Snacks for Rabbits](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/0/8/the_best_treats_and_snacks_for_rabbits_3807_300_150.jpg)
Since we don't train and educate rabbits in the same way as we do dogs, many people think bunnies don't need treats. This couldn't be further from the truth. Not only do treats reward rabbits for good behavior, they can be used to both calm them down when they are scared and simply provide them with the...
![My Cat Is Climbing the Furniture](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/6/7/my_cat_is_climbing_the_furniture_3768_300_150.jpg)
Those of us who share our home with one or more cats probably know that coexistence can raise some issues. Although capable of showing us immense affection and being true companions, there are some basic feline behaviors which can be a little frustrating. While they may simply think they are playing, they...
![Best Way to Discipline a Puppy for Biting or Bad Behaviour](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/4/7/best_way_to_discipline_a_puppy_for_biting_or_bad_behaviour_3741_300_150.jpg)
Puppies are adorable and lovely to care for. However, they can also be quite naughty, biting and misbehaving at times. It is our responsibility as their caregiver to discipline them from a young age so they are well-behaved and have a balanced temperament as adults. With that being said, we mustn't do this...
![Do Guinea Pigs Recognize Their Owners?](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/3/7/do_guinea_pigs_recognize_their_owners_3735_300_150.jpg)
Too many think of guinea pigs as mere playthings without individual personality or any real cognitive ability. Fortunately, more and more animal guardians are adopting guinea pigs into their family and developing the kind of bonds that show us why they can make such rewarding companions. However, there are...
![Why Do Cats Not Like Their Tail to Be Touched?](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/1/7/why_do_cats_not_like_their_tail_to_be_touched_3710_300_150.jpg)
Petting a cat provides various benefits for both the cat and their guardian. It can be used as a reward for good behavior, it helps both parties relax and it builds the strong and necessary bond we need to live together harmoniously. But not all petting is the same. How and where we pet a cat is very important...
![Why Does My Dog Stare at Me When I Sleep?](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/8/6/why_does_my_dog_stare_at_me_when_i_sleep_3681_300_150.jpg)
Have you ever woken up to your dog staring at you? Most guardians won't be worried. In fact, we might feel protected to have our faithful canine stand vigil as we sleep. There might be some who are confused by this behavior or may even think it is strange. Some may even wonder if a dog staring them as they...
![My Dog Is Showing Its Belly](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/7/6/my_dog_is_showing_its_belly_3677_300_150.jpg)
Many of us love to give our dog belly rubs. Their skin is often softer and their hair is fluffier. It might remind us of when we tickle a baby or some other cute activity which shows intimacy between us. The action can elicit powerful feelings of tenderness and affection. Some dogs will roll over and expose...
![How to Introduce a Third Cat into a Home](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/7/6/how_to_introduce_a_third_cat_into_a_home_3674_300_150.jpg)
If we love cats, the idea of having many in our home might seem like a dream. However, overcrowding of pets is a problem for everyone involved, especially the animals. The problem is not only to do with the number of animals in a home. We also need to consider space, resources, hygiene and more. Even if...
![5 Reasons Why Yelling at Your Cat is Wrong](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/5/5/5_reasons_why_yelling_at_your_cat_is_wrong_3556_300_150.jpg)
The process of educating animals is a difficult one. It requires a lot of patience and remaining calm can be difficult when we factor in our daily stresses. Even with a companion animal we love dearly, it can be all too easy to lose our temper. Even though dogs are generally obedient animals, we can...
![My Rabbit Is Biting Me All of a Sudden](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/2/2/my_rabbit_is_biting_me_all_of_a_sudden_2227_300_150.jpg)
Rabbits are popular domestic pets thanks to their docile and playful nature. However, in certain situations, these little animals may become aggressive. When they are truly distressed they may even bite their caregivers.
In this AnimalWised article, we're going to explain the causes and solutions as...
![How Long Can You Leave a Dog Alone?](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/4/0/how_long_can_you_leave_a_dog_alone_2046_300_150.jpg)
When we adopt a dog we should know the responsibilities required of us. This does include food, shelter and monitoring for health problems. However, too many animal guardians are still unaware of how much attention, bonding and cognitive stimulation is required to maintain a dog's health and well-being....
![Why is My Rabbit Making Noises?](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/3/6/4/why_is_my_rabbit_making_noises_3463_300_150.jpg)
Rabbits are not an animal which stands out for being talkative. This is especially the case when we compare them with other companion animals such as cats and dogs. However, if you share your home with a rabbit, you will no they aren't exactly silent animals either. Rabbits do make sounds. Rabbit noises...
![Can Pet Rabbits Be Potty Trained?](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/2/4/can_pet_rabbits_be_potty_trained_3420_300_150.jpg)
Nowadays, there are many families that decide to adopt a rabbit as a pet. It's not surprising as these sweet and intelligent animals make the perfect housemates. However, to achieve a peaceful and harmonious coexistence, it's best to train and educate your rabbit using positive reinforcement.
In this...
![How to Teach a Cat its Name](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/3/0/how_to_teach_a_cat_its_name_2030_300_150.jpg)
You've adopted a new cat or kitten and chosen the perfect name. But will your new friend learn to respond to it? Teaching a cat to recognize its name is one of the most basic steps in training your kitten. You may have heard that cats are impossible to train, and may already be asking yourself whether...
![Why is My Puppy Biting and Growling?](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/3/7/why_is_my_puppy_biting_and_growling_1730_300_150.jpg)
When a puppy enters the family, it is usually a time of great joy and happiness. It is also a time of upset and adjustment as both the family and puppy adapt to each other's natures. Educating a puppy and making their transition into the family smooth is not always easy. While much of the time a puppy...
![Pomeranian Training for Puppy and Adult Dogs](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/5/0/pomeranian_training_for_puppy_and_adult_dogs_3057_300_150.jpg)
The Pomeranian is a Spitz type dog, beloved around the world for its gentle nature and fluff-ball appearance. Although they also stand out for being relatively docile in character, they require a solid education and the teaching of basic commands to live a full life as a companion animal. This education...
![Why Does My Dog Lift a Front Paw?](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/2/4/9/why_does_my_dog_lift_a_front_paw_2942_300_150.jpg)
Dogs lifting their front paw is a common trick that is taught in obedience training. For most dogs, it is a behavior which can be easily assimilated and is often one of the first lessons they learn. When a dog lifts their front paw regularly without being given the command, it might mean they want to communicate...
![How to Make a Rabbit More Affectionate](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/2/9/how_to_make_a_rabbit_more_affectionate_2926_300_150.jpg)
Bonding with your bunny is not always easy. There are so many different factors which lead to how secure your rabbit feels and how much affection they are willing to show you. Not least of these is your bunny's personality. Getting to know the personality of your rabbit is one of the most rewarding experiences...
![How To Train A Shar Pei](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/1/8/how_to_train_a_shar_pei_2818_300_150.jpg)
Shar Peis are one of the most popular Chinese dog breeds. This is mainly due to their peculiar appearance and special character. These dogs are known to be somewhat independent and incredibly loyal, calm and protective over their families. For this reason, it is incredibly important that they are properly...
![Getting a Dog Used to a Hair Dryer](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/9/7/getting_a_dog_used_to_a_hair_dryer_2796_300_150.jpg)
The sound of a hairdryer can be fairly piercing even to human ears. Since dogs can hear almost twice as many frequencies of sound than humans, hair dryers can appear to be shrieking monsters rather than helpful appliances. For this reason, it is understandable your dog can become agitated or even frightened...
![Dog Training Guide - Basic Level](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/4/7/dog_training_guide_basic_level_2745_300_150.jpg)
In this AnimalWised article, we will be offering you a guide on how to train basic level obedience exercises for your canine. Bare in mind, if you want to train yourself to become a professional in canine education, this is not the way, as you need to be qualified through a course.
In this short guide...
![How To Train A Chihuahua](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/3/7/how_to_train_a_chihuahua_2734_300_150.jpg)
Chihuahua are loving, curious and energetic dogs. However, sometimes it's very important for them to listen to our orders as it can potentially keep them safe in certain situations. This is why it's a great idea to start training your Chihuahua from a young age.
Not only will it keep them mentally and...
![How to Introduce a New Cat to Another Cat](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/0/8/4/how_to_introduce_a_new_cat_to_another_cat_2480_300_150.jpg)
There is no doubt that the question of how to introduce a second cat into your household is the most common among cat owners who consider that their best friend needs company. We know how difficult it is for us to adopt a single kitten, either because we love these beautiful animals, because we want to...
![How to Stop My Dog from Climbing on the Sofa](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/6/8/9/how_to_stop_my_dog_from_climbing_on_the_sofa_986_300_150.jpg)
When our dog is a puppy, we often let them sleep and play on the sofa. As they grow, however, this habit can create conflicts - and even destroy our furniture! Therefore, it's very important that we train dogs not to climb on things from a young age, especially if they are a larger breed.
Establishing rules...
![How to Train a Kitten](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/8/8/how_to_train_a_kitten_887_300_150.jpg)
When you adopt a kitten, you have an obligation to teach them how to behave properly. This is so that when they live with you, life is nothing but a pleasant experience and you have a well-educated and happy pet at home. It is not acceptable for them to bite or destroy your furniture. It is also important...
![How to Get a Cat to Sleep in its Own Bed](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/8/0/how_to_get_a_cat_to_sleep_in_its_own_bed_2088_300_150.jpg)
If you have a cat at home, then it is no secret that these animals, as well as being beautiful and good company, are also dominant beings. In some cases, they can even be capricious, so from the outset it is necessary to establish some ground rules.
It is very common to hear complaints from cat owners...
![Training an American Akita](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/1/9/6/training_an_american_akita_691_300_150.jpg)
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...
![How to Train Your Schnauzer](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/5/4/4/how_to_train_your_schnauzer_1445_300_150.jpg)
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...
![How to Train Your Cat to Give their Paw](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/4/4/how_to_train_your_cat_to_give_their_paw_1444_300_150.jpg)
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...
![Should I Walk My Dog Before or After Meals?](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/8/1/2/should_i_walk_my_dog_before_or_after_meals_1218_300_150.jpg)
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...
![Tips on How to Train a Cane Corso](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/2/4/tips_on_how_to_train_a_cane_corso_1424_300_150.jpg)
The Cane Corso, also known as the Italian mastiff, is one of the most impressive Italian dog breeds. In addition, they're easy to care for when using positive reinforcement.
If you are considering adopting a Cane Corso, or have one already, you have came to the perfect place. Keep reading this AnimalWised...
![Socializing Puppies and Adult Dogs](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/7/9/socializing_puppies_and_adult_dogs_974_300_150.jpg)
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...
![Tips to Prevent a Dog from Pulling on the Leash](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/9/1/4/tips_to_prevent_a_dog_from_pulling_on_the_leash_1419_300_150.jpg)
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...
![Apologizing to a Dog: What Is the Best Approach?](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/7/3/apologizing_to_a_dog_what_is_the_best_approach_1374_300_150.jpg)
Living with a dog provides many great experiences thanks to beautiful, long-lasting friendships. However, conflicts can happen when we share our home. The dog may become stressed if we don't pay enough attention or they may develop behavioral issues due to a number of factors. This can lead to frustration...
![Bite Inhibition in Dogs](https://t1.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/0/9/bite_inhibition_in_dogs_907_300_150.jpg)
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...
![Tips to Train a German Shepherd](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/4/9/4/tips_to_train_a_german_shepherd_494_300_150.jpg)
If you have decided to adopt a German Shepherd dog, you must bear in mind that it will not automatically become your new best friend: you must make an effort to train it so that it becomes a sociable and loving companion.
Puppy and adult German Shepherds have a peculiar temperament, and so they need to...
![Tips to Train a Mixed-Breed Dog](https://t2.ea.ltmcdn.com/en/posts/7/0/8/tips_to_train_a_mixed_breed_dog_807_300_150.jpg)
Educating or training a dog can be different depending on the breed; some have a tendency to pay attention, others to get distracted. However, regardless of how long it takes for them to learn, all dogs must be trained following the same principles, which will allow them to interact with others and stay...