You are quite right that fear can turn into aggression. In fact, recent studies on dog aggression show that some of the smallest dog breeds are actually the most notorious biters, since their tiny size makes them feel easily threatened by others. Although mastiffs, weighing more than 80 pounds, don’t fall into that category, it’s still important to quickly resolve this problem.

Keep in mind a couple of things. First, fear of people and a tendency to overreact to common stimuli are very common in mastiffs, so you’re not alone. Second, both fear and aggression can stem from the same root problem: antisocial behavior.

Try to spend at least an hour each day with your dog, exposing her to various social situations in a slow, gentle and non-threatening manner. You might find Dr. Patricia McConnell’s book The Cautious Canine to be of some help and guidance. Working with a professional dog trainer will yield the best results. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations and check out the Association of Pet Dog Trainers Web site for names of members in your area.

A 2-year-old yellow Labrador retriever is usually full of playful energy. Your night owl dog apparently likes to work off some of that energy at odd hours. One suggestion is to take your dog for a brisk walk or to conduct an intense play session before bedtime. This should make your pet more inclined to snooze than wake you up.

Your dog could also need a training refresher course, since any kind of irritating activity like this falls under unwanted behavior. Assuming the dog will sit and stay on command, it should also be taught the “down” command. This involves the dog sitting at the owner’s side, with a food treat used to prompt the dog’s appropriate legs-forward position.

Once your dog has aced the “sit,” “stay” and “down” commands, it can graduate to the ever helpful “go to your bed” command, which is really a combination of all three of the aforementioned commands. A properly trained dog should know that when it hears this order, it’s bedtime without argument.

The Pomchi is a cross between a Pomeranian and a Chihuahua. They make wonderful, loyal pets but do tend to be a bit nervous at times and untrusting of strangers. That’s true for many dogs, but especially so for smaller breeds like the Pomchi. On the up side, they are often good barking watchdogs as a result of their vigilance and loyalty to their owners.

Your dog is still quite young but was most likely a puppy when her former owners had her. Puppies and young dogs tend to bond faster to people when they are about 8 months to 1 year old. This is a period when they readily absorb life’s experiences along with everything -- and everyone -- around them.

It’s perfectly normal that she was skittish when she initially came into your home, since all dogs need time to adjust. But now that she has bonded with you, I see no problem in allowing her former owners to visit. Just show her how much you love her through verbal praise, playtime and petting, and she won’t forget your kindness. Dogs, like humans, may have their unpredictable pooch and people preferences, but it’s hard to resist a caring owner. You are likely her pack leader now.

Dogs often want to relieve themselves after waking up, eating, drinking, playing and doing other activities. The urge could occur every few hours, since your pet is still a young pup. Generally, a dog will sniff the ground and/or start to move around in a circle beforehand. When you see this or cue into other similar signals, place some newspaper in the designated space for your dog to use. If the designated spot is outside, take your dog to that area when your pet needs to go. Always direct your dog to the same spot, using the same travel route.

Doggy litter boxes are also available now. Cats have had them for years, so why not dogs? Some feature an attractant that encourages a dog to do its business, and even fake grass to provide a somewhat authentic “call of nature” experience.

Your dog chorus duo sounds rather amusing, but probably not when people are trying to sleep, read or relax nearby. Most dogs bark to signal hunger, boredom, anxiety, aggression, playfulness and other emotions.

You may be unintentionally reinforcing the barking. Sometimes, attention-seeking pets would rather have you come to yell at them to “shut up” than have no attention at all. The solution is to train each of your dogs to be “quiet” on command.

Separate your dogs so that you can work with one at a time. When your dog barks, say “Quiet!” in a firm voice while placing your hand over your dog’s muzzle. When your dog is quiet, offer verbal praise, perhaps in combination with a bit of doggie biscuit. Over time, your dog should come to associate being quiet with something pleasant and will follow your instruction.

If the problem persists, you may have to hire a professional trainer to help you out. Pet stores also sell anti-barking collars that spray a smelly yet nontoxic mist whenever your dog barks. I would use those as a true last resort, however, and rely more on patient training of your bark-happy dogs.

You are off to a good start, since introducing a new dog to a home that has a resident adult dog is easier when the second dog is a puppy. Your 8-month-old is already into puberty but is young enough to not be too much of a threat to your 3-year-old Weimaraner.

Confine your adult dog to a specific part of your house, where it will be out of sight when the younger pup arrives. Let your new dog roam around the house. It will detect the scent of your adult dog and realize it’s not alone.

It is best to introduce the two dogs on neutral ground, such as on the sidewalk in front of your house. Keep them both leashed and supervise them closely at this time. If they get along, continue to supervise their interactions, but your dogs should work out territory and pack-order issues on their own.

If they don’t tolerate each other during this first introduction, you may have to crate the new dog for a while, giving your older dog time to adjust. Then reverse the crating, giving your new pup run of the house. Over time, your dogs should accept each other’s presence and develop a closer bond.

Since dogs are creatures of habit, their happiness and comfort level is often tied to anticipating something good -- like breakfast -- and then getting it when they expect it. Your pet sitter should try to follow your Chihuahuas’ usual daily schedule so your dogs feel better about the situation.

Before your trip, have your pet sitter come to your home and visit with your dogs. If possible, also introduce your sitter to a neighbor who will be home during your vacation, especially if the sitter will be staying in your home throughout the duration of your trip.

In a prominent spot in your home, such as on the refrigerator door, post information about each of your dogs, including their medications, favorite foods and leash locations. Other important information includes contact numbers for your veterinarian and the local pet emergency hospital, as well as instructions about operating your home’s thermostat.

Finally, anticipate any problems you have faced before. The more preparation you do ahead of time, the better off your sitter and your Chihuahuas will be while you’re enjoying the trip.

You’re not alone in that thought. Pet Sitters International holds a Take Your Dog to Work Day event, which has the appropriate motto: “It’s the leash you can do.” In fact, there’s evidence that dogs promote productivity, creativity and teamwork, which all businesses value.

Consult with your colleagues first to see how they feel about the idea; some may be allergic or afraid of dogs. But if they all agree to the idea and necessary permissions can be granted, set aside some ground rules to make the plan work.

For example, electrical cords should be out of your dog’s reach, along with potentially toxic items, like correction fluid. Dogs must still be fed and walked regularly, with pooper-scooper in hand. Each dog should have its own crate that serves as a familiar resting spot. It also helps to have toys and treats on hand when making introductions to colleagues and visitors. For more general information, please visit the Take Your Dog Web site.

Dogs aren't the only ones that enjoy this activity. The "air massage" against a head or hand sticking out of a car can be a pleasant sensation for kids too. When driving in a remote area, it's also a fun way to teach children about the physics of flight, since an outstretched hand can illustrate the sensation of air uplift underneath the hand.

That said, it's not a good idea to allow any of your passengers -- human or canine -- to stick their head or limbs outside the window, particularly in busy, urban areas. Rocks, glass or even worse objects could cause severe injury. You can, however, roll down the window just enough to let your dog feel a small wind rush. Pet stores also sell safety goggles for dogs, which offer some protection if your dog must place its head outside the car window -- but be prepared for a lot of bemused stares!

A critical learning period for your puppy is when she is between 4 and 14 weeks old. During this time, she will absorb information about the world that could affect her for the rest of her life. It is therefore important that you expose her to as many different places, people and experiences as possible. When doing so, make sure these times are positive and quell any fears you detect. We humans undergo a similar period of intense learning, only ours goes further into childhood and adolescence.

Usually, puppies that encounter cats at this time can later bond with felines, so try to introduce your dog to a cat during this period. A trick to get your puppy geared up for future veterinary office visits is to place your pet on your washing machine when it is turned off. The height and slippery surface mimic the metal tables at veterinary clinics, allowing your pet to get accustomed to this sensation in a more relaxed environment.

Mischief in your view probably means something else to your dog. Canines are inquisitive by nature, so when your dog is "misbehaving," he's probably just being stimulated by some intriguing sight, smell, taste or sound. If you swear and yell, your dog will probably think you are the one who is having some kind of behavior breakdown. When you need to redirect your dog's attention, call its name firmly and loudly to bring your pet's focus back to you. Next, give out a command that your dog understands, such as "stay" or "sit." Offer a head rub and a treat when your dog follows this command. Over time, your dog may start to anticipate the reward, behaving properly before you even consider a scolding.

Skip plastic water and food dishes for your dog, if at all possible. Here's why: Dogs with a penchant for chewing may bite into the plastic, possibly injuring themselves and destroying your purchase in one swift chomp. Even if your dog's biting doesn't outright break the dishes, the gashes on the bowls could have microscopic rough spots that can be difficult to clean, leading to bacterial growth.

A recent study shows that plastic emits potentially harmful chemicals into food and water, which is why I always look for glass containers when purchasing bottled liquids for my own family.

Finally, plastic can absorb flavors and odors. This can put a damper on your scent-sensitive dog's enjoyment of food. You may not like the odors the dishes leave in your home after mealtime too, so pass up the plastic. Instead, select dishes made from sturdier materials that are easier to wash and maintain, such as thick ceramic.

The sooner you insure your pet the better, for a few important reasons. First and foremost, you never know when a health emergency may arise. Pet insurance will give you peace of mind, since you'll know you are financially prepared. Over an animal's lifetime, monthly insurance payments should only add up to approximately $6,000 to $8,000. This may seem like a lot, but if you weigh that against full-price medical bills, you'll no doubt experience substantial savings.

Secondly, preexisting health conditions can complicate, or even prevent, your pet from receiving coverage with some pet insurance providers. Dogs may also not be allowed coverage once they go over a certain age.

Weigh various plans carefully and consult with your veterinarian for his or her views. When you decide on a carrier, know that you've just made a positive investment toward the future of your new pet.

The short answer is yes, but before I get into that, it's important to think about what intelligence in any animal actually is and how it develops. Like all behaviors and attributes, intelligence appears to be a component of genetic, environmental and day-to-day factors. Your dog therefore has inherited some of its braininess from its relatives, just as you have. But its smarts are also a reflection of how stimulating its environment is, how much education/training it has received and how much stress is in its life. Intelligence is also hard to quantify outside of rigid scientific and medical tests. Your dog may be brilliant at coming up with creative solutions to problems or at making surprising connections, like an artistic human may be. This skill isn't always necessarily reflected in IQ scores. With that background in mind, many experts suggest trying the following: Have your dog stand and then place a small, lightweight blanket over its head covering the eyes. "Smart" dogs usually figure out how to remove the blanket in less than 15 seconds.

Proper obedience training is critical in ensuring the safety of your pet and your family. Well-trained dogs often live longer -- with a better quality of life too. Most trainers stick to some variation of the following eight commands: come, sit, off, stand, stay, drop, heel and bed. You can probably guess what sit, off, come, stay and heel mean. "Stand" is handy at the veterinarian's office and when you need your dog to position itself properly for washing and grooming. "Drop" is important, should your dog get ahold of potentially dangerous or valuable items. Many owners fail to teach their dogs "bed," or a similar command indicating it's time for the dog to go to his or her sleeping spot for a snooze. If your dog sleeps with you, the command helps to instruct your pet to move to the proper spot on the bed, thereby not crowding your space.

Breeding can determine and enhance behavioral characteristics in dogs, so some canines are better than others at activities for work or for play. The American Kennel Club recognizes over 150 breeds, so there are plenty of choices. For example, Labrador retrievers, also called "gun dogs," often accompanied hunters and retrieved their prey. If you'd like to play Frisbee and tennis-ball chase with your pet, any retriever breed would be a good companion. On the other hand, breeding can sometimes rule out activities for dogs that just aren't physically up to the necessary demands. While exceptions always exist, dogs bred to be hefty and with short legs, such as basset hounds and English bulldogs, tend to be poor swimmers. But these dogs are also often experts at retrieving toys, possess a keen sense of smell and do well around children. A toss game with a toy that smells like meat would therefore prove to be a better pastime than a dunk in the pool with these breeds.

Laws differ, but more on a beach-to-beach level rather than by state. Some beaches only allow dogs during off-seasons, which typically occur from October to the end of April. Some beaches specify that dogs should be kept on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Still others require that dogs may only walk on areas of the beach that are washed by the high-tide line, or that dogs be kept out of public areas, such as those reserved for camping, bathing and picnicking. For best results, do some advance research online or by calling public park authorities to find out what restrictions might apply to the beaches you hope to visit with your dog.

Dog experts advise that a puppy is best brought into a home when it is around 7 to 8 weeks old. The puppy should remain with its mother for the earlier period to allow for weaning and social development. Dogs will nurse until they are approximately 6 weeks old because they do not even have proper teeth yet for consuming other food. At this time, the puppy will also learn how to interact with other dogs -- in this case, its siblings -- and its mother will teach it basic skills as well. When the puppy is about 2 months old, it becomes very susceptible to imprinting. This is the ideal time to bring the pup into your own family. Dogs are meant to live in packs, so your own pack, even if it's just you, will become your puppy's new family.

Many studies support that dog ownership is beneficial to human health. In terms of mental health, dogs have been shown to improve an individual's ability to handle crises, as they provide loyal companionship and unconditional loving support. People suffering from loneliness and depression have had their symptoms improved after getting a dog. That is one reason why dogs are often brought into hospitals and other medical facilities. Additionally, studies demonstrate that dogs can actually lower our blood pressure. Enjoying even the simplest of activities with a dog, such as petting it, can reduce stress and blood pressure. This, in turn, can help to prevent cardiovascular disease and will support the immune system. In the long run, these studies indicate that dog owners often have lower personal medical bills than people without pets.

To administer pills to your dog, begin by holding the top part of your dog's muzzle with your left hand (your right if you are left-handed), with your thumb on one side and your fingers on the other. Lift your dog's nose up while gently squeezing behind your dog's canine teeth; this will cause its mouth to open. Hold the pill with your free hand's thumb and forefinger and use your other fingers on that hand to push open your dog's lower jaw a bit more. Place the pill in the back of your dog's mouth. Gently hold your dog's mouth closed for a minute, blowing on its nose to stimulate the swallow reflex. Reward your dog with praise and a food treat afterward. You could further try hiding the pill in a small portion of dog food or a tiny amount of peanut butter. Pill guns for dogs are also available. They essentially shoot pills into your dog's mouth at a safe, low pressure.

The loud explosions could hurt your dog's more sensitive hearing, depending on how close you get to the fireworks. Some dogs become so traumatized by the sounds that they actually may cower and shiver or try to escape. Dogs have even been known to run for their lives through an open door or window during city firework displays. It's best to leave your pet at home in a quiet, closed room. For company while you're gone, you can leave a radio or television on at normal volume to help establish a more familiar sound environment for your dog.

A few years ago, DogFriendly online released a list of their top 10 dog-friendly resort areas to visit in the United States. From first to last, their list is Portland, Maine; Carmel/Monterey, Calif.; Ashville/Blue Ridge, N.C.; Key West, Florida; Charlottesville, Va.; Black Hills, S.D.; Lake Tahoe, Nev.; Cape May, N.J.; Grand Canyon, Ariz.; and Hocking Hills, Ohio. Each of these places has its own charm and outdoor activity offerings. A walk along the Grand Canyon rim with your dog, for example, is something that the two of you will never forget. On the other hand, it's hard to beat the rugged Monterey coastline, with beachside trails and numerous dog-friendly restaurants. You can hear the surf roll in while you and your pet dig into breakfast. Consider your and your dog's activity preferences, however, along with your budget and the length of your stay before deciding on your vacation destination.

The short answer is no, and you can probably find a new furry housemate at your local animal shelter. Canines sometimes wind up in shelters through no fault of their own. Many unforeseeable situations could lead to that predicament, such as owners having to move or a new housemate suffering from severe allergies. There are numerous benefits associated with adopting an adult dog. They're usually socialized and ready to be your best buddy. Although they still like to play, older dogs tend to have a mellower disposition. You won't have to worry much about roughhousing -- a perk if you have young kids. While there are also misconceptions that adult dogs might require more expensive care, your mature canine would typically just need its biannual veterinary office checkups, compared to the cost of a puppy's shots, and spaying or neutering.

Rawhide, canvas and durable rubber are just a few of the many different materials used to make puppy teething toys. A company called Nylabone constructs several chew toys out of a safe nylon that is impregnated with dog drool-inducing flavors, like ham. You can also try filling a hollow rubber toy with a few dog biscuits. That could keep your pup busy for a while, since he can chew the toy itself, search for what's inside and then eat the biscuits. The longer he spends with such toys, the less time he'll have to investigate other objects in your house, like your favorite pair of slippers.

Fatty acids are dog food ingredients that can help to promote a shiny, healthier coat. Omega-3s, derived from fish and some plants, form one group of fatty acids commonly found in quality dog foods. These oils do not cause inflammation, as some other fats can. In fact, studies show that omega-3s may improve cardiovascular function while conferring other health benefits. Your dog can therefore not only look great but also feel great too.

Fatty acids, however, aren't the only dog food ingredients that can help maintain your dog's coat. Vitamins A, E, C and B2 also support your dog's skin and coat, contributing to lush fur. Biotin, zinc and copper additionally promote coat health. Copper, for example, helps your dog to better metabolize fats and proteins, ensuring that all those omega-3 fatty acids are put to good use.

Touch therapy, also known as TTouch or Tellington Therapy, refers to a massage technique developed by horse trainer and competitive rider Linda Tellington-Jones. She noticed that when she massaged her horse a certain way, it improved behavior and reduced tension. The technique has since been successfully used on dogs.

Circular motions are key to the system, with body target areas forming an overall circle and hand motions directed into this pattern. For example, one or two fingers are even used to massage in circles over a dog's gums. There's also a move called the "ear slide," where each ear is gently rubbed in a sliding motion from base to tip. For more information, check out Tellington-Jones' book, The Tellington TTouch: A Revolutionary Natural Method to Train and Care for Your Favorite Animal (Penguin 1995).

Bike riding with your dog can be a fun and rewarding way for you both to get some exercise, but it can be dangerous, as you suggest. Your dog must be in good physical condition, well-trained and responsive to vocal commands.

Although you may think it's best to begin with a long leash, a short leash is safer, since longer leashes may become tangled with the front wheel. Begin by holding the leash out to the side, with your dog moving along with the bike -- never ahead of it. It's imperative that you never make your dog run faster than an easy trot.

Bring water and stop for frequent breaks. You might also investigate products that facilitate this activity, such as the "Walky Dog" Dog Jogger. Most of these devices include a short leash that attaches to the bike, eliminating the need to hold the leash by hand.

It sounds like your dog becomes dominant when she is out on her walks, so you need to establish on-leash leadership. Sometimes canines are so excited and happy to be out that they become distracted and seemingly forget any earlier training.

Whenever this happens, refocus your dog's attention by gently flicking the leash and using a verbal command, such as uttering your dog's name in a low, disparaging tone. Once you've gained her attention, provide verbal praise and encourage her to keep walking. Vary your pace on walks to turn the activity into a stimulating game for your pet.

In addition, because dogs are very attuned to noises, try shuffling your feet to indicate that you plan to stop walking soon, such as when approaching an intersection with a stoplight. When changing directions during the walk, cue your dog with a gentle leash tug first to indicate a turn is coming. More control on your part and constant dog-directed communication like this can help to keep your pet in order.

Your veterinarian probably found a lot of fleas on your dog, which is why an oral medication was recommended. This treatment starts to kill fleas almost immediately, and all fleas on your pet should die within four hours. The prevention lasts for up to a day after your dog ingests the pill.

The active ingredient -- an insecticide called nitenpyram -- short-circuits the nervous systems of fleas, causing almost instantaneous death. Tests indicate this is safe for dogs older than 4 weeks and weighing at least 2 pounds, but your veterinarian should advise you.

Once the infestation subsides, you could return to a more regular flea control regime (e.g., applying a topical liquid product monthly). Be sure to clean your home often to get rid of flea eggs, which can hatch and start the miserable cycle all over again.

Heartworms are insidious little parasitic worms that can live in the heart and lungs of your dog. They can cause heart malfunction, which may lead to organ failure and even death. Infected mosquitoes help spread heartworms when they bite their victims. During the spring, your dog has a greater chance of being exposed to this insect vector, due to larger numbers of mosquitoes and more time spent outside. Even indoor-only dogs are at risk, since mosquitoes can enter your home.

All dogs 6 months and older should receive regular blood tests for heartworm. Some veterinarians recommend that dogs receive monthly heartworm medication all year long, but you should consult with your own veterinarian on this matter. Mosquitoes can carry other parasites and diseases, as well, so an added prevention step is to make sure your window screens have no tears, holes or other gaps. Hardware stores carry screen repair kits if you need to hold off on replacing the entire screen at this time.

Most antifreeze mixtures contain a chemical called ethylene glycol. It has a sweet taste that appeals to many pets, not to mention wildlife that might come across it, which is what makes it so dangerous. Just a little lick can prove fatal. Studies show that only one teaspoon of antifreeze can kill a 7-pound animal.

To prevent this from happening, keep your car well serviced and clean up any kind of auto fluid leaks. As for the antifreeze you should buy, look for products containing propylene glycol -- which is also found in some toy snow globes -- instead of ethylene glycol. Propylene glycol is far less toxic if ingested.

Business and permit licenses required for pet groomers can vary from state to state, so contact The National Dog Groomers Association of America for additional information. You could also contact your local Better Business Bureau to see if anyone has filed a complaint against a particular groomer. Ask your veterinarian, friends, local pet shop staff and others for recommendations.

If you still come up short, note the lighting and cleanliness when visiting a grooming business for the first time, as well as how dogs and cats are separated. Cages should be adequately sized. Observe how well the groomers interact with the animals and their owners. Groomers should handle their charges with care, always monitoring the proceedings. Some less-experienced groomers, for example, leave dogs alone when the canine's fur is being blow-dried, but that can lead to dried skin and even burns.

With such investigative homework on your part, you should be able to find a skilled professional to take care of your dog's grooming needs.

You've taken a good initial step by reaching out to others for guidance. According to The Humane Society of the United States, there are several basic things you should do.

The first steps to take are making sure your dog is outfitted with a collar and ID tag that includes your name, address and telephone number. Follow local laws for licensing your dog and vaccinating it for rabies. Spay or neuter the dog, if this wasn't done before, and schedule regular veterinarian checkups.

In addition to the immediate actions listed above, always keep your dog on a leash when outdoors -- for the safety of both your pet and others. Enroll your dog in a training class, if necessary, and provide it with a nutritionally balanced diet and access to fresh water. Finally, be loyal and patient with your new housemate. If a behavioral problem arises, contact your veterinarian or local animal shelter for additional guidance.

Your friend is correct. Natalia likely loves to please you, enjoys your good company and praise, and looks to you for guidance. As a result, she may endanger her health by persisting in physical activity beyond the point of sheer exhaustion. You must monitor your dog's physical condition for signs of fatigue, which include heavy panting, initial reluctance to move, sore paws and more. If you notice these signs, take time to rest. The breed and age of your dog can help determine how much exercise Natalia should get. For tiny breeds, a walk around the block can seem like a marathon, while larger, more muscular dogs may find that same activity to be a piece-of-cake warm-up. Consult with your veterinarian to see what level of exercise is right for your dog and then make sure it isn't exceeded.

Based on the size and breed of your dog, Peter should have 62 ounces, or nearly 8 cups, of water daily. Keep in mind that some of that water can come from your dog's food, so pay attention to moisture content information on pet food labels. Body weight is used to determine water intake, for the most part. A 5-pound dog should receive just under 1 cup of water, while a 10-pound dog should have 14 ounces. For body weights over that amount, the general rule is to add 7 extra ounces of water daily for every additional 10 pounds, assuming the canine's weight is within an average range.

One of the easiest ways to clean your dog's eyes at home is with a warm washcloth. Gently wipe away any discharge around your dog's eyes, being careful not to brush the eyes themselves. A certain amount of material in this area is normal, due to the eye's natural self-cleaning abilities. Be on the lookout, however, for green or yellow-colored discharge, as this could be a sign of infection requiring medical treatment. Some white-furred dogs also experience discoloration around their eyes, usually due to normal tearing. Pet stores sell solutions to improve the appearance of such dogs, but from a health standpoint, the regular warm washcloth wipes should do the trick.

Many dog owners don't realize that it's easy to check your dog's pulse at home. Your dog's pulse should fall between 50 to 140 beats per minute when resting. Consult with your veterinarian to see which narrower range your dog fits into. Puppies and smaller dogs tend to have faster heart rates, while larger dogs often have slower rates.

To check your dog's heart rate, encourage your pet to roll onto its right side. Gently feel on the left side of your dog's chest for the heartbeat. You can also touch the inside of your dog's left hind leg, where there's an artery and a thin patch of skin.

Dogs are very adept at understanding human moods based on the person's tone of voice. Perhaps that's because dog vocalizations themselves are so linked to emotions like fear, playfulness, anger and more. In fact, how you say a word is very tied to its meaning, in your dog's mind. If you say "bad dog" using a happy, upbeat tone of voice, your dog will probably think all is well. That's why it's important to think through all of the signals you send out to your dog. An angry-sounding "bad dog," combined with a hand motion and the command "sit," will do a better job at getting the desired message across, should your dog misbehave.

There are several steps you can take to help ensure that your senior dog continues to enjoy a happy, healthy life. The first is to have your veterinarian perform blood and urine panels on an annual basis. You should also schedule thorough physical examinations annually, or even twice yearly, in addition to any other necessary visits. Provide your dog with fresh, filtered water, if possible. Older dogs seem to be more sensitive to additives, such as chlorine, in tap water. Feed a high-quality diet made for senior dogs and provide tartar reducing chew treats and biscuits. Dental care at this stage is critical, so either take care of this task yourself on a regular basis or arrange for your dog to have annual or biannual dental cleanings at your veterinarian's office.

Dogs are very aware of movement in their environment. When their peripheral vision catches sight of something moving, be it a slithering bug or a tail -- even their own -- the first reaction is often to pounce on whatever it is. Tail chasing is therefore a very common behavior. If your dog does this excessively, though, it's a sign that he probably isn't getting enough stimulation and playtime. Offer your dog toys and spend more time diverting his attention to other amusements. Tail chasing can also be a sign of physical discomfort, caused by fleas or another type of irritation in that region. If you suspect that could be the case, a trip with your dog to the veterinarian may be in order.

Your friend's dog was lucky, because chocolate can indeed be toxic for dogs. The short answer is that you should never feed chocolate to your dog, and here's why: It contains compounds known as methylxanthines that, in low doses, can lead to vomiting or diarrhea in dogs. Ironically, these same substances give cocoa-craving humans a little chocolate buzz that most of us enjoy. Dark and unsweetened chocolate contains more of these compounds by weight, so my guess is your friend's dog consumed another, milder type. Even so, all chocolate contains another substance, called theobromine, as well as caffeine, both of which don't agree with dogs. In fact, some canines can suffer muscle tremors, or in severe cases, seizures. Unless a person is allergic to chocolate, we don't experience these problems, so save the chocolate candy for just yourself and your human friends.

Numerous dog owners, as well as many veterinarians, believe that natural and alternative arthritis therapies for dogs can help to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Daily intake of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate is probably one of the most common such treatments, both for humans and dogs. Studies suggest these compounds help to protect and lubricate joints. You might also consider acupuncture for your dog. Proponents believe it increases circulation at target body areas, thus stimulating your dog's natural defenses. Also, talk with your veterinarian about possible physical therapies, such as daily stretches, massage and even swimming, which strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular function, but has very low impact.

Did you ever see the film Mary Poppins? There's a scene where Mary Poppins, the nanny, shows her young charges that cleaning up toys can be like a game. You can do the same thing with your dog, so long as your pet knows basic fetch and return skills. It helps to have a toy box, basket or some other type of container that you can hold. Start by taking a soft toy out of the container, in front of your dog, and tossing it. When your dog returns the toy to you, have him place the toy back in the basket. If you clicker train your dog, click as he does this, and then reward with a food treat. As your dog learns the game, you can remove more than one toy at a time to create a greater challenge.

A variation on this activity, if you have friends or family at your home, is to hide one of your dog's toys while your dog is out of the room. Have each human participant take turns giving your dog a visual or verbal clue as to where the toy is located. The human winner is the one who succeeds in guiding your dog. Both your dog and the human winner then receive a food treat once canine and toy are reunited.

Before you leave, do a bit of research about your destination to find out the names and phone numbers of emergency veterinary clinics there. Make a list and bring that with you, along with a list of local parks and other canine-friendly destinations. You should also bring your dog's crate or bed, so that your furry friend will have a safe and familiar rest and sleeping spot available at all times. Obtain a certificate of health from your veterinarian beforehand, showing that your dog has all of its necessary vaccines and is in good condition. ID tags are a must, as is a photo of your pet in case it gets lost. Medication, towels, food bowls and water bowls, bottled water, dog food, treats and your dog's favorite toys should also go in your pet's travel bag.

If you have a large, long-haired breed, such as a sheepdog or a Lhasa Apso, brushing and combing sessions can provide you a workout. Many dogs, like cocker spaniels, also have very thick fur. If the fur is full of tangles, some effort will be required to remove them. You should, however, avoid brushing hard against your dog's skin. Some owners do this to the point that medical attention is required for their pets. The problem is known as "dog brush burn."

You could try using a spray-on coat conditioner before the grooming session. Such conditioners are somewhat comparable to de-tanglers for children. They contain oils to help separate individual fur strands. Take care when brushing and combing your dog's stomach area, at or around the head and along the inside of your dog's legs. These places are tender and require a gentler touch.

There are countless examples of dogs and cats living together in perfect harmony. Certain breeds, however, tend to be less tolerant of felines than others. Hounds and hunting dogs, for example, often have a hard time making peace with kitties. But even these dogs can learn to tolerate, and even treasure, a kitty friend. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash when you first bring home the cat. Supervise all dog and cat get-togethers during this transitional period. Owners with two or more dogs need to be especially vigilant, making the introduction one supervised dog at a time. Be sure to feed your dog and cat in separate areas and at separate times -- at least initially. Also, keep in mind that scared felines can hurt well-meaning, inquisitive dogs. Both animals need to feel safe and secure around each other to avoid dangerous swipes and bites, or worse.

Loud sounds can indeed cause permanent damage to dog hearing. While a distant sound of fireworks would probably not hurt your pet, the noise of a nearby firecracker or that of someone blowing a loud noisemaker right next to your dog could cause hearing problems. If you are planning a party, or are going to an event that you predict will be noisy, it's better to keep your dog in a quiet room with all of its comforts -- bed, toys, food, water and more. There is a new product on the market now called Mutt Muffs ®, which are the world's only over-the-head hearing protectors for dogs. They look like stereo headphones. Dogs belonging to hunters and other individuals who must frequently withstand very loud sounds would likely benefit the most from the new device.

For open and loving homes, such as what it sounds like you and your daughter can provide, receiving a dog for Christmas can be one of the most joyous, memorable and ultimately life-changing experiences. Movies often show a puppy sitting under the holiday tree wearing a big bow. While this seems like a good idea, experts advise that you wait until after the holidays before you bring home the new family pet. The noise and confusion of the holiday can distract the dog, which should begin its life in a more "normal" environment, meaning one that better reflects the everyday activities of the household. What you can do instead is to gift your daughter with beautifully wrapped necessary dog care items, such as a leash, brush, bowl and more. As she unwraps them, the mystery and anticipation of what could be coming will probably lead to even more holiday fun. You should then give her at least a week to prepare for the new arrival.

Your veterinarian will be best at deciding the time most appropriate for your dog to be spayed or neutered. Most veterinarians will recommend these procedures occur between four and eight months of age, with six months being the most common. According to the American Veterinarian Medical Association, spaying a female dog before her first heat greatly reduces her risk for breast cancer later. In male dogs neutering reduces the risk of certain cancers. It also helps to lower male hormones related to dominance, which benefited wild canines but are not optimal for the lifestyle of a domesticated house pet.

Several studies have investigated canine intelligence over the years. It appears that intelligence levels can vary across individuals, since there is a genetic component. Two factors, however, complicate this issue for canines. The first has to do with different dog breeds. Even if your pet is a mutt, it still retains a particular mixture of breed characteristics. Each breed comes with a skill set, such as dogs bred for hunting, scent detection, herding, agility and more. Because your dog inherited one or more of these skills, some mental and physical tasks may be easier for it than others. The second matter affecting dog intelligence has to do with environment and training. Some dog behaviorists argue that there are no dumb canines. Instead, there are only dogs that have received proper training in a nurturing environment and those that have not.

Not necessarily. As long as you can devote proper time to basic pet care, such as feeding, cleaning, grooming, walking and regular veterinarian visits, your dog should be OK. That, however, doesn't address the loneliness your pet might feel when you are away. You might at first balk at this suggestion, but you would probably be better off adopting two dogs instead of one, if your living arrangement allows for it. Canines are pack animals and enjoy the company of others. If you can properly take care of your dogs, they can also help to take care of themselves, in terms of keeping themselves company when you are away. Never leave a dog alone for more than a day or so, though, even if other canine company is around. If you need to travel for business or pleasure, be sure to get a dog sitter or board your pet at a kennel.

Dogs bark for a number of reasons. They could be alerting you or others to some perceived threat, such as an approaching strange animal or person. They could just be in a playful, excited mood, vocalizing similarly to how children sometimes shout or squeal while playing. A startled canine is also more likely to bark. More than likely, however, especially since the overt barking just started with your dog, he is feeling lonely, bored and/or anxious. Often these emotions -- and the related barking -- arise with a problem known as separation anxiety. Your dog feels alone and is probably missing you. Avoid approaching your barking pet, even out of annoyance, since any attention may be encouraging the behavior. Providing a good, stimulating environment for your canine, with plenty of toys, walks and care, can help to ease the situation overall. You might also have to train your dog to be quiet by using a command, such as the familiar, "No!" when he barks. When he silences, award him with a treat. Animal trainers and behaviorists can often help when the problem gets too out of hand. Ask your veterinarian and groomer for recommendations.

Due to space and sound considerations, apartment dwellers such as yourself would be wise to adopt a dog that does not require a large living space and that possesses a relatively calm and quiet demeanor. The pug dog is one of the most popular breeds in Manhattan for those very reasons. Most pugs weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, have short, low-maintenance fur and enjoy daytime snoozes, so long as they receive walks and attention on a regular basis. Other breeds to consider include schipperkes, schnauzers, Scottish terriers, Yorkshire terriers, cocker spaniels, Welsh corgis, West Highland white terriers, whippets and Italian greyhounds -- which are tiny, 10-pound versions of their larger, faster greyhound relatives.