Many dogs discover that cat food is usually more palatable (tastes better) than dog food. And quite a few dogs also find out that the stool of cats (kitty poop) holds some undigested matter from that tasty cat food. The result? A dog that thinks cat poop is their version of a "Scooby-Snack!"

If you are one of those people who have witnessed their dog digging in the kitty litter box, or worse, trying to kiss and lick you after snacking on cat poop (and that kitty litter gets stuck on their teeth), please know that you are not alone. But also realize that you need to end this behavior immediately.

The bottom line is that all cat food and kitty-litter boxes need to be inaccessible to your dog. Know that if your dog has tried cat poop as a snack once, he will more than likely do it again, and become more persistent in finding and getting into the cat box, the more often he has done this in his past. There are dogs that do not attempt to eat cat poop, but their are many who know better! They know that what is in the kitty litter box contains the remnants of delectable cat food, and they won't pass up an opportunity to indulge. ...

There are many nuances and individual personalities which are being dealt with when you bring a new dog into a household already occupied by one or more cats. This article is not meant to be all-encompassing on the subject, but is written to give you some basic guidelines to help make the transition smoother, more peaceful, and ultimately a happy one.

First of all, you will have more control of your dog if he knows a few basic commands first. I know it is not usually common to have the opportunity to train a dog prior to entering your household, but if you have that opportunity, take advantage of it. Otherwise, begin obedience training with your new dog on his first day of arrival.

Your dog should be able to reliably perform "Sit," "Down," "Stay," and "Come," and two additional commands: "Leave It," and "Say Hello" are highly recommended. ...

Whether you are introducing dogs, puppies, males, or females, the scenario is usually best if both dogs can meet on neutral ground, off-lead.

You will have a better idea of your dog's behavior, and more control of your dog if he knows a few basic commands. Same thing for the other dog. I know it is not usually common to have the opportunity to train a dog prior to entering your household, but if you have that opportunity, take advantage of it. Otherwise, begin obedience training with your new dog on his first day of arrival.

The dog you have now should be able to reliably perform "Sit," "Down," "Stay," and "Come," and two additional commands: "Leave It," and "Say Hello" are highly recommended.

If you are adopting a dog from a humane society or responsible breeder or rescue organization, they should have no problem with allowing your dog to accompany you for the final phase of the selection process. Pick two or three dogs that you think would be compatible, and then let your own dog see who he likes as well. The dogs should meet in an outside fenced area off-lead unless your (or the other dog) has aggressive tendencies. ...

One of the biggest mistakes that young couples make is failing to get their dog used to having a new baby live in the house, when the dog has been an ''only child.'' Sometimes the ''new arrival'' is seen as an intruder into the pack, and this can have disastrous effects. Here are some very important steps you should follow when you are expecting a baby. Keep in mind that you should do these training steps well before the baby comes into your lives.

1. Purchase as life-sized a baby-doll as you can find, preferably one that cries. If you can't find a doll that comes with sound effects, you can purchase a CD that has baby sounds, which include crying.

2. Wrap the doll in a clean diaper or blanket, preferably one that already has the scent of a baby on it. If you can't get one that has a baby's scent on it, sprinkle the diaper or blanket with some baby powder, and add a few drops of baby lotion too. ...