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Should I crate my dog in the car?

When you are travelling with your dog in the car you need to make sure that he is safe and secure. If you had an accident then your dog could be hurt or, he could hit you, causing injury.

You should always do your best to ensure that your dog is safe and secure when you are in the car with him. Using a crate or dog cage in the car is an ideal option as it will prevent your dog from jumping around when you are travelling and, in the event of an accident, will provide your dog with a level of protection that he would not have if he were free inside the vehicle.

Accidents are the obvious risk to your dog when he is in the car but there are other good uses and advantages of having your dog in a safe and secure crate or cage when travelling.

A solid crate can help your dog with travel anxiety

You can arrange your dog’s car crate with blankets and other home comforts so that he can settle down, feel safe and get to sleep.

The great advantage of using a crate or cage in the car is that it can be filled with things that your dog recognises from home and that have that familiar scent.

The security that a cage provides is valuable to helping your dog to feel relaxed.

Travel can be stressful for dogs, particularly if the journey is a long one and having a nice, warm, safe and secure bed will help your dog to overcome and deal with any anxieties that he may have.

A crate can help to prevent injury

The main reason why you should use a crate or cage for your dog when he is in the car is to prevent and reduce the risk of injury.

Sadly accidents can and do happen and if one happened to you, then you would want to make sure that your dog was as protected as possible.

You should aim to get the best crate that you can afford, one made from a sturdy material, such as aluminium or steel, that will be able to withstand the stress of any collision.

Soft sided crates provide no protection and you should invest in something more substantial.

The best dog crates that we have seen are the crash tested crates from MIM with their Variocage product range.

These are probably the safest and toughest cages that you will find anywhere. They are well worth the investment.

You can use the crate as a kennel

Another great advantage of having a car crate for your dog is that you can use it as a kennel or bed for your dog when you reach your destination.

This can be useful if you are going on holiday and need a place for your dog to sleep or when you are visiting family or friends.

Your dog will need a safe and secure place to rest and sleep and with a portable dog cage it is easy to remove the crate from the car and take it inside to set a holiday home up for your dog.

You can even use the crate at home for an indoor kennel or as an outdoor, safe place for your dog to have a short sleep on a warm, sunny day.

They are great, dual purpose items.

Measuring for a car crate

A crate can help to keep the car clean

Most dogs get muddy and, for some, the muddier that they can get the better.

If you use a crate then you will reduce the amount of mud, damp, rubbish and other things that your dog brings into the car after a walk.

The great thing is that when the crate gets dirty, you can remove it from the car and easily clean it with a hosepipe and brush.

Your crate can also transport other things that may result in a messy car when the dog is not using it. This could be anything from tools, shopping, garden items – literally anything that you can fit inside it.

Using a crate will prevent interior damage

I’ve always thought of a car crate/cage as a means of just protecting the dogs and keeping the interior of the car clean – until I got another spaniel puppy and put her in the rear of the car minus crate.

After the first journey she had managed to remove a side panel in the rear of the estate car and subsequently chewed up a decent quantity of insulation from one of the rear wheel wells.

Not having learned my lesson, I then went on another journey with her in the back and she decided to eat the retractable boot cover.

So, if nothing else, using a car crate will keep your dog’s teeth away from the interior fabric of the car, and, although crates may cost money, I’m sure that they are more cost effective than replacing a car interior ( as I’ve found out)

It is a good idea to use a dog crate when your dog is in the car. A good quality, sturdy crate will provide your dog with vital protection in the event of an accident.

Crates can also serve additional purposes such as:

A temporary kennel that your dog can use on holidays

Help with anxiety by ensuring that your dog feels safe when travelling

Reduce the levels of mess that the dogs cause when in the car

An indoor kennel or bed that your dog can use at home

Get the best crate that you are able to afford for your dog to use in the car and make the best effort to ensure that he is safe when travelling.
What is an Irish Water Spaniel? Talented or lost in the spaniel pack?
The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the less known and less popular spaniel breeds. This is partly due to confusion in his role within the shooting environment which finds him among the spaniels but expected to compete against retrievers. He is almost stuck in the middle.

This breed is one of the oldest of the gundogs and originated, as the name suggests in Ireland. Irish Water Spaniels are the largest spaniel and are excellent hunters that can point before they flush game. They are great water retrievers and have been used extensively for wildfowling activities in cold, wild seas and in other hunting environments where a powerful water dog has been required.

What does an Irish Water Spaniel look like?

The Irish Water Spaniel is like none of the other spaniel breeds and is a curly coated dog with a large top knot of hair.

His main features are:
- He is the largest of all of the spaniels – he generally has a height of 21 to 23 inches for males with females being slightly smaller
- The Irish Water Spaniel comes in one colour – liver in a dark and rich tone
- One of the most distinctive features of the breed is his coat, which is curly. The coat of the Irish Water Spaniel has a natural, oily feel to it, ideal for repelling water but needing regular brushing to prevent tangles
- The breed has short hair on the face but always has a floppy top knot which looks like an added on wig, giving the dog an almost comical appearance at times
- A classic feature of the breed is the tail which has a rat like look to it.
Is the Irish Water Spaniel a spaniel or a retriever?

The Irish Water Spaniel suffers from an identity crisis which almost penalises it in working environments.

In working competitions this breed is placed into the same category as Labradors and other retrievers – breeds that are more capable and bred to undertake that activity, placing the IWS at a disadvantage.

Yet in dog shows it is classed as a spaniel and, if the breed were to compete against spaniels in working events then, again, it would struggle to make an impact.

So, from one perspective it is a retriever and from the other a spaniel.

It is probably best to view the Irish Water Spaniel as a unique gun dog breed with his own talents and abilities, some of which exceed those of the more common spaniels.

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Is the Irish Water Spaniel a good working dog?

Although they are rare in the shooting world, they are excellent workers.

In the beating line, while roughshooting or wildfowling, the Irish Water Spaniel makes a great all round dog. As it’s name suggests this breed is excellent in water and is a very strong swimmer – in fact they excel at water based activities.

If you undertake wildfowling or any form of hunting activity that needs a dog that is capable of retrieving from water, such as the sea or lakes and ponds, then the Irish Water Spaniel may be a good choice.

Are Irish Water Spaniels easy to train?

Like all gun dogs the Irish Water Spaniel is a high energy, active and intelligent working breed that adapts well to training.

This is a dog that is keen to please and which will do his best to do what you need him to do – provided he understands what that is.

Like all dogs training sessions should be interesting and short but frequent so that he has the best chance to learn and enjoy himself.

They are sensitive dogs that respond well to praise and encouragement.

They can be trained like other spaniels to hunt, flush and retrieve and will take on basic spaniel training with ease, however most Irish Water Spaniel owners train their dogs along the lines of retriever training, similar to a Labrador.

Are Irish Water Spaniels good pets?

If you are active and can provide this breed with plenty of exercise, including swimming and you take the time and effort to embark on training with him, then, yes, the Irish Water Spaniel is a good family pet.

As well as being highly intelligent, they are also jokers, and, like other spaniels, love to have fun, play games and get up to mischief.

They are gentle, kind dogs with a friendly and biddable temperament.

How long do Irish Water Spaniels live?

Typically a healthy and fit Irish Water Spaniel will reach an age of 10 to 12 years.

Do Irish Water Spaniels shed hair?

Irish Water Spaniels hardly shed any hair at all. Their curly coat is soft and short and will need grooming and brushing two to three times a week to prevent tangles and to help to keep it in good condition.

The hair on the breed contains high levels of natural oils and this can attract dust and dirt and other small items of debris, so it is important to maintain a regular brushing schedule.

Should I get an Irish Water Spaniel?

As a family companion or pet the Irish Water Spaniel could be a good choice for someone looking for a larger dog that is different to the more common breeds.

You should always think about your ability to provide a safe and stable home for a dog and consider whether you have the room for a larger breed and the time to exercise and train it.

If you are looking for a good working gun dog then the Irish Water Spaniel is probably not the best choice and other working breeds would be more suited to gun dog work.

But, if you want something different, that will do the job, albeit not as well as some others, then why not give it a go?

To recap
- The Irish Water Spaniel is one of the oldest working gun dog breeds
- It is disadvantaged in that it is unique and views vary as to it’s correct working purpose
- The breed is intelligent, lively and responds well to training
- It needs a lot of exercise and loves water – swimming is almost compulsory
- They make excellent pets and are great family dogs
How do you train a Cocker spaniel to retrieve?

Cocker spaniels are bred to hunt and, for many, that drive to explore and thrash their way through cover in pursuit of game can be so powerful, that things such as retrieving are simply boring.

If a young Cocker spaniel is allowed to hunt too much at an early age, then his desire to hunt will take over everything else and it is possible that this will affect his interest in retrieving.

Start early with your Cocker spaniel, when he is a puppy. Encourage him to pick things up and to carry them around, this could be a rolled up pair of socks, a soft ball or even an old slipper. Help him to get used to the feel of things in his mouth. Whenever he comes up to you, make a big fuss of him and gently take the item from him.

Cocker spaniels are natural retrievers

Well bred, working Cocker spaniels are natural retrievers and, if you are careful, then your Cocker will be both and excellent hunting dog and a competent retriever.

As a spaniel trainer you can work with your Cocker’s natural ability from an early age and as soon as he comes to your home.

Encouraging your Cocker spaniel to retrieve

My favourite item for a Cocker puppy is a pair of rolled up, thick socks.

They are nice and soft and are easy for a puppy to get hold of – they also have a reasonable scent to them.

Let the puppy see the socks, maybe wave them around a little to get him interested in them, and, then roll them down the hallway and let him charge after them.

Tell him to ‘fetch‘ – this is the command you’ll use from now on for retrieving.

As soon as he picks them up tell him he is a good dog and encourage him.

There is a chance that he may come back to you and, if he does, tickle him and have fun before taking the socks off him and throwing them again.

There is also a good chance that he will run off with the socks. If he does then don’t panic, just ignore him and, if he eventually brings them to you then make a fuss of him and, if not, then just try is again later.

It will come, you just need to take your time with him.

Making progress with Cocker spaniel retrieving training

As your Cocker spaniel grows older and once he has had all of his vaccinations, you can begin to think about some more exercises for your puppy.

The garden is a great place to start, you don’t need a lot of room and it allows you to keep your puppy safe and secure while you are working on his early retrieving exercises.

It is important that you keep this ‘training’ as easy as possible, use the lawn if you have one, somewhere nice and soft, with short grass so the puppy can see the ball or rolled up socks.

Do not overdo the retrieves, you don’t want him to get fed up – one or two retrieves is quite enough for a youngster.

Don’t be fussy when training a Cocker spaniel to retrieve

You may have seen some spaniel trainers and other gun dog trainers that get their dog to sit down before giving the retrieve to their handler.

There is really no need to get any spaniel to do this. Even if you aspire to enter working tests or even field trials there is no need or expectation for a spaniel to do this.

You’re just adding an extra hurdle to your training.

Your sole objective is to have a well trained Cocker spaniel that will hunt steadily, flush game without chasing and retrieve nicely to hand.

There is no point and no added value in trying to get a spaniel to sit down when he retrieves – why make things harder than they have to be?

Don’t do too much retriever training with a young Cocker spaniel

It is really important that you don’t overdo retriever training with Cockers or with any spaniel breed.

Cockers can quickly become bored with retrieving exercises as most of them want to get on with the really interesting activity called ‘hunting’.

If your spaniel seems to be getting fed up, then ease off with the retrieving work and look for something that will reignite his interest.

I have experienced this with spaniels in the past and the best way that I resolved it was to buy some fur dummies from which the dogs loved and enjoyed retrieving.

You will need fur dummies in the future and I’ve found some good deals on Amazon which you’ll find here.

Developing a Cocker spaniel’s retrieving skills

As your Cocker grows older and becomes keener to retrieve, you will need to develop his ability which simply means making the challenges more and more difficult so that he learns.

In all aspects of training a Cocker ( or for that matter any spaniel ) we are looking to encourage him to trust his nose and to work with his sense of smell.

As you are out and about with your dog, let him run free, attract his attention and when he looks, throw a small dummy or tennis ball into some light cover ( such as rushes, low bracken or long grass), let him run in and hunt the dummy out.

To make it easier for him, at the start throw the dummy into the wind, so that the scent is blowing towards him.

Let him hunt the dummy out and, when he finds it, encourage him to retrieve it to you.

By throwing the dummy into cover, not only are you developing his ability to wind (smell) and retrieve, but you are also building foundations that will help him with his future hunting.

See my Cockers working on their retriever training

FAQs

What age should I start training my Cocker Spaniel to retrieve?
It’s best to start training your Cocker Spaniel to retrieve as early as possible, ideally around 8 to 12 weeks of age.
How do I introduce retrieving to my Cocker Spaniel?
Begin by using a soft toy or a small dummy specifically designed for training. Encourage your dog to chase the toy, and once they pick it up, reward them with praise and treats. Gradually increase the distance and difficulty of the retrieve.
How can I make retrieving more enjoyable for my Cocker Spaniel?
Make sure to keep the training sessions fun and positive. Use high-value treats or rewards, play games, and give plenty of praise and affection to motivate your Cocker Spaniel.
My Cocker Spaniel doesn’t show interest in retrieving. What should I do?
If your dog lacks interest in retrieving, try using a different type of dummy such as a fur dummy like this fur dummy ball that is much more appealing. Experiment with different types of retrieves, such as rolling the ball on the ground to create a scent trail.
How can I teach my Cocker Spaniel to bring the retrieved item back to me?
Start by training your dog to come to you when called. Once they reliably come, incorporate the “fetch” command and reward them when they bring the item back. Use positive reinforcement to encourage them to release the object in your hand.
What are some common mistakes to avoid while training my Cocker Spaniel to retrieve?
Avoid using force or punishment, as it can create negative associations with retrieving. Also, don’t rush the training process—take it gradually and ensure your dog is comfortable and having a positive experience.
Should I use a specific type of retrieve training equipment?
Consider using a training dummy or a soft toy specifically designed for retrieving. These items are lightweight and easy for your Cocker Spaniel to carry.

Moving up a gear

To advance the retrieving ability of your Cocker spaniel you will need, by now, to be adapting other aspects of spaniel training into your daily routines and these will include more advanced training techniques including:

Sitting and staying when commanded

Stopping on the whistle

Taking hand and verbal signals

Dropping to shot

Negotiating obstacles such as streams, water features, walls and fences

Of course, in addition to these activities you will also be working on your Cocker’s key skill of hunting and flushing game.

Final Words

Training a Cocker spaniel to retrieve well is not a difficult task but it does take work and some element of caution.

Don’t overdo the retriever work but, by the same token, introduce it early on before you allow your Cocker to hunt.

Keep the training interesting, if your dog switches off, then look for something interesting for him to fetch, such as a fur or feather dummy and maybe take a few days off from training.

Look for opportunities to create an interesting challenge for your Cocker to work out, such as a retrieve over a low wall, across a stream or in tricky weather conditions when scent might not be too good.
The truth about dogs and white bread
Bread is one of the oldest prepared foods in the world. It is liked and consumed by people all around the world and is a basic and important food for a large proportion of the global population.

With bread being such a common food there are many dog owners who wonder if it is safe to give bread to their dogs.

Feeding white bread to a dog is perfectly safe as long as it is not fed too often and only in reasonable amounts. Plain white bread is the best form of bread and it can be fed dry or broken into pieces and added to your dog’s food. Try to choose organic bread with no additives and avoid feeding bread that contains any extras such as raisins, fruit, seeds or nuts.

How much white bread can you give to a dog?

You should remember that bread contains high levels of carbohydrate which can cause your dog to put on weight if he is fed too much.

Your dog should only receive small amounts of bread and this should never be more than about 5% of his daily food intake – so a large breed or more active breed can enjoy more bread than a smaller, docile dog.

The type of white bread that you feed is also important, make sure that it is fresh and has no mould or other growths on it.

Always make sure that the bread is ready for consumption and is cooked properly – bread dough can present health risks to dogs and should never be fed to them.

White bread can settle a dog’s stomach if he is unwell but only ever give small amounts of organic bread and make sure that it doesn’t contain raisins, nuts or seeds.

Are there any benefits of feeding white bread to dogs?

If white bread is given in small amounts, it is beneficial for dogs.

Let’s have a look at some of the benefits of white bread for dogs:

White bread can reduce your dog’s mild abdominal pain. Offer your dog a small amount of white bread, a quarter of a piece of bread usually.

White bread can calm a dog’s upset stomach. The nutrients present in white bread can help to settle a stomach.

Bread is a good source of fibre. This makes it good for dogs with bowel irregularity issues.

Some bread contains a high content of magnesium, omega-3 fatty acid, protein, and iron. These are good for your dog.

What to think about when feeding white bread to dogs

Dogs are like children and they depend on us for everything. It is important to understand that as a dog owner, you are responsible for the health and wellbeing of your dog.

Here are a few things that you must look at before giving white bread to your pooch:

Before feeding your dog with white bread, you need to make sure that he is not allergic to any of the ingredients in white bread.

Remember to control the amount of white bread in your dog’s diet.

You can consult your vet for a better idea of the amount of white bread that you add to your dog’s diet.

Check out the ingredients carefully. The biggest danger comes from added raisins.

Some white breads contain raisins that are highly toxic for dogs.

Some white breads contain Xylitol, an artificial sweetener.

It is toxic to dogs and can cause life-threatening issues such as low blood sugar and liver injury in dogs.

Some breads contain nuts and seeds. They are pleasant for humans due to their good taste and health benefits but they can cause problems for dogs.

Excessive intake of nuts and seeds can cause stomach irritation and pancreatitis.

Which is the safest white bread to feed to dogs?

Organic white bread with no added preservatives, sweeteners or other artificial ingredients is the best and safest for of white bread and you should aim to use this is you intend to feed white bread to your dog.

Is white bread good for dogs to eat?

There are better things for your dog to eat than white bread and it probably should not be a regular choice of food or treat,

White bread has no nutritional value to a dog and your dog is much better off having a good quality dog food instead.

Some dogs can have intolerances to wheat or other ingredients in bread and, for these animals, white bread should be avoided.

Final Words

Dogs enjoy the taste of white bread and if the correct type of bread is used then it is safe for dogs to eat.

The key is to offer white bread to your dog in a moderation and to avoid bread that has gone off or is not fully cooked.

Find organic white bread with no additives to avoid any problems.

Read Next
What is the difference between a Springer spaniel and a Cocker spaniel?

If you’re considering adding a spaniel to your family, you might be wondering what the difference is between a Springer spaniel and a Cocker spaniel.

After all, they both have similar names and are both adorable, affectionate, and loyal breeds. But there are some important differences that you should be aware of before making your decision.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the key differences between Springer and Cocker spaniels, including their appearance, personality, health, and more.

By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which breed is best suited for your lifestyle and preferences.

The key differences between Springer spaniels and Cocker spaniels are size and colour. Springers are normally larger than Cockers and tend to have coats that are either liver or black with areas of white. Cockers, on the other hand are between 12 to 20 kgs in weight and are mostly single coloured. Both breeds can vary between dogs that are sturdy powerhouses with broad heads and shoulders to dogs that are finer and more sleek in appearance.

Appearance

One of the most obvious differences between Springer and Cocker spaniels is their size.

Springer spaniels are generally larger and more athletic, while Cocker spaniels are smaller and more compact.

Here are some of the key differences in appearance between these two breeds:

Size:

Springer spaniels typically weigh between 50-55 pounds and stand 19-20 inches tall at the shoulder.

Cocker spaniels, on the other hand, weigh between 20-30 pounds and stand 14-15 inches tall at the shoulder.

Coat:

Both breeds have medium-length coats that are soft and silky to the touch.

However, Springer spaniels have a slightly coarser and thicker coat than Cocker spaniels.

Springers also have feathering on their legs, chest, and ears, while Cockers have a more even coat all over.

Colour:

Both breeds come in a variety of colours, including black, liver, red, and golden.

However, Springer spaniels are more likely to have a white coat with coloured markings, while Cocker spaniels are more likely to be solid-coloured.

Head shape:

Springer spaniels have a more prominent and square-shaped head, while Cocker spaniels have a more rounded and dome-shaped head.

Personality

Another important factor to consider when choosing between a Springer and Cocker spaniel is their personality.

While both breeds are known for being friendly, loyal, and affectionate, there are some differences in their temperaments that may affect your decision.

Here are some of the key differences in personality between these two breeds:

Energy level:

Springer spaniels are known for their high energy levels and love for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and playing fetch.

They require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

Cocker spaniels are also active, but tend to be more adaptable to different living situations and can do well in apartments as long as they get enough exercise.

Trainability:

Both breeds are intelligent and eager to please, but Springer spaniels can be more challenging to train due to their high energy and stubbornness.

They require consistent and patient training to learn obedience and manners.

Cocker spaniels are generally easier to train and respond well to positive reinforcement methods.

Affection:

Both breeds are affectionate and love spending time with their humans.

However, Springer spaniels are known for being especially devoted and clingy, often following their owners from room to room.

Cocker spaniels are also loving, but tend to be more independent and can entertain themselves more easily.

Sociability:

Both breeds are generally friendly and good with children and other pets.

However, Springer spaniels may have a higher prey drive and be more inclined to chase smaller animals like cats and squirrels.

Cocker spaniels, on the other hand, tend to be more gentle and may be better suited for households with small children.

Health

When it comes to health, both Springer and Cocker spaniels are prone to certain conditions that are common in their breed.

It’s important to be aware of these potential health issues so you can provide proper care and catch any problems early on.

Here are some of the most common health concerns for both breeds:

Hip dysplasia:

This is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to pain and mobility issues.

Both Springer and Cocker spaniels are prone to hip dysplasia, so it’s important to get regular check-ups and x-rays to monitor their joint health.

Ear infections:

Spaniels have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and grooming can help prevent this issue.

Eye problems:

Both breeds are prone to several eye conditions, including cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal atrophy. Regular eye exams can help catch these issues early and prevent vision loss.

Obesity:

Spaniels love to eat and can easily become overweight if they don’t get enough exercise and a balanced diet. Maintaining a healthy weight is important for their overall health and longevity.

FAQs

Q: Can Springer and Cocker spaniels live in apartments?

A: While Springer spaniels may have a harder time adjusting to apartment living due to their high energy levels, both breeds can live in apartments as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Q: Which breed is better for families with children?

A: Both breeds are generally good with children, but Cocker spaniels may be better suited for households with small children due to their gentler and more adaptable nature.

Q: Are spaniels good with other pets?

A: Yes, both Springer and Cocker spaniels are generally good with other pets, including cats and other dogs. However, Springer spaniels may have a higher prey drive and be more inclined to chase smaller animals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Springer and Cocker spaniels may share some similarities, there are some important differences to consider when choosing between the two breeds.

Springer spaniels are larger, more energetic, and may require more training, while Cocker spaniels are smaller, more adaptable, and may be better suited for families with small children.

Both breeds are loving, loyal, and make excellent companions for the right owner.

By understanding the differences between these two breeds, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect spaniel for your lifestyle and preferences.
The best way to potty train a puppy without a crate
For many new puppy owners one of the biggest challenges that they face is the matter of house training, or as some people put it ‘potty training’.

There are some people that recommend the use of a crate to ‘train’ the puppy, but this is not necessary and is actually not a good idea – which we’ll come onto shortly.

We always advise house training properly – ie. without a crate

The best way to potty train a puppy is without using a crate and it is a very simple task. All you need to do is to be consistent. Take the puppy out when he wakes up as, just like you do, he will need the toilet. Let me out after eating, waking and at regular times of the day. Pay attention to him, as he starts to sniff around or circle, let him out. You will soon see success. Crates are not needed.

When to start house training a puppy

You should begin house training a puppy as soon as he comes to live with you. If you have a safe and secure back yard or garden or similar space then this can be used for your dog.

It is a simple matter to take your puppy outside regularly, to let him scamper around and relieve himself. As soon as he does use some simple words such as ‘be quick’ and praise him before taking him back indoors.

Repeat this at regular intervals and always after your puppy has woken up, after meals and whenever he appears restless or starts to ‘sniff’ around.

Be patient and give him the chance to find a spot to go to the toilet.

Crates are not needed for house training puppies

There are many people who recommend the use of a crate for housetraining, but the reality is that they are not needed.

They work on the thinking that the puppy will not go to the toilet in his sleeping area and that by keeping him locked in a box they can control his bladder and bowels.

There may be some truths is this but is it really a good way to house train a dog? And, more importantly does it really work?

We’ve seen ‘crate trained’ dogs who certainly don’t use the crate as a toilet but the rest of the house is fair game because he won’t pee in his crate but has no idea that he cannot use the rest of the home as a toilet.

By locking a puppy in a crate you teach him nothing and he learns little. A crate is useful as a bed, safe place or to provide some security for your dog but should never by used as a method of ‘control’ to stop him using the toilet.

Things to remember when potty training a puppy

The first thing to remember is that if the puppy has an ‘accident’ in the house then that is your fault and not the puppy’s.
- You are housetraining the puppy because you do not want him making a mess in the home, but, to the puppy it makes no difference at all where he goes to the toilet.
- You are seeking to show him where you would like him to go. Remember he is a dog, a baby, and you are the human – he doesn’t think like you do.
- So, if he makes a mistake then it is your fault – not his.
- Get yourself prepared with some cleaning products as this process will not happen overnight and it will take some time for your puppy to get the idea.
- Ignore the experts and all of the ‘old wives’ tales’ – anyone who tells you to smack, discipline or rub the puppy’s nose in it is an idiot and knows nothing about dogs.
The best way to house train a puppy

It is not difficult but it will not happen overnight, remember that your puppy is a baby.
- Be consistent – dogs learn best when their routines are the same daily
- Take your puppy out as soon as he wakes up – in the morning and during the day after he has woken up. This is important, do not neglect this
- Puppies only have small bladders – you need to take him out regularly preferably every hour. The longest amount of time should never be more than two hours.
- After he has eaten – food will press down onto his bowel and he’ll probably need to go – so take him out
- Use the same spot – take your puppy to the same place when you take him out. The familiar scent will encourage him to use the toilet
- Be patient – don’t try to rush him, you will need to wait until he does something, and, with some puppies, this could take a while
- Praise him when he goes outside – use kind words, encourage him, maybe give him a small treat – be positive
- Never, ever punish him when he makes a mistake or mess inside – if he makes a mess in the house then guess whose fault that is – yours
- Ignore the old wives‘ and experts that talk of rubbing his nose in it and other rubbish – they do not know what they are talking about
Final words

Remember puppies are baby dogs and if it all goes wrong then it is either your fault ( as the intelligent human ) or he simply has not understood what is needed – this is true in all things when teaching dogs new things.
- Be consistent
- Be patient
- Don’t get frustrated
- Be prepared for the occasional mess inside
- Pay attention to the puppy
- Don’t be lazy with puppy potty training
- Never punish the puppy
If you are consistent and patient then you will find that most puppies will get the idea quite quickly.

Some puppies take longer than others to get the idea so just be patient and understanding and never lose your temper.

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Do Welsh Springer spaniels like water?

Do Welsh Springer Spaniels like water?

Welsh Springer Spaniel Dog lovers around the world are well-aware of the lovable and fascinating Welsh Springer Spaniel dog breed.

It is the pet of choice for many people and is highly intelligent, loves training and exercise and is a great dog with children making it ideal for families.

Many people like to spend lots of time outdoors with their Welsh Springer and often wonder whether this breed is a good water dog.

Welsh Springer Spaniels love water and are strong and capable swimmers. As one of the classic, spaniel breeds, they have traditionally been bred for gun dog work which involves water based activities such as the retrieving of shot game. They should be introduced to water on warm days and care should always be taken to ensure that the water is safe for swimming.

Their Ability To Swim

One of the best outdoor and warm weather activities for the Welsh Springer Spaniels is swimming.

The breed is well known for its agility and athletic abilities and, like most of the other spaniel breeds, they love to spend time in water and will make the most of any opportunity to swim and get wet.

Swimming is a great way for a Welsh Springer Spaniel to get fit and recover from injuries. Like the English Springer spaniel they are capable and confident swimmers and the Welsh Springer owner should have no difficulties getting their dog to swim.

Reasons for Swimming Ability?

Naturally, the species was bred to sustain harsh weather conditions and work long hours.

Welsh Springer Spaniels were used and bred as hunting dogs, and one of their key activities would be retrieving game, which could fall into water.

Going into water, whether by swimming or otherwise to fetch shot game is a regular task for all gundogs, thus the capacity and need for a like of water and ability to swim is a significant part of the breed’s abilities.

Additionally years of breeding helped them develop slightly webbed feet, ensuring that they can act as excellent water dogs and swim.

Does Water Affect Their Protective Coat?

Most dog species that avoid water face problems regarding their protective coat when they enter wet areas.

However, the case with the Welsh Springer Spaniels is completely different.

The species has a red and white coat, which is both dense and silky. This texture makes the protective coat of Welsh Springer Spaniels almost waterproof.

Thus, being inside water helps them self-clean the coat. Furthermore, the coat is also weatherproof, which means that they do not require a complete makeover after swimming.

Instead, a light brush can get them back in shape.

Do All Welsh Springer Spaniels Like Water?

The likeness towards water can vary from dog to dog. Some of them enjoy the water, rain, mud and will take every opportunity to get wet and messy.

However, there are some dogs that prefer to stay as dry as possible and seem to dislike water, and just like people dogs can vary in terms of personality and confidence.

There are simple ways that you can help a spaniel that is wary of water and I show you how to get a dog to like water in this article.

Should Hunting Welsh Springer Spaniels Be Trained To Like Water?

You should always introduce a Welsh Springer Spaniel to water, even if it is on a basic level. Regardless of the type of area where you are likely to work your dog, you never know when you might encounter water.

Your spaniel should be able to swim strongly and you should make effort and take the time to help your dog to learn this important skill.

Welsh Springer spaniels love water

Conclusion

Welsh Springer spaniels love water and, like most spaniels, they enjoy swimming and getting wet.

Water based activities such as swimming and retrieving from water, such as the sea, ponds and rivers can help your Welsh Springer to stay fit, learn new skills and burn off vast amounts of physical and mental energy.

As your dog becomes stronger and more confident around water you can introduce him to different types of water and scenarios, you can also swim with him, which is always great fun.
Can dogs eat oranges? Things you should know
Can dogs eat oranges?

One of the most common questions dog owners have had is, “can dogs eat oranges?” Many dogs have an interest in oranges and tangerines.

So, if your dog is interested in them, you might want to verify if it is safe or not.

The good news is – Yes, dogs can eat oranges. However, not every dog may be interested in oranges because it has a slightly acidic taste. But, oranges are rich in vitamin C and completely safe to use. Furthermore, it is also packed with fiber and potassium.

Are oranges safe for dogs?

Dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds can eat oranges. However, if your dog is suffering from any ailment, you should avoid giving your dog oranges.

Overweight dogs are prone to diabetes, and they shouldn’t be given oranges. The natural sugar content of dogs may not harm your dog, but it can impact the blood sugar levels of diabetic dogs.

Also, dogs suffering from gastrointestinal (GI) disorders shouldn’t consume oranges.

Should I give orange peels to my dog?

No. While oranges are safe for dogs, orange peels and orange’s flesh aren’t safe for your dogs.

Experts recommend removing skin, pith, and seeds from oranges before giving oranges to your dog.

How to give oranges to your dog?

No dog owner wants to feed something to their dog that can take away their nutritional compatibility.

Experts have often recommended feeding oranges to dogs only as a treat and not as a meal.

Treats are only 10% of the daily calorie count of your dog. As a result, you can feed one to three sections of orange to your dog. However, you will need to avoid feeding too many oranges to your dog.

Oranges are available in varieties- navel and blood. If you want to feed oranges to your dog, you should feed them navel oranges as these are seedless.

But, if navel oranges are out of season, you can give your dog normal oranges. However, it is necessary to remove seeds, peel, and pith.

Should I give orange juice to my dog?

While oranges are safe to consume, it is not advisable to give orange juice to your dog.

Even natural juices contain a higher concentration of citric acid and sugar.

Orange juice is loaded in vitamins, and dogs do not need these vitamins from the juice, it won’t help.

If you want to keep your dog hydrated and healthy, you should give them water.

How to introduce oranges to your dog?

Since not all dogs like the taste of oranges, it is advisable to feed one orange section each day.

Depending on the reaction your dog gives, you can consider feeding them regularly.

The citrusy content can make the dog dislike oranges.

What are the risks of feeding oranges to your dog?

Oranges are safe, but feeding oranges to your dog regularly might have counter-effects. It is advisable to observe your dog’s reaction to oranges.

Some of the common problems of eating oranges include:
- Increase insulin levels in diabetic dogs.
- Vomiting (on allergy)
- Weight gain and obesity
Conclusion

You can feed oranges to your dog. But, it is essential to check if your dog is tolerant or not. Taking basic care will only contribute to the better health of your dog.

There are foods that are more suitable for dogs than oranges and, although it is safe to feed oranges to dogs you may want to consider a food that is more suited to canine tastes.

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The German Cocker spaniel a rare spaniel breed

There are many spaniel breeds that are less well known and rarer than the more common Springer and Cocker spaniels, and the German Cocker spaniel is one of these dogs.

Like the Boykin spaniel which is only really known in the USA, the German Cocker spaniel is not normally seen outside of Germany.

The German Cocker Spaniel is a hunting dog that became common in Germany towards the end of the 19th century. Known as the Deutscher Wachtelhund, this spaniel breed is similar in size to the English Springer Spaniel and has typical spaniel looks with long ears, wavy, feathered coat and a burly build with powerful shoulders.

The breed is well known in Germany and Sweden, where it is used for hunting wild boar, but is very uncommon and relatively unknown elsewhere.

History of the German Cocker Spaniel

The breed became popular towards the end of the 19th century and was the product of a breeding programme which used a variety of breeds, producing a hunting dog that was exceptional at working in the worst weather conditions.

A key breed used in the development of the German spaniel was a now extinct breed called the Stoeberer – this was a breed that had exceptional scenting abilities ( of a level similar to a Bloodhound ) – this breed was crossed with sporting spaniels of the time, along with water dogs – producing the German Cocker Spaniel of today.

What do German spaniels look like?

The German Cocker spaniel is a similar size to the English Springer spaniel, weighing between 20 to 30 Kgs.

The breed has typical working spaniel features with strong powerful shoulders and short legs, with a medium spaniel sized body and height.

As for colour, this can be anywhere from a red/brown colour through to a yellow colour similar to a retriever. The breed can often be roan and most dogs have areas of white markings on their chests, legs, muzzles and tails.

They are an attractive dog.

German Cocker spaniels are friendly dogs

The German spaniel is known for it’s versatility and intelligence, both as a working gundog, companion and family pet.

Typical of most spaniel breeds, the German cocker loves to hunt and chase after his nose, training and similar activities will bring out the best in this breed.

They possess an excellent sense of smell which makes them ideal for gundog work, but the novice owner may find this tricky due to the breed’s insatiable desire to hunt.

As with all of the other spaniels, they have a great personality and love to play. They are an ideal dog for an active family that can provide the training and exercise that they require.

Exercise

As a working dog the German Cocker spaniel needs to be provided with plenty of daily opportunities to burn off calories and stretch their minds.

A typical spaniel needs at least two 30 minute exercise sessions every day, where he can run free, hunt and explore the ground. Games such as fetch or gundog training are great activities for him to do.

Swimming is something that the German Cocker enjoys and every opportunity should be taken to let him swim, whether in the sea or elsewhere, provided it is safe for him – they are excellent swimmers.

Training the German Cocker spaniel

With some information and practice, along with consistency, training a German Cocker spaniel is no more demanding than training other spaniel breeds.

There are various options open to the potential owner for training but, at the very least, some basic spaniel training should be undertaken to encourage and develop good behaviour, which will include coming when called or whistled, sitting down and walking properly on the lead.

Training is important and, as well as working the dog physically, will also tire him mentally – an untrained dog will quickly become bored and potentially disruptive. This is true of all spaniel breeds.

Spaniels enjoy training, are quick to learn and they love the interaction with their owners that training provides.

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Do German spaniels shed?

They do shed hair but this is no more or less than any of the other spaniels.

German Cocker spaniels have a double coat which provides good protection against the elements necessary for a working dog.

They shed all year round as old hair is replaced by new but, the majority of moulting takes place at the end of the colder, winter months, as warmer weather begins and a thick coat is no longer needed.

The effects of shedding can be reduced through regular brushing to remove dead hair.

Feeding

There are no specific needs to consider when feeding a German Spaniel. Simply provide a good quality, well balanced dog food and you will meet his dietary requirements.

Twice daily is the normal schedule for feeding most spaniels, unless puppies who need different food more often.

To sum up

The German Cocker spaniel is a typical spaniel breed, developed for game hunting, possessing an excellent nose, a strong love and desire to hunt and retrieve.

With a build similar to that of an English Springer Spaniel and a very similar temperament, they make great working dogs and family pets – if you can provide the training and daily exercise that they need.