Adam Katz is a professional dog trainer, although some of his views on dog training are occasionally viewed as a little controversial.

In the following article, Adam provides advice on methods of defending yourself against an aggressive dog that may be about to attack you.  Some of these methods seem to contradict common understanding on how to deal with aggressive dogs.  Many dog experts are of the view that you should never look directly at a dog, and that to do so may well cause the dog to attack you.

One of Adam Katz's suggestions is the reverse of this, although he's probably referring to specific types of circumstances, and he may also be directing this advice to an audience who understand dog training methods and dog psychology, which he does refer to in his article.

Take his comments on board, but don't ignore any advice you may have heard about never looking at an aggressive dog.

Here's the article:

How to Defend Yourself Against a Dog Attack

My name is Adam Katz. For [approximately] seven years, I owned a company called South Bay K-9 Academy. I currently own the web site: Dogproblems.com. And I am the author of the widely acclaimed book, "Secrets of a Professional Dog Trainer!"

Here are the facts about defending yourself against a dog attack.

If the dog is a trained personal protection or police dog and it is a good specimen: You have no chance. All of this nonsense about kicking the dog at the right time is baloney. Your best chance of surviving is to stand absolutely still. If you are unarmed, and you try to fight the dog, you will lose. The dog is fast enough to bite you two or three times before you even realize where you've been bit. And by then… it's over.

Anyone who does not believe me can contact me, and we will outfit you with a padded suit and you can give it your best shot. You cannot outrun a dog. Even a big, heavy slow dog like as a Rottweiler.

If the dog is not a professionally trained dog, you may be able to intimidate the dog with forward-leaning body language and moving directly in towards the dog, making direct eye contact. However, make sure that the dog has an easy way to turn and escape. If he feels cornered, you're in big trouble. (This technique relies on using the dog's psychology.) [Although this technique will work very often, there is still a good chance that you may get bit. Better to stay still and call for help, or back away slowly until you can get to an object that will help separate you from the dog.]  It is a myth that a well trained dog is taught to bite and hold on to one arm. A good dog that is taught to bite the arm will also be taught to release the first arm and bite the other arm when it comes close to his face.

Furthermore, many trained dogs are taught to take chest bites, back bites, leg bites, etc…

Stun guns often work well to deter untrained dogs. The electrical sound will very often scare them away. [Buy one at a local hardware store (or on the internet) that makes a loud crackling sound (most do) and keep it with you when you jog, go for a walk or a hike.]

Pepper spray works well on some dogs. On others, it is ineffective. Kicking or punching a trained dog will be ineffective. We've documented several cases where large breed dogs were latched on to an individual and neighbors ran out and beat the dogs over the head with baseball bats and the dogs did not let go. (Again, it depends on the dog, but if you're going to put together a defense strategy, it's important to take this into consideration.

Let me recap: For both a trained or untrained dog, your best defense is to stand absolutely still. If the dog walks around behind you, turn smoothly but slowly to face the dog. Do not try to run or move quickly as you will turn into prey. Keep a stun gun on your person, or at least pepper spray. Aim for the nose.

If you are in possession of a weapon, there are other strategies which should be employed. But I'll save that for a later discussion.

Disclaimer:  No guarantee is stated or implied in this article and if you follow any of the advice in it, you do so at your own risk. If you ever feel that you, your dog, or others are at risk because of your dog, please seek the services of a professional dog trainer.

Copyright 2002 By Dogproblems.com All Rights Reserved.

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The Greyhound breed is well known for its agility, speed, and love of running. Greyhounds have been seen throughout history as a breed of nobility in both Egypt and England. Here is a brief history of this regal breed, and their introduction to course racing that was borne out of their love of running.

Evidence of the Greyhound breed is first dated back to roughly around 2500 BC in ancient Egypt. Marked on the tombs of by-gone pharaohs are painting and carvings of dogs that closely resemble the notable Greyhound physique. To drop a few names of well-known ancient Egyptian leaders, Tutankhamen, Amenhotep II, Thutmose III, Queen Hatshepsut, and Cleopatra VII are all said to have owned Greyhounds long ago.

Throughout the ages Greyhounds have become popular for their helpful hunting abilities. Unlike other dog breeds, they do not have a particularly keen sense of smell. What makes them excellent hunters then? They are well known for their excellent eyesight and speed. Hunters would use greyhounds in hunting because they could count on their dog to see a moving animal from a long distance away. Because Greyhounds are particularly fast and possess a striking love of running, they are able to spot and catch prey superbly.

In literature and lore, Greyhounds may be seen all over the place. For example, many Biblical versions of Proverbs 30:29-31 mention the stateliness of the Greyhound. Also, the legendary Odysseus arrived home after a 20-year trek and was greeted by his faithful hound upon his homecoming. Also, Diana the Roman huntress, was said to have owned and favored Greyhounds in Roman lore. Greyhounds have also been mentioned in five of William Shakespeare’s plays, as well as in works of Chaucer.

Most scholars believe it was the Romans who originally introduced England to the sport of Greyhound coursing during their occupation in 43 AD. However, there is evidence that supports the belief that the Celtic peoples were already participating in the sport prior to the Roman invasion.

The sport of coursing actually set the groundwork for the sport we know today as simply Greyhound racing. Coursing is the sport in which dogs race for a gaming animal such as a hare or an antelope. Later on in years, “coursing by proxy,” that is, using a toy or a stuffed hare as the bait instead of a live animal was introduced. Similar to horse racing, people enjoy watching beautiful animals in full flight doing what they love. Also like horse racing, people enjoyed the sport more when they were allowed to place bets on the particular dog or the outcome of the race.

While popularity of Greyhound racing grew in the United Kingdom, it struggled in the United States. Greyhounds were popular among cavalrymen in America’s Wild West because they were excellent hunting helpers and companions. The first official Greyhound race in the United States took place in Salt Lake City in 1907. However, funding for this sport was lacking, and it actually didn’t pick up fully until the late 1920’s in Florida.

These long, lithe, and lean dogs symbolize passion in today’s society for the sport of running. Greyhounds have been known as a breed favored by Egyptian, Roman, and English nobility throughout the ages. The most important thing to remember about this breed is that these dogs choose to race because of their sheer love of running, which has stood as an example to many societies throughout time.

Article provided by Pet Super Store a site featuring:bird cages, dog doors and dog bowls.

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If you are planning on holidaying away from home, it's essential to make proper arrangements for your pet while you are away. You have several options available: ask a friend, ask a neighbor, hire a professional pet sitter, or take your dog to the kennel. Problem is - your friends and neighbors sometimes go away at the same time as you. And, though professional pet sitters are more often than not reliable, you may not feel comfortable having a stranger go in and out of your home on a daily basis. And of course, kennels are not appealing to many dog owners - dogs are subject to loud noises and sometimes other dogs' illnesses. So what should you do?

Why don't you take your pet with you!

Taking your pet with you as you travel has many benefits. First and foremost, your pet is a member of your family. So why would your dog be left behind at home when he enjoys being with the family as much as you do? Kids usually love having their pet come along with them on a trip, and then they won’t have to miss their dog back home because he is with them!

Another benefit is that you will most likely save money. If you take your pet along with you, you will not need to pay a friend, neighbor, pet sitter or kennel costs. Most airlines and hotels don’t even charge extra for bringing your pet…or even if they do, it will most likely cost less than a pet sitter.

If you take your pet with you, it will also help your pet stay healthy. If your pet is with you all the time, you will be able to keep his or her regular food and water schedule, and no one knows your pup like you do.

If you take your pet to a kennel, you are subjecting him or her to possibly getting kennel cough or other illnesses. Also, if you choose to travel with your pet, your pet won’t be lonely.

When dogs are lonely and miss their families, they have a tendency to become agitated and upset. They might start chewing, scratching, or ripping your favorite couch pillows to shreds simply because they miss you. Of course, you could put your pet in a crate inside your home, but for long periods during the day it could be rough on your pet.

Finally, don’t forget to plan ahead. Contact your airline if you are flying to notify them that you plan on bringing Spot with you, and work out any details that may need to be covered. If you are traveling by car, make sure you have ample food and water supply, a crate, carrier, or pet blanket for your pet’s ultimate traveling safety (and for the safety of your car seats!).

The best thing about traveling with your pet during the holidays is even if you are away from home, the whole family will together. Happy holidaying!

Article provided by Pet Super Store a site featuring:pet beds, pet ramps and elevated dog feeders.

And if taking your pet with you on holidays is not for you, or not possible, check out the alternative of pet sitters and house sitters who will look after your pets in your own home, by clicking here.

They're available from a worldwide database, so even if you live in a more remote area, you may be pleasantly surprised at what's available.

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Dear Brigitte

I do so look forward to your newsletters and emails. And, I can say that I not only boycott IAMS, but every large dog food company out there. IAMS is probably no worse than the others - they just got caught, that's all!

Unfortunately, there is nothing that the large pet food companies can to that can shock me anymore. Whether it's intentionally using poor quality ingredients in order to maximize profits, poor quality control, sloppy handling of perishable product or an bad attitude that 'this is just for dogs - so who cares what goes in to it'. And about mistreating their animals? They're considered test subjects, not pets - the dog food companies consider them part of their disposable overhead. If one of the dogs or cats die - they can easily get another one; there's plenty of them at the pound. Like I said, NOTHING shocks me anymore.

About a year ago I received a postcard from the company that produces Kirkland's (Costco) brand of lamb and rice formula dog food. I had evidently purchased a case of potentially contaminated dog food, and they were writing to alert me that it was on the recall list and could possibly be tainted. They told me to take the case back to Costco for a refund or replacement. I never did. Unfortunately, the case of dog food was long gone by time the postcard arrived, having been consumed by my wonderful Standard Poodle, Jared.

Jared was truly a very lucky dog, and suffered no ill affects. However, not before I spent over $300 in vet fees to have him fully checked out, and tests run to be certain there was no contamination in his system, or lingering problems. That was the last time I purchased any and all ingestible dog or cat products for my pets - entirely!!

As distressing as it seemed at the time - it was a far cry better than what most companies did - which was NOTHING! Most companies attempted to deny any contamination, and I don't know of any other company that sent out a postcard! So at least they were attempting to alert the public of a problem with the food. Nevertheless, it made me acutely aware to how susceptible all of us are to purchasing inferior products, and changed my attitude about purchasing cat and dog food, forever.

Now, I personally cook every meal for my dog and two cats, from scratch - including all of their treats. Nothing but the best ingredients are used. No whey, corn, glutens, additives, by-products, or anything artificial goes into my treats or food. Only the highest grade, human-quality ingredients are used. If I wouldn't feel good about eating it myself, or serving it at my dinner table - it doesn't get fed to my dog or cats. I've spent countless hours researching the right combination of ingredients and working with my vet to ensure that I make a healthy, delicious and nutritious treat for dogs and cats.

I've given my treats to friends as gifts for their pets, and they have become so popular, that I'm being asked to sell them. The dog food, too.

Thank for again for the wonderful information you so generously pass on, and I will look forward to many more of your Healthy Happy Dog emails.

With warmest regards,
Sally Dawn and
Jared, Phantom & Pearl

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Hello Brigitte,

I whole heartily agree with you about the reasons for having a dog.

My spouse had commented a few times about having a dog but we both agreed it wasn't time because of our work schedules and the fact we have 4 cats ( total of 5 in the winter time since we babysit her for those months ). They are all indoor cats and seems like each one of them wants to be the "boss"!!

But last June we were visiting his parents in upstate New York when a neighbor down the dirt road approached me in the driveway asking if anyone was looking for a lost dog. He had found her walking in the busy highway by his house! I looked in the truck and there she was "cowered" by the gas peddles looking so pathetic. So I thought maybe this was a "set up" between my spouse and neighbor because coincidentally we were just talking about a dog the night before with his parents! But it wasn't .

The neighbor already had 2 dogs of his own and certainly didn't want this one so I thought if we brought her back to Vt. I could find a good home for her.

Before we left we had posted a picture of her in the area and left our telephone number. When we got home I also posted her on a site for lost and found animals to which I only got 2 calls. 2 months had gone by with no luck and we had ourselves attached to her so she's been with us since!

The vet feels she might be as old as 10yrs. She has a sight and hearing problem and is often incontinent so we buy the puppy pads.

One of the cats uses it as well at times. This cat has been peeing about a year on the floors and scatter rugs!!! She's been treated twice for UTI, and I have invested a lot of money into "products" to deter and clean cat urine!!! I don't have the heart to put her down . I think it has now become a behavioral problem and we are continuing to solve it.

So back to the dog. She has a good life with us even though we've discovered her bad temperament at times and will bite if front paws are touched or try to groom her!! She doesn't mind a bath and seems to enjoy having the blow dryer on her and runs like a puppy all over the house when we're done with her!! That's the only time she's playful.

She has her own "log bed" that my spouse made and a comfy bed downstairs. She's very fussy with the food. Lots of trials and errors!!! Not to mention money. It has altered our life a bit with walks and taking responsibilities that goes with having a dog so we "adjust " our lives around hers so to speak.

We're giving it our best shot!!!

Judy Moscatello

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Life's Abundance Dog Food

Dogs really do function better as carnivores, and should always have plenty of meat protein in their diet. Meat protein provides the building blocks of good dog health.

Certainly, a small to moderate amount of carbohydrates can play a secondary role in a dog’s diet, dogs should be fed only highly digestible carbohydrates such as brown rice. Excessive and/or poorly digestible carbohydrates of the type found in cereal based dog foods that contain only small proportions of meat are not recommended.

Dogs are historically scavengers and of course, primarily meat eaters. In fact, a natural diet for dogs included bones, chunks of carcass, fish guts, animal guts and heads, together with rotten greens and fruits. In the pre-domesticated stage, dogs started to consume discarded human food, which continued until relatively recent times.

Have you ever wondered why many dogs love to go through your garbage can, and will more often than not eat any and everything in there if given the chance? Well look back in history, and you will discover your answer.

In fact, the major contributing factor in the domestication of dogs was their attraction to whatever food was available at human garbage dumps. Eventually, the tamer wolves that were the least threatened by human beings, over tens of thousands of years, became our companions and evolved into the various dog breeds we have today.

It stands to reason, therefore, that your dog's digestive system is more suited to raw food coupled with some table scraps - natural dog food, than to most of the substandard rubbish that's passed off as commercial dog food.

But if you don't fancy feeding your dog raw food, then at least ditch the commercial dog food and feed your loved companion a quality, premium dog food that has the healthy goodness of a home cooked meal. Life’s Abundance dog food is made using only fresh, human-quality ingredients such as premium all natural chicken and top quality catfish with the best fresh fruit such as tree ripened applies, vegetables like crisp fresh carrots, and select farm foods such as eggs.

Life’s Abundance also contains a superior blend of vitamins, minerals, bacteria cultures that assist digestion, and antioxidants.  There are no artificial flavors, colors, sugars, or chemical preservatives - common ingredients in most commercial dog foods.

Dr Jane Bicks is responsible for product formulation and development of Life's Abundance pet food. Dr Bicks is a highly respected and nationally recognized holistic veterinarian. She is the author of three national books on pet care and nutrition and has served on professional boards including the Cornell Feline Health Center.

Not all veterinarians have much idea on good nutrition for dogs, in fact most don't. Conventional vets get most of their information from commercial pet food manufacturers. But if you're fortunate enough to find a good holistic vet, you're much more likely to learn the truth about healthy dog food.

Life’s Abundance pet food is a premium health food for your dog. Apart from the ingredients in the dog food you select, you should also be concerned about the cooking process used. Commercial pet foods are extruded at extremely high temperatures which effectively destroy any semblance of nutrition that may have been in the ingredients.

Life's Abundance, on the other hand, is cooked in small batches using an exclusive “fast-cook” process that uses less heat to gently lock in more of the natural goodness and fresh taste of real food.

And they even go a step further to ensure the nutritional quality of Life’s Abundance pet food with their revolutionary reclosable, oxygen resistant packaging that ensures all the flavor, vitamins and natural nutrients from Life’s Abundance remains. So no preservatives of any kind are necessary - natural dog food at its best. In fact, this food is said to be just as natural and deliciously wholesome as if you’d made it yourself.

For more dog food reviews, and more on other types of natural dog food, click on the hyperlinks to go to other helpful articles in the Healthier Dogs site.

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