Best Dog Park (USA) – Cosmo Dog Park

Best Dog Park (USA) – Cosmo Dog Park 

 Judging by the number of dog parks have been created all across the United States, you would never guess that it's only been a few decades since the very first park was built. Two of the first locations actually opened up at the same time, both produced by the same group of people, one in New York and one in San Francisco.

 Since that time, more than 700 animal parks have been built all across the nation. With so many wonderful locations for dog owners to take their pets for a day of fun in the sun, it was hard to narrow down the #1 best all-around dog park. Some parks have doggie playgrounds, others had swimming pools for dogs, and yet other locations put on shows and events for dog lovers.

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The Winner Goes To “Cosmo Dog Park” Located In Gilbert, Arizona Cosmo Dog Park has been in existence for just over 1 year and is the most inviting location for pet owners to bring their dogs due to its outstanding park features. The facility is built on 4 acres of land just outside the city of Phoenix. According to a poll taken by Money Magazine, the city of Gilbert itself was recently voted as one of America's finest places to live. Therefore, it didn't surprise us that the dog park which was chosen to be created here would match the city's fine reputation.

 Equipped with dog-friendly water fountains that come in interesting shapes (like a fire hydrant for example), climbing structures for the dogs, a man-made swimming pool that allows dogs to jump into it, tubes for fun and racing, and plenty of patios, benches, and tables for the guests, it is no wonder that Cosmo is America's favorite dog park. They even have a dog beach for the animals. If the Desert Sun gets too hot for you or your dogs, there is plenty of shaded area with relaxing amenities to help you escape the heat. There are four patios that are completely covered and provide cool shade with comfortable chairs and tables.


 Before the opening of the park, the people of Gilbert were so excited about the development of the new dog area that many were caught climbing over the fences just to get an early peak. Who could blame them? The park was built completely with dogs in mind. You can find Cosmo Dog Park at 2502 E. Ray Road, Gilbert, AZ.

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Bichon Frise Dog Breed

Bichon Frise Dog Breed

The Bichon Frise dog breed is a member of the non-sporting group and its roots are originally  from the Mediterranean. This dog breed came the United States sometime around the 1950s but did not become popular with dog owners until the mid 1960s. And it was not until the year 1971 that the AKC (American Kennel Club) recognized the Bichon Frise as an official breed.

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These cute animals are considered to be bouncy, playful, and extremely perky with character.  Some dog enthusiasts say that the Bichon Frise manages a happy-go-lucky outlook towards life.  These dogs are so friendly that strangers can come up to them and pet the dogs with no worry of aggression.  And suffice to say, the Bichon Frise gets along very well with young children.

This dog is very responsive, affectionate, and adores cuddling with its family. Because of its need for human companionship, the Bichon Frise cannot be left alone for too long a time.  He will become easily upset and bark until company arrives.

Upkeep And Maintenance

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Even though they are small, the Bichon Frise does need a bit of daily exercise.  A simple walk on the leash, a few laps in the yard, or even rigorous indoor games will work just fine. If you have access to an enclosed backyard or perhaps a field, a great way to exercise these little guys is to have one of its owners stand on one side the grass, and a second owner at the far distance of the other side. Each of you will take turns calling your dog as you watch him run vigorously back-and-forth until he is easily tired.

When it comes to grooming, you will need to brush the Bichon Frise about every other day.  This dog breed has a white puffy coat that may need trimming and scissoring on an occasional basis.  And although the Bichon Frise does not shed, some hairs do become loose and could entangle with the rest of the coat, causing it to mat. 

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Health Information

Like most small dogs, you can look forward to the Bichon Frise with having a lifespan of up to 15 or more years.  Veterinarians suggest that you have this breed specifically tested for eye problems, knee dysplasia, and hip dysplasia.  Major health problems that seem to stem through a majority of Bichon Frise dogs are allergies, Cushing's disease, and patellar luxation.

Best Dogs – Looking for Great Traits

Best Dogs – Looking for Great Traits

There is a lot of argument over what characteristics make a great dog – some are obvious, like loyalty and obedience, but others such as playfulness or sociability, might be much more subjective. In this article we’ll take a look at what makes dogs inarguably good, and some of the things that are tougher to nail down. The best dogs can be difficult to define, but we’re going to give it our best shot.

In our quest for the best dogs, we absolutely have to revisit the old standards, the things that are quintessentially attributed to dogs, be they good or bad. Loyalty is, by and large, the number one trait that is given to our canine companions, and is never a bad thing to have. Obedience is another, and dogs with obedient tendencies can make excellent companions. Think of things that are good qualities to have, no matter what, before adopting a certain dog.

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Intelligence is sometimes overlooked, as it can be hard to measure how smart a dog is, but just as some people are smarter than others, so are some dogs. A smart dog shows a capacity to learn and learn quickly, and an ability to make choices for itself within the boundaries you set for it. Having a smart dog will keep it out of trouble more often, and keep you from having to punish it. The best dogs have the ability to basically take care of themselves, much like a cat, but still retain that sense of emotional connection that many cats lack.

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A more subjective trait is playfulness, as some people want a dog that they can play with, while others want their dog to be more serious (be it for showing, guarding, or work reasons). Traits like this can be hard to decide on, especially when there is more than one person doing the adopting. Make sure that if you are going into an adoption with another person, you decide on the traits you want to look for beforehand, so that there are no conflicts of interest. For example, say you want a dog that likes physical activity, and needs a lot of it, but your spouse doesn’t particularly enjoy going on walks. This could cause a conflict. The best dogs are the ones that suit everyone’s needs. All in all, finding a dog that suits you personally is the best kind of dog you could ask for. 

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Border Terrier (Terrier Group)

Border Terrier (Terrier Group)

The Border Terrier is rated as being one of the most amiable members of the Terrier Group. They love to stay busy and are highly intelligent, making them easy to train. These dogs are the perfect pet for a family that not only appreciates a well-mannered house dog, but also loves to roam the great outdoors and live an active lifestyle.

Border Terriers are great around children and extremely playful. With loads of affection for its owners, these dogs make great companions. And for any rodent problems you may have there is no better solution than having a Border Terrier hunting them down with focus and precision. Some of these dogs bark, others like to dig, but all personalities will fit just about any household.

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A Brief History Of The Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is said to have originated from an area on the Cheviot Hills that bordered between England and Scotland. They have been around since the 1700s and the original function of these dogs were to chase away fox and other animals.

The Border Terrier is the smallest of the long-legged terriers and is quick on its feet. They needed to have enough natural speed to keep alongside a horse running at full speed, yet be small enough to fit through a fox hole. Their closest relative is the Dandie Dinmont. They used to be referred to as the Coquetdale Terrier.

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In 1870, the name of the breed was officially coined as the Border Terrier and they participated in the gentry's elegant foxhunts. Their job was to dispatch fox and proved to be quite successful. In the late 1870s the breed was shown for the first time and in 1930 was recognized by the AKC.

Upkeep Requirements For The Border Terrier

Although these little terriers have high energy levels, they can be quite happy with a few brisk walks each day and a romp around the yard if possible. Border Terriers are also fond of exploring off-leash so taking the dog out on a long nature hike is a stimulating activity for both dog and owner.

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This breed has tolerance for moderately cool and hot temperatures but should not live outside. Ideally they should be allowed to play in the yard during the day and sleep inside at night with the rest of the family. Grooming requirements call for a weekly brushing to help keep its harsh coat free of dead hairs. Also, a quarterly stripping is recommended to keep the coat maintaining its neat outline.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan for the Border Terrier is between twelve and fifteen years. There are no major health concerns to worry about in the breed. The only minor health issue that is seen is patellar luxation. Rarely observed are heart defects and CHD. Veterinarians suggest that Border Terriers get tested for hip and cardiac problems.

Bloodhound Dog Breed

Bloodhound Dog Breed

Although the bloodhound is one of those dogs that has a lazy facial expression and is often found lying around the house, do not let these characteristics fool you. This dog can be an extremely focused and energetic tracker once he catches a trail scent. And the bloodhound is known to be very independent, tough, and often times a bit stubborn.  However, he is also one of the most gentle dog breeds a family can have under their roof.

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Bloodhounds are not considered to be the most easiest of training dogs, however, if you want to teach your dog about trailing tasks, the bloodhound is the number one choice.  When it comes to being a family pet, this dog can be a friendly companion to have around the house.  whom fair well with children.

Upkeep And Maintenance

Due to its programed genetics for hunting, the bloodhound does need an average amount of daily exercise.  And although it spends most of its time being lazy and sleeping in the yard, its energy reserves can get put in full motion when on the trail. And be sure that when you are training the bloodhound he is in a safe area and cannot wander off as they some times do when their attention is focused on something.

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Because of its large facial features and heavy wrinkles, the bloodhound needs to be groomed on daily basis.  You must give extra cleaning care to the ears and the flaps around the eyes and gums.  When it comes to its short-haired coat, upkeep is typically minimal, with just the occasional brushing now and again.

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The bloodhound can be the ideal indoor or outdoor pet. And although it prefers mild temperatures, it can withstand hotter climates so long as there is plenty of shade and soft bedding to rest in. For those of you who are obsessed with a clean house, make note that the bloodhound can be a bit on the messy side.

Health Information

Since the bloodhound is a larger breed than most other dogs, its lifespan only lasts between seven and ten years. The major health concerns that are typical in this breed are CHD, gastric torsion, ectropion, otitis externa, elbow dysplasia, and skin-fold dermatitis. Minor issues in which you should ask your veterinarian to look out for is hypothyroidism.

Bling Dog Collar – How To Dress Up Your Dog’s Fashion Sense

Bling Dog Collar – How To Dress Up Your Dog’s Fashion Sense 

One of the most important things you can buy for your dog is a collar. This is because it serves as a form of identification if your dog ever were to get lost. It also is where you attach your leash so you can take your dog on walks. Because your dog needs this, you should consider giving your dog a little style with a bling dog collar. The great thing about these collars is that you can get smaller, classier ones, or you can get larger ones that will make everyone notice your dog.

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When you are looking into getting your pet a bling dog collar, there are a few things you need to consider. You have to decide if you want silver or gold for the collar. Both look great, but it is one of those personal preference things. Next, you have to decide how much bling you are going to have on the collar. Some people believe that you never can have enough for a dog, while others would rather have just a little bit. The great thing about this is that there is a wide selection in stores and online that you will be able to find the perfect one for your adored dog.

Dog collars also come in a variety of colors. The cool thing with this is that you can change up your dog’s look just by changing the collar. You do not have to go through the task of grooming just to give them a fresh new look. In addition, if you put your dog in outfits, you will be able to match the collar to the outfits if you get different colors. Not only are the actual collars different colors, but the bling that is attached to the collars are different colors. You even can match your dog to your outfit.

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If you are considering getting your best friend a bling dog collar but are worried about the cost, you should know that they do not have to be expensive. Depending on where you get the collars, they can be quite affordable. Of course, you always have the option of getting real diamonds put on the collar, but that should only be done if you can afford it. There is no reason you should go broke just because you think your dog deserves doggie couture. Knock-off bling will suffice for even the most loved dog.   

Border Collie Dog Breed

Border Collie Dog Breed

The Border Collie has been bred for over 100 years with functionality as the number one priority. These sheep herding dogs were abundant in Great Britain during the 1800s, however they were made up of different types. Most of these dogs were considered to be “fetching” dogs who had the ability to circle stock and guide them back towards the shepherd.

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Sheepdogs (as the Border Collies were called) became very popular and in 1873 the first official sheepdog trial took place to test the qualities and function of the animals. This led to one of the first famous Border Collies known as “Hemp”. 

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Hemp did very well at the trials and sired a high number of offspring. In fact, he is considered to be the father of the Border Collie. Hemp's way of herding was done with intimidation, using eye contact with the livestock.

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Although these dogs were very popular and functioned superbly at their sheepdog abilities, it wasn't until 1915 that “Border Collie” was officially announced as the proper name for the breed. And as soon as the Border Collie came to America  they were instantly appraised by serious shepherds who needed the animal's magnificent herding abilities. Amazingly enough, it took until the year 1995 for the AKC to officially recognize the Border Collie as a show dog.

Personality

As far as temperament is concerned, Border Collie dogs have enormous amounts of intelligence and is highly obedient.  While these attributes are positive, it can make for a disastrous house dog when kept enclosed with little exercise. Border Collies are very loyal and protective towards its family, so be prepared for its reserved and guardian-like personality to spring up when in the company of strange dogs and other animals.

Taking Care Of Your Border Collie

This is one dog that thrives off of physical and mental stimulation each and every day.  You can easily say that the border collie simply “needs a job to do” whenever possible.  He is extremely work-oriented and genetically programmed for labor.

Border Collie dogs can certainly live outdoors in very mild to cool climates, but of course it prefers and enjoys the company of its family inside the house, especially at night. This is one animal that should not be forced to live in a small apartment.

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Health Information

Border Collie's have a lifespan of up to 15 years, with 12 being the average.  Fortunately, this dog breed does not have many health problems that arise.  Major concerns are only CHD. Minor health issues that may come up are hypothyroidism, PRA, PDA, CEA, seizures, OCD, and lens luxation, but these occurrences are extremely rare.

Black Russian Terrier (Working Group)

Black Russian Terrier (Working Group)

The Black Russian Terrier can be summed up in three words: bold, confident and affectionate. These courageous canines are considered to be one of the top choices among families that want a loving house pet that can also protect them with excellent guard dog abilities. In fact, Black Russian Terrier dogs need constant human interaction to keep them happy. They also make wonderful playmates with children.

A Brief History Of The Black Russian Terrier

A late member of the dog society, Black Russian Terriers originated from the Soviet Union during the 1950s. Just a decade earlier, the Russians were in a serious need to obtain working dogs to have trained for use in the military. They imported dozens of breeds from various countries to create the desired working dog.

The first generation of Black Russian Terriers were bred from Roy, an impressive Giant Schnauzer, who was bred with females from several breeds. The most successful came from crosses with the Rottweiler, Airedale Terrier, and the Moscow Water Dog. Each one was all black in color and the best of the bunch were bred amongst themselves.

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By the year 1957, the second and third generations of puppies were sent to various family breeding programs. The goal now of the breeders was to keep improving the dog's versatility as a working dog, but to also improve conformation. Black Russian Terriers were used to find wounded soldiers, pull sledges, detect explosives, and many more tasks for the military. They served in both Bosnia and Afghanistan missions.

Although a breed standard was drawn up in 1968, it wasn't until 1984 that the international FCI recognized the breed. As more and more Black Russian Terrier breeders started to relocated to various parts of the world, the dog's popularity took off. In 2001, the dog was recognized by the AKC as a member of the Miscellaneous class then moved to the Working Group in 2004.

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Upkeep Requirements For The Black Russian Terrier

Black Russian Terriers need as much social interaction with its family members as it does physical exercise. The breed has an inherent need to work, as it's history shows us, so daily activities are a must. To help facilitate the dog's need for action, ongoing obedience training or agility training is recommended.

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Highly affectionate and calm around the house, this breed can be trusted around small children and does not bark much. In fact, the Black Russian Terrier is one of the quietest dogs we know of today. They can live outside but it's best to allow them to sleep indoors at night. Grooming requirements call for a thorough brushing twice per week and a major trim about every six to seven months.

Health Concerns

Black Russian Terrier dogs have an average life span of ten to eleven years. The only major health concern that runs common in the breed is CHD, with elbow dysplasia as a minor issue. Rarely seen is dwarfism and PRA. Veterinarians suggest that the breed get specifically tested for eye, hip and elbow problems.

Biking With Your Dog – How To Have Safe Fun By Biking With Your Dog

Biking With Your Dog – How To Have Safe Fun By Biking With Your Dog

Most dogs love to run, and some breeds are physically bred for speed and endurance, such as the Greyhound, who can run up to 45 mph. Other dogs that are built for speed are the Afghan Hound and the Saluki. But regardless of the breed or the size of your dog, expect that he can enjoy a good jog in the park, or even a quick run around the block. And if riding a bicycle is something that you enjoy doing, taking your dog with you (depending on his size and physical condition) is a wonderful way to spend time with him while getting and good workout yourself at the same time.

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Bike Rides Can Be Safe

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If you usually ride your bicycle around town or in your neighborhood, it won't be difficult for your dog to keep up with you. The safest way for riding a bike with your dog in this type of location is to keep him on a lead. There are products out there, such as the Springer and the Walkiedog, that keeps both your hands on the handlebars while giving you the ability to keep your dog on leash at the same time.  These two products can be easily mounted under the bike seat and offer protection and comfort for both you and your dog.

Problem With Distraction?

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Your dog will less likely get bothered by distractions if he knows how to heel.  Therefore, practice his obedience skills like “Off”, and “Leave it” before you begin your ride.  Also, make sure you bring along his favorite snack. Whenever he comes across a distraction, tell him to “Leave it” and then give him a snack.  It'll be easier for him to pay attention to you, above anything else, because he knows that you brought along his favorite snack. Also do this exercise before you ride.

Don't Forget The Basic Commands

If you like to ride along trails, bringing your dog with is one of the best treats you can give him.  With a little basic training, your dog can be the best companion for a mountain biker.

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In fact, there are a lot of mountain biking spots that you and your buddy can go where dogs can run free without a leash, such as along the trails of a National Forest, as long as you can keep your dog under your control and under voice command. Therefore, practice the Heel and the Come command until you are confident that your dog is able to obey you 100% of the time.

Black and Tan Coonhound (Hound Group)

Black and Tan Coonhound (Hound Group)

The Black and Tan Coonhound is one dog breed that makes an excellent house dog that has retained its strong internal desire to hunt. Once properly trained they are calm, quiet, and moderately affectionate with the family indoors. When outside they will pick up a scent in a heartbeat, often getting vigorously excited when those hunting instincts take over. They are gentle around children but with their dominant personality, the Black and Tan Coonhound may be a little too rough with smaller kids.

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A Brief History Of The Black and Tan Coonhound

The Black and Tan Coonhound is considered to be the all-American breed. Having been around since the 1700s, this dog is said to have been the result of crosses between the black and tan Virginia Foxhound and the Bloodhound.

Black and Tan Coonhounds were mostly used to hunt large animals such as bear, but they could also trap smaller prey like raccoons. They were popular among hunters specifically in the rugged areas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Smokey Mountains, and the Appalachian. Just like their Bloodhound ancestors, the Black and Tan Coonhound trails with their nose close to the ground and moving swiftly along, baying when the prey was trapped until the hunter arrived.

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The breed was officially recognized by the AKC in 1945. And although there have been a few Black and Tans in the show ring, they have remained much more popular and useful to the

American hunter. Competitive hunts are organized each year for coonhounds only, in which you can see the skills of the English Coonhound, Treeing Walkers, Plott Hounds, Blue Tick Coonhounds, and of course, the Black and Tan Coonhound.

Upkeep Requirements For The Black and Tan Coonhound

With its high energy levels, the Black and Tan Coonhound needs plenty of daily exercise. They can literally run for miles, but a few long walks and the occasional run outside each day will suffice. These dogs also have a strong scenting ability so if a Coonhound is untrained to obey its owner's commands to “stay”, and the dog picks up a strong scent, expect a long chase to catch your coonhound.

The ideal living conditions for this breed is to have a large open area where there is enough running field or forest to roam in. They can handle both cold and hot temperatures so long as the climate is not extreme. Black and Tan Coonhounds can also live outdoors, but as with all family companions, its best for them to sleep inside at night. Grooming requirements for the breed consists of a light brushing every couple of weeks to remove dead hair.

Health Concerns

The average lifespan of the Black and Tan Coonhound is between ten and twelve years. The only major health concern in the breed is CHD. Minor health problems that are often seen include hypothyroidism and ectropion. Rarely seen is hemophilia B. Veterinarians suggest that these dogs get specifically tested for eye, hip, and thyroid problems.

Be The Pack Leader, Cesar Milan – The Dog Whisperer Speaks

Be The Pack Leader, Cesar Milan – The Dog Whisperer Speaks

If you have seen his National Geographic Show, The Dog Whisperer, then you pretty much know what you are getting in the book Be The Pack Leader, Cesar Milan has out right now. The book is an amazing journey through the ins and outs of transforming your dog’s life and yours as well. It gives deep insights into what dog ownership is all about and how to get your dog to behave the way you want him or her to. It not only makes the dog’s life better it makes your life better.

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In this bestseller book, the author lays out how to talk to your dog. He explains and makes clear the different tones and voices for the different tasks you want your dog to perform. Milan is a genius and an icon when it comes to communicating and learning how to recognize what it is your dog wants and needs by different prompters. There are so many helpful tips and explanations of different situations it is hard to imagine how a dog owner couldn’t have a copy on their book shelf. If you are truly a dog lover and have always wondered what is going on in your dog’s head, this is the book for you.

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The voice of the book sounds very familiar as the writer, Cesar uses is his own. The book reads just like he sounds on TV. That is a talent well appreciated when reading a book like this. His calm and casual manner translates well onto the written page making it a fun and quick read. This is not a step by step book with lots of commands and demands put upon your pet. Rather, it is more of an overall mind set to have when dealing with your pet and how to keep your dog happy and healthy.

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In Be The Pack Leader, Cesar Milan gives great insight not just into your dog’s psyche but also into being a dog owner as well. He teaches how to be a good dog owner in much the same way parenting books teach how to be a good parent. The main thing about the book as we mentioned is the voice. This is an easy read that makes you want to read more. It is informative and entertaining all at the same time. No dog owner should be without this book. It is very helpful and you will refer to the book over and over again. 

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 4)

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 4)

Battling the fight to keep your beautiful lawn green, you may want to consider changing your dog's diet. Because nitrogen is a byproduct of metabolized protein, a lower protein diet would produce less nitrogen.

However, please be cautioned that your dog needs protein, and dropping too low can cause problems. Owners should not consider feeding their dogs a diet that is extremely low in protein in an attempt to produce an even lower nitrogen-potent urine. Restricted protein diets are for specific medical conditions and are not healthy alternatives for the average dog.

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Work With Your Dog

There are other alternatives that you can consider when to keeping your lawn from turning into a brown, patch-filled area – solutions that can be enjoyable for both the dog and owner alike.

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1) Reroute the dogs: If your dogs are eliminating in one specific area, say on the side of the backyard deck for example, move the steps from the side of the deck (where the brown spots are highly visible) and place the steps at the other end of the deck.

If the dogs continue urinating immediately after trotting down the steps, the grass damage will now be in an area that is far less visible.

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2) Create an attractive area: A second thought is to keep the steps where they are but replace the areas of burned grass with nearly pee-proof plants, such as a bed of English ivy. The dogs can continue to use the same place but without destroying anything.

3) Create a new area for the dogs: A third approach is to reroute the dogs to a new location and create some privacy. When developing a location specifically for your dogs to use, design the area so that it can be attractively hidden with a cluster of ornamental grasses, miscanthus grass or Leyland cypress, which grow quickly into a privacy screen.

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Then, take the time to train your dogs to use the area you've created. Dogs can be trained using positive reinforcement to use a particular area of the yard. Pet products, such as urine stakes, also are available to help attract a dog to a specific location.

4) Just live with it: And finally, a more philosophical approach to the issue – is to just live with it. The train of thought here goes something like this: If you make a commitment to having a pet then you need to accept that there should be some wear and tear to your yard. That goes along with owning a dog.

That doesn't mean you have to accept  living with a mudslide for a backyard, rather, you just need to take a look at your dog's habits and turn those habits into opportunities for training, as well as to improve your yard.

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 3)

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 3)

Even though there may be different grass that can be used in your area to better withstand dog urine burns, it may not be necessary to go through the trouble of digging up and replanting the entire yard. Instead, try just watering it down.

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For my two Rottweilers, the grass is fescue, and it seemed to be relatively hardy until the addition of the second dog, which prefers to urinate immediately following the first dog and in the same location – dropping a double load on the grass.

Rather than trying a different turf – because the grass burning is located in one distinct location and the rest of the yard is lush – another alternative to treating the problem is by getting the dogs to drink more water.

Small amounts of very concentrated urine kill grass more than large amounts of dilute urine, so it's important to focus on changing urine concentration rather than just trying to reduce nitrogen content alone. If the urine is diluted enough, it's less likely to kill the grass, and in very weak concentrations, it may actually serve to fertilize the lawn.

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So How Do You Get Your Dog To Drink More Water?

Unfortunately, that's the difficult part. Obviously you should have bowls of fresh water available to your dog at all times,  however, dogs typically only drink what they need, and when they need it.

To encourage dogs to drink more water, a good trick is to flavor the dog's water with low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Additionally, water can be introduced into a dog's diet through his food. You can feed your dog more canned food, which has a high water content, or moistening dry dog food with water or low-sodium broth until it is almost soupy in texture.

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Watch The Salt

It is important to not add salt or salt substitutes to a dog's food (to encourage drinking) until after consulting with a veterinarian to make sure that your pet doesn't have any heart or kidney problems that could be worsened by a high-salt diet.

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And don't worry that the increase in water intake will be dangerous to your dog. A little more water in your dog's diet is a good thing. Of course, the whole purpose of introducing more water into the diet is to create more dilute urine, which in turn will be healthier for your yard.

Be cognizant, however, that if your dog drinks more water he will need to urinate more, too. This may mean more frequent walks or breaks during the day for a healthy dog. If your dog has an incontinence problem, purposely increasing his water intake could exacerbate leaking.

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 2)

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 2) 

One of the best ways to counter the effects of nitrogen burn is to dilute your dog's urine – but you have to dilute the urine before it dries on the grass. If you can pour water on the urine immediately after the dog relieves himself then this can be enough to prevent the urine from burning the grass.

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Many owners, however, can't follow their dogs around with a container of water every time the dog needs to relieve himself, so keeping the lawn adequately watered may be an easier solution for some pet owners.

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If you live in an area that naturally has a significant precipitation in the fall, winter and spring, you may only have to deal with urine burn in the hotter, drier summer months. The problem of urine burn hits a peak during the hot, dry months when it is virtually impossible to prevent a dog's urine from drying in the grass.

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To help combat urine burn in the summer – or year-round in areas that stay warm and dry – one possible answer to the issue might be in the type of grass that is growing underfoot. There are grasses that are more resilient to dog urine.

For example, a study done in 1981 by A.W. Allard, D.V.M., of the effects of dog urine on four different grasses in Colorado showed fescue and perennial ryegrass to be the most resistant to dog urine, and Kentucky bluegrass and Bermuda grass to be the most sensitive.

However, the reverse seems to be true in a different area, notably the Southern region, where fescue tends to really show urine burn in hot weather and Bermuda grass seems to be more durable to dog urine.

Of course, if you live in Nebraska, for example, what works and what doesn't could be completely different. Unfortunately, there isn't a universal “dog urine grass test” that you can choose from. You must figure it out by testing different grasses on your lawn, depending on your area.

If you would like to skip the trouble of personal trial and error of testing different grass then the best option is to talk with someone in your area that knows. A good place to start is your agriculture extension office.

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Another option is someone from a reputable nursery who is truly knowledgeable about what grasses tolerate dog urine in your location, not to mention what plants can withstand urine burn.

Local nurseries that have worked with dog-owning homeowners should be savvy as to more urine-friendly plants that will work in the backyard. Good choices in many areas of the country include Chinese holly and barberry bushes.

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 1)

Battling Dog Urine Stains On Your Green Grass (Part 1)

It never fails, my two dogs – both lovable and protective Rottweilers - seem to enjoy urinating in the same spot of the backyard, day in, day out. Whether it's morning, noon or night, it's down the steps and to the right, donating copious amounts of healthy, adult dog urine in an approximate 4-square-foot area.

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The result is a large patch of brown, ugly, burned-out lawn that surrounds the bottom step of the deck. For my nicely landscaped backyard, the large urine burns are rather unsightly.

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I realized that unless some serious changes are made (and getting rid of the dogs was NOT an option), then these spots were not going to go away on their own, so I had to start my research and will not share with you what I learned to keep my grass green and my dogs happy.

Why Dog Urine Turns Grass Brown

It's no secret that urine burns grass, as well as many types of shrubs, annual flowers and perennial plants. What causes the burn is nitrogen. When a dog eats a meal, the protein in the food is metabolized. A byproduct of metabolized protein is nitrogen.

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The kidneys are responsible for the collection and secretion of many of the body's unwanted excesses, including byproducts of metabolized foods, such as nitrogen. So, if all is going well with the dog's bodily functions then excess nitrogen will be flushed out of the dog's body through his urine.

Here is where things get a bit tricky: Those who work with lawns and plants know that nitrogen is used as fertilizer. So what's so special about the nitrogen in dog urine that causes it to kill everything green it touches? The secret is in the solution, so to speak.

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With fertilizers containing nitrogen, a small amount goes a long way. If you're using a rotary spreader (which is used to fertilize the lawn), spilling a pile of fertilizer in one spot would be similar to a pool of urine. The concentration would be too high and would kill the grass below.

Once grass is dead from nitrogen burn there's not much you can do to revive it. If you want healthy green grass, you're going to have to replant this area. You'll need to rake up the dead grass and plant new seed.

Replanting dead areas, however, is somewhat of a “band-aid” approach. If you don't get to the root of the problem (dog urine), you're likely to wind up with more dead patches of grass all over the lawn.