Dog Breeds of World

Choosing a Dog Breed: Large Dogs

2011-04-11T14:09:00.000-07:00

The only real dogs are big dogs. Perhaps only a large dog could have made the incredible journey from Scotland to Yorkshire Lassie undertook in "Lassie Come Home." The original Lassie movie was not only the best Lassie film, but one of the greatest children's films ever made. It starred a very young Elizabeth Taylor and Roddy McDowall. The faithful and determined Lassie was played by a Rough Collie named Pal. If you are considering buying or adopting a large dog, it is important to research the different dog breeds beforehand. Each dog breed has different characteristics and only the right ones will be the right fit for your family and home.

Labrador Retriever- These wonderful family and sporting dogs can be yellow, black or chocolate in color. Labs are intelligent, versatile and friendly dogs. They are good around children and other dogs. Their coat is not long, but it is a double coat so they require regular grooming. Labs are large and active dogs, so having a yard would be preferable.

German Shepherd- The famous Rin Tin Tin was rescued from WWI France and brought to the US where he starred in many movies. Rin Tin Tin IV later starred in the 1950's TV series "The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin." Today this breed is often employed as police, guard and service dogs, though they can also be loyal family dogs. These dogs are big and strong and possess a herding instinct, so good training is essential. This highly trainable and dependable breed requires regular grooming and exercise.

Collie- Rough Collies and Smooth Collies are considered varieties of the same breed in the US and Canada, while in the UK they are considered separate breeds. Other breeds of collie include the medium sized Border Collie, and the Bearded Collie (15th breed below). Smooth Collies have short hair while Rough Collies have a gorgeous, full coat. Today, Rough and Smooth Collies are primarily family and show dogs, unlike their herding ancestors. With training, they can be great with children and other pets. These gentle and intelligent dogs require regular exercise and grooming. The Smooth Collie actually requires more grooming even though it has shorter hair.

Golden Retriever- Like Labs, Goldens are great family dogs, hunting retrievers, and versatile service dogs. Goldens have longer hair, having a beautiful double coat that can be various shades of gold. They require more regular grooming. Highly intelligent, gentle and friendly, this breed is an ideal family pet. These dogs are very good with children and other dogs and pets. This is an active breed that likes companionship and regular exercise. Having a yard is preferable.

Rottweiler- When you hear a 'ruff' or 'bark' from behind you, be assured it is not a Rottweiler; this breed is only capable of saying 'woof.' The thick Rottweiler is not the biggest breed, but it may be the most powerful. These dogs are versatile working dogs and excellent guard dogs. However, this breed has a much calmer demeanor than the Doberman Pinscher. Rottweilers can be family dogs, but good training is essential. These protective dogs require regular exercise, but grooming requirements are minimal.

Doberman Pinscher- Like the Rottweiler, the Doberman usually has a black coat with tan markings. Dobermans also are excellent guard dogs. The muscular Doberman is smaller than the Rottweiler, but is faster and more active. Doberman Pinschers are a very aggressive breed, so being experienced at handling dogs is very important when acquiring one. They are not good around small children and other pets. They are an active breed needing regular exercise and have a high capacity for training. Grooming requirements are minimal.

Boxer- The square-faced Boxer is a solid service and working dog. These dogs are loyal companions and protective, making them good guard dogs. With training, they are good around children and other pets. They like companionship and regular exercise. Only minimal grooming is required. Like all of the previous breeds, having a fenced yard would be preferable. An apartment is possible with daily walks or outdoor exercise.

Saint Bernard- The famous rescue dog of the Swiss Alps, the St. Bernard is one of the biggest breeds by weight. These big dogs are intelligent, loyal and protective, making great family dogs. They are good around children and other pets. Putting up with some drool and regular grooming are downsides. These dogs should be regularly exercised, and having a yard is preferable. St. Bernards should not be placed in hot climates.

Siberian Husky- Siberians are the most popular breed of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. They have great endurance and like to work. These dogs are good around children and large dogs, but not around smaller pets. Siberians need to be in a cool climate and can tolerate extremely cold temperatures. These dogs require regular grooming and exercise. They are not apartment dogs.

Great Dane- The gentle giant is one of the world's tallest dogs and the world record for dog height belongs to a Great Dane named Gibson. These dogs are often guard dogs, but also make good family pets. With training, these amiable dogs are good around children and other dogs. They need regular exercise and having a yard is essential. Grooming requirements are minimal.

German Shorthaired Pointer- This intelligent and active breed has a coat of liver (brown), or liver and white. These dogs are tireless, versatile gun and hunting dogs. They are good for an active family and do well around children. With training, they can get along with other dogs. The GSP is a loyal watchdog who needs regular exercise and minimal grooming. This is not an apartment dog.

Greyhound- The distinctively shaped Greyhound is the world's fastest dog breed. These dogs can have coats of almost any color. They are versatile hunting dogs that make good family pets. With training, they do well around children and other dogs. Smaller pets are a bad idea and a fenced yard is a necessity. Greyhounds need regular exercise, but only minimal grooming.

Mastiff- One of the largest dog breeds in the world is the Mastiff. There are many types of Mastiff such as the English Mastiff, Bullmastiff and Tibetan Mastiff. This loyal and protective breed is often used as a guard dog. Despite their massive appearance these dogs are known to be gentle family companions. They are not recommended around small children and other pets. Regular exercise is a good idea, while only minimal grooming is necessary.

English Setter, Irish Setter, Gordon Setter- These handsome and elegant breeds of dog were originally hunting companions. The English and Irish Setters were bird dogs that developed into pointers. The Gordon Setter can be used as a personal bird dog. Today, these dogs make wonderful family pets. The setters require a lot of exercise and attention. They require regular grooming and having a yard is recommended.

Bearded Collie- This long haired, shaggy dog is almost a medium sized dog. This herding breed is related to the Old English Sheepdog. These active and playful dogs make good family pets. They are good around children and other pets. These dogs require regular exercise and grooming. A yard is recommended.

Old English Sheepdog- Their hair has a tendency to cover their eyes. This shaggy dog is larger than the Bearded Collie. These jolly dogs make wonderful family pets. They are affectionate and good around children. They can also be a bit clumsy and may try to herd things. They require regular exercise and grooming as they will shed during the warmer months.

Designer Dog Breed - Meet The Roodle

2011-04-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

Celebrities like Paris Hilton may carry their dogs in their Gucci handbags, accessorized to the glittering collar. But the recent trend in designer dogs seems to suggest that everyday people are catching this unfortunate trend.

Instead of simply buying diamante collars, however, people are demanding cross bred dogs with catchy marketing names. We've had the Spoodle, the Groodle, the Labradoodle, the Spanador, the Cavador, and the Retrievador. Now folks, meet the Roodle.

The roodle is a cross between a poodle and a rottweiler. They are the successful creation of a breeder from Melbourne, Australia. Fred Freeman has successfully bred 3 litters of roodles, some going as far afield as Hawaii.

Roodles have the crinkly coat of a poodle, but larger. They are quite stocky, and fairly big, with long floppy ears. Mr Freeman describes the dogs as having the intelligence of a rottweiler, yet docile and easy to train. His roodles are also non aggressive, do not moult, don't smell, and are low on the allergy scale.

The idea of creating a non allergic dog was what started the original breeder of the labradoodle, Wally Conran. Wally was the Manager of the Royal Guide Dog Association in Australia at the time. Someone needing a guide dog who was non allergenic contacted the Guide Dog Association, and Wally successfully crossed a labrador with a poodle that fitted this purpose.

So, the origins of the labradoodle were quite in keeping with the way many of what are now considered pure bred dogs were created. That is, they were created with a specific purpose in mind.

But the popularity of the labradoodle has created a new set of problems. Namely, many unscrupulous people, some with no experience breeding dogs, and others with none, or little, experience breeding labradoodles or other similar crosses, jumped on the bandwagon. Demand meant that these dogs were expensive, supply was short, and this attracted many into this new field.

But breeding dogs, especially across different breeds, is not simple. In Wally Conran's original efforts, not all labradoodles were low in allergy. And when it comes to trying to come up with new mixes, a lack of knowledge can produce disastrous results. For instance, breeding two dogs with similar genetic weaknesses can lead to the new litters born with an increased chance of the health problems associated with those breeds. Other factors include disposition. If people are expecting certain traits based on what decent breeders have produced, and they pay a lot of money for a dog that turns our to be completely different, those dogs may well end up being abandoned.

In the case of a dog bought to be low allergenic, this likelihood is higher, and this is exactly what is happening to many of the labradoodles being bought in the US now. They are ending up in shelters because they do not have the characteristics of the carefully bred stock the variation originated from.

And given that badly bred rottweilers can be very aggressive, if the roodle trend takes off in the same way, this could be a disaster all round. Especially so if a family with children bought one expecting the docile nature of the roodles created by Mr Freeman, and end up with an aggressive, large dog.

Labradoodles are not consistent breeds. And given that ten years was spent trying to get a rottweiler poodle cross, there is every indication to think that roodles are not a consistent breed either. That means that simply mating a rottweiler with a poodle is not going to automatically get you certain characteristics, especially in temperament.

Normally, contacting an association for a recommended breeder would solve this type of problem. But in this brave new world of designer dogs, this may not always be the case. Especially if the experience with the labradoodles is anything to go by.

The breeders at Rutland Manor and Tegan Park in Australia started their stock from labradors, poodles and labradoodles from Don Evans, another breeder who had discovered the breed independently of the Guide Dog Association. Those labradoodles were legitimate labradoodles, and they kept records of all subsequent breeding. They also determined which coats were low allergenic. They conducted extensive research and breeding programs to arrive at the dog that has become characterized as a 'labradoodle'. Contrary to popular knowledge, they are not the product of exclusively mixing in labradors and poodles. Other breeds were used occasionally, for certain characteristics.

The breeders at Rutland Manor and Tegan Park began calling their dogs, and those descended from that stock by reputable breeders, Australian labradoodles, to distinguish them from the labrador-poodle mixes that were being indiscriminately produced. The mixes were not quality controlled, many were allergenic, yet people with allergies were misled into buying them, expecting not to get allergic reactions.

The International Labradoodle Association was set up originally to help maintain the quality and characteristics of this new designer dog. Yet they now are seeking to call all labrador-poodle crosses 'Australian labradoodles'. If this is successful, consumers will have no way of knowing whether they are buying what they think they are, and what their health requirements determine they need. The end result will be more abandoned dogs being euthanased because of a careless association and even more careless breeders.

It does not bode well for the roodle.

Choosing a Dog Breed That is Right For You

2011-04-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

Whenever people set out to choose a new dog, the appearance of the dog breed can be the most important factor in their selection. This is the absolute wrong way to choose a new dog. This is one of the reasons so many dogs end up in shelters. People fail to match the breed with their own activity level or temperament. When preparing to bring a new puppy into your household, do not do like so many other people. Make it your goal to choose a puppy that is as perfect for you and your family as you possibly can. Think about previous dogs you have owned and the experiences you had with him or her. How much time was required to groom, train or exercise your dog. Did the breed have any special health issues that caused an unusual financial outlay to occur? Did the dog require a large, fenced yard and can that be provided for your new puppy?

When choosing your new companion, consider the type relationship you want with your dog. Certain breeds are more dependent than others and love to spend every minute around their owners. These dog breeds can be affectionate and loving but require lots of attention. Other breeds are more aloof and tend to make better watch dogs and will likely spend much of their time in the yard. Consider the amount of time you can spend exercising with the dog. Larger dogs require longer, higher intensity walks than smaller breed dogs. If you do not like to exercise, than a large dog is truly not for you.

Think about things such as grooming, training, and the amount of room that you have. Long haired dogs tend to shed more and require lots of brushing. If you live in an area where your weather is extremely hot and humid during the summer, will the dog require a haircut to help him stay cooler during this period. Will your choice of dog breed require professional grooming periodically or is brushing adequate to keep him looking good. As far as training, certain dog breeds just require less training than others and may be a better choice for an inexperienced dog owner. Other breeds will require professional dog obedience training to assure they do not become unruly and a menace to the neighborhood. Also, consider your living situation. If you live in a tiny apartment on the upper floors of a high rise building, you might want to pass on that cute little Great Dane puppy and consider a teacup poodle.

Whichever dog breed you are considering, take the time to research the characteristics and expected temperament of the dogs you are considering. Speak with family and friends and ask if they have had any experience with the dogs you are considering. Consider visiting a local dog trainer and ask them what dog breeds they feel are easiest to train and make the best pets. Remember that all puppies are cute, but they also all grow up to be dogs. Most of all, look at yourself and your situation and make sure when you bring home that cute little puppy that you are ready to make a commitment to the care and feeding of your new dog for its entire lifetime. With the proper research and commitment, you are sure to find the breed of dog that provide many years of loyal companionship, fun and happiness for you and the rest of your family.

Dog Breed Characteristics - Large Dogs

2011-04-11T02:56:00.000-07:00

Not too sure which type of dog to buy? This is part 3 of 3 articles that addresses the different needs and characteristics of some of the popular dogs.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is a large, powerful, dominant dog which needs a firm, consistent but friendly owner. They can be good with children if obtained since young and trained. Early and consistent training is necessary as Giant Schnauzers tend to be very willful. They like to run around, and don't usually see people in their way and can injure children easily. They need a lot of exercise and busy professionals should avoid getting this breed. If they are denied of exercise and left on their own, they can get very destructive.

Golden Retriever

One of my favourite breeds as well. They are well known for their "patience, kindness and friendliness", and thus serve poorly as a guard dog. However, they are extremely good with children and can be trained easily. Golden Retrievers are very attached to their owners. Leaving them alone in a room can cause the dog to become very sad and distressed. Frequent grooming is needed to reduce the amount of shedding. Intelligent and eager to please, they are also employed in rescue missions, drug detection missions, and serve well as guide dogs for the blind.

Great Dane

Great Danes are well known for their huge size and gentle personality. They have been in the Guinness World Records for the tallest dog. They are generally good with humans (including strangers) and other pets. Grooming is minimal. They need regular exercise because they possess a good amount of energy.

Old English Sheepdog

They are best known for their shaggy grey and white fur which also covers their face, including their eyes. They intelligent, funny, sociable, and adaptable. They are also good with young children, and hence earned the title "Dear Nanny". Owing to their herding instinct, they have been known to push family members away from dangerous objects or people. They can also get very stubborn at times. They are often known as the Dulux dog, as a result of them appearing in the advertising of Dulux paint.

Labrador Retriever

They are exceptionally gentle, intelligent, energetic and good-natured, and Labradors are generally considered good companions for people of all ages. They are comparable to the Golden Retrievers. They respond well to praise and attention, and with proper training, the Labrador is one of the most trustworthy, obedient and multi-talented breeds in the world. They love to play in water, so be sure to bring them to the beach often. Due to their friendly nature, they are not suitable as guard dogs. However, an uncontrolled adult Labrador can get really problematic. So, be sure to give them the proper dog training.

Sporting Dog Breeds: The Top Ten Dogs In This Group

2011-04-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

The Sporting Group includes pointers, setters, retrievers and many spaniels. This group of fairly active dogs is composed of a wide variety of breeds, which were developed to aid hunters by finding, flushing out and retrieving game. Members of this group all need a fair amount of exercise but you don't have to be a hunter to own one of these dogs. Many breeds in this group are usually very good with children and include the: English Setter; Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Welsh Springer Spaniel, English Cocker Spaniel, and Flat Coated Retriever. Dogs in this group range in size from small dog breeds like the American Cocker Spaniel up to medium to large dog breeds with the setters (English, Irish and Gordon) and the Weimaraner being the largest The two most popular family dogs in the world are the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever. The top ten most popular sporting dogs in the US are the following.

1. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular dog in the US (#1) and one of the best family dogs in the world. The Lab is gentle, loyal, intelligent and extremely reliable with children. These large-sized Retrievers are not apartment dogs but can adapt well to city living if they are given sufficient exercise. The Labrador is good natured and eager to learn and can be easily trained to do everything from competitive obedience and field trials to becoming a "seeing-eye" dog for the blind.

2. Golden Retriever

This Retriever is a good hunting dog, seeing-eye dog, obedience and agility competitor, and outstanding family dog. The extremely popular (#2) Golden is a gentle, confident and loyal dog that is cheerful, trustworthy and responsive to training. This breed makes a wonderful family dog that is friendly with everyone - both human and other animals. This large-sized Retriever does very well with children but toddlers should always be supervised as young untrained dogs can be over exuberant.

3. Cocker Spaniel

The American Cocker Spaniel is smaller than its English cousin - the English Cocker Spaniel. This beautiful spaniel has a luxurious thick and silky coat with trousered legs. This small- to medium- sized gun dog can be used for hunting and retrieving but is extremely popular (#15) as a companion and show dog. Cockers get along extremely well with children and strangers and can adapt to apartment living if exercised twice daily.

4. German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired is a very athletic gun-dog that doesn't belong in the city. This large-sized dog is loyal, intelligent and eager to learn and can be trained for field, agility and obedience competitions. This breed is extremely popular (#20) but needs to be challenged both mentally and physically. The breed makes a good family dog but may be too exuberant for toddlers and small children

5. English Springer Spaniel

The cheerful medium-sized English Springer Spaniel is the progenitor of the English hunting spaniels and the largest of the spaniel dog breeds. These popular (#28) Spaniels make both excellent hunting retrievers and good family dogs that get along well with children. Some Springer bloodlines have shown some aggression and dominance so early socialization and obedience training for males should be a priority.

6. Weimaraner

The popular (#30) Weimaraner is a large-sized hunting dog breed. This high-energy dog needs an athletic family that can satisfy his demanding exercise requirements. The Weimaraner needs an experienced owner who can manage and control this headstrong breed and provide early socialization and on-going obedience training. This dog doesn't do well with children unless it is raised with them. Weims need to live indoors and spend a lot of time with their families. Well trained Weimaraners are a delight but poorly trained dogs can be destructive, rambunctious, have a high prey drive and try to dominate other dogs.

7. Brittany

The Brittany Spaniel is an active medium-sized dog that is intelligent, loyal and easy to train. It makes a terrific hunting dog or family pet and requires very little grooming and does very well with all children. This popular breed (#30) needs lots of exercise and makes a fairly good watchdog.

8. Vizsla

The Short-haired Vizsla is a popular (#44) medium- to large-sized hunting dog breed with an elegant bearing and strong and muscular appearance. The Vizsla is lively, sweet, affectionate and somewhat sensitive. This athletic, sporty and agile breed needs lots of exercise and lots of human companionship. Vizlas must be socialized and trained early to build confidence and prevent neurotic behaviour. This is not a city dog and it needs to live with a very active family.

9. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chessie is the strongest and most powerful of the sporting dogs. This large dog loves hunting but also is a great family dog and gets along well with all children. This intelligent breed is quite popular (#49) and somewhat distrustful of strangers and makes a good watchdog. Chesapeakes are not city dogs and need a lot of regular exercise and love to go swimming.

10. Irish Setter

The popular (#67) Irish is an exuberant, happy-go-lucky, goofy, kind, charming and intelligent dog. This breed has no aggression and welcomes everybody. These Setters can be somewhat independent and easily distracted but are intelligent and eager to learn and therefore can be trained fairly easily. The Irish is a superb hunting dog and must have lots of exercise with challenging field and retrieval exercises. If these dogs are given early obedience training, they adapt very well to older children. However this breed is so lively and impulsive when it is young that it could knock toddlers over.

See the individual dog breeds at http://www.dog-breed-facts.com for more information on each breed.

About the Author - Mike Mathews is a contributing writer and editor for the popular dog breed site: http://www.dog-breed-facts.com He provides informative, real-world advice and tips on dog breeds, dog health, dog grooming and more. As well be sure to check out his free report on Dog Training.

Dog Breeds - How To Choose The Perfect Dog Breed For You!

2011-04-10T18:21:00.000-07:00

If choosing dog is such a straight forward process, and it is, how come so many puppies find their way into adoption centres every year? Well one reason is that people choose the wrong dog breed.

Don't let your puppy become a statistic. Make it your goal to choose a puppy suited to your family and circumstances. Think about your previous experience of owning a dog and the amount of time you have for training, grooming and exercising. Look at your health including possible allergies, your financial resources and the amount of space in your house and yard. Most of all work out how much time you have for a dog.

Of all the different factors in choosing a the right dog breed, among the most important is the relationship you want with your dog. Some breeds by nature are rather aloof and elegant, others are independent and energetic while others are dependent or submissive. If you want to do specialized training, consider breeds known for courage and trainability. If you want an affectionate pet, choose a breed that typically likes to be close to its people.

To ensure that your puppy fits in with your lifestyle begin by asking yourself these questions:

a) How much time can I spend with my dog, a social creature who craves companionship? - If your time is limited don't get a breed which can become dependent on their owners.

b) How much exercise can I give my dog? - If you hate exercise, buy a small dog happy with a short walk. If you like to walk the mountains all day long get a dog breed which likes a lot of exercise.

c) How much grooming can I do? - If you hate grooming, buy a short-haired dog.

d) How much training can I give? - If you have limited time, choose a breed known for ease of training.

e) How much room do I have? - If you live in a small apartment don't get a large dog!

f) What characteristics do I want in my dog? - Think of words like independent, energetic, submissive, affectionate, protective, quiet, funny or sociable. Try to match them to the characteristics of your family members. Your dog will fit in much better if you do.

Finding The Right Dog Breed

Once you have answered these questions it is time to go out and find the right dog breed for you. The internet is a great place to start. Just go to your favourite search engine and type in something like "dog breed information" or "dog breeds" and you will find some excellent sites giving detailed information about each breed.

Note the characteristics of the different breeds. What is best for your situation: large or small, male or female, purebred or mix? Short coat or shaggy coat? A dog needing lots or little exercise? A lot or little daily grooming? Think through your choices in detail and compare this information to your requirements and make a short list.

Next ask people you trust about the dog breeds you are interested in. Ask friends, family members and co-workers for suggestions for dog breeds they think would be good for you and your family. Ask them to be honest about the good points and bad points of the breeds they suggest. Visit dog training schools and breeders and ask about the dogs your think may be suitable. Follow up on and meet the breeds you feel are a good match.

Finally make every effort when choosing a puppy to make your final choice of a dog breed a family decision. Your dog will be part of the family, and each member needs to feel a sense of ownership for the dog and a willingness to help in its care.

So there you have it a short guide to choosing a puppy that will fit into your family perfectly and bring years of fun and happiness.

Popular Dog Breeds

2011-04-10T14:37:00.000-07:00

A list of the most popular dog breeds can make a very long debate on which kind of dog breeds do and do not belong in the list. Let that list include the dog that bit you as a child and scared the hell out of you then made you outraged. This could even get worse and let that dog put down your current beloved dog and that does it, you do not want to have a dog at all. To be fair you must consider the source of the list and what started the list in the first place. For instance the AKC or the American Kennel Association shows it's top 100 dog breeds based on the number of dog breeds that are created and brought to their attention. They will not say that one breed is so called "better" than others for the sake of lists like this, they simply state how many and the quantity of the breeds there are.

If you search for the words in Google "most popular dog breeds" you will find, the last I checked, over 85,000 listings for that key word listing. This will range from different categories of dogs to the most popular dog breeds for children. What I would like you to do is an experiment, narrow down that search to what exactly you are looking for, if you do that it should help dramatically. Maybe you are looking for what dog lovers call "toy dogs", so type in "most popular toy dog breeds" this takes it down to about 60,000. This way you will be able to pull up exactly where your favorite dog breed places.

Everyone has their favorite and least favorite kinds of dog breeds. It does not matter how or why they got to that point, they just go there and that's that. For them you can talk to them until you are blue in the face and you will not convince them that a husky is a perfectly good dog breed if it is trained properly or that a yorkie can sometimes be more of a hassle than it is worth. Some people will dismiss a type of dog based on one horrific experience that they had with one dog in that breed. This is not fair to the rest of the loving well mannered dogs in that breed. Two things heavily influence how popular dog breeds are they are for one the dogs they put into movies and the dogs that are winning at the dog shows. Regardless of all the hype there are a few winners or the favorites to all which make it to the top relentlessly. These breeds include the Labrador Retriever, the Golden Retriever, the Beagle, the Yorkshire Terrier and the Poodle.

Last but not least lets not forget the new wave of animals or the "hybrids" or designer dogs these dogs are quoted as giving you the best of both worlds. These popular breeds include the Puggle, this is a mix of the Pug and the Beagle, the Labradoodle, a mix of a Lab and a Poodle, and last but not least the Cockapoo, a mix of the Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. These kinds of dog breeds are not registered by AKC but never the less are becoming very popular, as proven if you look them up on the internet.

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Toy Dog Breeds Advice

2011-04-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Toy Dog Breeds

Toy dog breeds are the dog breeds of one of the smallest categories of dogs. Toy dog breeds are a popular choice for many as their size does have particular benefits. They are particularly appealing to women, the elderly, and also to children. Their compactness is also of benefit to dog lovers who live in smaller homes such as apartments, or small houses.

It can be a difficult choice trying to decide from all the endearing toy dog breeds which is the right one for you. But you must be realistic regarding your choice, of course you will have a short list of which breed/s you are particularly keen on. But you must also consider your own circumstances regarding what kind of home and quality time you can offer to a small dog. It is from these decisions that a sensible choice can be made. Do not go into such an important decision without giving it full and careful thought.

When you feel you are ready to purchase your toy dog, there are a couple of points to remember when choosing. Firstly find yourself a good dog breeder that is experienced and has a good reputation. The next points are important when actually choosing you dog or puppy.

Toy Dog Breeds - Maintenance:

How much maintenance your dog will need may sway you on your decision. You may or may not want a dog that needs daily grooming, regular baths, and regular trips to the grooming salon to be clipped and trimmed. This is generally determined by the dogs length of coat, so typically the longer the coat the more care and attention they will need.

If you do not care for a long haired coat on a dog it will become knotted, matted and can cause skin problems, so it is very important that they are cared for properly.

You will also need to train your toy dog to be well behaved; this can be tough at times as some can be very stubborn. And although your dog will not be trained to the levels that some of the other dog categories are, you will at the very least need to house train your dog, socialize her with strangers, other dogs, and children, and preferably come when called also.

You also need to check out for any health issues associated with your chosen breed, as some can be more prone to certain problems than others; it depends on the breed and the individual case.

Toy Dog Breeds - Temperament:

It is important to choose the right dog that will have the best temperament to suit your circumstances. Most good breeders will discuss this with you when you are choosing your puppy as it is important for them too to ensure their puppies are going to the correct homes. If you have got a particularly busy household then the shy one from the litter may not be the right choice. Equally if you are particularly elderly the scoundrel from the litter may not be the potential bundle of trouble for you either, although they do grow up and generally mature with age!

It is important when you are viewing them that you get down on to their level to assess them rather than towering over them, you will see much more of their behaviour, reactions and expressions that way.

To see the puppies parents is a good thing too in assessing your right choice. Generally you would be able to see the mother, and in some circumstance the father too. This will give you an idea of how their offspring will turn out, so are they good looking, well proportioned, happy or aggressive, healthy, well cared for, etc. Don't forget that the parents are a reflection of how your puppy may turn out.

Toy dog breeds are a pleasure to own, but you must do your research to make sure you choose wisely and are correctly informed and prepared for all that is involved, and if you do you should have many years of enjoyment together.

Choosing the Right Dog Breed - It's About Matching Two Lifestyles

2011-04-10T06:37:00.000-07:00

When you are in the market for a dog, there are more considerations that must be taken than temperament. Choosing the right dog breed is important for many reasons, because it can give you an idea of what size pet you will be able to deal with, what type of temperament you are looking at, eating habits, and your ability to train them. Different dog breeds have different personality types and characteristics and although it is not fair to pick and choose based on these generalizations, deciding on the dog breed that you do want can certainly help to narrow down your selection a great deal.

If You Have Kids...

If you have small kids in the home, you may not want to go with any breed of dog that is going to grow up and be a miniature giant. Dogs are only puppies for a short time, and that is not the case with kids. Although they may be babies together for a while, dogs grow fast and will soon be able to overpower your little one, not to say that they will. Some of the gentlest dogs in the world are bigger than most people, but if you can't handle the size you just can't handle the size.

If You Need Protection...

If you are one of those people who live alone and are looking to get a dog for protection, it is important to go about choosing the right dog breed well. Some dogs are naturally more territorial and protective than other dogs are, and that can help you to narrow your selection. If you need security, a poodle or a golden retriever are not going to do well at all. Consider a Pit Bull, a Great Dane, a German Shepherd, or another larger dog breed. While these breeds are really only rumored to be ferocious, they are visually intimidating to many people and that is more than most people have as far as canine security is concerned.

If You Need Companionship...

If companionship is all you seek when choosing the right dog breed for you, the decision is a bit harder. This is because there are so many great breeds for you to choose from, so decide what type of sized pet you would like and work with that. That can help you to narrow down your selection so that you can start meeting little guys to join your family. Poodles, terriers, big dogs, little dogs, medium sized dogs-if you don't have any specific need for a pet other than companionship you have a bigger market for pets than you might have thought possible. Really, the only thing holding you back is your budget.

There are so many ways to go about choosing the right dog breed for your family. What you may find works best is this process of elimination. There are so many great dogs out there that need homes, so choosing the right dog breed that best clicks with your living arrangements should be the most important decision you make.

The Best Dog Breeds - Part 1 - Friendliness With Other Dogs

2011-04-10T01:52:00.000-07:00

In part 1 of our 'Best Dog Breeds' series we will be looking which breed of dog is considered the most trustworthy and friendly around other dogs. This is always a matter of great discussion around dog owners and trainers and this is only our opinion. Before you go out and purchase a new dog please do your research and look into which type of breed is the best for your specific circumstances. Each breed in our list below is rated as 'above average' in terms of friendliness. So let's get started...

Beagle Bearded Collie Bedlington Terrier Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Clumber Spaniel Collie Curly Coated Retriever Dandie Dinmont Terrier Deer hound English Setter English Springer Spaniel German Short Hair Pointer Golden Retriever Gordon Setter Irish Setter Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Pt Basset Griffon Vendeen Pointer Samoyed Japanese Chin King Charles Spaniel Neopolitan Mastiff Shetland Sheepdog Welsh Springer Spaniel West Highland Terrier Whippet

Remember that each dog is individual with individual experiences in life and throughout their life. For example you may have a dog that you have taken home from a Rescue Home that has had a bad start in life and has had bad experiences with other dogs - this may make the dog more nervous regardless of the breed. Dog training from an early age is also very important especially socialization with other dogs, people and different experiences.

By socializing your pooch with other dogs from an early age - your pooch will become more confident around different breeds of different sizes and genders and less likely to cause you problems when out for a walk.

Cute Little Toy Dog Breeds

2011-04-09T20:56:00.000-07:00

The toy dog breeds are petite dogs that are rather small in size compared to that of the other type of dogs. Dogs which are a part of this breed are that of the Chihuahua, Japanese Chin, Miniature Dachshund, Papillion, Pomeranian, Poodle, Pug, Shih Tzu, and Toy Spaniel.

Toy dog breeds are beautiful, charming and cheerful little dogs, which is why they are more often than not an important part of their owner's life. They are also full of surprises given that although they are small creatures, they possess the ability to hunt and at the same time eliminate pests, which can be found around the house. Toy dogs are also good and reliable guardians since they have the tendency to bark at unfamiliar people. Because of these reasons, toy dogs are considered to be just as tough as those large dogs. Then again, the most fascinating feature about these toy dogs is perhaps their ability to fill in the sadness and loneliness of their owners.

In general, though some of them needs frequent grooming, dogs of these breeds can be easily taken care of thanks to their small size. For starters, they do not require a large amount of food serving. Also, their small body only takes up little space. Then again, they can be as hard headed as any child, so proper training is necessary so as to avoid future problems. And so, if one wants a cute, loyal yet easy to manage dog, then the list of the toy dog breeds is just the right list to choose from.

Choosing A Large Dog Breed For Your Family

2011-04-09T17:11:00.000-07:00

Some dog lovers prefer small dogs that can be a lap dog, or ones they can carry easily, but others prefer bigger dogs and opt for a large dog breed as their family pet. There are many advantages to a large dog breed, they often have higher energy levels for playtime and there can be less concern over injuries from over-excited children. However a large dog breed may have specific needs that need to be met. With so many different breeds to choose from, the decision as to which one is the most suitable for a family pet can be a difficult one.

If you are set on a large dog breed then the following points may help you with your choice:

Firstly you need to ask.....Who will Care for the Dog?

The primary caretaker of the animal is important, larger dogs require a responsible adult in charge who can control their exuberance and take the time to train the dog properly. Children and older or frailer adults are not the best choice to care for these pets. Give consideration also to the child who promises to care for the dog prior to purchase but who may lose interest in his responsibilities throughout the lifespan of the pet. Therefore it is best to make the addition of your new pet as a family effort, and so each family member is assigned to some aspect of the dogs care. By spreading the responsibility it will help to ensure your large dog breed gets the attention and care he needs and by doing so every family member will get the opportunity to enjoy your new pet equally.

How much Space will your large dog breed need?

Dogs come with a variety of energy levels, and this must be taken into consideration when deciding on which breed is best for your circumstances and in particular when you are considering a large dog breed.

A dog that becomes bored can look for alternative entertainment which could result in him becoming destructive; this can be a big problem with a large dog breed.

Your pet will need plenty of room to run with daily walks and playtime in order to help him stay healthy and happy. Larger dogs tend to need more space, for example a large garden or yard to play in. But remember the fence will need to be sufficient in substance and height to stop your lovely big dog escaping!

Be careful also with happy waggy tails around the house as objects can be knocked off innocently when your happy or excited dog is in a small room.

If you are absolutely certain that an energetic large breed dog is the right choice for you and your family, just make sure you have the room to accommodate this big, energetic and powerful animal.

Choosing a large dog breed for your family will require a lot of research and planning, however it will be worth it when you have the right choice of dog that fits in well with your family. Take the time to choose the right dog for you, and that pet in turn should return the effort by giving you and your family many years of enjoyment and companionship.

Terrier Dog Breeds: The Top Ten Dog In This Group

2011-04-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

The Terrier Group includes those small but lively terrier breeds that were developed (mainly in Great Britain) to hunt small burrowing animals such as badgers, foxes, otters, rabbits and rats. The terrier often had to follow the prey underground and therefore, except for the Bull and Airedale Terriers, most terriers are small and stocky with short legs. These are feisty and energetic dogs that have little tolerance for other animals including other dogs. Of course these small dog breeds have been domesticated and make good pets but they are still fairly active and require firm handling. Many breeds like the Airedale, Bull, Fox and the Parson (Jack) Russell Terriers do best with experienced owners. The top 10 most popular terrier breeds in the US according to the American Kennel Club 2005 registrations are discussed below and their registration rank is included in brackets. It is interesting to note that the top six most popular terriers are all low-shedding dog breeds that are said to be hypoallergenic when properly groomed.

1. Miniature Schnauzer

Minis (#10) are lively, pleasant and playful with expressive personalities. These loyal and devoted small dogs want to be totally involved in all family activities and love to go for walks. Most Minis are good with children but are a little too small to be a toddler's pet. They will generally get along fine with other family pets although they are terriers and can be feisty toward other dogs. Early socialization and obedience training will help with controlling excessive barking and a reluctance to walk on leash. This breed can be taught fairly easily and can even excel at advanced obedience competitions.

2. West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White (#32) is cheerful, bold, assertive, courageous, inquisitive and has a great deal of personality. This small white dog needs to get involved in everything that is happening in the home. The Westie is easier to handle and friendlier than many other terriers but still needs his daily walks and play sessions. Westies will try and dominate dogs of the same sex but otherwise get along better with other dogs and cats than most terriers. The Westie still has its hunting prey drive and shouldn't be let off leash except in a fenced enclosed area. The Westie is very possessive of its toys and food and doesn't like to be handled by young children.

3. Scottish Terrier

The Scottie (#40) is a small dog breed with a jaunty and distinctive appearance. The Scottie is brave, alert, proud, confident, loyal and dignified. While friendly and playful as puppies, the mature Scottish Terrier can be stubborn at times. Therefore it is important to start socializing and obedience training http://www.dog-breed-facts.com/articles/training-your-puppy.html> the Scottie while it is a puppy and continue through adolescence. Scotties love to play, so make sure you add play and rewards to your training. The Scottish Terrier does best with older children.

4. Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier (#41) is one of the smallest of the working terrier dog breeds. These terriers are bold, spirited and inquisitive but are also somewhat independent-minded. The Cairn is intelligent, affectionate and eager to please its master. This breed is easily trained and likes to do tricks although they may be the tricks that he - not you - wants to do. Cairns do well with older children and love to play games. These Terriers demand lots of attention but will provide you with hours of entertainment in return.

5. Airedale Terrier

The medium-sized Airedale Terrier (#52) is larger than most Terriers and has an even temperament and sweet disposition, although some Airedales can get into fights with other dogs. This terrier is dignified, patient, loyal and intelligent and makes a great companion dog that loves to play with children. The Airedale should be supervised with young children as it may be too boisterous for them. Airedales can be trained to a high level as anything from a guard dog or watchdog to a seeing-eye dog. Airedale puppies are playful and exuberant and obedience training should be started early and re-enforced through adulthood by a knowledgeable owner.

6. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

The Wheaten Terrier (#59) is cheerful, active, busy, playful and affectionate. The Wheaten is independent and self confident but also fairly intelligent and eager to learn. Wheaten puppies should be socialized early with children, other dogs and strangers. The breed is fairly easy to train if you can get their attention. Wheatens get along fine with older children but can be too playful and assertive with young children. Wheatens are much more sociable than most terriers but will still need obedience training to control their active and assertive nature.

7. Bull Terrier

The Bull Terrier (#62) or 'Bullie' is a lively and powerful dog. Bull Terriers are fearless, assertive, comical and mischievous. This large breed is loyal, affectionate and loving and can make a good family pet. Bullies are probably too exuberant for small children but will do fine with considerate older children. Bull Terriers need lots of attention and may not be the best choice for the city unless they are involved in lots of family activities. These dogs can be quite strong willed and are difficult to train. The breed needs early socialization when they are puppies and on-going obedience training. Male Bullies, especially those which haven't been neutered, can be extremely aggressive with other male dogs and even other pets.

8. American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire (#63) is usually calm and friendly with an air of self confidence; this powerful medium-sized breed is active, playful, affectionate and relatively easy to train. The Am Staff loves playing with older children but is too boisterous for young children. However this dog is fearless and is not to be trusted around cats or other dogs. The Am Staff has powerful jaws and will destroy any toys you give it to chew. This breed needs early socialization to other dogs and strangers and on-going obedience training. The Am Staff is the largest of the three breeds generally referred to as Pit Bulls. The other two are the American Pit Bull Terrier which is not registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier which is registered with the AKC. In the past, these breeds were all bred to be fighting dogs. Now that this activity is illegal, these pit bull breeds have an undeserved reputation for fighting. This is a dog for an experienced owner and prospective buyers should also check their local area bylaws and also their household insurance to see if there is any restriction on this breed of dog.

9. Parson Russell Terrier

The small-sized Jack Russell Terrier (#72) is known as the Parson Russell Terrier in the U.S. The Parson (Jack) Russell is the most energetic, fearless and athletic of all the terrier dog breeds. The Parson Russell demands full participation in the family activities with lots of physical and mental challenges. If the Jack Russell gets too little exercise and companionship, then this cheerful little dog will get bored and become destructive. The Parson Russell can be very aggressive towards strange dogs and even other family dogs. The Parson (Jack) Russell needs a lot of early socialization while a puppy and adolescent to curb aggressive behavior. These strong-willed Terriers need lots of early and on-going obedience training to ensure the owner and not the dog is in charge. The Parson Russell gets along well with older children - especially those that will play ball or Frisbee with him.

10. White Fox Terrier

The small-sized Wire Fox Terriers (#76) are one of the liveliest and most energetic of all the terrier breeds. The two varieties, the Wire haired and the Smooth, differ only in coat type. These Terriers are very intelligent, curious, cheerful and love their families. The breed has so much energy that it will play and chase a ball or Frisbee for hours on end. Fox Terriers make great playmates for older children but still retain their hunting instincts and shouldn't be left alone with small pets. These Terriers should be kept on their leashes when being walked. The breed has a stubborn streak and socialization and training should be started when they are puppies and continued into adulthood.

Dog Breed Profile - Greyhound

2011-04-09T07:52:00.000-07:00

History

There are conflicting opinions regarding the origin of the Greyhound, from the Celts who believed that they came from Greece, to the Romans who believed that they came from Gaul (in Western Europe), with many varying opinions inbetween.

There are ancient pictures which date back to 6000BC in the city of Catal-Huyuk in present-day Turkey, depicting dogs very similar in type to Greyhounds. Pictures from 4000BC found on a funery vase in Iran also depict Greyhound-like dogs which suggest that these dogs were held in the highest regard. Ancient artists tended only to depict images of religious or social importance.

Appearance

Greyhounds have an extremley elegant and graceful appearance; slender but also strong. They are propelled by extremely strong hindquarters; when they run it appears effortless and truly beautiful.

It is a pleasure to watch these dogs race, with their long neck and face set on their long, slender frame.

Greyhounds come in a massive variety of colours; Black, red, white, blue, fawn, fallow, brindle or any of these colours broken up with white

Temperament

Despite what most people think, these dogs can be real couch potatoes! Although they are capable of short bursts of speeds of upto 64km/hr, they are not blessed with great amounts of endurance, so love to get home after walkies and sleep it off!

They are great family pets; kind and gentle with their families and very affectionate. They may be a little aloof with strangers, but never nasty.

However, their history must be remembered; they were bred to course and race and therefore have tendencies to chase and catch small things; this can include smaller dogs, cats and other small pets. They must be very carefully socialised with smaller dogs and extreme care should be taken around cats.

Grooming

With their short coats, they will only require a very minimal amount of time spent on grooming.

Exercise

Two 20 minute walks a day is ample for these dogs - they particularly enjoy getting home to relax after their walkies!! Real care should be taken with allowing these dogs off lead - unless they are EXTREMELY well trained, they are liable to run off and chase any small thing that moves - and at 64km/h, there is no chance you'll be able to catch them!!

Health Problems

Greyhounds can be prone to injury when expelling their pent up energy! They don't really suffer from any genetic diseases; they can be a little sensitive to drugs although vets should be aware of this if treating them.

Dog Breeds Explained - The Doberman Pinscher

2011-04-09T04:02:00.000-07:00

All about dogs articles say that the Doberman Pinscher is strong, sleek, and very handsome. They are also rambunctious, slobs and naughty. In short, they are a playful dog when they are relaxed and confident of their status in the hearth of the home. And because of this, they are also dangerously loyal and would defend the home, hearth and family members to the death. They are considered as one of the best guard and defence dogs that could guard the family and children. If a family were wondering which dog breed to choose as one of the best pets a family could ever have, then they will find it in the Dobe.

The Doberman is a medium sized dog that can stand from 26 1/2 - 28 1/2in at the shoulder. Generally, the dogs are larger and taller than the females. Their coats are short, sleek and smooth. The general health of the Dobe could actually be visible on their glossy coats. Dog health advice articles have even stated that the glossier they are, the healthier they are. Their accepted colors are combinations of black and tan, red and tan and blue and tan. And yes, there are also white dobes, but they are not recognized in many countries and they are also quite rare. These are not considered as albino colors.

Character-wise, the Dobe is a noble breed and it shows in their stance whether on a leash or off. Dog training advice from Dobe owners say these dogs can be very boisterous and could mess up the home if they want to play. Their stamina is such that it could go against the dogs or complement them. When they play, they can be rough so they have to be told, not hit nor trained through pain, that they are disappointing their humans if they are too rough. Usually a simple word of "Shame!" said in the right tone accompanied with the appropriate facial expression can make them feel ashamed which stops their unwanted behaviour. They are very brave - some pups show their braveness at less than four months old. They are also very loyal animals if they are given the chance to determine the alpha human in their lives.

But it is this character that makes them psychologically weak. When a doberman feels unwanted and unloved, they can get very neurotic and could physically lash out at anyone. They are like children who, when they feel unwanted and unloved, can act out. If they are made to feel as part of the family, they are very straightforward and reliable dogs.

But new owners must prepare for the puppy when they first get a Dobe. These dogs need their own mats, their own toys and their own blankets. They also like to have their own sofas. These dogs are very territorial and when they feel that they are in the home to protect the family, regardless of their own danger, they will protect that family to their last breath.

How To Choose the Right Dog Breed For You

2011-04-09T00:57:00.000-07:00

Which breed of dog suits you?

Having decided that you are prepared to look after a canine for all of its life, your next question should be which breed of dog to choose. This is not simply a question of picking a breed of dog that appeals to you because of its appearance.

Many dog owners do not do enough research about the breeds before choosing a dog. Not every breed is suitable for everyone. There are hundreds of breeds to choose from, as well as crossbreeds and mongrels, and the decision as to what puppy or canine to choose is a very important one.

Here are some of the factors to consider when you want to start owning and caring for a dog.

- Age

While most future pet owners prefer to have a puppy, there are some who wishes to have an adolescent or full dog. The reason being is that there are no need to potty train, crate train and other basics trainings.

- Size

Size is a big factor. It really depends on you living environment. If you are staying in an apartment, a small dog is appropriate or if you are in a place with space to run for a dog, you can have a big one.

- Activity Level

Aggressive or not? That really depends on the activity level of the dog.

- Physical Grooming and Maintenance

Owning a dog comes with tons of responsibilities. Physical grooming is needed.

Read books about dog breeds. Ask other dog owners for advice. Visit dog shows and view the different breeds there. Here you can meet dogs of more or less every Kennel Club recognized breed. There are also various dog magazines and newspapers that have excellent articles on individuals breed and their care.

Canaan Dog - Dog Breed Info

2011-04-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

Group: Herding

Weight: male: 45-55, female: 35-45 lbs

Height: male: 20-24, female: 19-23 inches

Overview

The Canaan Dog is an ancient dog breed that was established in the 1930s. They were bred from the wild dogs of Israel, and are still used today to herd, guard and manage sheep. This is a very trainable breed, and they have been successfully used as messengers, mine detectors, trackers and search and rescue dogs. Even today this breed performs most of these duties. The Canaan Dog is a very tough breed that is well-adapted to the deserts of Israel. Drawings of similar looking dogs were found in tombs dating back to 2200 BC.

Temperament

Although this is considered a primitive dog breed, the Canaan Dog is a very intelligent dog. These dogs are very loyal and affectionate toward their owners, and will shower their families with love. This is a dog that is very keen on pleasing its owner. The Canaan Dog can however be fairly domineering and strong- willed at times. This breed is best suited to owners with some previous dog ownership experience. The Canaan Dog does not require excessive attention, and they are also very independent dogs. Seeing that these dogs are so intelligent, they require sufficient mental stimulation. If they are not stimulated enough, they may show negative behaviour.

Care

Canaan Dogs are a very hygienic breed with no doggie smell. Theses dogs are low maintenance when it comes to grooming, and will require a weekly combing and brushing. Extra care should however be taken when these dogs are shedding. These dogs shed quite heavily during the shedding season.

Training

It is imperative to remember that the Canaan Dog is a primitive breed, and that they are slow to mature. They are also stubborn and autonomous, and will therefore require an experienced owner and trainer. This breed should receive early socialisation and obedience training - this is a must. The Canaan Dog will not react to cruel or forceful training methods, but they do need to see who is dominant. The training environment for these dogs should be firm and consistent, and also have enough admiration and reward. The training regime should be varied; otherwise these dogs will get bored.

Health problems

The Canaan dog is a very healthy and tough breed, and they are not likely to struggle with any major health issues. They can however, very rarely have trouble with hip dysplasia which is a disease where the hip joints begin to break down. This makes it very difficult to make any movements.

Short Haired Dog Breeds - Oh the Advantages!

2011-04-08T15:54:00.000-07:00

Short-haired dog breeds have many advantages over long-haired breeds. One of these is that short-haired dog breeds do not shed as much hair. While a shaggier coat makes a dog look fluffier and aesthetically more pleasing, it should be remembered that more hair means more time spent on bathing and grooming. Short-hairs are also good because pests can not hide on them very well, so they are better from a hygienic point of view.

Here are some grooming tips for short-haired dog breeds.

- Brush your dog regularly, preferably at least once a day. Make sure to brush against the hair growth direction to monitor for pests.

- Stainless steel combs are best for short-haired dogs. Slicker brushes are better for medium to long-haired dogs. Use a flea comb during the summer days to make certain your dog has not attracted those parasites. A bristle brush can be a final touch for adding gloss to the dog's coat.

- In case you dog has a tendency to avoid being brushed because of dislike for the process, it might be a good idea to try brushing immediately after play time. Start gently by brushing in the hair growth direction. Remember that successful training means frequent rewards. Give your dog a treat after the first brushing is complete. Increase the length of the brushing sessions little by little to allow the dog to get used to it.

- Brushing is also important before giving your dog a bath. Wet matted hair is only going to create problems later on, so make sure there is no matted hair before proceeding with the bath. Water and good shampoo in a sink works great for small dogs. Note that shampoos used by humans are not good for dogs and can cause irritation that might require medication. Start with the tail and wash the head the last. No one likes soap in his or her eyes.

- Rinse as many times as required to make sure that all residual shampoo has been rinsed out of the dog's coat.

- Short-haired dog breeds will naturally dry of faster. Usually a gentle towel rub is all that they need. Longer haired dogs need more attention and you should consider brushing the hair while it is drying to avoid tangles.

- If your dog tends to dislike baths then remember to reward it with a treat after each bathing session.

Dog Breed - Deciding Before Adopting Or Buying

2011-04-08T11:22:00.000-07:00

A dog is classified into different breed types. In fact, dogs are the only animal species in the world that have diversified themselves into so many diverse breed types. The main breed classification of dogs are pure breed, hybrid breed and mixed breed dogs. The different dog types are classified within these three main subcategories of dog breed. A detailed research on dog breed types is critically important before deciding on your pet adoption choice.

The importance of breed research can be explained as the importance that the about-to-be dog owner places on his or her pet. This importance is very much needed as many people often do the mistake in adopting dog without adequate research and finally end up in sending the dog in a state run animal center. If you still do not believe what happens in an animal center, then let this article confirm the morbid fact that, the dogs are kept for a while in the center and then they are simply euthanized. Euthanization is only a fancy and state-sponsored name for murder.

Thus, if you are looking forward to adopting a puppy, then give the decision a serious thought because you should be able to provide lifelong care and concern for the puppy. The mistake that owners make is often in the beginning when they fail to do adequate research and adopts a dog breed that is unsuitable to the owner's lifestyle. You should know that the dog breeds are also classified according to the primary nature of the members of the breed. For instance, breeds can be classified into groups like sporting dog breed, Non sporting dog breed, terrier dog, hound dog and herding dog breed. Therefore, if you feel that you do not have the time to take the dog to exercise everyday, then you simply adopt a non-sporting type of dog that does not have much exercise demands.

The breed of a dog is in fact an excellent source of information about the dog and a person should wisely choose his or her dog depending on the breed information. A dog breed can give you extensive information about your pet like how much grooming is required by the pet, how much exercise is required by the pet or the training demands of that particular dog breed. You will also be able to judge other important factors like the dog breed tolerance towards children or the dog breed tolerance towards strangers. For instance, dog breed types like Samoyed, Golden retriever, Labrador retriever, Greyhound, Newfoundland, Irish wolfhound and Bulldogs have been found to offer friendship and protection towards children.

If you are adopting a puppy, then too the dog breed information is equally helpful. For adopting puppies the most important point that you should take care is that what will be the adult size of the puppy and what will be the adult characteristics of the puppy. Sometimes different dog breed types look the same as puppies, so it is crucial that you make adequate research before getting the puppy to your home. This article requests all those who are looking forward towards adopting a new dog to decide responsibly before selecting your dog breed type. You should be responsible for your pet's life, and not the murder of your pet.

Working Dog Breeds: The Top Ten Dogs Of This Group

2011-04-08T08:21:00.000-07:00

The Working Dog group includes most of the guard dog breeds such as the Rottweiler and Doberman Pinscher as well as the northern sled dogs such as the Alaskan Malamute and the Siberian Husky. Most of these dogs need lots of exercise and a fair amount of living space. Many of these dogs have thick double coats and can be heavy shedders. The heavy shedding breeds include the: Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Great Pyrenees, Newfoundland, Saint Bernard, Samoyed and Siberian Husky. The top 10 most popular Working Dog breeds in the US according to the American Kennel Club 2005 registrations are discussed below and their registration rank is included in brackets.

1. Boxer

The Boxer (#7) is a large, strong and muscular dog that is energetic, good-natured and playful. Boxers are very popular because they love children and are a good dog breed for active families with children. Toddlers and young children should be supervised carefully when around young or adolescent dogs that will knock them over when they get excited. This breed needs early socialization and obedience training while they are puppies and exercise while adolescents to control their exuberance. Boxers are alert, intelligent and eager to please and can be trained to a high level for agility sports and obedience competitions. Boxers make good watchdogs and can even be trained to be guard dogs.

2. Rottweiler

The Rottweiler (#16) is a very heavy, muscular and large dog breed. A well-bred Rottweiler is calm, intelligent, confident and courageous but can be aggressive toward strangers and strange dogs. Therefore it is important that this breed be thoroughly socialized and obedience trained starting when it is a puppy and continuing through adolescence. The Rottie needs exercise and mental stimulation and makes a good obedience, agility and schutzhund competitor. Rottweilers are not suited for indoor life and enjoy being outside. A well trained Rottie does fine with older children but this breed should be restricted to people who have the time to thoroughly socialize, obedience train, and keep this dog active.

3. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher (#21) is a strong, muscular and athletic large dog. Dobermans are usually protective but also are sweet and docile family dogs. This intelligent breed needs early socialization and obedience training when it is a puppy and this should be continued through adolescence. Dobermans do fine with older children if they are raised with them. Male Dobes can be very aggressive with other male dogs and shouldn't be trusted with small pets and strange children. Dobermans need lots of exercise and companionship and shouldn't be left alone for long periods of time. This breed should spend a significant amount of time at a dog training school. Dobermans make good guard dogs and good watchdogs.

4. Great Dane

The Great Dane (#24) is a very large and strong dog and is known as the gentle giant of dog breeds. The Dane is gentle, quiet, loyal and affectionate towards its family. This breed would rather lean against you for a pat, than be aggressive towards anyone. The Dane is great with family children but small children must be supervised carefully to avoid knockdown. The Dane is so large that it must be socialized and trained to behave very cautiously around children and pets. Because the Dane is so large early obedience training is essential to prevent it from exerting dominance. Young Danes, up to three years old, can be boisterous and need strict supervision. Danes make excellent watchdogs.

5. Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky (#25) is a very handsome medium to large dog breed that is playful, friendly, athletic and independent. Siberians get along well with older children but are not recommended for toddlers and small children unless raised with them from a puppy. Too many people are attracted to this handsome dog without realizing this is a working sled dog that needs a lot of physical activity. Siberians belong outside in an escape-proof large yard but get bored and destructive if they have too little exercise. Training is quite challenging and must be started when the Sibes are puppies and continued through to adulthood. Siberians don't bark much (although they howl from time to time) and are too friendly to make good watchdogs.

6. Mastiff

The Mastiff (#33) is a gentle giant dog and one of the heaviest dog breeds. This gentle giant is a great family dog that is calm, dignified, good-natured and very fond of children. Because of its giant size, toddlers are in danger of knock-down, and should always be supervised carefully. Mastiffs need a house with a large fenced yard. This breed needs lots of companionship and should have early and on-going socialization and obedience training so that you can control the Mastiff with only voice commands. This breed is naturally protective of its home and family and must be socialized early and often with other dogs to prevent it from becoming combative. Mastiffs make good watch dogs and guard dogs.

7. Saint Bernard

The massive Saint Bernard (#37) is the most famous of all giant dog breeds and one of the best known of all dog breeds. The Saint is an intelligent, courageous, obedient and good natured dog breed. The breed is very good with children and also other pets but because of their very large size, young children and toddlers should be supervised carefully to avoid any accidents. The Saint is relatively easy to train but must be thoroughly socialized and trained while it is young and hasn't grown too large to handle. The Saint Bernard makes a good watchdog even though it doesn't bark much and is fairly tolerant of strangers.

8. Bullmastiff

The Bullmastiff (#42) is a very large dog that is a cross between the Bulldog and the Mastiff dog breeds. The Bullmastiff is loveable and trustworthy but also fearless and afraid of nothing. Normally this breed is mild mannered and docile but once aroused can be aggressive with other male dogs and strangers. Bullmastiffs make great family pets for families with older children but young puppies or adolescents are too exuberant to be around toddlers or small children. Bullmastiff puppies must have early socialization and obedience training that is reinforced through adulthood. This dog breed is too large to allow it to have any unruly behavior and at any sign of aggression get professional training assistance. Bullmastiffs make fantastic watch dogs and great natural guard dogs but should never receive additional guard dog training.

9. Newfoundland

The Newfoundland (#46) or Newf is one of the giant dog breeds whose teddy bear appearance gives an indication of what a wonderful family dog it is. The Newfoundland has a wonderfully sweet and gentle disposition that is reflected in his kind expression. This intelligent, gentle and good-natured giant dog is great with children and makes a terrific family dog. Toddlers should be supervised carefully as one slurp from his big tongue could knock a little one over. Newfs and all giant breeds should be socialized and obedience trained early while puppies and through adolescence. Newfs need lots of companionship and need to be involved in family activities.

10. Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog (#47) is a very handsome large dog which is outgoing, intelligent and affectionate and makes a terrific family pet. Berners love children but should be supervised with young children because they are large and can knock the toddlers over. Berners should be socialized early with small children and animals when they are puppies. Bernese are intelligent and very trainable and make good dogs for competitive obedience trials. These mountain dogs like to be outside and thrive in cold weather. Berners are fairly tolerant with strangers but still make excellent watch dogs and guard dogs.

Dog Breeds Shedding

2011-04-08T03:48:00.000-07:00

When it comes to owning man's best friend, there are some dog breeds where shedding becomes a major problem. Not only is the ghastly sight of clumped dog hair on the couch or the collection of dusty fur underneath the refrigerator a complete household turnoff, but also for allergy sufferers, the consequences can pose a major health risk.

Shedding is a natural process that dogs undergo, as they lose the excess hair their body once needed to stay warm during the Winter. As warmer months prevail, the extra hair is no longer needed and begins to fall out as the climate and seasons change. For the most part, dogs with very short hair do not present as much of a problem as with other dog breeds; shedding is certainly expected with dogs, such as the Afghan Hound, which is notorious for leaving behind their hair.

Some pet owners try to catch the unwanted hair before it makes its way to the floor, carpet, or furniture by brushing their dog at the first signs of shredding. Proper and frequent grooming is a great way to reduce the amount of shedding that dog breeds may deliver. For the individuals who don't want to deal with the hassle, they simply plan ahead and select dog breeds where shedding is not a major possibility.

There is no denying the fact that when it comes to certain dog breeds, shedding is a definite characteristic. Below you will find a list of eleven dogs that pose the least amount of shedding and grooming concerns:

Airedale Terrier: Although this specific terrier breed is rather large, the Airedale possesses a rough coat that rarely sheds. This type of dog works well with children and displays a curious nature with loyal and trainable characteristics. An Airedale commonly reaches a height of 22 to 24 inches and a weight between 50 and 65 pounds.
Cockapoo: With a face resembling a Poodle, the Cockapoo is a mixture between the American Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. The dog showcases a short, curly coat that doesn't shed much. To combat the threat of shedding, aggressive grooming is suggested. With a friendly, loyal, and playful disposition, this dog breed is good with children and other dogs.
Italian Greyhound: As a miniature version of the Greyhound, this dog highlights a compact size with a gentle and obedient disposition. While this dog breed is easy to train, they also tend to get into trouble. With a short and sleek coat, shedding is not a problem with the dog breed.
Poodle: There are three different sizes that a Poodle is categorized. With all Poodle dog breeds, shedding is not a problem because their coats are short and curly. A high amount of grooming is needed for this type of dog, which also gets along well with children.
Standard Schnauzer: The coarse, wiry outer coat of this dog breed does not produce a heavy amount of shedding. With a handsome, powerful appearance, this dog may come as a salt-and-pepper or pure black companion. Common characteristics of the Schnauzer include a blunt muzzle, bushy eyebrows, and thick moustache.
Shih Tzu: The exotic appearance of this dog breed not only offers less of a shedding problem, but also delivers one of the sturdiest of toy dog breeds. The Shih Tzu is rather small, as the average size for the breed is about 8 to 10½ inches in shoulder height and around 9 to 16 pounds in weight.
Basenji: Besides not shedding a great amount of hair, the Basenji (also known as the Congo Dog) possesses quite an unusual trait. With elegance and an athletic build, the dog trots like a horse and harbors hygiene habits similar to a cat. Instead of a bark, the dog lets out an odd sound resembling a yodel or howl.
Yorkshire Terrier: For a rugged dog delivering a portable package, Yorkies belong to the toy dog breed, where they reach heights of about 7 to 9 inches and weighs around 5 to 7 pounds. Some of the characteristics associated with the breed include small, v-shaped pointy ears.
Bichon Frise: As you consider an array of dog breeds, shedding is not a major problem with the Bichon Frise despite its white powder-puff appearance. With a cheerful disposition and high capacity for intelligence, this type of dog is a member of the non-sporting dog group with the American Kennel Club.
Chinese Crested: Out of all the toy dog breeds, the Chinese Crested is one of the liveliest and charming pets an owner could ask for (not to mention the lack of hair they possess). Chinese Cresteds only possess hair on their heads, about their feet, and on their plumed tails.
Miniature Dachshund: These little dogs are full of love and character and make a great family pet, although our little dog was very protective of our property and would tend to snap at people near the door if they put their hands out to love her; in all other times she was totally soft and adorable. Very little problem with shedding except that if my wife walked around with bare feet, it was not uncommon for one of the fine little hairs to actually work its way right into the skin (Lol). Some useful dog grooming tips can be found if you look at dogs questions. Our little dog in the picture decided she was better at doing jigsaws than we were!

Scott Whiskeye loves all dogs, particularly small dogs and even more particularly Miniature Dachshunds, one of which he and his wife used to own for nearly 17 wonderful years. Never was so much love given from such a small little dog, and back from them both; her memory will stay with them forever. They have many amusing and treasured photographs of her. Some very useful information about Dogs Questions can be seen at dogs questions.

If You Love Your Dog, Then the Latest Dog Tends Might Be of Interest to You

2011-04-08T00:12:00.000-07:00

You may be a dog owner or in a dog related industry. If you are in America, rest assured that you have the greatest number of online dog searches and the highest dog ownership. So whatever your dog interest this article provides specific information on dog trends across three of the highest dog ownership countries of America, UK and Australia. We answer the question of how different countries approach seeking information online about dogs and what kind of monthly volume of searches are involved. As search data is up to date and provides a comparison in absolute terms this article shows how similar dog lovers in these three countries are.

This report is the first in a series of dogs online demand reports. It uses Google data for exact searches in three of the highest dog ownership countries: Australia, America and the UK

The reason that the online market is looked at is that the web is often the first place that people go for information, it provides a complete picture of the dog market/ industry. It can also be resolved weekly / monthly in almost real time. Google data is used because it is the leading search engine and provides the most complete list of terms for which people search. This research helps show how the market for 'DOG associated' terms on Google changes throughout the year and how the America compares with the UK / Australia.

Google exact search data is used for ALL languages in each country under analysis. To get a feel for the total dog industry, all of the terms related to DOGS in each country were summed each month. This means that for every month we can get an understanding of how the demand for the total dog associated market changes throughout the year. For instance The USA in 2010 had around 621 dog associated terms, while the UK had 800 (Google's current maximum data) and Australia had 365 terms.

To visually compare the three countries, Australia and the UK terms needed to be multiplied to reach a similar absolute number of searches to the USA values each month. Australia's total dog associated searches were multiplied by ten and the UK searches by 2. America clearly has the largest absolute number of 'dog associated searches' in the world with a peak near 3.2 million searches a month in Jan and October 2010. USA and the UK have quite a similar trend throughout the year, both starting and finishing on relatively high volumes, with a very pronounced search demand trough in the middle of the year (JUNE). Australia follows almost the reverse trend peaking in August.

To get an understanding of the 'demand shape' or how important the top terms are, the top fifty searches in each country make up the majority volume of searches. For example in Australia in October 2010, the top 50 volume dog associated terms accounted for 70% of the searches of the top 365 dog associated terms.

From all the data available it appears that there may be a Christmas effect that provides a peak in all countries leading up to the Christmas period - ie purchases of puppies for children and family..

What are people searching for in Dogs?

The table below shows the top 10 dog related search terms in Oct 2010. The order is similar for most months.

AMERICA........................VOL...........UK...............................VOL............AUSTRALIA......VOL

[dogs]..............................246,000....[dogs trust].................110,000.....[dog]..................22,200

[dog]................................135,000....[dogs].........................90,500.....[dog breeds]........14,800

[dog breeds]....................110,000....[puppies for sale].........90,500.....[dog games]......12,100

[dog names]....................90,500.....[dogs for sale]..............74,000.....[dogs for sale].....9,900

[pictures of dogs].............40,500.....[battersea dogs home]..60,500.....[dog names]........9,900

[bernese mountain dog]....40,500....[dog breeds].................40,500.....[dog training].......4,400

[dogs for sale]..................33,100....[dog games]................40,500.....[adopt a dog]........3,600

[dog games].....................33,100....[dog beds]...................27,100.....[dog grooming]......2,400

[female dog names]..........33,100....[dog insurance].............18,100....[bernese (M) dog].2,400

[dog training].....................27,100...[dog rescue]................18,100....[female dog names]2,400

From the table you can see that the term 'dog' and 'dogs' are overwhelmingly the largest search term in and America (246,000), second in UK (90,500) and top in Australia (22,200). Other common points are the term 'dog breeds' (second in Australia, third in America, sixth in UK) and 'dogs for sale' (fourth in Australia, seventh in America, fourth in UK).

You will notice that there are also many more searches in people looking for 'dog breeds' and 'dogs for sale' than there are for 'dog training' (Australia sixth, America tenth, UK twenty first). That said, in the UK the top term 'dog trust' relates to "The UK's largest dog welfare charity, outreach programs, education, information, dogs for re-homing, legislation and campaigning."

The number of search terms in a dog related data set have to do with the terms reaching a consistent minimum volume of searches. In Australia 'dog related' terms were 365, America 621 and UK had 800 terms. This can either mean that a country just has a 'long tail' or search pattern of many diverse terms, or indicates that the country has a high performing market. In a future article we will see that on a 'per capita' basis that the UK leads the world in dog associated searches, and so the maximum rating of 800 terms is well justified (particularly since the UK only has one fifth of the USA's population).

CONCLUSION

There are very similar dog associated terms that people search for across these three highly developed English speaking countries. America / USA has by far the largest percentage of searches for the generic 'dogs' top term.

The fact that 'dog training' is so low on each populations search priority in the dog world is of concern. A dog purchase should be a 'one off' event, but dog training and learning effective boundary setting and discipline should be an on-going quest. Perhaps this plus the absence of 'dog walking' queries in the highest search terms suggests why there are so many dogs with behavioral and social interaction issues?

Ironically there are very few 'bad' dogs in society, it's just that some owners don't seem to have the time or skills set to meet their ownership commitment and appropriately care for their dogs. Since meaningful exercise (dog walking, dog play) is the first part of the equation to a well balanced dog, neglecting this is often the cause of dogs and owners suffering and dogs being given away.

Akita Inu Dog Breed Profile

2011-04-07T20:37:00.000-07:00

Description: The Akita Inu is a large dog with a strong, powerful build. The dog will measure 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 75 to 120 pounds. The bitch is 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder with a weight of 75 to 100 pounds. The Akita has a dense double coat, consisting of a hard outer coat and a soft undercoat. The coat is generally found in all colors, including red, fawn, brindle, and white. The ears of the Akita are small and erect and the tail curls up over the hindquarters. The Akita has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. This dog is also known as Akita Inu in Japan.

History: The Japanese island of Honshu, in the Akita Prefecture, was the birthplace of the Akita Inu. This dog was bred to be a sturdy guard and hunting dog. As the prey animals included black bears, boar, and elk, the Akita was, of necessity a strong and determined hunter. It was this dog's job to hold the quarry until the human hunters were ready to make the kill. During the 19th century, the original Akita was bred to the Tosa, the Japanese fighting dog. This resulted in a dog that was larger and more aggressive than its Akita parent. The breed was diminished by a rabies outbreak at the beginning of the 20th century, and WWII caused many of these dogs to be sacrificed for their fur, which was needed for uniforms.

Temperament: The Akita Inu is very loyal and attached to its human family. One Japanese Akita was so loyal that it went to the train station to meet its master for nine years after the master had died. The Akita has a very strong and dominant personality, however, so a firm master is needed to train the dog how to behave properly. This dog must be socialized with other dogs and household pets while young. Although the Akita loves children, its size makes it more suitable for older children than very young ones.

Health Issues: The Akita Inu is very prone to bloat, stomach torsion. If this occurs, the dog must be taken to the veterinarian for immediate treatment. This is a life-threatening situation that cannot be treated at home. This dog has a small heart for its body size and is sensitive to anaesthesia because of this. Your veterinarian should be made aware of this if your Akita needs surgery. The Akita can also suffer from hip dysplasia and canine herpesvirus.

Grooming: The Akita's coat needs quite a bit of grooming to stay in top condition. It should be brushed with a stiff-bristled brush at least once a week. When the coat is blown twice a year, it would be advisable to groom even more often than that.

Living Conditions: The Akita Inu is very protective of its family and wants to be near them as much as possible. However, this is a rugged dog with a thick coat that does not mind being outside in bad weather. The Akita can live in an apartment if the owner makes the effort to give the dog proper exercise. A house with a yard is probably a better option so that the dog will be assured of enough exercise.

Various Dog Breeds to Suit Various People

2011-04-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

There are many breeds of do. Each breed comes with their own characteristics which people associate with them. But you will find, like anything else in life, that there are exceptions ie that there are individual variations within the breed which may be atypical e.g. a snappy Golden Retriever or an affectionate Poodle. So if you are thinking of getting a dog, by all means look at the general characteristics of the breed but also look at the qualities of the individual dog.

So what sorts of breeds are there?

1. Hyperactive, rambunctious dogs that have the potential to destroy things and make a nuisance of themselves if they can't exercise.
Examples include:
~ Jack Russel Terrier: these dogs tend to dig when bored
~ Labrador Retrievers:
~ Collie

2. Barkers, Howlers
Examples Include
~ Border Collie: these dogs have a sharp bark which is hard to take
~ Beagle: these dogs howl when bored
~ Poodle: these dogs yap
~ Timid Dogs: There a some breeds that bark with every sound or movement. This is usually associated with smaller breeds such as the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Lhasa Apso, Hound breeds (howls especially it they hear sirens or trains, therefore do not make good city dogs.)

3. Hunting Dog Breeds:
Examples include:
~ Welsh Terrier
~ Springer Spaniel
~ Otterhound
~ English Pointer
~ Blue Tick Coonhound

4. Toy Dog Breeds Or Small Dogs:
Examples include:
~ Yorkshire Terrier
~ Pug
~ Pekinese
~ Chihuahua
~ Papillon

5. Breeds Suitable For Families With Children:
Children need a dog with good temperament and moderate energy level
Examples include:
~ Cairn Terrier
~ German Shepherd: These dogs must be well trained
~ Collie
~ Shetland Sheepdog
~ Mixed Breed Dogs like a Mutt

6. Top of the List Breed:
~ Labrador Retriever
~ Golden Retriever
~ Beagle
~ Yorkshire Terrier
~ Poodle

7. Mixed Dog Breeds (Designer Dogs) - hopefully gets the best traits out of each breed
~ Puggle: this is a cross between a Pug and a Beagle
~ Labradoodle: this is a cross between a Labrador and a Poodle
~ Cockapoo: this is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle

Please note that these dogs are unregistered but are becoming more and more popular.

8. Unpopular Breeds:
~ Pitbulls and their Close Cousins: Maybe these dogs have had owners who did not know how to get the best out of them. If these dogs are trained gently and properly and understood then they could be worthwhile owning.

These dogs are just a few out of the many dog breeds around. People generally have their favourite and least favourite dog breed. Their opinions can be influenced by many factors including:
1. movies or television programs that feature them
2. dogshows where they can be influenced by peoples feedback and whether a dog wins or not.

You will find that there are many dogs in each category. You will have to research to gain information on what you could be interested. There are many things to consider when choosing a dog breed. Whatever dog breed you like or dislike you will find that various dog breeds suit various people and there should be one to suit you.

Yorkie Dogs - Exciting Small Dog Breeds

2011-04-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

The Yorkshire terrier, more popularly known as Yorkie Dogs, belongs to the small dog breeds. They possess long and attractive silk coat which is advisable to be well-kept by brushing on a regular basis. Likewise, other sensitive parts of this dog such as the teeth must also be brushed regularly if possible. Pet owners should know that when taking care of the terriers, they must have great amount of patience and attention and care to give.

Like many small dog breeds, the yorkie dogs need not be fed beyond that they need to take in. Overfeeding of terriers will often result in possible digestive conditions which can endanger its overall health. There are many excellent quality food products that can be bought for your pet dog; this assures you're your yorkie dogs will be getting their necessary nutrients and vitamins. Of course, it is a must that fresh water is always available for your dog to drink.

The Yorkshire terrier is belongs to adventurous and intelligent small dog breeds. They are very lovable and loyal to his master and the people around it, albeit at times it can be demanding when it comes to the attention that his master and the people around shower him. And while the yorkie dogs are very amiable, they can become irritated in the slightest provocation. It can be said that this tiny dog is very brave and will not hesitate to face possible danger when he encounters it.

As already mentioned, yorkie dogs gets along quite well with humans, however they are only comfortable in the presence of people that they already know. They display hostile behavior with total strangers and even other animals and house pets. These small breed of dogs might be temperamental and oftentimes hostile to others, nonetheless, they only have so much affection and loyalty to their masters.

With this dog a rather aggressive and seemingly menacing behavior, you might think that the Yorkshire terrier is not trainable. On the contrary, this small dog breeds are very trainable; they can easily absorb the training that is given them. Still, with their cute stubbornness as the terrier's trademark, you must have unyielding character as well as a wealth of determination in order to successfully train your yorkie dogs.

A Guide To The Pug Dog Breed

2011-03-18T15:35:00.000-07:00

The Pug dog breed is a member of the toy dog set whose name is gained from the Latin phrase Pugness, which signifies "fist". This absolutely illustrates the facial features as it could be said to appear like a clenched fist. This canine has been accepted by the American Kennel Club since the 1880's and has developed into a popular show and house pet ever since.

The Pug is awfully amiable, exhibits a positive personality, and is profusely playful. It can be a bit stubborn and headstrong to train, but for the most part this breed is a pleasant pet that enjoys satisfying its owner, typically if given the opportunity to show off.

Pug Care and Maintenance:

As with all dog toy breeds, it is important to offer plenty of exercise on a day-to-day basis. An energetic walk for 15 to 25 minutes can be ideal, or an enjoyable physical activity that centres on a ball game can do nicely.

The Pug isn't the type of pet to be left outside for an ongoing periods of time. This canine is meant to be inside and doesn't enjoy hot climates or humid weather. Of course there's nothing wrong with allowing your dog in the backyard for a several hours daily, but always guarantee that she has sufficient shade to retreat to if the weather becomes hot.

Once it comes to grooming, it is necessary to apply a regular cleaning routine in view of its heavy wrinkles, typically around the neck and face areas. If the dog should become wet she will need to be dried off straightaway to avoid infection of the skin, which is often typical of this breed. Finally, when it concerns physical characteristics, this pet is given to snore and wheeze often.

Pug Health Issues and Information:

You can expect a long and healthy life for your pug, often up to fifteen years, and occasionally longer. There are only two major health fears that all owners ought to be aware of is dog encephalitis and CHD. The minor health fears, which seldom appear with this breed comprise of skin infections, stenotic nares, Legg-Perthes, elongated palate, hemivertebra, KCS, and patellar luxation.

Canaan Dog Breed Temperament, Grooming and Living Conditions

2011-03-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

Temperament: The Canaan Dog breed has a lot to offer, not only in its traditional role as a herder. It has shown itself to be dependable, agile, and so has found a new place for these talents in tracking and hunting trials being able to work well as a team. They can also think independently. They are devoted and loyal to their families, and instinctively protective and guarding. Training has to happen to control the level to barking this dog may show.

The Canaan dog needs strong leadership, as it can be aggressive and very domineering over other dogs. They are very friendly with people they know well, but socializing them well with both people and dogs from a very young age is recommended. This is not the best breed with children. It is partly due to the dog's strong sense of order within their pack. This dog will thrive happily with a single leader that is strong and fair.
Health issues: The Canaan Dog breed has good general health with no reported problems.

Grooming: This is a clean breed, which is easy to groom. Weekly grooming is all this dog requires and extra when the dog is shedding.

Living conditions: The Canaan Dog will benefit from at least an average sized garden. This breed can live in an apartment, providing their exercise needs are met. If you don't have a yard or garden available to take your Canaan dog for a walk it is suggested that you take your dog on a walk or run a couple times each week.

Choosing a Dog Breed - How to Choose a Dog Breed

2011-03-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

Choosing a Dog Breed that's Right for You

Before we discuss how to choose a dog breed and which one might be right for you, there's something more important to decide.

Are you sure you're ready to take on the responsibility of pet ownership?

Let's take a look at some of the things you might want to consider before you answer that question.

1. Do you have the space for a dog, a crate, food bowls?

2. Do you have a safe place to take the dog for exercise and fresh air?

3. Can you afford not only the dog, but the vet visits, accessories, toys, obedience classes, food?

4. Do you have the time and patience it takes to train a puppy? Training is a lifelong commitment.

5. Do you travel often for either leisure or work? If you do, where will your dog go when you're not at home?

6. Is your home, "puppy proof?" (Puppies love to chew. And chew. And chew. And...)

If you've thought about good and hard about this decision and your answer is "YES! I'm ready!" then the next step is, choosing a breed.

How do you know which breed is right for you?

Here are some thoughts to factor in when choosing a breed.

Climate - Do you live in tropical weather where its usually hot and humid?

Space - How much room do you have for your pet to run around? Do you have a fenced backyard?

Size - Are you looking for a big dog or a medium sized one? How about a teacup miniature sized one?

Lifestyle - Are you high energy or more sedentary? Some dogs require lots of exercise while others can only take a short amount of physical exertion each day.

Allergies - Some breeds are more hypoallergenic than others. Some have long hair, some have short. Some need to be groomed by professionals and some are fine with at home brushings.

Desires - What do you want from your dog? If you're looking for a lap dog, a protector or a sporting dog, its important to know which breed will match your needs.

Family - Do you have children? Do you plan on adding to your family? If you do, then be sure to choose a breed that is likely to get along with and not be threatened by or aggressive toward children.

Other pets - Do you have cats? Birds? If you do, seek out a breed that is comfortable around other animals.

Age - Are you interested in an adult dog or do you prefer a brand new puppy?

Now that you've answered some pretty important questions, the time has come to research and choose your breed.

Dog Breed Characteristics - Small Dogs

2011-03-18T03:56:00.000-07:00

Not too sure which type of dog to buy? This is part 1 of 3 articles that addresses the different needs and characteristics of some of the popular dogs.

Chihuahua

A small, fast-moving toy dog named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. It stands between 15 cm to 25 cm tall, but some grow as tall as 35 cm. There are only 2 recognised varieties of Chihuahuas, the long-coat and the short-haired. Long-coat Chihuahuas have a downy undercoat, which makes them look 'fluffy'. Short-haired Chihuahuas, on the other hand, require minimal grooming. Although Chihuahuas are small, they are not suitable for families with very young children because they have the tendency to bite when frightened. They can also be quite picky eaters. Overfeeding is definitely a no-no because overweight Chihuahuas are prone to joint injuries, diabetes and shortened life span. And they don't really cool that cute.

Maltese

This is one of the oldest breed around and is believed to be originated from the island of Malta. A Maltese is a toy dog that is covered with long, silky fur and is usually pure white in colour. They have very expressive facial features, which makes them popular as pets. They are companion dogs and love attention from their owners. They are also extremely playful, and are good with children. They thrive well in small enclosed areas, and are popular with those living in the cities. However, Maltese can get very aggressive and they have the behaviour of barking constantly.

Australian Silky Terrier

They are a friendly lot. They originated from Australia (hence its name) and this breed is classified as a toy dog in Australia but a terrier in Europe. It has a silky coat and it is usually non-shedding. This breed is suitable for those who are allergic to pet hair. Similar to the Maltese, they love the attention of their owners. A playful breed, it is suitable for those families with older children. They respond well to obedience training, coupled with rewards and praise. The only main problem with this breed is that it's coat tangles easily and will need daily grooming.

Pomeranian

This is one of my favourite breed. It looks lively and graceful with its trademark tail. They are typically friendly and active, but they can develop a bad habit of barking excessively if allowed to do so. They are also intelligent creatures and can be trained easily. Note that they are extremely loyal and will lay around their owners' feet. Owing to this loyal behaviour, they will follow the owners from room to room, thus risking getting stepped on. It is important to train them not to do so.

Shih Tsu

It's name was derived because it looks like a lion (Shih Tzu literally means "lion dog" in Chinese), and it originated from China. They are very sensitive to high temperatures, so it is important to keep them in cooler conditions. They need regular grooming to maintain their coats, and they shed little if proper care is given. Supervision is recommended during drinking because water can enter their flat noses easily and cause breathing problems. Not suitable for busy professionals due to its constant grooming needs.

Good Dog Breeds - Which Ones Make the Best Pets?

2011-03-17T23:31:00.000-07:00

Which are good dog breeds to have as pets, and which are bad dog breeds to avoid having as pets? Some dogs are more suitable to have as pets, particularly if you have young children. All dog lovers have their favourite, and all for different reasons. For example, some people believe that the Husky is an ideal pet, as long as it is trained properly. Some people believe that a Yorkie can be more trouble than they are worth.

Dog breeds rise and fall in popularity for many reasons. Even movies featuring dogs can change people's perceptions of that particular dog type. Sometimes, people can be swayed by what dogs are winning in major dog shows. But despite all this, there are still favourite breeds which remain the choice for many people. This includes: the Golden Retriever, the Labrador Retriever, the Yorkshire Terrier, the Poodle, and the Beagle.

In addition to this, there are mixed breeds which are popular. Popular mixed breeds include: the Puggle (a mixture of Beagle and Pug), the Labradoodle (a mixture of Poodle and Labrador), and the Cockapoo (a mixture of Poodle and Cocker Spaniel). These are not registered breeds, but even so, many people do like them.

Beyond all that though, the most ideal dog is whatever you personally are happy with, whatever best suits your lifestyle. If you need a guard dog, then something aggressive such as an Alsatian or Pit Bull Terrier would be ideal. But if you want a friendly family dog, then a Golden Retriever is the more obvious choice.

An Alaskan Malamute Dog Breed Profile

2011-03-17T18:53:00.000-07:00

Description: The Alaskan Malamute is a medium to large dog in the sled dog family. The dog is 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and the bitch 22 to 24 inches. The dog will weigh approximately 80 to 95 pounds, and the bitch will be between 70 and 85 pounds. The coat of the Alaskan Malamute has a very dense double coat which is 2 to 3 inches long. This dense coat is what allows the Alaskan Malamute to remain outside in arctic winter conditions. The coat is usually found to be grey, black and white, wolf grey, or red. White is the only permitted solid color. The Alaskan Malamute will generally live for 12 to 15 years.

History: The Alaskan Malamute has been used by the Inuit for over 2000 years. This is a very old breed that shows its wolf ancestry in its appearance. This dog was named for the tribe called the Mahlemuts, who had come across from Siberia to settle in what is now Alaska. The dogs provided the Mahlemuts with a dependable form of transportation in an very challenging climate. Used not only as sled dogs, the Malamute was also used in polar bear hunts.

Temperament: The Alaskan Malamute is a even tempered dog that enjoys being with its human family. This is a friendly dog that does not make a good guard dog. The Malamute is used mostly today as a companion dog, although some are still used for mushing. This dog is quite smart and can learn quickly, however training should start early. The Malamute is good around children and enjoys playing with them, but make sure that the child is large enough to play safely with this rather large dog. Some dogs, male and female alike, in spite of socialization, remain hostile to dogs of the same sex.

Health Issues: The Alaskan Malamute is subject to bloat, or stomach torsion. If your dog experiences this, it is vital to get it to an animal hospital immediately for treatment. This dog can suffer from hip dysplasia, also. Cancer is found, especially in older dogs, and this breed can exhibit hereditary dwarfism. Eye problems can surface in the form of cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy.

Grooming: As the Alaskan Malamute is a heavy shedder, it is necessary to brush out the coat at least twice a week. This dog will blow its coat twice a year, and it is probably a good idea to brush it more during these times. A dry shampooing is all that is needed in the way of bathing.

Living Conditions: As the Alaskan Malamute is kept today mostly as a companion dog, it will usually be kept in the house. It is perfectly capable of living outside as long as it is visited by its owner during the day. The Malamute is not a dog that should be kept in an apartment, it is far too active for such a confined space and needs to have a great deal of exercise to keep it fit. This dog will be come extremely destructive of its surroundings if not given enough exercise.

Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Temperament, Health Issues, Grooming and Living Condition

2011-03-17T14:21:00.000-07:00

Temperament: The Labrador Retriever is a loyal loving and affectionate dog. This is one of the most popular breeds in America. Making a great family pet that is really good with children. This dog is very intelligent and will not play, especially in water. With good reliable temperaments, they crave human contact and good leadership.

This breed does well as part of the family and is easily trained. Socialising well as a puppy will help build a well rounded character. Training is important, as they become stronger in adult life. This breed can become destructive, if not given enough exercise, and good leadership from the owner. This dog requires mental and physical exercise daily.

Problems can occur, if not enough exercises given with the dog becoming highly strung. The English line of the Labrador retriever is a calmer and more laid-back breed than its American counterpart.

Health issues: The Labrador Retriever breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders and PRA.
Grooming: Due to the short smooth coat, grooming a Labrador Retriever is easy and it just needs brushing weekly. Bathing only when really needed is best for this breed. This is an average shedder.

It is very important to make sure your puppy or dog is up to date on all vaccinations, de-wormings and heart preventatives. It is also suggested that you have a complete check-up done on your dog at least twice each year to make sure there are no unseen health issues that need attention.

Living conditions: The Labrador Retriever can live in an apartment if they have been given good daily walks and mental exercise. This breed would do well in an average size garden.

Samoyed Dog Breed

2011-03-17T11:20:00.000-07:00

Description. The Samoyed are medium sized dogs, with muscular bodies', and a height for the male dog of 21-23? inches which weigh in at 45-65 pounds and the female bitch stand 19-21 inches with a weight of 35-50 pounds. They have a fairly fluffy coat that hides a great deal of their muscular definition. Their deep-set bowman shaped eyes are a dark colour and are set a little on the wide side. With a medium to long tail which they carry rolled on their back. The feet are flat and have an ample covering of hair, with the legs being muscular and solid. But it is a double thickness and very dense the longer hair is set within the thick undercoat and is harsh in feel. Their neck is exaggerated by the hair and appears to form a ruff, which would keep the neck warm in their native climate.

History. The Samoyed is a very old breed, even ancient. They were native to Siberia and used by the hunters and fishermen. Some were used as sledge dogs, which doubled up as security by guarding the homes and also used in the herding of reindeer. It was common to these dogs to sleep with people in the household, to keep them warm. The dogs were first taken to England by the famous explorer Robert Scott, in 1889. The breed was further refined in England and started its worldwide spread from there. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1906.

Temperament. They tend to be a happy-go-lucky friendly dog, with a playful nature. They can become very devoted to their owners. They integrate well with others, and unfortunately get on with pretty much anybody, I say unfortunately because this will include anybody who tries to burgle your house. However, all is not lost because their excited barking will alert you to a stranger being near, but it will be up to you to tackle them. As with most dogs training needs to be started as early as possible, and the dogs' master needs to assert themselves over this dog, in a calm friendly but firm manner. They are in themselves a stable breed but do require a lot of exercise both physical and mental. If adequately trained and cared for these dogs are exceptional in their good nature.

Health issues. The breed is particularly prone to hip dysplasia, and is known to be at risk of diabetes. Along with a predisposition to skin allergies and PRA affecting the eyes, they are overall a fairly healthy breed with a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years.

Grooming. You only need to see their coat to realise that they are going to require extensive brushing and combing. As seasonal shedders, they moult very heavily, and brushing and combing of their coat should probably be conducted more frequently during the moulting season. Most commonly though, normal grooming will keep your dog clean so frequent bathing will not be a requirement.

Living conditions. Whilst these dogs can adapt to living in an apartment, if they are exercised well, they are quite active indoors and if your space is limited this may be a problem. They do not tolerate hot weather very well, which means you may well have to exercise them more gently in the summer months. They do integrate well with families and can be great with children, just bear in mind their boisterous nature may cause a few tumbles during its play time if he gets too excitable. However, other pets in the house should not be a problem, but it is a good idea to supervise when small animals are available.

The German Shepherd Dog Breed History

2011-03-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

Despite the conventional presumption that the German Shepherd dog breed is related in some way to the wolf, this breed is no more related to the wolf than any other dog breed. This breed is the result of a deliberate attempt to produce the absolute shepherd. This is due to the creation in 1899, of an association dedicated to overseeing the breeding of the German Shepherd dog; the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde, which became known around the world as the SV (German Sheepdog Society).

In 1899, Captain Max von Stephanitz, who started the breed, acquired a dog which thrilled him. The dog was Horand von Grafrath, originally named Hektor Linksrhein. Captain Stephanitz used this fabulous dog as the foundation for the future German Shepherd dog. Horand von Grafrath epitomized the intention and ambitions of the breeders at that time. He was viewed as the objective towards which every German Shepherd breeder aspired to take his dogs.

On April 22nd of 1899, shortly after von Stephanitz got Horand, he got together with 10 friends and started what is now known as the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde or the SV. Many will agree with me that this is the date that can be used as the day for the arrival of the GSD breed.

Breeders worked to establish a herding dog that would excel at different jobs which required intelligence, courage and athleticism. The GSD eventually demonstrated that it was an intelligent and brave comrade and protector.

At the time of the first World War, the German Shepherd dog was used in many varied ways. It could be seen as a messenger dog, a rescue dog or a sentinel dog, but it was also utilized as a guard dog. After World War I ended, soldiers took many of these German Shepherds back home with them.

Then, during the second World War, the Allied Forces used this trained dogs extensively and they traveled everywhere with them. This made this already prominent breed, a lot more popular everywhere in the world.

At the end of the second World War and in the years following it, the German Shepherd dog's popularity grew tremendously and it became the most popular breed in history. The main reasons were that no other breed could master such an ample set of skills as theGerman Shepherd dog breed and its incredibly exceptional attributes.

The breed changed names a few times, mainly because after the war the word "German" acquired a very negative connotation. It changed to The Alsatian Wolf Dog, but the "Wolf Dog" part of the name also had a negative connotation, so it went to Alsatian and later in 1977 it was eventually changed back to the original it uses till this day.

This breed became very popular mostly because of a couple of dog movie stars: Strongheart and Rin- tin- tin. The GSD was the most beloved and praised dog in America for many years. Although its popularity dropped a little in recent years it is still one of the most multifaceted dogs ever created. The German Shepherd dog has worked as a search-and-rescue dog, narcotics-or explosives-detecting dog, guide dog, guard dog, police dog, war dog, show dog, shepherd and even as a pet.

Mixed Dog Breeds versus Purebreds: Which is Right for You?

2011-03-17T03:11:00.000-07:00

You hear a lot about the merits of getting a purebred dog-and I have one myself-but have you considered a mixed breed dog? There are advantages to both, and a few cautions to keep in mind, as you decide what type of dog to get.

Mixed breed dogs, lovingly known as "mutts," are just as affectionate and loyal as purebred dogs. The main differences are predictability and cost. When you buy a purebred dog, you know what you are getting in terms of size, looks, temperament, and potential health concerns. For example, if you buy a German Shepherd puppy, you know it will grow to be about 65-100 pounds, have a thick, medium-length coat, that it will shed a lot, and that it will probably not be good around strangers. You would know this because that's the breed's profile. When looking for a purebred dog it is critical that you research breeders carefully and meet your puppy's parents so you know that they conform to the breed's profile, including temperament.

When you get a mixed breed, you may not know exactly how big he is going to get or his personality and temperament. Even if you've been told your puppy is part Springer Spaniel and part Australian Shepherd, chances are the parent dogs were not purebred either and have other breeds in their mix. Therefore you can't count on your puppy growing up to look and behave like its parents. Further, non-purebred mixed breeds dogs tend to have a more middle-of-the-road temperament than purebreds because they are not genetically programmed to be a certain way. For example, the profile of a Chihuahua says the breed is highly companionable but temperamental and tends to be a one-person dog. The profile of a Jack Russell indicates the breed is high spirited, stubborn and needs firm training.

Getting a mixed breed often means a big cost savings, because purebreds tend to expensive to purchase (unless you get a purebred rescue dog). When you buy a purebred dog, such as a Border Collie, you would likely buy it from a reputable breeder who needs to cover his costs for breeding, kenneling, feeding, medical expenses, etc. Some breeds are more expensive than others and a purebred puppy can cost over $1000. Mixed breeds are often found through the newspaper classified ads, often for free, and at shelters. At shelters, you usually pay an adoption fee to cover the cost of housing the dog and spaying or neutering the pet. Usually these are nominal fees, very likely under $100. The added benefit is that by getting dog from a shelter you may well be saving its life.

Purebred dogs are often prone to medical conditions such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and skin conditions. This is because of a limited gene pool. To keep the breed pure, the same set of genes is reproduced over and over for years, and this can result in health problems. Genetic defects and health problems can literally get bred into dogs. When you get a mixed breed (non-purebred), you may not have to worry so much about potential health issues because a mixed breed, being a combination of several breeds, may not be predisposed to certain conditions that are "bred" into purebreds. Mixed breed dogs may be more healthy and vigorous because they have a genetic diversity.

No matter what type of dog you choose, mixed breed or pure, he will need plenty of love, training, and exercise, the key components of a happy, well-adjusted, well-behaved dog.

Five Dog Breeds For the Inexperienced Dog Owner

2011-03-16T23:36:00.000-07:00

Even if you've never owned a dog before, or are unsure if you are capable of handling a dog, there are some dog breeds that are easier to control than others. If you have never owned your own dog, easing into the process with a breed that is not as stubborn or dominant than other breeds will help you have a good relationship with your dog from the start. One of the sweetest dogs to own is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (English Toy Spaniel). They are very friendly and obedient dogs. They will get along fine with older, considerate children, and they are very devoted and loving companions. They are just a treat! Please be sure and consider that they need to be brushed at least three times a week and may need more during periods of shedding.

If you are looking for a bigger dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog might be the one for you. They love to frolic in the snow and play with the family. They are even tempered and easy to train. They love children and my Chihuahua is actually friends with one. Males can be more dominant than the females and re-homing an older Berner may be difficult as they may bond closely with one person.

If you're an active person and want a dog that will love the outdoors as much as you do, then the Bearded Collie is a good choice. They love to run and hike and play outdoors. They are good with children and other animals, although they sometimes can try and herd them. They can be independent and stubborn sometimes, but they still have a very sweet nature. These dogs will love to lead a very active lifestyle and make great companions for an active family, but make sure you are up for the grooming; especially after a day in the woods!

For a good all around dog, the Poodle cannot be beat. This is one of my favorite breeds because they are so loving and fun. They are good with children and are easy to train. They are happy to pay outside and then come in a lay on the couch with you. They are good swimmers and are happy to hike the trails with you. The only downside to a Poodle is the grooming. They do need to be clipped every 6-8 weeks which should be done professionally.

The Whippet is a very sweet and loving dog who is eager to please. They love to run around outside, but when inside, they will snuggle up on the couch with you. They love attention and love when you play with them. They are very sensitive and must be properly socialized to avoid timidness. They are not right for those with small or boisterous children, and should be watched carefully around small animals.

A Guide To The Beagle Dog Breed

2011-03-16T19:26:00.000-07:00

The Beagle is one of those breeds that will thrive off human affection. An extremely amiable creature that was initially bred as a pack hunter, the Beagle is an eager exploration searcher. The perfect fun time for this pet would be exploring and rummaging through wooded areas and forests. She utterly adores her owner and can make the ideal social home dog.

Training and Housebreaking Beagle Tips:

Learning how to train a Beagle doesn't take that long to get to grips with as this breed is a first-class house pet that remains calm and placid, particularly close to its family members. Although the Beagle will need a daily exercise routine to keep her active, content and calm, it doesn't take much, maybe 15 to 25 minutes of gentle exercise every day.

Take them for a long walk or a swift run through a safe spot in the forest. She especially enjoys scouting paths and other small trails. However, be certain not to take this breed of dog off her leash if she's has been confined inside for a long period. If she catches the sense of small animals along a trail, she is liable to scamper off and chase around for a while, typically if her energy reserves have built up from lack of activity.

An ideal option if you have a small child in the house, having a Beagle as a pet will make you happy and will never stop searching for means to delight you.

Beagle Health Problem Concerns:

Most Beagles can expect a lifespan of between 9 and 16 years but on occasion have minor health dilemma's to watch out for, such as hypothyroidism, chondrodysplasia, KCS, patellar luxation, glaucoma, epilepsy, and cherry eye.

Saint Bernard Dog Breed

2011-03-16T15:22:00.001-07:00

Description. Most people have probably come across this dog, or at the least seen a picture of one. Even as a puppy they would probably be described as a medium to large dog; as adults, they are a little short of enormous. Normally standing 25 to 27 inches in height and weighing between 110 and 200 pounds. However, the largest recorded dog was apparently nearly 2 m in length and weighing 140kgs. As with everything else the Saint Bernard's head is massive and powerful, with a thick muscular neck and heavyset muscular body. Being such a large dog diet is very important, when first obtaining one of these dogs you should find out the various supplements and food types the dog is at present eating. If purchased as a puppy, the breeder will give you a diet sheet upon request. Inadequate diet or incorrect feeding may cause problems for this dog, which as, given its size it can not afford to have. They can come in a variety of colours, and can have either rough or smooth coats, either of which is very dense. These dogs can only be described as looking like an enormous great teddy bear.

History. Saint Bernard DeMenthon is believed to have founded this breed in 980A.D. and is most probably the result of crossing or mixing the breeds of the great Pyrenees, the great Dane, the Tibetan mastiff, and the greater Swiss mountain dog. The original dogs were of the shorthaired variety as it was soon noticed the longhaired variety tended to form icicles in their coat. St Bernard DeMenthon had formed a hospice, which could be used by weary travellers. During the 17th century St Bernard's were often used for rescuing people from avalanches, or travellers who had collapsed in the snowy passes. They have a very keen sense of smell and can actually scent a person through several feet of snow, and even dig them out. Believe it or believe it not, upon finding a person buried in the snow a dog would lie alongside, which provides the person with warmth. It would then attract the attention of another dog, by barking, who would then head back to the mission to collect a rescue team. Along with their trademark small barrel hanging under their neck, they were able to provide rescue and fortification. Furthermore, because of their size they were actually capable of pulling small sledges, or assisting the weary traveller, which adds taking the casualties of the weather to suitable refuge, to the list of tasks this dog is capable of.

Temperament. As a breed they are tolerant and obedient and loyal friendly and tolerate children very well. It is important to socialise these animals as young as possible, and also to commence training as early as you can. One very important factor in training is to discourage them from jumping up on humans. Obviously given the size this animal grows to, if jumping up is not stopped, it could be a major problem in the future, and could cause serious injury to elderly relatives. Another consideration in training is that they must respond to your commands, again at this size you cannot afford this dog to run wild and please itself. Although very good and tolerant with children, and have been known to allow children to hang in their hair, a certain amount of care must be taken because at this weight a simple accident could have serious results. The dogs are not malicious at all, but accidents can happen, just be aware.

Health issues. St Bernard's are prone to some health problems, the obvious hip dysplasia, skin problems a condition known as wobbler syndrome, some heart problems, a condition of the eye where one of the eyelids folds outwards, also twisted stomachs. They are also a little prone to bloat. It is better to feed these dogs three small meals rather than one large meal daily. It is important to avoid the temptation to overfeed this dog, their normal weight is enough of a strain on the skeleton, they can ill afford to be overweight, it will only cause them problems later. Overfeeding of a dog is neither a treat nor a kindness of the owner.

Grooming. Shedding occurs twice a year, you will notice when. Generally their coat is easy to look after with brushing, using firm bristles, and combing. Bathing should not be done frequently as it strips the protective oils from their coat destroying the water resistant properties. When bathing, use a very mild shampoo. Special attention needs to be paid to the eyes, keeping them free of grit, dust, or other things that may irritate, being prone to eye problems this is obviously an important part of the dogs care.

Living conditions. Whilst they prefer living indoors, with the family, they are capable of living outside in most weather conditions, as long as suitable shelter is provided. They require a large amount of exercise, but as long as it is provided, they are fairly inactive inside, and they can, in fact, live in an apartment. They do not do well in hot weather, cars, or warm rooms.

Non-Sporting Dog Breeds: The Top Ten Dogs In This Group

2011-03-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Non-Sporting Group includes dog breeds that don't seem to fit well in any other group. The name doesn't really fit the group and they would better named "Specialty Dogs" as the group includes some of the most interesting and exotic breeds. The breeds in this diverse group have a wide variety of sizes, coats, personalities and appearances and range from the miniature dog breeds like the tiny Bichon Frise to the large Chow Chow and even include the elegant Dalmatian and the popular Poodle, Bulldog and Boston Terrier. The top 10 most popular Non-Sporting dog breeds in the US according to the American Kennel Club 2005 registrations are described below and their registration rank is included in brackets.

1. Poodle

The Poodles (#8) included in this group are the Standard and the Miniature. The following comments apply to the Standard Poodle as the Miniature is more difficult to train and doesn't do as well with toddlers and young children. The Poodle is one of the smartest and most trainable of all dog breeds. The Poodle is lively, good natured, friendly, proud, athletic, affectionate, extremely loyal and will become very attached to its family. Poodles that are socialized early do very well with children, other pets and strangers although adolescent dogs are exuberant and should be supervised carefully to avoid toddler knockdown. Poodles will announce visitors with a bark and make good watchdogs. Poodles do not shed their hair and are often called 'hypoallergenic' because they are good for people with allergies.

2. Bulldog

The Bulldog (#13) is a friendly and loveable dog that adores its family. The downside to the breed is that the life expectancy of the Bulldog is only about 8 years because of health problems. Puppies are playful and high-spirited but grow up to be calm and dignified adult dogs. The breed is very good with children and usually peaceful with other pets. Bulldogs don't need a lot of exercise but do need a lot of attention. Puppies should have early socialization and obedience training and they can best be trained with food motivation. Bulldogs can snore very loudly and the breed can swallow a lot of air which can lead to flatulence and unpleasant smells in an enclosed area. Bulldogs love to eat and don't share well - so they should be fed separately from other pets.

3. Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier (#17) is a delightful little dog which despite its name is not one of the terrier dog breeds. Bostons are affectionate and lively house pets and good companions. This breed is very intelligent and loves to learn new tricks. Early socialization and obedience training will ensure this dog will develop good manners. These dogs seem to do especially well with older people. This breed makes good pets for older children who can appreciate their sense of humor and funny antics. Bostons like to learn and are easy to train, although house training may be difficult. Boston Terriers make good watch dogs without excessive barking. Boston Terriers are very low-shedding dogs and some people say they are good for people with allergies.

4. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise (#26) is a white puff-ball of a small dog that is cheerful, lively, playful and affectionate. This dog breed barks very little and makes a charming companion dog that is easy to live with. The Bichon adapts well to families and children but doesn't like the rough handling that small children display towards pets. Bichons are easy to train for obedience and to do tricks although they are like all toy breeds and are resistant to housebreaking. They are social dogs and get along well with strangers and other pets but will make good watch dogs. Bichons shed almost no hair and are good pets for those people who suffer from allergies and some people call them 'hypoallergenic'. The Bichon has few common health problems and should probably live for at least 15 years.

5. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog (#38) is a small, muscular and fairly active member of the bulldog breed. Frenchies are one of the nicest, most amusing and amiable of all dog breeds. The Frenchie is a perfect apartment dog that is clean, easy to groom and sheds very little. This Bulldog is easy to train and doesn't require a lot of exercise. Frenchies like to be the centre of attention but do make good family pets and will tolerate children. These Bulldogs will do best with an older couple without children or other pets to compete for their affection. French Bulldogs can even adapt to being left alone during the day if they receive lots of attention before and after work.

6. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso (#39) is a small dog with a lot of personality that looks like a lap dog but behaves like the Lion Dog of Tibet. Lhasas are one of the toughest and strongest willed of all the small dog breeds. The Lhasa is an intelligent, very self-confident and lively dog that dislikes strangers. The Lhasa can be jealous of other animals. The Lhasa doesn't do well around small children because it doesn't like being handled roughly. The Tibetan Lhasa must have lots of early obedience training and socialization while a puppy and this must be continued through adolescence. You must take control of this dog or the Lhasa will rule your household like the emperor he thinks he is. Not to be too negative, Lhasas are really enjoyable and playful dogs who love their families and will accept obedience training fairly readily.

7. Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei (#45) is serious, calm, dignified, quiet, confident and independent medium-sized exotic looking dog. Shar Peis are very clean and easy to house train but because of their strong-willed manner they are difficult to obedience train. The Shar Pei needs a lot of early socialization and training starting when it's a puppy. Training must be firm and reward-based to control any aggressive tendencies and ensure household rules are followed. The Shar Pei is good with older children and also does fine if raised with younger children from a puppy. However this breed may not get along well with other household cats and dogs. The Shar Pei does best in a fenced yard and being walked on a leash where it can't chase after other animals. Shar Peis tend to mind their own business unless provoked into aggressive behavior.

8. Chow Chow

The Chow Chow (#64) is an aloof and stubborn large-sized dog that is difficult to socialize and train. The Chow, while loyal and devoted to its master, is not very affectionate and doesn't like to play games. Chows are not very good dogs with children and can be very aggressive toward strange animals. This breed needs very early and lots of socialization and obedience training while still a puppy and this should be continued into adulthood. Chows that aren't thoroughly socialized in the first year may turn out to be aggressive and anti-social. Chows are naturally clean and therefore quite easy to housebreak. Once you gain a Chow's respect by constantly enforcing rules and training, you will have a polite and well-mannered dog. Chows have a well defined sense of territory and make good watch dogs and guard dogs.

9. Shiba Innu

The Shiba Innu (#66) is a fearless, bold, high-spirited, smart, vigilant, loyal, charming but somewhat manipulative and stubborn small dog. The Shiba is very clean and fairly quiet indoors but is definitely not a lap dog. The Shiba has retained a high prey drive and should be kept on a leash or in a yard with very high fences as it can jump and climb over most fences. The Shiba doesn't like to be chased and hugged by small children but does fine with older considerate children. Shibas are very smart but are somewhat mischievous and independent and can be difficult to train. The breed must be thoroughly socialized and obedience trained to limit its aggression toward other dogs. However once the Shiba is trained and learns to trust its owner, it can become a loving and obedient companion. Shibas are aloof and cautious around strangers and make great watch dogs.

10. Dalmation

The Dalmatian (#77) is a fun loving and very active medium- to large-sized dog. The breed is intelligent and needs a lot of companionship and exercise. Dalmatians love children but young dogs are probably too exuberant for toddlers. Some lines of this breed have been known to have aggressive or protective tendencies and therefore need a lot of socialization when they are puppies. Dalmatians can be trained to a high level and advanced obedience and/or agility training is recommended. Young Dalmatians can be rowdy and difficult to control and need early socialization and obedience training. Dalmatians left alone too much can become destructive and will dig large holes in the backyard.

Most Popular Small Dog Breeds

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Small dogs are a growing fad in today's society, and with so many different breeds its hard to keep track of all of them. In this article I will discuss some of the most popular small dog breeds.

With the growing population and the increase of metropolitan living, small dogs have became a popular choice for many people looking for a companion in their home or apartment. They are great because they can comfortably live inside small living areas, they don't create alot of waste, and they make loving pet companions with unique personalities. However, all small dog breeds have different temperaments and characteristics, and if you decide you want to own one it is important to know them. Here are some of the most popular small dog breeds:
Chihuahua - The Chihuahua has become almost famous, with popular celebrities such as Paris Hilton carrying their pet Chihuahua everywhere they go. Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world, but their temperament doesn't show it. Chihuahuas like to bark at larger animals, and can even be aggressive to them. Keeping them away from larger dogs is a must for every Chihuahua owner. You don't want your Chihuahua to pick a fight with the neighbors Great Dane. They are also somewhat stubborn when it comes to training. Chihuahuas are smart, but are known for being difficult to train. Yorkie - The Yorkie is actually the second most popular dog breed in America. They are a loyal, energetic, loving, and highly intelligent dog. Yorkies are known for their long, flowing hair which leads to many dog competition awards. They are also notorious for their intelligence level. Yorkies can usually learn commands much faster than the majority of other dog breeds. Some tricks you can teach your Yorkie are laying down, standing up, go fetch (of course), hand-shake, sit and whatever else your mind can imagine. Poodle - Often used in dog shows, the Poodle is probably the breed with the most elegance. While their coat may require regular, professional grooming to keep their high-class look, they do not shed as much as many other dog breeds. The Poodle, much like the Yorkie, is a very intelligent dog often used in circuses around the globe. Pug - Known for their wrinkly face, the Pug is another popular small dog breed. They are very social dogs and adapt well with other people and animals. Pugs are energetic and loving, but often difficult to potty-train.

Best Dog Breeds

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Find below a few tips when choosing the right dog breed.

Choosing the right dog breed for you and your family can be an exhausting task. It can take days to trawl through all of the information necessary to narrow your options down to a few breeds to choose from. That is, assuming you know where to start when choosing the right dog breed for you and your family in the first place. It can be difficult to know where to start, but with these tips, you will have a definitive starting point and a quick and simple task to complete!

1. Assess your home and family - You must start from the very beginning when choosing the right dog breed for you and your family, and your own home is as good a place as any to start. How big is it? How big is the yard? Do you have children? Are you out of the home quite a lot? All of these questions need answering and only then can you begin our search for the perfect dog breed.

2. Ask what you are looking for in a dog - It is essential that you know what you are looking for when choosing the right dog breed for you and your family. Do you want a gentle family pet? Would you be willing to go to a shelter? Do you want a playful breed or a more sedate one? Pair this information up with the answers to your first question and you can then begin to look at breeds.

3. Look on a comprehensive dog website - You do not need to go to many different resources until you have basic information on one or two breeds. Use a comprehensive site to cross-reference your answers to the above two points and list three or four breeds. Then you can look into the breeds in depth but get a good idea of where you are going when choosing the right dog breed for you and your family first!

Are you ready?

There are several things that you need to consider before you even think of getting a dog. Choosing the best dog breed for your family has to have a lot of thought put into it. Please have a look at some very good pointers that will clear that last doubt in your mind if you should get a dog for your family.

Before plunging into pet ownership, ask yourself WHY you wish to get a dog. Is it because...

Your child wants a dog and he/she will be the primary caretaker.

Your dog appears to be lonely and needs canine company.

You simply can't resist the adorable doggie in the window.

If you answered "yes" to any of the above, avoid getting a dog. Here's why:

It is unrealistic to expect your child to take full responsibility for a dog.

While it is wonderful to involve children in caring for a pet, it is unlikely and unfair to expect a child to make such a commitment. Once the novelty wears off, the responsibility will be put on the adults.

Dogs don't "need" another canine companion.

While most dogs enjoy the companionship of other dogs, they don't require it. And, if you don't have enough time for one dog, you won't have time for two! There is also no guarantee that they WILL get along.

Getting a dog on impulse is risky.

If you feel sorry for the dog, didn't plan on stopping at the pet store or simply couldn't resist, you may be off to a bad start. Make your decision carefully, as a dog is a commitment that lasts a lifetime.

Different Breeds of Dogs

Through our long association with the dog, we have initiated almost every change imaginable. Some of these changes have been selected through necessity, such as to help man with certain type of work, others purely in the interest of fashion and style. Some are of benefit to the dog, some are certainly not. The English Kennel Club has divided dogs into several different groups.

The Pastoral Group - This includes the herding dogs, bred to help man control and look after stock. These dogs are generally active, playful, like to chase and are relatively easy to train for the work they are asked to undertake. Some examples - German Shepherd

The Gundog Group - Originally bred to find and retrieve game, this group includes the retrievers, setters and spaniels. They are bred to work closely with man to be sociable and, usually, to have a good retrieving instinct. Some examples - Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Golden Retriever

The Terrier Group - These dogs were originally bred to do a job that normally involved killing. Therefore, they are often more independent, and extremely brave and tough. When a dog is down a hole he has to make his own decisions, not wait to be told. Selective breeding has meant that most terriers are good pets with strong characters. Some examples - Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier

The Toy Dog Group - Most dogs in this group were bred to be companions or lap dogs. They are generally friendly and make affectionate pets. Some examples - Yorkshire Terrier

The Working Group - Many of these dogs were originally bred to guard and search, perhaps developed to protect man or livestock. There are also dogs developed to pull carts, boats or sleighs, as to search and rescue. Some examples - Boxer, Rottweiler, Doberman

The Hound Group - This includes the dogs who hunt by sight and those who use their sense of smell. Many of these dogs have been bred to hunt in packs, and these breeds in particular are very independent and often like to run and do their own thing. Some examples - English Foxhound

The Utility Group - These are breeds that do not fit into any of the other categories. All have been bred for some other purpose, but these vary considerably and therefore the dogs within this group are extremely varied. These groups don't cover all dogs. There are other types that are not officially recognised by the English Kennel Club at this time.

Not all dogs are officially recognised by the Kennel Club.

These dogs include:

Jack Russell Terriers - These dogs have been bred for their working abilities for many generations. Their appearance can vary, and this includes size, coat texture, shape and temperament.

Working Sheepdogs - This term is used to describe the type of dog often seen working on farms and kept by many as pets. They often referred to as 'Border Collies' They are likely to have strong working instincts, and be energetic and active, requiring a great deal of exercise.

Lurchers - Originally, a Greyhound/Border Collie mix. Traditionally bred by gypsies or poachers, with the aim of producing a dog with the speed of a Greyhound and the trainability of a Border Collie to catch and retrieve rabbits. Nowadays, a lurcher is a type of dog, and may have many different breeds in his genetic make-up.

First Cross - This is a dog whose parents were both pedigrees, with know parentage, but of different breeds.

Crossbreed - Technically, this is a dog with known parents, although each parent may contain a variety of breeds.

Mongrel - Technically, a mongrel is a dog of know parentage. Although this is often used as a directory term by many people and breeders, mongrels from a large part of the dog population and there are many wonderful, unique characters among them.

What Dog Breeds Are Hardest to Train?

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Dogs are fun and loving pets to have once they've learned their place within the family. In general they tend to give love unconditionally and are eager to please. Some dog breeds, however, can be a challenge when it comes to training. You can be successful though if you approach each training session with a calm and firm disposition. This plus adhering to a consistent training schedule will bring the best results.

Patience is truly a virtue while training certain breeds. Of course every dog has his own unique personality, but there are some traits which are prominent within the majority of dogs of a particular breed. Rarely is it impossible to teach a dog the proper way to behave.

Among the breeds that are hard to train it would appear that a common factor is above-average intelligence. A highly intelligent dog may be somewhat stubborn and independent. He may even appear at times to be taunting the trainer. Once such a dog has learned his lesson about who is the master though he'll likely turn out to be a very loyal companion.

A few of the breeds that are hardest to train are:

Border Collie - Dogs in this breed require plenty of room to run. Due to their inherent nature for herding they have plenty of energy.

Rottweiler - Known for being excellent watch dogs. They are often unfairly stereotyped as being viscous. Actually these dogs make excellent pets when trained properly. One thing to note though is that they are very loyal dogs and can become a bit overprotective of their master. Once trained they tend be very obedient dogs.

Husky - Huskies need constant attention toward unwanted behaviors. Hunters at heart they too are very energetic.

Akita - These dogs make very loyal, loving pets but do not tend to get along with other dogs because of their tendency toward dominance.

Terrier - There are quite a few breed groups within the Terrier breed. These animals love to play and show off. They are full of energy and can mess up a room in a hurry with their antics.

Hound - The bloodhound is often teasingly portrayed as lazy, stubborn, and aloof. This isn't too far from the truth. They do perk up though when they are on the trail.

If you own a dog of one such breed then you're probably in for a struggle to establish dominance. Whenever the dog is in your presence it is imperative that you present yourself in a confident manner. The way you carry yourself and the tone of your voice will either reinforce your efforts or betray any underlying fears or insecurities you may have. Dogs can easily pick up the scent of adrenalin too. If you are unsure of yourself in any way he is sure to know it and will take advantage of your weakness.

Choosing A Dog Breed - A Guide

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In this article we will give you a brief guide on what you should consider before you take your new dog home. The very nature of choosing a dog should be well considered and any decision should be discussed with family members. Although it is a clich? 'A dog is not just for Xmas' - this is a mantra that is entirely relevant especially when you see the amount of unwanted dogs and puppies being taken in by Rescue Homes.

Consider what you do for a job before you choose a breed - this is because some breeds do not respond well to being left at home alone. Do you have enough money to feed your dog and pay for medical expenses. If you are not able to afford to take your dog to the vet then you should not own a dog. How big is your House? Do you live in an Apartment of Flat? Do you have a garden? All this should be considered - for example if you own a St Bernard a Flat or Apartment is not suitable. Do you have time to walk your dog? Walking a dog is considered a very important aspect of dog obedience training especially with trainers like Cesar Millan the Dog Whisperer. Make sure you do your research and know exactly who you are getting your dog from. Never ever purchase from a puppy farm. We only recommend getting a dog from a respected and reputable breeder who has been recommended. Ask the breeder lots of questions - have they started the training process? Have they been vaccinated? Have they been house trained (or at least had the process started)? It is your chance to ask as many questions as you can as once you take your dog or puppy home you may not be able to ask those questions again.

Sled Dog Breeds And Sled Dog Racing

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Sled dog breeds are characterized by endurance, strength, and intelligence. They are usually medium to larger dogs, with a very muscular build, and have helped mankind transport supplies in times before the automobile.

Nowadays, sled dog breeds are found as pets, as well as trained to participate in sled dog racing.

Sled dogs were developed to withstand very low temperatures. Their coats have a double layer, with the undercoat acting as insulation against the ice and snow. Because they have such thick coats, they need regular brushing and grooming. They also shed a lot, especially at the beginning of summer when they lose a lot of their undercoat. This could be a problem for people with dog allergies.

Traditional sled dog breeds include the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute, the Chinook, the Sakhalin Husky, the Canadian Eskimo dog, the Seppala Siberian sled dog, the Tamaskan husky, the Samoyed, the Eurohound, the Mackenzie River husky, and the Greenland dog.

Whilst these dogs were purpose bred, many other breeds have been used, including mixed breeds. These days, that tradition lives on in sled dog racing, where the most popular breeds include the Alaskan Husky, and various cross breeds, often based on the German Shorthaired Pointer. However, many breeds have been used, including the poodle!

Alaskan huskies are favored in modern sled dog races because they are faster than traditional breeds like the Alaskan malamute or the samoyed. They are not as strong, but in sled dog racing where speed is important, and the distances are shorter, Alaskan huskies were found to perform better.

Alaskan husky dogs are not a recognized breed. They are bred for their performance, and so they cannot be easily characterized as a breed. Alaskan husky dogs represent a variety of types with different lines. They are hybrid dogs - a husky with another breed, that is determined by the needs and ideas of the breeders. A husky may be bred with a wolf, setters, or any other breed that can bring genetic advantages in speed and endurance.

Sled dog racing is a winter and fall sport where the sled dogs are attached to a sled (or a 3 or 4 wheeled cart in autumn), and pull the driver along. The driver stands on runners. The dogs are harnessed individually, with tug lines attached that are linked into a central gang line. The dogs are linked in pairs, and there are up to 22 dogs in a racing team. Teams race either against the clock, and a winner then announced, or against each other in a seemingly chaotic race. There are dog sled races in three categories - short distance, middle distance, and long distance.

Like the sled dog breeds themselves, the sport of sled dog racing has seen some interesting adaptions to modern times and different climates. In Australia, for example, where there is very little snow, even in winter, sled dog races are held. Here, modified scooters are used, and racing is done on dirt tracks. Australian sled dog racers tend to use all sorts of dogs as sled dogs, including kelpies, english pointers, and red heelers.

Which Dog Breed Will You Choose?

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You have decided that it is time to get a dog. But there are many dog breeds to choose from and like us humans have their good and not so good points. You need to look at your lifestyle to determine the best fit for your situation. After all, you want it to be a pleasant experience for you, any family you have and the dog.

You should consider the following:

1. Will the dog be purebred or a mixed breed animal?

You could consider going to the animal shelter to check out some mixed breed dogs. This would save a dog from being euthanised and you lots of money, especially for a pure bred. dog.

2. The size of your home.

You need to think about the space available inside and outside your home for the new dog. The space available will determine the size of dog you should have. If you have a big space you could consider a Labrador, Mastiff or a Saint Bernard.

3. How much energy do you and family have to spend with the dog?

Is the dog going to be a jogging or walking partner? Choose something like a smaller Jack Russell Terrier or a larger labrador which are upbeat, energetic breeds. If you like to go to the river or lake to fish or swim for the day then you could consider dogs like the labradors or spaniel breeds which come in a variety of colours and sizes and would enjoy the water to join in your fun. But you do not want them to become bored, as they could become destructive. Are you social? If you like to go out a lot then you may have to consider a dog which does not mind being left alone at times. You need to remember that dogs need interaction and if you have little time you may need to consider another pet.

4. Family Makeup:

Do you have young children? Choose a sturdy, well mannered, easily trained and less likely to bite kind of dog like the pug, puggle, golden retriever and cocker spaniel. You probably would not like dainty, yappy dogs that tend to bite; or higher maintenance dogs like the poodle, Pomeranian and Shiz Tu as they require a lot of grooming and need to clipping frequently. If you have a new born child then it might not be a good time to consider getting a puppy as you will be busy enough without having to worry about training a puppy. You need to train puppies properly so they don't end up poorly behaved.

5. General Temperament of the Breed and Individual Needs:

There are various features to look out for. This can include the following:

Grooming: Some dogs require minimal grooming while other dogs require a lot eg Afghans, Poodles

Shedders: Some dogs shed more than others but can be minimized with frequent brushing. Some dogs even let you run the upholstery attachment of your vacuum cleaner over them.

Energetic Dogs: Need energetic families.

Laid Back Dogs: Need laid back owners.

Cuddly Dog: Choose a good natured dog like a Scotty

What you need to do is find out all the information you can on any breed you are interested in and see if they fit into your lifestyle. It is a long term commitment after all, so you need to make the right decision. But remember that there can be variations within the same breed. Do not get stuck up on the accepted stereotype of the breed. When you have picked your doggy pet make sure you and all the family members interact with it to make sure that everyone is completely happy. You do not have to purchase if it does not work.

Now that you have an idea of what to consider when deciding upon your lifelong doggy friend, which dog breed will you choose?

If you are serious about owning a puppy or a dog then once you have chosen your four legged friend then you will need to feed it. Take a Look Here for information.

If you are thinking a dog would be a great pet to own but are open to other pet options, then take a Look Here

The Easiest Dog Breed to Train

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What breed of dog is the easiest to train? If you are a dog trainer, this question is commonly asked. You would probably think the easiest breed to train is a German shepherd or a Border collie. The answer to this question is very complicated. The answer to this question is also the answer you are not looking for half the time. The breed of dog you have isn't going to magically train with style and finesse. The more you practice with your dog, the easier it is the train them. Just like everything else in life, practice makes perfect!

It's just the honest truth. You, the owner, have to practice extensively with your dog. The only way to train a dog is to train him. Surprise! It doesn't matter how smart your dog is or what breed (s) your dog is, he will not be trained properly if you don't spend time training him.

All breeds of dogs have their own personality traits. All breeds of dogs have their moment in the sun when they are distracted and stubborn. At the end of training, the dogs that were the best-behaved were practicing the most with their owners.

There are many breeds of dogs that are the easiest to train. Not one breed can win the grand prize. There are a variety of breeds and these dogs below are the easiest to train

Australian Shepherd:
Australian shepherds are really cute and also very smart. They learn commands quickly. They are a very stable breed and they rarely get defensive.

Border Collie:
One of the most intelligent dogs around, the Border Collie is a firecracker of energy. Physically and mentally they can be very destructive. They always have to be physically and mentally stimulated. Border collies have a ton of energy and as long as they have a job to do daily, they will be happy!

Labrador Retrievers:
Labrador Retrievers are courageous and definitely hard working. You can begin training Labrador Retrievers when they are six months of age. Labrador Retrievers are very affectionate and intelligent

Papillon:
A popular breed in Europe, the Papillon originated in Italy from another breed, the Dwarf Spaniel. Papillons are very intelligent, affectionate, and vocal. These miniature dogs are cute and want to be showered with love.

Beauceron:
The Beauceron is known as the "king of sheepdogs". An ancient French breed, Beaucerons have highly developed hunting instincts and herding ability. The Beauceron can control 200-300 sheep. Not recommended as a house pet, the Beauceron doesn't trust strangers very well or other pets.

Pyrenean Shepherd:
The Pyrenean Shepherd has been used as a herding dog for centuries. They were used during World War II as guard, couriers and search and rescue dogs. Pyrenean Shepherds are extremely energetic and they require a lot of exercise and extensive playing time.

Toy Poodle:
The Toy Poodle is very playful, alert, sensitive and always eager to please her owner. The Toy Poodle is devoted to their family. The Toy Poodle doesn't act the same way around complete strangers. The Toy Poodle is highly intelligent and always ready for play time.

Doberman Pinscher:
Doberman Pinschers are brave, intelligent and are probably the best guard dogs you can ask for. Doberman Pinschers are a very aggressive breed of dog but they are easy to train. They can do just about anything.

The Australian Cattle Dog:
The Australian Cattle Dog is a mix between a Dingo and a Smithfield. Australian Cattle Dogs love to work. They have incredible stamina, high intelligence and they are very reliable.

These are the easiest dogs to train. This doesn't mean your breed of dog cannot be trained. Training a dog takes time, persistent and lots of practice. Good luck!

Dog Breeds

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Are you a pet lover? Or are you looking for a pet dog but can't decide which breed to get? Whatever your reasons for considering various dog breeds, you have come to the right place to start. For people researching the term 'dog breeds', it can be explained as a group of dogs with similar features, characteristics and behavioural patterns. Examples are the Afghan hound, American foxhound, Pug, Labrador, Poodle, etc. When choosing a pet, owners generally look through different dog breeds to decide on the one they believe will suit their lifestyle.

Dogs breed types:

To be precise, there are basically two breeds that make all the difference. They are the "pure breed" and the "hybrid breed".
The pure breed dogs are the ones who have long ancestral histories and have not had a mix in its past. They are not allowed to mate with dogs of some other line of ancestry that would give out another line of breed. The hybrid breed, as the name suggests, are the ones who have at one point in time mated with dogs of some other breed and have thereby evolved in to a new breed. There are many other breeds presently being development as well.

Categories of dog breeds:

There are various categories of dog breeds. They are basically categorised by the work they do or the behaviour pattern they display. Some of them are listed below:

- Hunting

- Working

- Bulldogs

- Fighting dogs

- Toys

- Lap dogs

This list is just indicative and not complete. There are many other lesser known categories. Some breeds are also categorised based on similar types like Mastiffs.

What to look out for when you decide to bring a new pet home?

This is an important list that you should consider before you decide on a new pet. Why?

Because getting a new pet is like adding a new family member. The breed you select will

be crucial to your daily routine, be it spending time on its training or taking it

for a walk. Below is a checklist:

What are you looking for - purebred or hybrid?
This is obviously an important question. Decide what type of breed you would prefer to have at home as it will streamline your options. Ask your friends and relatives who have owned dogs so you get a better idea. This is going to help you immensely to gain a clear picture.

Is this your first time?

This is a pretty vital question keeping in mind the various ferocious dog breeds that exist. It is always safer to start with a friendly style of dog to help make training easier. It would also help you to understand the various moods that a dog can have. In short, training a milder breed can be seen as an introductory course in raising a dog.

How comfortable are you in tackling a difficult dog?

Your confidence plays an important role if you are looking for a more robust or aggressive dog. Make sure you are capable enough to tackle a difficult dog. It would be a poor decision to go ahead with this acquisition as you can sometimes lose control. Such cases have also proven to be dangerous and once in a blue moon, life threatening.

Your place of residence

Your place of residence does make a difference to the kind of dog you are taking on as a pet. Why? Because, if you are living in a place where perhaps there are a lot of other families living nearby (like an apartment), having an aggressive dog may not go down well with the neighbours. Trouble will almost always ensue.

There are other important things you should consider; like whether you have small children in your home, how big a yard can you give your dog, or are you looking for security enhancement from your dog. These questions will help narrow down your options to choose the kind of dog breed you actually want as a pet. Don't be worried about taking your time to make the right decision; you'll be pleased you did in the end.

Making the Right Choice When it Comes to Dog Breeds

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Although dogs have been domesticated for a long time now, their personalities still differ from one breed to the other. Chihuahuas are cute, but did you know that they are not suitable for families with small children, because of their territorial and impatient nature?

So how do you go about choosing the right dog breed for you?

You must sit down and carefully consider what your lifestyle is like, and how much time, money and space you can dedicate to your new companion. How you live and who you are as a person, will dictate what type of dog will suit your lifestyle, your own personality, and your accommodation. DON'T make the mistake many new dog owners make and just pick a puppy 'cause it's real cute... you are likely to clash later...

Here's a simple checklist of the most important considerations when choosing the right dog breed for you.

Your Living Arrangements

Do you live in a one-bedroom apartment or a house? If it's the former, go with a small-sized pup like a Pomeranian or Toy Poodle. If your area is large enough for a medium or large dog, you can choose breeds among German Shepherd, Golden Retriever or even a Great Dane.

Your Family Arrangements

Do you have children or do you live alone? Some dogs work well with children like Golden Retrievers or Siberian Huskys. On the other hand, some dogs are aloof especially with children like a Chihuahua or a Yorkshire Terrier. You also have to take into account any pre-existing pets in your household. If you have cats or bunnies you need to make sure the new puppy you bring in is tolerating.

Activity Levels

If you're the type who loves outdoorsy stuff like running or hiking, the best breed for you might be American Foxhound, English Setter or even a Standard Poodle. But if you're the type who loves to stay at home and rest, these breeds might be suitable for your lifestyle: Chihuahua, Basset Hound or Pekingese.

Match the breed to your existing activity levels - be truthful with yourself. If you spend your nights in front of the TV, but you'd love to start walking in the evenings, don't get an overly active dog in the hope that it will motivate you... These type of plans usually fail, and then you're left with a dog that's unhappy and destructive because it is bored and locked up most of the day - be realistic.

Grooming and Food Expenses

It's kind of logical that large dogs consume large amounts of food and small dogs consume less. But you'd be surprised at just how much a Grate Dane needs to eat in a day. So when considering a dog breed, and you're unsure of their food requirements, give your vet a call and ask him to advise you.

Another cost to consider when getting a pooch is how much grooming will he need. With some of the shorter coat dogs, you can do the grooming yourself. But dog breeds like Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, and the Yorkshire Terrier needs daily grooming - and at least monthly taking to the doggy parlor. So take into account the time and money you're willing to spend on caring for your dog.

Trainability

Different dog breeds take different amounts of time to obedience train, so consider if you feel you'd want to train your puppy, or if you don't really mind a whole lot.

Vet Bills

OK, taking a dog into your care is a big responsibility. You have to love it, feed it, groom it, but you also have to make sure its health care is also looked after. In that respect, cats are much easier to take care of.

Vet bills are a big chunk of what you will spend on your pooch over your joint existence, so you need to carefully consider if it is something you can afford month after month, and year after year. There's nothing more heart-wrenching than having to let go of your beloved pet 5 years into your relationship, because you're having to choose between vet bills and feeding your children.

Sounds extreme, but it is a serious point. Make sure you find out how much it will cost for vet visits, vaccinations, treats, and toys. Then consider taking pet insurance just in case something goes wrong and you need cash for treatment.

In conclusion - take your time to choose a suitable canine mate. Consider that your dog is likely to be a part of your life for the next 15 or even 20 years. That is pretty permanent - so don't leave it to chance. Make sure your personality and lifestyle suites the dog breed you choose and you're more likely to have a hassle-free loving and lasting relationship with your dog.

Choosing a Dog Breed: Medium Sized Dogs

2011-03-14T14:58:00.000-07:00

You are looking for the perfect dog. A Chihuahua is too small and a Great Dane is far too big. Something in between a chipmunk and a polar bear would be fine. What are the best medium sized dog breeds? It is a good idea to research the different dog breeds before you make this important investment. After all, if your new pet is going to be part of the family, he or she will have to pass all of your tests.

Springer Spaniel- I am biased toward these breeds; both the English Springer Spaniel and the Welsh Springer Spaniel. Growing up, our family dog was a 'brown' and white Springer Spaniel. This breed is energetic and cheerful, but also well mannered. These dogs are very good with children and make excellent family pets. Very athletic, it would help to have a backyard when buying this breed. They require regular grooming.

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier- The secret is out. This breed is becoming a popular house dog and family pet. With bangs that cover their eyes, this dog resembles a small golden sheepdog. They are energetic, yet well mannered; more like the Springer Spaniel and less like a terrier. They are not always good with very small children and small pets. However, they are good for families with bigger children and they can do well indoors if well trained. They require regular grooming, but they do not shed making them good for people with allergies.

Beagle- When I think of the beagle, I think of the famous Red Baron himself: Snoopy, of course. This smallish scent hound makes a great energetic and playful family pet. They do well with children and other pets. They require regular grooming and exercise. The beagle would prefer having a yard.

Border Collie- These good looking dogs are thought to be the most intelligent breed of dog. They are also one of the most high energy. Border collies were bred to herd livestock. They require a lot of exercise and attention. These dogs are not great around small children and small pets. These athletic dogs do well in agility competitions. They are not apartment dogs and require regular grooming.

English Bulldog- The bulldog is often confused with pit bulls. This flat faced and stout breed, however, is a much more gentle dog. English bulldogs do well with children and can do well with other pets. They like human attention and can make good guard dogs. They require regular grooming.

Cocker Spaniel- These handsome and smart dogs can make excellent house pets. They are not great for small children, but can get along with other pets. They are a somewhat temperamental breed. Their long hair requires regular grooming. These dogs are energetic and playful and require regular exercise. With the right training and care, they are sure to be cheerful and loyal pets.

Chinese Shar-Pei- These distinctive dogs have wrinkled faces and black tongues. They are adorable, but were actually bred as guard dogs. They are loyal family dogs, but are not good around small children and other dogs. Shar-Pei's make excellent watchdogs and good family dogs. Their grooming and exercise requirements are minimal.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier- The 'Staffie' is a stout and athletic dog. Their fighting days are long behind them, and today they make loyal house and family pets. They are good with children, but, generally, not with other pets. They are good watchdogs and can do well in an apartment if they get enough exercise. Regular exercise is a must, but grooming requirements are minimal.

Jack Russell Terrier- These adorable dogs have distinctive white and dark (often tan) coats. Unaware of their small stature, they are bold and fearless. A very active breed, they require a lot of exercise and attention. These dogs are not good around small children and other pets. Not a lot of grooming is required. They make loyal watchdogs.

Dalmatian- The black spots on their white coats make these dogs recognizable. This is a versatile breed with many talents. They make excellent watchdogs and good family pets. They are not recommended around small children, but they can do well with other pets with the right training. They like human companionship and require regular exercise. They are not apartment dogs and require regular grooming.

Chow Chow- It would be fair to name this dog 'fluffy.' The Chow is a dignified and thoughtful breed having an independent streak. They are good family dogs, but are wary of strangers. These dogs are not good around small children and generally, don't get along with other pets. Chow Chow require regular grooming. They require minimal exercise and can be apartment dogs if they are taken on short walks regularly.

Basset Hound- The long, floppy ears of the Basset Hound don't like to be pulled on. Other than that these dogs are excellent around children and good around other pets. They are gentle and lazy dogs who make wonderful family pets. Basset Hounds shed a lot and require some grooming. Regular exercise will keep these dogs from becoming overweight. They are prone to howling now and then and can be watchdogs.

Australian Shepherd- The 'Aussie' actually originated in the Western U.S. as a stock dog. They are versatile and high energy dogs. The Aussie also excels in agility competitions. They are intelligent and loyal dogs that like being given things to do. These dogs are not apartment dogs and need at least a backyard. Grooming requirements are minimal. They are known for their multi-colored eyes.

Sussex Spaniel- These dogs are low built and sturdy spaniels. They are brown, reddish, or grey in color with some curly hair on their floppy ears. Usually they are calm and gentle and can be good family dogs. With training, they can be good around children and other pets. They require regular grooming. They can be apartment dogs, but require regular exercise.

Corgi- The corgi is a very distinctive long and low dog with big, upright ears. They are intelligent, energetic and vocal. They do well in apartments and indoors if they get enough exercise. They are protective dogs and do well with older children and other pets. Grooming requirements are minimal.

Individual Dog Breeds Need Their Own Training Methods

2011-03-14T10:23:00.000-07:00

The assortment of dog breeds is so vast that often it wiser not to think about them all as part of the same species at all. Biologists often do as they can interbreed. Dog owners have different intentions, so it may be easier to underline the similarities over the differences.

A Jack Russell terrier will think, behave and look considerably different to a Great Dane. The latter usually being very calm. A Collie is a greatly different animal to a Golden Retriever. The Golden Retrievers being an excitable, but fun loving dog. A Chihuahua and a German Shepherd don't really have any more in common than the name 'dog'.

In view o f these great differences, any training will need to be structured around the breed that you're aiming to train. Persistence is needed for training any dog, but much more will be necessary for some breeds than others. German Shepherds are able to pick up obedience commands eagerly and with enjoyment. The Jack Russell is just as smart, but tends to be more stubborn and will need a different method.

With Terries any distraction technique can come in very useful. Terries are highly active, high energy dogs. They are able to notice movement in an instant and set off after the animal creating it. Keeping their focus on you can become a great challenge. Take advantage of the various toys or treats and shake them to see that the dog's eyes are on you.

Collies can be just as equally trained, but tend to be mellower. They can be awfully protective and loyal, which is excellent. But this can present its own type of problems. A collie is likely on impulse to bark and chase any unfamiliar people that seem be treating the family. This would be highly desirable for a watch dog protecting the property. But will be rather annoying if carried out whenever someone wonders by the house.

Bark collars could be utilized in these circumstances, but take away the collar when it starts to become dark. This way the dog is likely to only relate the discouragement with the daytime and still maintain its function as a watch dog when it's necessary.

Dalmatians will make ideal companions, but can be extremely energetic and very strong. That's not a great combination for one that will spend a great deal of time on its own and confined to a small back garden. If your looking to own one of these great breeds, be ready to spend some time wearing off some of the excess energy.

Dalmatians will require a large space to allow them to run at top speed. They are more suited to someone that will have the presence to command them. Also they can be tremulously loyal, but will require a forceful owner to control.

Adapt your training routine to the actual nature of your dog, taking into account those aspects taken from the individual characteristics and the specific breed of dog.

Matching Your Personality to the Right Dog Breed

2011-03-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

Every person has a different and unique personality which that there is no single dog breed that will be a perfect fit for everybody. Of course, you would always want one that will be able to jive with your activities and moods and not one that will annoy you and become a burden.

Here are some basics when choosing the right breed to go with your personality and activities:

Breeds for the couch potato: The English Toy Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Shih-Tzu, Chihuahua, Yorkshire Terrier, Spaniel, Afghan Hound, Mastiff, Sussex Spaniel, or Bulldog.

Basically, these are dogs that do not have a lot of energy to expend throughout the day. Exercise is not their kind of thing and they do not mind lounging around in the house or sitting beside you while you enjoy your favorite movie. They are the perfect companions when all you want to do is chill and relax.

Breeds for the sporty personality: Golden, Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Papillon, or Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.

These particular dogs are balls of energy and will playfully engage in intense activities such as jogging, playing catch and other things. If you want a less intimidating playmate though, the poodles can be a great alternative as they will always be ready for some fun under the sun and little game.

Breeds for those with children: Newfoundland, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Bulldog, Collie, Basset Hound, Standard Poodle, Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, Scottish Deerhound, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and Bouviers des Flandres.

These breeds are perfect for families with overly playful but unaware children. They are gentle enough to keep your children away from harm but large enough not to be trampled on or abused. Also, they are relatively playful breeds which make them good playmates especially for families with just one kid.

Breeds for security: Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Bullmastiff, Belgian Tervuren, German Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Boxer, Mastiff, Belgian Malinois, Canaan Dog, and Standard Schnauzer.

Obviously, these are the intimidating and large kinds of dogs and they are perfect for scaring away mischievous people. They are alert and have particularly strong senses which give them the perfect tools for catching those sneaky criminals.

Breeds that can be used as training partners: Golden and Labrador Retrievers, English Setter, Brittany, Weimaraner, Vizsla, Flat-Coated Retriever, Australian Shepherd, Siberian Husky, Basenji, Akita, Dalmatian, Norwegian Elkhound, Kerry Blue Terrier, Australian Cattle Dog, English Springer Spaniel, Welsh Springer Spaniel, and Irish Setter.

Again, these are all high energy breeds that will accompany you on strenuous or light training sessions.

Breeds for the beach: Labrador Retriever, Curly-Coated Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Otterhound, Irish Water Spaniel, Portuguese Water Dog, American Water Spaniel, and Newfoundland.

Dog breed such as the ones mentioned above are natural born swimmers so you will have no problems taking them to water bound areas. They are not afraid to get wet and will even play in the water with you.

Things to Consider Before Handling an Aggressive Dog Breed

2011-03-14T01:49:00.000-07:00

Are you willing to take the risk with an aggressive dog breed? This is something you should ask yourself before you decide to take in a dog from a breed that is traditionally viewed as dangerous. Before you make the decision, there are a couple of concerns you should have in mind.

The Breed is Not the Problem

The common belief is that dog breeds can be categorized. Hence, potential dog owners can avoid aggressive breeds if they wish to. It is partly true that some breeds may have stronger tendencies for aggression than other breeds. It is not true however that some breeds are naturally aggressive. Most of the time, humans and the environment are responsible for aggressive tendencies in dogs. A dog from any breed can become aggressive under certain conditions.

Your Handling Strategies Matter

An aggressive dog breed can be created by the way you handle it. Ignoring your dog for prolonged periods, lashing out on your dog or teaching it to be defensive are sure ways to encourage aggressive tendencies. If you don't want your dog to go overboard with barking or attacking strangers, you need to change your dog handling ways. Make sure you avoid physical punishment and that you provide it with opportunities to socialize with people in the family or with other dogs.

Aggressive Dogs Can be Helped

A so-called aggressive dog breed can be helped. If you have one and it is causing you some trouble, you should consider having it trained. Many qualified trainers would know how to safely and effectively handle a potentially dangerous dog. If your dog is not severely aggressive, you may attempt to train it yourself.

Information About Dog Breeds - Does the Dog Breed Matter?

2011-03-13T22:44:00.000-07:00

This is a controversial issue. There are some who believe quite strongly that certain breeds have innate traits of aggression that make them more likely to inflict harm on human beings than other types of breeds. Opponents of this view state that a dog's propensity for aggressive behavior is dictated primarily by the dog's owner or handler and how that dog was trained and cared for early in its life.

On the one hand, there are certain breeds that appear to have a higher incident rate of inflicting harm on people, including children. According to Merritt Clifton, editor of the newspaper publication Animal People, the breeds of pit bull terriers, Rottweilers, Presa Canarios and their mixes accounted for 74 percent of reported attacks from 1982 through 2005. Sixty-eight percent of those attacks involved children. Following these breeds, the next group representing the highest occurrence of attacks included German shepherds, chows, and Akitas. But the question remains whether these breeds were responsible because of some innate characteristic associated with the animal or because they were more likely to be groomed and trained by their owners to act in an aggressive manner.

Breed-Specific Legislation: aka Breed Ban Laws

A hot topic these days is the issue of breed-specific legislation, or sometimes called "breed ban laws." There are some cities in various states that have enacted specific legislation against certain breeds. They include cities in the states of California, Colorado, and Ohio. In Washington, the city of Yakima has adopted an ordinance that completely bans the ownership of pit bulls and their mixes, wolf-hybrids, and others. I am also aware that the city of Seattle has informally considered the issue, but the city council has so far refused to address the topic formally due to the lack of consensus among experts and/or council members.

In 1987, the city of Yakima adopted an ordinance that banned dogs known to be pit bulls, and specifically included those breeds which included the bull terrier, American pit bull terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, and those dogs having any identifiable pit bull variety as an element of their breeding. The new ordinance was in response to three vicious attacks by pit bull dogs on unsuspecting citizens in Yakima. Our Washington State Supreme Court ultimately upheld this ordinance as constitutional, despite the law's effect of also banning those pit bull dogs deemed safe.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Dog Breed

2011-03-13T18:19:00.000-07:00

You've made the decision that you and your family are ready to bring a dog into your lives. This decision is a big one and should not be taken lightly. This living, breathing being will be in your life for a very long time and will be dependent on you for their comfort and well being. Too many people make the mistake of choosing a dog breed based solely on the "cuteness" factor. But this is one of the least important things you should be concerned about before choosing a dog. Below are some things you should definitely consider when choosing a dog breed.

1. Do you have small children? If so, there are certain breeds and/or characteristics that may not be suitable. For example, if you are considering adopting a dog you may not want to adopt an elderly or senior dog. There are exceptions of course, but many older dogs are not as tolerable around very small children. They want to live out their lives in relative peace and quiet. Do your research and find out which breeds are best for families with small children.

2. What size dog would you prefer? Obviously, all dogs start out small as puppies. But always remember that they will grow very quickly and that small puppy may end up being a 90lb dog! Do your research and find out how big the breeds you are considering will eventually get.

3. Can you deal with a dog that sheds? Some people have bad allergies to dog hair and need a dog that does not shed. Or, you may not want the extra housework that a shedding dog requires. But remember, if you get a dog that does not shed you will most likely need to have the dog professionally groomed on a regular basis. So either way there will be maintenance required. It is up to you which way to go.

4. How much time can you devote to exercising your dog? Certain breeds require more exercise than others. For example, a Border Collie needs more exercise and stimulation than a Pug. Exercise is extremely important for all dogs, so be prepared to do at least some each day. If you do not have much time in your day to devote to exercise, make sure you get a breed that complements this.

5. What is your lifestyle like? Are you an outdoors type of person/family? Or, are you more of a couch potato? There are breeds that match both of these types of lifestyles, and some in-between. Think about your hobbies and what you like to do and choose a breed that will compliment this.

6. Will your dog be an inside or outside dog? Some breeds are just not suited to living outdoors for long periods. For example, a German Shepherd may be fine being outside most of the day while a Maltese will most likely not be a good candidate for outside living.

7. Will the dog be living with other animals? Certain breeds are not well suited to living with other small animals such as cats, birds or other dogs. There are definitely exceptions and training is very important when it comes to animals coexisting with one another. But if you have other small animals in your household, you may want to consider getting a dog breed that is more likely to cohabitate peacefully.

8. Is affordability an issue? If it is, you may want to consider getting a small dog instead of a large dog. Just about everything is more expensive for large dogs including food, vet bills, flea treatment and accessories such as dog collars.

9. What kind of climate do you live in? Dogs that were bred in a certain part of the world may have difficulty living in other climates, especially if that climate is drastically different.

10. Will your dog be left alone for long periods each day? Certain breeds suffer more from separation anxiety than others. There certainly are exceptions, and training can be very helpful to overcoming separation anxiety, but if your life has you away from home most of the time you may want to reconsider your decision to get a dog at all. It's not fair for the dog and will just end up adding more stress to your life. On the other hand, some people overcome this by taking their dog to doggie day-care or by having a dog walker come to their home a few times each day.

Whatever dog breed you decide to get, make sure that it fits into your overall lifestyle. This is a big decision and should not be taken lightly. Take your time and do your research to make sure the breed you choose will be a good fit for you and for the dog.

Dana Lloyd is the owner of LaBellaDoggy.com, an online designer dog boutique that specializes in luxury dog fashion, dog clothes and accessories, unique dog beds, gourmet dog treats, dog toys and more. She is also an animal advocate who dedicates some of her time to dog rescue.

How to Choose the Right Dog Breed for You

2011-03-13T13:41:00.000-07:00

Choosing the right dog breed for you, your family and lifestyle is the most important decision you can make before bringing the dog home. Get this choice wrong and you end up with one of two results. Either you end up saddled with a dog that is wrong for you and your family, a dog that is basically unwanted and unloved. A dog that is a chore to look after. Or you end up taking the dog to a shelter for re-adoption or worse yet abandoning it. Neither option is good for the dog.

You also need to be aware that the cute little puppy you bought home will not stay a puppy for long. Before too long he or she will be a part of the family that you will have to care for over the next ten years or longer.

To make this new addition a valued and loved part of the family requires a lot of hard work over the first few months, especially in house training. So you have to be certain that you really want a dog before taking on the commitment.

With over 200 breeds of dog in the world how do you decide which is the right breed for you?

There are a few basic questions you have to ask yourself to narrow the choice down.

How much space do you have in your home? Obviously a large dog in a small apartment is a mismatch, a recipe for disaster. Toy dogs, such as terriers are a better choice for this situation.

Do you have children and how old are they? A large dog puppy such as a Great Dane or Saint Bernard could easily bowl a small child over. On the other hand, toy dogs can be very fragile and easily injured by a small child playing with it. To be on the safe side you have to give priority to what's right for your children.

Exercise is another important point. The exercise needs of dogs are proportional to their size. Large dogs need lots of room to exercise and work off their excess energy. They either need a large yard to run about in or to be taken on long walks, often twice a day.

Small dogs on the other hand need far less exercise. This makes them a better choice for an apartment or for someone who wants a dog they can cuddle and give lots of affection.

Grooming is another question to look at. Long haired dogs obviously shed more hair than short haired dogs and so need a lot more grooming, anything up to an hour or so a day. Make sure you have the time to do this before choosing a long haired dog.

Asking yourself these questions will help to boil down the choice of the right dog breed for you to a short list. After that it's really down to your particular preference. Try to visualise what you see as your perfect dog and find the best fit in your short list.

Once you've sorted out the breed then it's time to decide whether you want a puppy or an older dog. Try to find a reputable breeder for puppies. For older dogs consider finding a Dog Rescue center for the breed.

There are pros and cons for either option. With a puppy you never totally know just what its temperament is going to be until it grows up. A puppy is a blank slate and it's up to you to mould it into the dog you want.

An older dog from a shelter or Dog Rescue has already formed its character so you get a better idea of how well it will fit in with your family. It has probably also had the rudiments of being house trained and basic command training. But these dogs may have also suffered from abuse or neglect from their previous owners so may come with a mental or physical baggage of neurosis or ailments. These will need to be treated over time.

So now you have chosen the right dog the hard work begins - making that dog a part of your family!

What Type of Dog Would Suit You Best: A Look at Dog Breeds

2011-03-13T09:09:00.000-07:00

As you begin your search for a dog, you are probably asking yourself, "What type of dog would be best for me?" Dogs come in many different sizes, colors, coats, and personalities. Start your dog ownership off on the right foot by doing your research before you settle on a breed.

While there are around 400 recognized breeds, the best place to start is by looking at the approx. 155 breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, broken down into seven broad categories. Within each breed category are subgroups.

Sporting Group

Sporting dogs were originally bred to help man hunt birds by retrieving the birds from water or bushes. Nature has conditioned them to retrieve; they also love fetching balls and newspapers, and they make great companions. Members of the Sporting Group include retrievers, pointers, setters, and spaniels. A naturally active breed, regular brisk exercise is a must with these dogs to avoid excessive chewing, jumping and barking.

Hound Group

Hounds were originally bred for hunting. There are three main subgroups: scent hounds, sighthounds, and large game hounds. Sighthounds make gentle pets, but they love to run after fast-moving targets. They include the Greyhound, Irish Wolfhound, and Whippet. Scent hounds follow their nose and it can be difficult to get their attention when they are on the trail of something. They are sweet, loving, and make good companions. Among them are the Beagle and Bloodhound. Large game hounds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback were bred to hunt lions, elk and other game. They are powerful, fearless and make good watch dogs.

Working Group

The breeds in this group were bred to help man. Their jobs range from rescue to sledding and guarding. They are intelligent, learn quickly, and make good companions. However, most of them are very large, strong dogs and they may not be suitable for families with young children. Proper training is very important with these breeds. Among the breeds are sled dogs like the Siberian Husky and Samoyed; draft dogs that were bred to pull heavy loads like the Bernese Mountain Dog; guard dogs including the Bullmastiff, Rottweiler and Akita; and rescue/water dogs such as the Newfoundland and Saint Bernard.

Herding Group

Dogs in the herding group were, you've guessed it, bred to herd. They are lively, agile, alert, respond well to training, and make great pets. They love lots of exercise and if they can't find a sheep to herd they will happily (and gently) herd their owners or children. Herding dog include the Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, German Shepherd, Old English Sheepdog, Cardigan Welsh Corgi and Pembroke Welsh Corgi.

Non-Sporting Group

Originally many of these dogs were working dogs, but these days they are mainly companions. These breeds vary widely in size, coat, temperament, and personality. Among the diverse breeds are the Bichon Frise, Chow Chow, French Bulldog, Keeshond, Poodle, and Schipperke.

Terrier Group

Terriers are a determined bunch, and original bred as either vermin hunters or fighting breeds. Vermin hunters are lively, independent and do best on a leash when outdoors. Terriers can become barkers or chewers if not properly trained, and sometimes can get aggressive over food or toys. The fighter group includes the Bull Terrier and American Staffordshire Terrier. They can make good pets if properly trained and socialized, but without training they can be a possible danger to people and other dogs.

Toy Group

The Toy breeds are very small, playful, devoted to their owners, and love and demand attention. Their main purpose is to be adorable and they are terrific lapdog. They need less exercise than other breeds and do well in apartments or other small quarters, and are a good choice for older people. Some, however, may bark or snap if they are not trained. Toy Breeds include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Maltese, Pekinese, Pug, and Toy Poodle.

By doing your research before you choose a breed, you'll be a big step ahead in finding the dog that fits your personality and lifestyle, and you'll have a great companion for years to come.

Favorite Large Dog Breeds

2011-03-13T06:08:00.000-07:00

There are many people who love large dogs. That is obvious by the number of large dog breeds listed in the AKC top ten favorite dog breeds. The Top Ten list includes Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Boxers. And since Poodles are eighth in the list, you could say that five large breeds are in the top ten since Standard Poodles average over 50 pounds.

Why are so many large dogs found in the top ten when they can appear so intimidating, cost a lot more to feed than smaller dogs, require more room, and require firmer training than, say, a Pug or Pomeranian?

There is something special about having a large dog. Unless you have owned one of the large dog breeds you might not understand the feeling owners get calling this large dog "friend" and "companion." Many of the large breeds are also among the most gentle breeds.

With the exception of the German Shepherd Dog, Weimaraners, Rottweilers and the Doberman Pinscher, every large dog listed below is extremely affectionate (rating four or five stars out of a possible five). Many of the largest breeds seem to be the most affectionate and gentle, while others among the largest breeds, such as the Rottweiler and German Shepherd Dog, are terrific guard dogs.

The top ten favorite large dogs are not, for the most part, the giants of the dog world. After all, Irish Wolfhounds and St. Bernards, among the biggest and heaviest dogs, are 39th and 77th on the AKC list of favorite dogs. Still, Great Danes, only a few inches smaller than the Irish Wolfhound, occupy the position of 24th favorite, and Mastiffs (a breed that can weight about 190 pounds, just below the St. Bernard) are 32nd favorite.

Here is the list of top ten with 11th and 12th thrown in for good measure:

Labrador Retriever (1st) German Shepherd Dogs (3rd) Golden Retrievers (4th) Boxers (7th) Rottweilers (17th) Pointers, German Shorhaired (19th) Doberman Pinschers (21st) Great Danes (24th) Siberian Huskies (25th) English Springer Spaniel (26th) Weimaraners (30th) Mastiffs (32nd)

Considering that there are 155 dogs listed in the American Kennel Club (in 2006), it is a significant achievement to be listed in the top 30. Eleven of the large dog breeds accomplish this, with Mastiffs coming in close behind at position 32. And note that large breeds occupy three of the top four positions, which is really impressive.

But why are these large dogs so popular even though they require more space, more food, and often more energy to control than little Chihuahuas (number 11) or Pugs (number 13)? The fact is some people prefer large dogs over small. Who can argue that a Mastiff or Great Dane does not elicit awe and admiration from everyone who sees one? They are very imposing dogs.

Yet despite their size most of these large dogs are very gentle and affectionate. Imagine a Mastiff with the temperament of a typical Chihuahua. Just the thought is frightening. Instead, the Mastiff is among the most lovable and gentle dog breed.

The Labrador Retriever is so far ahead of all the other breeds in popularity that it will be awhile before any other breed overtakes them, if it ever happens at all. No matter how you look at it, large dogs are among the most favorite dog breeds in the United States.

Best Dog Breeds for Seniors

2011-03-13T00:35:00.000-08:00

If you're a senior citizen and are thinking about buying or adopting a dog, you should select a breed based on your activity level and your living space. If you live in an apartment, you'll want to select a smaller breed, as large breed dogs are usually not very happy when living in apartments. If you're active and have a large back yard, then a large breed dog may be for you. Either way, owning a dog can give you numerous health benefits and having a canine companion can be a source of joy in your life.

For a senior, owning a dog can bring numerous health benefits as well as emotional benefits. A dog can give you a constant companion, and can greatly reduce stress in your life. Pet owners often have better health, get sick less often and report having less stress than those who don't own pets. As you get older, it's important to consider your health more and more. Dogs are a great choice for seniors who feel isolated or who have recently lost a love one; the addition of a dog to your life can greatly ease the pain and suffering you may have gone through and do wonders to fill the void.

For seniors, it's important to take your needs into consideration when choosing a dog breed. Smaller dogs are a common choice; they're more ideally suited for apartments or condominiums and have lower activity requirements. Small dogs don't need to be regularly exercised like a larger dog breed would, which makes them ideal for seniors who may not feel energetic enough to walk or play with a dog every day. Common small breeds are Pugs, Pomeranians, Bichon Frises, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Poodles. One thing to watch out for is that some small dog breeds are noted for excessive barking, which will annoy your neighbors if you live in an apartment or condominium.

If you're an active senior with a large living space, a larger dog breed will be okay for you. In addition, large dog breeds can make good guard dogs, as they are more menacing than smaller breeds and more likely to scare away intruders or dissuade them from trying to break in. You should select a large dog breed with an easy-going temperament, such as a Golden Retriever or a Labrador. Breeds noted for occasionally being aggressive or having behavioral problems should be avoided, as they might accidentally injure you or your friends.

You may want to consider adopting an older dog rather than buying a puppy. Puppies are often quite rambunctious, and will need to be potty trained. Potty training a puppy can be a great deal of work, and you may not want to deal with that as a senior. Older dogs are usually already house trained and have a lower level of activity compared to puppies. They're also more likely to have a personality suited to seniors, and will be more laid-back. As another plus, adopting an older dog and giving it a loving home gives a dog another chance at life; most dogs in shelters unfortunately end up being euthanized.

Toy Dog Breeds Advantages and Papillons

2011-03-12T20:59:00.000-08:00

Breeds of toy dogs that tend to get along well with older children that are less likely to make loud noises, suddenly run or jump around or do something completely unexpected are more numerous. These dogs typically respond well to children, especially if they have been raised in a household with calm, respectful and responsible kids.

Each of the types of toy dog breeds require different types and amounts of care, training, food, and exercise. They have different "personalities" and drive, so if you want to own one, do take care to research their good points and the less liked points of behavior and health which apply to each toy dog breed.

Take care to gain your information from kennel club web sites, because depending on reading only the descriptions on the breeders sites may not alert you to some of the aspects the toy dog breeder may shall we say fail to see due to their familiarity and tendency to wear what we might call "rose tinted glasses" when thinking of their own sweet toy dogs dogs.

Nursing homes and adult care facilities have found toy dog breeds to be soothing for their patients. Contrary to common perception, there is no law preventing animals from living in nursing homes. Very many of these facilities have found the toy dog breeds to be very soothing for their patients, and with careful breed selection to match the care home residents physical exercise capabilities are not demanding on their ability or staff time to exercise them.

We are great fans of the toy Papillons, which unlike many other toy dogs, are not just a lap dog. Owners claim that this toy dog breed is truly well rounded in its personality and is a big dog in a small package.

Papillons, although dainty and small they are quite capable of taking long walks with their humans and often excel at the energetic sport of dog agility. The Maltese are another example of very robust daintiness, and would also feature in my list of toy dogs to consider.

We think that Papillons are wonderful spirited toy dogs, and find that their devotion as a companion are second to none. Papillons from the best toy dog breeders have been carefully selected for their own special traits, personalities and conformation.

Just like any dog, early socialization and training of the puppy to curb excessive barking and leg lifting is required. We would like to stress that even though these dogs are very small, they still enjoy lots of playtime and long walks. We also recommend consistent obedience training for these dogs just like dogs of any size the owner should be able to control them when in any public location.

Finally, if you are considering a toy dog breed have you thought of buying an adult dog? Adopting a homeless dog is not just the epitome of kindness. In fact the investment is one in loyalty, devotion and companionship for a lifetime. Adopting a really sweet toy dog is like giving a lease on life on the animal and having lost one owner they seem to heap even more devotion on a second owner.

A Guide To The Boxer Dog Breed

2011-03-12T17:24:00.000-08:00

The Boxer dog breed is attentive to its owner and training commands, playful, and has a very outgoing personality. This breed can make an ideal addition to a family that delights in an active life-style. They're typically well-behaved with other family pets and are sociable towards children.

This dog breed is counted as one of the all-time favourite breeds among dog enthusiasts, and was acknowledged by the American Kennel Club during the early 1900's.

Boxer Dog Care and Upkeep:

This dog type isn't one that's intended to be left inside without much activity, as she will need regular stimulation, both physical and mental, and delights in running. This dog can make a fine jogging companion and needs be active through a daily walk on the leash.

Boxers are ideally suited for living inside with the family. Hot weather isn't this dog's finest preference in terms of climate. She will prefer a cooler ambiance so if you intend on keeping your dog outside for any great length of time, make certain that there's sufficient shade for her to rest when overheating.

Taking care of grooming is often particularly simple with this dog, in view of her short coat; you will only require an occasional brush once a week in order to get rid of dead hairs.

Boxer Dog Health Problem Concerns:

The Boxer dog life expectancy is on average between 8 to 10 years. There are a few major health fears that tend to be common with this breed of dog, and they are CHD, SAS, and cardiomyopathy. Less serious concerns include colitis, hypothyroidism, gastric torsion, and corneal erosion.

On occasion, this breed might develop degenerative myelopathy or brain tumours. Vets suggest that a Boxer dog check up ought to include specific tests for health care issues such as cardiac issues, hip dysphasia, and possible thyroid problems.

The Right Dog Breed For Home

2011-03-12T13:14:00.000-08:00

If you have been thinking about getting a dog, one of the first things you might want to think about is what type of canine you would like to own. Knowing a little bit about dog breeds is important when choosing a pup to understand their temperament, habits, coat shedding, among other things that may be valuable to you when making your decision. Some dogs are pure breed and there are also mixed dog breeds. Purebred dogs tend to have more distinctive temperaments and behavioral patterns.

Sometimes physical traits are the reason some owners tend to go for purebred dogs. Mixed dog breeds tend to have less dominate personalities. Since a purebred puppy is literally bred to have a dominate purpose (herding, working, sledding, guarding...) mixed bred pouches tend to lack this and therefore are able to adjust better to being trained to have a personality you would like them to have. Mixed bred dogs also tend to be less expensive than purebred.

One of the joys of many owners of purebred dogs is to show them in competitions. Your pooch should be in pristine shape and groomed perfectly when it comes to a show. The training of the animal is one of the most important aspects. First thing most people do is take the dog to a handling class. This will help prepare him or her for the ring. Training your dog on how to stand properly which is called stacking is very important. Practice makes perfect. Have your competitor ready at all times to go into a ring that way your they will not slack when it comes time for a show.

All dog breeds have their finer points and negative points. Some can be aggressive, some shed like crazy, some are not very tolerant of children. Its all in the eye of the owner what type of puppy you would like to own and make into your best friend. Some people do not have a lot of knowledge about dogs so they just choose the most popular dog breeds for their pet. The American kennel club or the AKC rates dog breeds and has a list of the top ten dog breeds, and ranks the best bred as well as the smartest ones too.

Retrievers and terriers tend to be on the top of most lists. The terrier dog breed is usually known for their aggressive and stubborn personality. These personality traits are shown when they are pursuing small animals as they tend to have a very strong hunting instinct. Toy dog breeds include very many different types of dogs. This type of breed just refers to small dogs.

Since this is a very wide group their attitudes vary greatly. Most people enjoy this breed as a small companion easy to take a long with you, or in small apartments or houses. Retrievers tend to be a very gentle pet. They are not quick to snap or bite and tend to be very good with young children. They are very athletic and are usually point on when sporting. For this reason they are a popular house hold family pet.

Best Dog Breeds For Guard Dog Training

2011-03-12T09:10:00.000-08:00

So you want to put your dog through guard dog training? What kind of dog do you have? Some breeds are better suited to be a guard dog than others. A chihuahua, for example, wouldn't be the best candidate; it's too small and weak to be truly intimidating. But a Great Dane on the other hand, wouldn't be a great candidate either; despite their great size, they're gentle giants and head-strong. Here are the dog breeds best suited to undergo guard dog training:

Rottweiler

Rottweilers are an intelligent and hardy dog breed. They are very strong working dogs. With black and tan markings, Rottweilers have a powerful appearance and play a number of roles in the working dog society. Originally bred as a herd dog, their intelligence and eagerness to work has seen them through fill other work roles: guide dogs for the blind, guard dogs, police dogs and search and rescue dogs. Rottweilers are highly trainable, but require strict discipline to socialize properly. Irresponsible owners will find their Rottweiler attempting to be the alpha dog and show overtly aggressive behaviors. Male rottweilers tend to be more aggressive and quicker to challenge authority. Unless neutered, males rottweilers do not get along with each other.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are a large breed of dog originally bred for herding sheep. Their strength and intelligence are very note-worthy and useful in obedience and guard dog training. Their protective nature also make them good guard dog candidates. If not socialized properly, German Shepherds can become overly aggressive and prone to biting. Their strong will requires a firm hand to train. They bond well with people they are familiar with, but they are not quick to befriend strangers. They vary in color from tan to black with various markings in between.

Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinschers tend to be the first breed people think of when guard dogs come to mind. This is due to popular media portrayals. And truth be told, Doberman Pinschers have all the desirable characteristics of guard dogs: loyalty, athleticism, intelligence, strength and fearlessness. Typically black with tan markings, although some Dobermans can be brown, this dog breed is a medium size dog that is highly trainable. Dobermans' ears are usually cropped at 7 to 9 weeks of age. This is what makes their ears point up, although in their natural state, Doberman ears flop down like other dog breeds. This is done to prevent ear infections and diseases.

These 3 breeds of dogs are all well-suited to go through guard dog training and be successful. They possess the characteristics of guard dogs: loyalty, strength, loyalty and obedience. They're all highly trainable and, with the proper training technique, all would do well in a course for guard dog training.

Beware of the Dog - The Top 10 Most Dangerous Large Dog Breeds

2011-03-12T04:45:00.001-08:00

Many studies have been done to determine casualty rates when it comes to dog bites and one study carried out recently confirmed that annually, there were at least 4.7 million cases of dog bites in the USA.

In another recent study, it was also confirmed that on daily basis, at least 1,000 Americans are given emergency treatment for injuries sustained from dog bites. The higher percentage of these victims are children and at least half of them were bitten on their faces. In 2006, 30 deaths were recorded as a result of injuries related to dog bites, 14 were children. In 2007, a total of 35 such deaths were recorded with the number of children being 18. In 2008, it was 23 deaths recorded and children involved were 16. In the year 2009, 32 deaths occurred and 20 children were involved. In 2010, out of 33 deaths recorded, 20 were children.

Prior to all these cases, it has become established that there is no dog breed that is not dangerous, though there are certain breeds which have been classified as most dangerous breeds. This fact was confirmed by the studies carried out in 2000 by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in which 25 dog breeds were said to have been involved in 238 fatal dog bites between 1979 and 1998.

Some of the most dangerous large dog breeds are listed below:

? Husky: This is an ancient Siberian breed and weighs between 35 and 55 lbs with 20-24 inches as its height. This breed of dog is known to have difficulties associated with its training which makes it pertinent that people who do not have a broad knowledge of dog handling avoid getting one as a pet. They cherish the company of fellow dogs but mainly of their own breed and have fun by howling up at the moon.

? German Shepherd: This is a German dog which weighs 70-85 lbs and its height is measured at 22-26 inches. They are originally bred to guard sheep while they graze and also used by some locals and Police in patrols, this is largely due to the fact that they are known to be strong and confident.

? Presa Canario: Its origin is confirmed to be from Africa, precisely Canary Islands. It measures 100-125 lbs in weight while in height it measures 25-26 inches. It is a result of mixed breed of Bull Dog and Mastiff which combines to give it its immense power and bravery. This dog was bred purposely for combat and hunting expeditions which are the reasons why they serve mainly as guard dogs and also used in herding.

? Alaskan Malamute: This dog has its origin from North America and weighs 80-110 lbs and 23-28 inches in height. Their strength is such that they always engage in pure physical activities otherwise they will resort to destroying things around them. To avoid this, owners are advised to improvise a convenient playground for this breed of dog. Their being bred for work made it possible for them to get used to unfavorable conditions like cold weather

? Doberman Pinscher: This is a German dog breed which weighs 65-90 lbs and measures 26-28 inches in height. They were originally bred for guarding and defending their owners. When it comes to engaging them in any form of violent play, they react aggressively. It does not spare seconds in retaliating in the face of a supposed attack.

? Pit Bull: This is a US bred dog that weighs 55-65 lbs and measures 18-22 inches in height. The dog was originally bred to engage in combat and up till date, they are sadly being used for that same purpose. It is a strong dog which is not scared by its opponent, it defeats its prey by locking its powerful jaws on it and holding onto it till the prey is confirmed dead by the dog. It is no longer news that many people have actually being killed by this breed.

? Rottweiler: This dog has its origins from Germany and weighs 85-110 lbs and its height at 23-27 inches. It makes good use of its strong jaws and massive strength to protect whoever owns it. They take to not tolerating strangers and dogs of different breed.

? Chow Chow: This dog breed originates from China and its weight is 40-65 lbs and 18-22 inches in height. The main purpose of breeding this dog was for hunting and sheep or cattle herding. It is known to give full concentration to caring for itself and does not approve being disturbed. It has massive strength and likes engaging in exercise.

? Boxer: It was originally from Germany and its weight is placed at 50-70 lbs and height at 20-25 inches. Research has shown that if someone desires to properly train this stubborn dog, they should have patience and a few different training methods to find one that works.

? Dalmatian: This dog is originally from Balkans, India and weighs 40-70 lbs and measures 20-24 inches in height. They like outdoor activities including playing and running. They are fighting dogs, hunting dogs, herding dogs and even royal dogs.

Akita Inu

2009-10-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

The Akita Inu (秋田犬?) is a breed of large dog originating in Japan, named for Akita Prefecture, where it is thought to have originated. It is sometimes called the Akita-ken based on the Sino-Japanese reading of the same kanji. It is considered a separate breed from the American Akita (except in America and Canada), and is quite uncommon in many countries.

Description
Appearance
The breed stands anywhere from 60–66 cm (24–26 in) at the withers. Females weigh anywhere from 30–45 kg (70–100 lb) and males are 35–54 kg (75–119). The Akita Inu comes in only five colors: Red, Fawn, Sesame, Brindle, and Pure White. All except white must have whitish hair on the sides of the muzzle, on the cheeks, the neck, chest, body and tail. Black masks, as seen in the American Akita, are not permitted in the Japanese Akita Inu.

All colors are accepted in the American Akita. The Pinto color is not accepted as a Japanese Akita color, but is as an American Akita color. In the U.S., some breeders interbreed the original Japanese type with the heavier American type, which is larger, and allows more colors. It is felt by some that combining the two types leads to improved appearance and genetic health by increasing genetic diversity. There is only a single Akita breed registered by the American Kennel Club; in all other countries besides Canada the breed has been separated into two breeds: the Akita Inu and the American Akita.

Temperament
Akitas are renowned as loyal dogs and also intelligent and because of their intelligence are easily bored. As a result, they often become destructive if not given anything to do. Akitas can live happily in apartments as long as they are given plenty of exercise. They need to be socialized as puppies so they are friendly dogs. Although they love human companionship, they are quite happy to be outside dogs as well, but should still be taken out for walks to prevent destruction of the yard. Akitas often become excitable when seeing their owners, often wiggling around and making happy grunts.

Akitas are very good with children, and are often quite playful, although they should be watched around small children as they could knock them over during play and can get a bit snappy when excited.

The Akita Inu have a reputation for sometimes being aggressive towards strangers, smaller animals or other dogs, particularly those of the same sex, they are certainly a highly dominant breed, and should not be kept as a pet if you are not able to control a dominant dog. Akitas would rather live in a home with no other pets present, unless they have been raised with them during puppyhood. Before deciding if an Akita is the right dog for your house, first make sure of the breed at which you are looking; the American Akita or the Japanese Akita Inu. Further research is always advisable before deciding on a breed.

Health
Mortality

Akitas in UK and USA/Canada surveys had a median lifespan of about 10 years, which is similar to other breeds of their size.

In a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (32%), cardiac (14%), and gastrointestinal, including bloat/torsion (14%).[4] In a 2000-2001 USA/Canada Health Survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (21%), GDV (=bloat/torsion, 21%), musculoskeletal (15.5%), and autoimmune (7%).

Grooming
Akitas possess a double coat, with a dense straight undercoat, and a thick outer coat. This coat makes the dog waterproof, as well as being well-equipped for the fierce winters in northern Japan. Due to the thickness of their coat, the breed requires daily grooming, and also an awareness of the dog's heavy shedding, especially during warm weather.

Morbidity
Some of the health conditions known to affect this breed include:

Canine herpesvirus, a strain of the Herpes virus that affects canines
Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV), a condition associated with bloat
Pemphigus, which causes the immune system to attack the dog's skin (leading to pustules)
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), an adult-onset condition which causes gradual degeneration in the eye cells (i.e. rods & cones)
UveoDermatological Syndrome (UDS)
Sebaceous adenitis, an autoimmune condition which attacks and destroys the dog's sebaceous glands
Canine hip dysplasia
Hypothyroidism
Hyperkalaemia, as a breed, Akitas have abnormally high blood potassium concentrations compared to other breeds.
Heart size, as a breed, Akitas have an unusually small heart for their size. A number of Akitas have died while being operated on under the normal dose of general anaesthetic for a canine of that size, a dose which ultimately proved excessive and fatal to the Akita. For that reason, to avoid anaesthetic-induced death, only the bare minimum dose of general anaesthetic sufficient to produce anaesthesia should be used when an Akita requires general anaesthesia.

Gastric dilatation volvulus
Akita owners should take special note of the high incidence of GDV (gastric dilatation volvulus) in this breed. Excess gas trapped in the dog's stomach causes "bloat." Twisting of the stomach (volvulus or "torsion") causes or is caused by that excess gas. GDV is an emergency condition requiring immediate veterinary treatment. Akita owners should be alert to the symptoms of GDV and know the location of the nearest emergency veterinary facility. Dogs with any symptoms of GDV (esp. unsuccessful attempts at vomiting) should be regarded as having GDV until proven otherwise by a veterinarian.

Symptoms of GDV include:

Gagging or retching with unsuccessful attempts at vomiting (frothy foam may come up instead)
Distended abdomen (may or may not be noticeable)
Discomfort and pain esp. around the abdomen for no apparent reason—this may be observed as frequent pacing, an inability to find a comfortable position, whimpering, or wincing when pressure is applied to the abdomen
Weakness
Depression
Breathing difficulty
Hypersalivation and panting
Possible cardiac problems such as arrhythmias
Cyanosis (blue gums or skin) in severe cases from a lack of oxygen

History

Japanese history, both verbal and written, describes the ancestors of the Akita Inu, the Matagi dog, as one of the oldest of the native dogs. The Akita Inu of today developed primarily from these dogs in the northernmost region of the island of Honshū in the Akita prefecture, thus providing the breed's name. The Matagi's quarry included elk, antelope, boar, and the 120-stone Yezo bear. This swift, agile, unswervingly tenacious precursor dog tracked large game and held it at bay until the hunters arrived to make the kill.

Recent DNA analysis found that the Akita was among the most ancient dog breeds.

During World War II, the number of Akita dogs greatly diminished because of the lack of food. There were also orders to capture all dogs except German Shepherds in order to use their fur for warm army uniforms.

During the occupation years following the war, the breed began to thrive again through the efforts of Morie Sawataishi and others. For the first time, Akitas were bred for a standardized appearance. Akita fanciers in Japan began gathering and exhibiting the remaining Akitas and producing litters in order to restore the breed to sustainable numbers and to accentuate the original characteristics of the breed muddied by crosses to other breeds. US servicemen fell in love with the Akita and imported many of them into the US upon and after their return.

The Japanese Akita and American Akita began to diverge in type through the middle and later part of the 20th century with the Japanese Akita fanciers focusing on restoring the breed as a work of Japanese art and American Akita fanciers selecting for the larger, heavier-boned dogs that emerged from the post-war times. Both types derive from a common ancestry, but marked differences can be observed between the two. First, while American Akitas are acceptable in all colors, Japanese Akitas are only permitted to be red, fawn, sesame, white, or brindle. Additionally, American Akitas may be pinto and/or have black masks, unlike Japanese Akitas.

Much debate occurs among Akita fanciers of both types whether there are or should be two breeds of Akita. To date, the American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club, guided by their national breed clubs, consider American and Japanese Akitas to be two types of the same breed, allowing free breeding between the two. The FCI and Kennel Clubs in most other nations consider Japanese and American Akitas as separate breeds.

In popular culture
Television shows
Many manga titles by Takahashi Yoshihiro feature Akita dogs as the main character. These include Gin of Ginga: Nagareboshi Gin. His son Weed, who stars in Ginga Densetsu Weed, is an Akita/Kishu Ken mix. This is said to be because Takahashi Yoshihiro was born in Akita Prefecture.
The title character in the anime and manga animated series InuYasha, along with his brother, Sesshomaru and father, Inu no Taisho are said to be Akita yōkai (half yōkai half human in InuYasha's case). A yōkai is a legendary Japanese demon.
Literature
In the manga Nana, one of the title characters is given the nickname Hachiko in reference to her dog-like loyalty being similar to that of the famous dog Hachikō.
Martha Sherrill's biography Dog Man: An Uncommon Life on a Faraway Mountain reviews the history of the Akita and the efforts of Morie Sawataishi to restore the breed.
The Akita "Hachiko" from the book "Hachiko Waits" by Leslea Newman, illustrated by Machiyo Kodaira.
Famous people
Nicole Brown Simpson's dog in the O.J. Simpson case was an Akita, named Kaelin.
MC Hammer has two Akitas named Bart and Alvin.
Major league baseball Hall of Famer Cal Ripken owned an Akita, Champagne, in the 1980s and 90's.
Helen Keller owned two Akita dogs, the second presented by the Japanese government. It is thought that she introduced the breed into American culture.
Sarah Michelle Gellar owns an Akita named Tyson.
David Draiman owned an Akita named Lisa. She died at 7 years of age.
Plays/musicals
In the Broadway musical Rent, the character of Benny and his wife Alison own an Akita named Evita that Angel is paid to help kill.

Akbash Dog

2009-10-28T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Akbash Dog (from Turkish: Akbaş, literally "white head") is native to western Turkey in the region known as the Akbaş, and it is primarily used as a livestock guardian dog.

Appearance
It is a large dog, weighing from 150 ~ 200 pounds (70 ~ 90 kg), averaging 90 pounds for the female and 120 lb (55 kg) for the male, but it is leaner than other Turkish guard dog breeds, and has a distinct white coat, long legs, a feathered curved tail, and pink skin blotched with black. It possesses characteristics of both mastiffs and sight hounds. The breed is often referred to as a sheep dog, but it does not herd its charges. Instead, it is designed to live with the flock and act as a guardian.

It is supposed that the Akbash and the Kangal were originally distinct, natural and pure breeds and that they were combined to create the Anatolian Shepherd Dog.

Temperament
The Akbash is not shy. When used as a guard dog, it is not personable with humans, although the breed is not hostile by nature. The Akbash can be used as a companion dog, and if trained appropriately can be personable with any creature. The Akbash has been bred to be independent and dogs of this breed might think that they know better than their owners during training. The Akbash is a relatively low-energy breed. Because it is in their nature to lie with the flocks they guard most of the day, they do not possess tremendous endurance or energy. That does not mean that they can be confined to small spaces. It is still very much a working breed and is happiest when given a task to complete. These dogs are known for their intelligence, bravery, independence and loyalty.

Health

Cases of hip dysplasia and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) have occurred with this dog; however, the breed as a whole does not seem to be afflicted with these conditions nearly as often as other large breeds. Akbash dogs, like many large breeds, can be expected to live 10 to 11 years on average, with some living much longer. Akbash dogs are capable of bonding very closely with their owners and other animals and can display a range of emotion and sensitivity unlike many other breeds.

History
The Akbash Dog is thought to be the Turkish equivalent of other white guardian breeds found in and around the northern Mediterranean Basin. The Akbash Dog has its unique combination of molosser and sighthound qualities. This breed was developed at least 3,000 years ago; their white color distinguishes them from predators.

Archeological evidence suggests that the earliest civilizations arose in the parts of the world currently occupied by Syria, Iran, and Turkey 10,000 years ago and began to domesticate animals and cultivate (or domesticate) plants. In short order there would have been a need for livestock protection dogs to care for the livestock. The white breeds of livestock protection dogs include the Great Pyrenees of the Pyrenees Mountain area in France and Spain and the Maremma of the Maremma Mountains of Italy. A reasonable — but not in any way proven — hypothesis is that white (Akbash) dogs were developed in Turkey and spread.

Airedale Terrier

2009-10-28T07:16:00.000-07:00

The Airedale Terrier (often shortened to "Airedale") is a breed of the terrier type, originating in Airedale, a geographic area in Yorkshire, England. It traditionally was called the "King of Terriers" because before the creation of the Black Russian Terrier by the NKVD, the Airedale was largest of the terrier breeds. The breed has also been called the Waterside Terrier, because it was bred originally to hunt otters in and around the valleys of the River Aire which runs through Airedale. In England this breed has also been used as a police dog.

Description

Appearance
The Airedale is the largest of the Terriers, originating in Britain. They weigh 25–30 kilograms (55–66 lb) and have a height at the withers of 58–61 centimetres (23–24 in) for dogs, with bitches slightly smaller. The American Kennel Club standard specifies a smaller dog, approximately 17-20 inches at the withers, with bitches slightly smaller. An oversize American kennel of Airedales, up to 45.5 kilograms (100 lb), is called the Oorang after a kennel in Ohio in the early 1900s.[2] The Airedale has a medium length black and tan coat with a harsh topcoat and a soft undercoat. They are an alert and energetic breed, "not aggressive but fearless." It has been claimed that the large "hunting" type or Oorang airedales are more game than the smaller "show" type airedales. The large type, are usually used for big game hunting and as family guardians or as pets, but usually do poorly in AKC conformation shows.

Coat
Like many terriers, the breed has a 'broken' coat. The coat is hard, dense and wiry, not so long as to appear ragged, and lies straight and close, covering body and legs. The outer coat is hard, wiry and stiff, while the undercoat shorter and softer. The hardest coats are crinkling or just slightly waved. Curly or they most dominate breed of the terriers, better than griffie soft coats are highly undesirable.

Airedales being shown are generally groomed by stripping: a small serrated edged knife is used to pull out loose hair from the dog's coat. With regular grooming, the Airedale may shed very little. Although the Airedale often appears on lists of dogs that do not shed (moult), this is misleading. Every hair in the dog coat grows from a hair follicle, and has a cycle of growing, then being shed, then being replaced by another hair in the same follicle. The length of time of the growing and shedding cycle varies by breed, age, and by whether the dog is an inside or outside dog. "There is no such thing as a nonshedding breed."

The "correct" (according to the AKC breed standard) coat color is either a black saddle, with a tan head, ears and legs; or a dark grizzle saddle (black mixed with gray and white).

Tail
The Airedale's tail is usually docked (surgically shortened) within five days of birth, but this is not a requirement of breed standard authorities. To show an Airedale in the United States, the official AKC standard states "The root of the tail should be set well up on the back. It should be carried gaily but not curled over the back. It should be of good strength and substance and of fair length"., while in the UK it is illegal to dock dogs' tails unless it's for the dog's benefit (e.g., if the tail is broken). Traditionally the fluffy tail is left long.

Eyes
The Airedale's eyes "should be dark in colour, small, not prominent, full of terrier expression, keenness and intelligence" Light or bold eyes are considered highly undesirable.

Some Airedales do suffer from eye diseases, such as congenital retina conditions.

Mouth
Airedales have a normal 'scissor bite', where the top teeth close over the bottom. Airedales' teeth are the largest among terriers, and can inflict a strong bite[citation needed]. The Airedale is not normally aggressive, but like any dog of similar size, a bite can cause severe injury.

Size
According to the American Kennel Club, Airedale terrier males should measure approximately 23 inches in height at the shoulder; bitches, slightly less. There is no mention of a specific weight, although the standard states that both sexes should be sturdy, well muscled and boned. At 23 to 24 inches, a dog should weigh approximately 50 - 70 pounds, being active and agile enough to perform well, while not too small to function as a physical deterrent, retriever or hunter. Some breeders have produced larger Airedale Terriers, such as the 'Oorang Airedale', developed in the 1920s.

Ex-Army captain and Airdale breeder Walter Lingo's monthly magazine "Oorang Comments" (#25, page 81), stated unequivocally that "When full grown your Airedale dog will weigh from forty to fifty-five pounds and if a female will weigh slightly less. This is the standard weight, but when required, we can furnish over-sized Airedales whose weight will be from sixty to one hundred pounds."

Because Lingo tried to fill orders for everyone, the Oorang strain size was never standardized. Airedales weighing from 40 to 100 pounds were produced, but for the most part they were approximately 50 pounds and 22 to 23 inches at the shoulder.

Temperament

An Airedale's headThe Airedale can be used as a working dog and also as a hunting dog. Airedales exhibit some herding characteristics as well, and have a propensity to chase animals. They have no problem working with cattle and livestock. However, an Airedale that is not well trained will agitate and annoy the animals. Strong-willed, with the tenacity commonly seen in terriers, the Airedale is a formidable opponent.

The Airedale Terrier, like most Terriers, has been bred to hunt independently. As a result, the dog is very intelligent, independent, strong-minded, stoic, and can sometimes be stubborn. They rank 29th in Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs, being of above average working/obedience intelligence. The Airedale is a dog with a great sense of humor. For those who can laugh along with their Airedale, the dog can provide a unique and entertaining company. For those who don't appreciate being outsmarted by their dog, owning an Airedale can be a trying experience. Patience and consistency in training will be rewarded as the Airedales have been known to reach great heights in competitive obedience, dog agility, and Schutzhund. Airedales need an owner that can be creative in teaching what is expected. Airedales usually get bored easily and need a trainer that has the ability to make working fun and exciting. Changing the routine or taking a play-break is much more productive than trying to force the Airedale. If children and Airedale are trained correctly Airedales can be an excellent choice for a family.

Albert Payson Terhune wrote of the Airedale: "Among the mine-pits of the Aire, the various groups of miners each sought to develop a dog which could outfight and outhunt and outthink the other miner's dogs. Tests of the first-named virtues were made in inter-mine dog fights. Bit by bit, thus, an active, strong, heroic, compactly graceful and clever dog was evolved – the earliest true form of the Airedale.

He is swift, formidable, graceful, big of brain, an ideal chum and guard. ....To his master he is an adoring pal. To marauders he is a destructive lightning bolt."

They are also very loving, always in the middle of the family activities. Airedales are also known for expressing exactly what they are thinking, unlike more aloof breeds. The Airedale is also a reliable and protective family pet. Airedales are exceedingly loyal and strong dogs; there is one story of an Airedale taking down a bear to protect its master[citation needed]. They are very energetic, and need plenty of exercise.

The Airedale is also stoic, able to withstand pain and injury. An Airedale's injuries and illnesses often go unnoticed until they become severe and require veterinary attention.

Health
Mortality
Airedale Terriers in UK, USA, and Canadian surveys had a median lifespan of about 11.5 years,[8] which is similar to other breeds of their size.[9]

In a 2004 UK Kennel Club survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (39.5%), old age (14%), urologic (9%), and cardiac (7%)[10] . In a 2000–2001 USA/Canada Health Survey, the most common causes of death were cancer (38%), urologic (17%), old age (12%), and cardiac (6%)[11]

Morbidity
Airedales can be affected by hip dysplasia.

Like most terriers, they have a propensity towards dermatitis. Skin disorders may go unnoticed in Airedales, because of their hard, dense, wiry coats. Itchy skin may be manifest as acral lick dermatitis (caused by licking one area excessively) or acute moist dermatitis or "hot spots" (an oppressively itchy, inflamed and oozing patch of skin, made worse by intense licking and chewing). Allergies, dietary imbalances, and under/over-productive thyroid glands are the main causes of skin conditions.

An Airedale's coat was originally designed to protect the dog from its predators--the coat was designed to come out in the claws of the predator the dog was designed to hunt, leaving the dog unharmed. Because of this, some forms of skin dermatitis can respond to hand stripping the coat. Clipping the coat cuts the dead hair, leaving dead roots within the hair follicles. It is these dead roots which can cause skin irritations. However, hand stripping removes these dead roots from the skin and stimulates new growth. Hence this process can assist with some forms of skin irritations.

Gastric torsion, or bloat, affects Airedale Terriers. Bloat can turn and block the stomach, causing a buildup of gas. Bloat can be fatal, it can lead to cardiovascular collapse. Signs of bloat are gastric distress (stomach pain), futile attempts at vomiting, and increased salivation. Bloat usually occurs when the dog is exercised too soon after eating. They will eat up to 4-6 cups of food at a time.

History

Airedale, a valley (dale) in the West Riding of Yorkshire, between the Aire and the Wharfe Rivers, was the birthplace of the breed. In the mid-19th Century, working class people created the Airedale Terrier by crossing the old English rough-coated Black and Tan Terrier (now known as the Welsh Terrier) with the Otterhound. In 1886, the Kennel Club of England formally recognized the Airedale Terrier breed.

In 1864 they were exhibited for the first time at a championship dog show sponsored by the Airedale Agricultural Society. They were classified under different names, including Rough Coated, Bingley and Waterside Terrier. In 1879 breed fanciers decided to call the breed the Airedale Terrier, a name accepted by the Kennel Club (England) in 1886.

Well-to-do hunters of the era were typically accompanied by a pack of hounds and several terriers, often running them both together. The hounds would scent and pursue the quarry and the terriers would "go to ground" or enter into the quarry's burrow and make the kill. Terriers were often the sporting dog of choice for the common man. Early sporting terriers needed to be big enough to tackle the quarry, but not so big as to prevent them from maneuvering through the quarry's underground lair. As a result, these terriers had to have a very high degree of courage and pluck to face the foe in a tight, dark underground den without the help of human handlers.

During the middle of the nineteenth century, regular sporting events took place along the Aire River in which terriers pursued the large river rats that inhabited the area. A terrier was judged on its ability to locate a "live" hole in the riverbank and then, after the rat was driven from its hole by a ferret brought along for that purpose, the terrier would pursue the rat through water until it could make a kill. As these events became more popular, demand arose for a terrier that could excel in this activity. One such terrier was developed through judicious crossings of the Black-and-Tan Terrier and Bull and Terrier dogs popular at the time with the Otter Hound. The result was a long-legged fellow that would soon develop into the dog we recognize today as the Airedale Terrier. This character was too big to "go to ground" in the manner of the smaller working terriers; however, it was good at everything else expected of a sporting terrier, and it was particularly adept at water work. This big terrier had other talents in addition to its skill as a ratter. Because of an infusion of hound blood it was blessed with the ability to scent game and the size to be able to tackle larger animals. It became more of a multipurpose terrier that could pursue game by powerful scenting ability, be broken to gun, and taught to retrieve. Its size and temperament made it an able guardian of farm and home. One of the colorful, but less-than legal, uses of the early Airedale Terrier was to assist its master in poaching game on the large estates that were off-limits to commoners. Rabbits, hare, and fowl were plentiful, and the Airedale could be taught to retrieve game killed by its master, or to pursue, kill, and bring it back itself.

The first imports of Airedale Terriers to North America were in the 1880s. The first Airedale to come to American shores was named Bruce. After his 1881 arrival, Bruce won the terrier class in a New York dog show.

The patriarch of the breed is considered to be CH Master Briar (1897–1906). Two of his sons, Crompton Marvel and Monarch, also made important contributions to the breed.

The first Canadian registrations are recorded in the Stud book of 1888–1889.

In 1910, the ATCA (Airedale Terrier Club of America) offered the Airedale Bowl as a perpetual trophy, which continues to this day. It is now mounted on a hardwood pedestal base, holding engraved plates with the names of the hundreds of dogs that have been awarded Best of Breed at the National Specialties.

The Airedale was extensively used in World War I to carry messages to soldiers behind enemy lines and transport mail. They were also used by the Red Cross to find wounded soldiers on the battlefield. There are numerous tales of Airedales delivering their messages despite terrible injury. An Airedale named 'Jack' ran through half a mile of enemy fire, with a message attached within his collar. He arrived at headquarters with his jaw broken and one leg badly splintered, and right after he delivered the message, he dropped dead in front of its recipient.

Lieutenant Colonel Edwin Hautenville Richardson was responsible for the development of messenger and guard dogs in the British Army. He, along with his wife, established a War Dog Training School at Shoeburyness in Essex, England. In 1916, they provided two Airedales (Wolf & Prince)for use as message carriers. After both dogs proved themselves in battle, Airedales were given more duties, such as locating injured soldiers on the battlefield, an idea taken from the Red Cross.

Before the adoption of the German Shepherd as the dog of choice for law enforcement and search and rescue work, the Airedale terrier often filled this role.

In 1906, Richardson tried to interest the British Police in using dogs to accompany officers, for protection on patrol at night. Mr. Geddes, Chief Goods Manager for Hull Docks in Yorkshire, was convinced after he went saw the impressive work of police dogs in Belgium. Geddes convinced Superintendent Dobie of the North Eastern Railway Police, to arrange a plan for policing the docks. Airedale Terriers were selected for duty as police dogs because of their intelligence, good scenting abilities and their hard, wiry coats that were easy to maintain and clean.

At the beginning of the Russo-Japanese war in 1904, the Russian embassy in London contacted Lt. Colonel Richardson for help acquiring dogs for the Russian Army, trained to take the wounded away from the battlefields. He sent terriers, mostly Airedale Terriers, for communication and sanitary services. Although these original imports perished, Airedale Terriers were reintroduced to Russia in the early 1920s for use by the Red Army. Special service dog units were created in 1923, and Airedale Terriers were used as demolition dogs, guard dogs, police tracking dogs and casualty dogs.

Two Airedales were among the dogs lost with the sinking of the Titanic. The Airedale "Kitty" belonged to Colonel John Jacob Astor IV, the real-estate mogul. The second Airedale belonged to William E. Carter of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Mr. Carter was the owner of the Renault automobile in which Jack and Rose trysted in the movie "Titanic". Carter, his wife and two children survived the sinking.

During the 1930s, when airedales were farmed like livestock, American breeders developed the Oorang airedale.

Capt. Walter Lingo, of LaRue, Ohio, developed the Oorang Airedale strain. The name came from a line of bench champions, headed by King Oorang 11, a dog which was said to have been the finest utility dog. King could retrieve waterfowl and upland game, tree raccoons, drive cattle and sheep, and bay mountain lions, bears, and wolves. King even fought one of the best fighting bull terriers, and killed his opponent. He also trained in Red Cross work, and served the American Expeditionary Force at the front in France.

Lingo simply wasn't satisfied with the average strain of Airedale, and after an incredible series of breedings, for which he brought in great Airedales from all over the world, he created the "King Oorang." At the time, Field and Stream magazine called it, "the greatest utility dog in the history of the world." The Oorang Kennel Company continued until Walter Lingo's death in 1969. To help promote the King Oorang, as well as his kennels, Lingo created the Oorang Indians football team headed up by Jim Thorpe. The team played in National Football League from 1922-1923.[16] Jerry Siebert, an Airedale breeder in Buckeye Lake, Ohio, followed in Lingo's footsteps, and bred "Jerang Airedales." There is a kennel in Tennessee that claims to have original Oorang Airedales.

Dogs of close to 100 pounds and upwards may carry the medical and behavioral problems associated with the 1930s airedale.

After the First World War, the Airedales' popularity rapidly increased thanks to stories of their bravery on the battlefield and also because Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Calvin Coolidge, and Warren Harding owned Airedales. President Harding's Airedale was named Laddie Boy.

President Roosevelt claimed that "An Airedale can do anything any other dog can do and then lick the other dog, if he has to."

1949 marked the peak of the Airedales' popularity in the USA, ranked 20th out of 110 breeds by the American Kennel Club. The breed has since slipped to 50th out of 146.

Marion Robert Morrison, otherwise known as John Wayne, grew up in Glendale, California. His neighbors called him "Big Duke," because he never went anywhere without his Airedale Terrier, "Little Duke". He preferred "Duke" to "Marion," and the name stuck for the rest of his life.

The Airedale Terrier was recognized by United Kennel Club in 1914.

The Airedale Terrier, because of its joyful disposition and energy, was one of the first breeds, along with the Giant Schnauzer and the Rottweiler, used to create the Black Russian Terrier.

The Airedale is the current mascot for Alma High School (Alma, Arkansas).

One of the Giles Family, cornerstone characters of Carl Giles' cartoon series from the Daily Express in England, included Butch, an Airedale Terrier.

Aidi

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The Aidi or Chien de l'Atlas is a Moroccan dog breed used as a flock guard, protecting herds of sheep and goats. It also possesses hunting capabilities and good scenting ability. In its native Morocco it is often paired in hunting with the Sloughi, which chases down prey that the Aidi has located by scent.

Appearance
Standing 21 to 25 inches (53 to 63 cm) in height and weighing around 55 pounds (25 kg), the Aidi's lean, muscular body is protected by a coarse, thick, weather-resistant coat with a heavy plumed tail. The head is bear-like and in proportion to the rest of the body. The breed has a tapered muzzle with a black or brown nose that usually matches the coat. Their jaws are strong with tight black or brown lips. The medium-sized ears are tipped forward and drop slightly. The eyes are medium, with a dark colour and dark rims. Coat colours are white, black, black and white, pale red, and tawny.

Temperament
The Aidi is energetic and highly protective and is said to make an outstanding watchdog. It is a powerful dog that is also agile, alert, and ready for action. As a sensitive breed, the dog should receive kind yet firm training.

History
The Aidi is recognized as coming from Morocco, probably originating in the Sahara. The dog has never worked as a sheepdog even though the 1963 standard was published under the name Atlas Sheepdog; this was corrected in 1969. A courageous dog, the Aidi lived and worked in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, Libya, and Algeria protecting his owner and property from wildcats, other predators, and strangers. This breed has also been called the Berber, after the Berber tribes who utilized it, and bears some resemblance to the Pariah dog who is believed to share its ancestry. As a protector of the desert nomad tribes, the most alert and aggressive dogs were staked around the perimeter of the camp at night. The Aidi has not been highly regarded by the tribes historically, called "El Kilb", or filth, as are most dogs other than the Sloughi and other breeds regarded as noble. However, Moroccans have recently formed a club to protect the purity of the breed which has contributed so much in so many roles, as protector, hunter, police dog, and pet. Although the Aidi has been used primarily as a working dog, he has become more common as a house dog in the country. This breed also makes a good urban pet if he is given tasks and exercise enough to keep him satisfied and happy.

Africanis

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The Africanis is a group of South African dogs not recognized as a breed. It is believed to be of ancient origin, directly descended from hounds and pariah dogs of ancient Africa, introduced into the Nile Valley from the Levant. The Swahili name for the breed is umbwa wa ki-shenzi meaning common or mongrel or "traditional dog". Africanis is also an umbrella name for all the aboriginal dogs in southern Africa.

Appearance

The Africanis is a short-coated, medium-sized dog, well-muscled and slightly longer than tall. It can be of any colour and occasionally come with a ridgeback. The Africanis has over the years been shaped by Africa for Africa. Its beauty is embodied in the simplicity and functionality of its body. It is slenderly built, agile, supple, and capable of great speed.

Temperament
The Africanis is well disposed without being obtrusive: a friendly dog showing watchful territorial behaviour. The breed is independent and territorial, but highly trainable.

It is my experience that the Africanis is a marvellous pet and house dog. Guided by its instinct of subservience it will steal your heart before you realise it.

The Africanis needs neither pampering nor special food. It is consistently healthy and has, over the years, developed a natural resistance against internal and external parasites.

History
There is ample evidence that no canine domestication took place in Africa and that the traditional African dog is a descendant of dogs that had been domesticated in the East and came to Africa. Their earliest presence has been established in Egypt and dated at 4700 BC. Archaeological records show that, from then on, the dog spread rapidly along the Nile into Sudan and even beyond. At the same time, migrations, trade, and transhumance took it deep into the Sahara. By 2000 BC, this moving frontier stopped for a long period. Meanwhile, throughout the Egyptian dynasties, the breeding of swift and slender hounds together with a variety of common dogs became very popular.

For thousands of years, the aboriginal Stone Age San (Bushman) populations in Southern Africa hunted without the help of dogs. Although the Khoikhoi brought domestic sheep along a western migratory route to the Cape of Good Hope just before the Christian era, there is no conclusive evidence that dogs were part of their party.

The domestic dog first arrived in Southern Africa with the migration of the Early Iron Age Bantu speaking people. Dogs of Nilotic origin consecutively joined the Early and also Later Iron Age migrations. It is generally accepted that these migrations travelled along the Central Rift and the Lacustrine region. They followed tsetse-free corridors through Zambia and Zimbabwe to reach Botswana and finally South Africa. The earliest evidence for the presence of a domestic dog in South Africa has been established by Dr. Ina Plug, deputy director of the Transvaal Museum. The remains were found near the Botswana border and dated at 570 AD. By 650 AD the presence of the house dog is established in the Lower Thukela valley. By 800 AD it is part of a Khoisan settlement in Cape St. Francis, indicating that contact and trade between Bantu and Khoisan had been established.

For hundreds of years this exclusive primitive canine gene pool adapted to various conditions of the Southern African landscape and, through natural selection, evolved into ecotypes all belonging to the same landrace. It is sometimes argued that dogs brought by the Arab trade, Eastern seafarers, and Portuguese explorers might, over the years, have "contaminated" the traditional African dog. In other opinions, these chances are scant. Exotic canine influences became more likely after the colonisation of Transkei and Zululand during the 19th century.

The true Africanis is still found today in tribal areas where people maintain their traditional lifestyle. The fast-changing South Africa and the impact that this causes on rural societies, together with a certain disdain for the traditional dog and the status that the ownership of an exotic breed provides, poses an increasing threat to the continuation of the aboriginal Africanis. The Africanis Society of Southern Africa was founded to conserve this ancient gene pool. Conserving the Africanis as a land race stands for conserving biodiversity.

Today, the Africanis is recognized by the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA) as an emerging breed.

Afghan Hound

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The Afghan Hound is a very old sighthound dog breed. Distinguished by its thick, fine, silky coat and its tail with a ring curl at the end, the breed acquired its unique features in the cold mountains of Afghanistan, where it was originally used to hunt hares, and gazelles by coursing them. Its local name is Sag Tāžī (Persian: سگ تازی) or Tāžī Spai (Pashto: تاژي سپی). Other alternate names for this breed are Kuchi Hound, Tāzī, Balkh Hound, Baluchi Hound, Barutzy Hound, Shalgar Hound, Kabul Hound, Galanday Hound, or sometimes incorrectly African Hound.

Appearance

The Afghan Hound is tall, standing 24 to 29 inches (61 to 74 cm) in height and weighing 45 to 60 pounds (20 to 27 kg). The coat may be any colour, but white markings, particularly on the head, are discouraged; many individuals have a black facial mask. Some specimens have facial hair that looks like a Manchu moustache that are called "mandarins." Some Afghan Hounds are almost white, but particolour hounds (white with islands of red or black) are not acceptable and may indicate impure breeding. The long, fine-textured coat requires considerable care and grooming. The long topknot and the shorter-haired saddle on the back in the mature dog are distinctive features of the Afghan Hound coat. The high hipbones and unique small ring on the end of the tail are also characteristics of the breed.

Temperament

The temperament of the typical Afghan Hound can be aloof and dignified, but happy and clownish when playing. The breed has a reputation among dog trainers of having a relatively slow "obedience intelligence" as defined by author Stanley Coren or a recent survey of dog obedience judges.

However, these tests are subjective, and reliant on obedience tasks, for which Afghans are not naturally inclined. The Afghan Hound has many cat-like tendencies and is not slavish in its obedience as are some other breeds. The Afghan hound has a leaning towards independence. Afghans are likely to refuse or ignore commands from humans or trainers with which they have not developed a close working relationship, but even owners should not be surprised if their Afghan hounds sometimes choose to ignore commands. Although seldom used today for hunting in Europe and America where they are popular, Afghan hounds are frequent participants in lure coursing events and are also popular in the sport of conformation showing.

Affenpinscher

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Appearance

Weighing 7 to 9 pounds (3-4 kg) and not exceeding 11 inches (24-30 cm) in height at the withers, the Affenpinscher has harsh rough coat and a monkey-like expression (Affe means monkey in German). Its coat is shaggier over the head and shoulders forming a mane, with shorter coat over the back and hind quarters. It is harsh and wiry in texture. The FCI and UK breed standards specifies that the coat must be black, but the AKC also allows gray, silver, red,and tan, and belge (not beige; belge is a mixture of red, black and white hairs); other clubs have their own lists of acceptable colours, with black being the preference.

Temperament
Affenpinschers have a distinct appearance that some associate with terriers. They are different from terriers, however, in that they are actually part of the pinscher-schnauzer of group 2 in the FCI classification and so often get along with other dogs and pets. They are active, adventurous, curious, and stubborn, but they are also fun-loving and playful. The breed is confident, lively, affectionate towards family members and is also very protective of them. This loyal little dog enjoys being with its family. It needs consistent, firm training because some can be quite difficult to housebreak. The training should be varied because the dog can easily become bored.

Affenpinschers are somewhat territorial when it comes to their toys and food, so they are not recommended for very small children. This dog is mostly quiet but can become very excited if attacked or threatened and shows no fear toward any aggressor. It is best suited for a family who likes a show and has a sense of humor.

Health

Mortality
A small sample (N=21) of Affenpinschers in a UK survey had a median lifespan of 11.4 years, which is a typical lifespan for a purebred dog, but a bit lower than most breeds of their size. The most common causes of death were old age (24%), urologic (19%), and "combinations" (14%).

Morbidity
The Affenpinscher is prone to hip dysplasia. As with many small breeds of dog they are prone to collapsed trachea, which is best avoided by walking the dog with a harness instead of a collar. Cataracts are occasionally reported.

History
The breed is German in origin and dates back to the seventeenth century. Its name is derived from the German Affe (ape, monkey). The breed predates and is ancestral to the Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) and Miniature Schnauzer.

Dogs of the Affenpinscher type have been known since about 1600 but these were somewhat larger, about 12 to 13 inches, and came in colors of gray, fawn, black and tan, gray and tan, and also red. White feet and chest were also common. The breed was created to be a ratter, working to remove rodents from kitchens, granaries, and stables.

Care
Affenpinschers need to be groomed two to three times a week.

Shedding
Affenpinschers often appears on lists of dogs that allegedly do not shed (moult). However, every hair shaft in the dog coat grows from a hair follicle. Each shaft has a cycle of growing, then dying and being replaced by another shaft. When the hair shaft dies, the hair is shed. The length of time of the growing and shedding cycle varies by breed, age, and by whether the dog is an inside or outside dog. "There is no such thing as a nonshedding breed."

Frequent grooming reduces the amount of loose fur in the environment.