By Sergei Tsoganov

The interest in Perro de Presa Canario was revived in the beginning of the 70´s, when the group of Spanish dog-scientists, which was working on the revivement of ancient national breeds, collected several remaining thoroughbred species of Canary dog on isolated farms, which became the beginning of all modern species.

In this beginning a great role was played by cross-breeding blood of different types of Presa of the first decade of the 20 th century, which were left on the Islands and other representatives of the Moloss group. This began a slow but continuous recovery of the breed.It was especially difficult to strengthen genetic traits, i.e. to give stability and typicality to the breed. With the aim of uniting forces to revive the Canary dog, the group of the breed-fanciers on Tenerife, which is by the way responsible for the major part of the currently existing population of Perro de Presa in Spain, in 1982 founded the Club Espanol del Presa Canario. Due to their purposeful work, in ten years the number of the breed increased so much that nowadays the dogs show up on the exhibition circuit regularly and gain popularity in other countries, first of all in the USA, where its appearance and spread is due to Karl Semenchik.

This long work culminated with the approval of the Official Standart of the Presa Canario on January 24, 1986. And since 1993 registrations of the breed have extended within the Canary Archipelago to Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. Without any doubt this popularity was promoted by traditional annual national specialised shows, which are aimed at the analysis of morphological and temperamental aspects of the present generation for further improvement of its breed signs. Official recognition of Perro de Presa influenced its further breeding: if until that moment the numerous breeders reproduced continuing with their just personal, valuing of the temperament of the animal, the good structure, good head, good front, good bone etc., now the standard became the guiding principle. Nevertheless, Presa Canario remaind polytypic, which was explained by non-co-ordination of its use.

For example, there is an amount of tension between specialists from Canary Islands and Tenerife, where was concentrated the most important nuclei of the population. Canary Islands insisted on using the best species, which could be successfully used in dog-fighting: in the selection powerful, brave, aggressive, persistent and large size animals dominate. It mettered to them less the phenotype and they looked for the strong character of the animal mainly. In order to strengthen these qualities, for some time it was considered possible to cross Canary dog with distant and foreign breeds, for example: English and Neapolitan Mastino, in smaller part Great Dane and others.
The most important defects were coats where there was an excess of white, oval eyes, with conjunctivas open to the air, excesses in the sizes and flat ribs. As for Tenerife, local scientists are more concerned about recovering the biotype of the breed, which had began in the prior decade and gaining the antique outlook of Canary dog. Their work ruled by a model that was formalized through historical photos, oral history of all time breeders and the population of the most representative examples of the time.

Attention was paid to head structure, coat (where the special brindle color named "Verdino" was preferable), good movements. The typical or racial expression should dictate above everything. They wanted to be Presa Canario a medium animal, been accustomed to right propotions, rectangular, with balanced character. However, crossing with foreign breeds, like Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, Staffordshire bull terriers, Dogue de Bordeaux and others also took place. Nowadays the Perro de Presa Canario, as a result of all the crosses we have talked about, lacks of a precise phenotype. This is not a big problem because it could be solved by the passing of time with working in the right way.

All Presa breeders should be very responsible breeding their dogs. Selecting the crossings must be accomplished carefully in order to obtain a dog with the precise phenotype and balanced but very pronounced character with the natural working qualities of excellents guardians, man-stoppers and attack-dogs. Of course, should not breed Presa with lack of temperament or health problems like HIP and should test their dogs before using them in their breeding-programs.It is very important to remember that Presa Canario is a dog, which is more suitable for experienced trainers than for exhibition shows and prestige lovers.

Visit this site for more info.

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Bill Gunning

The fashion of trying to breed pitbulls was extremely famous back in the days when the pitbull was bred for the sole purpose of being tossed into a hole in the earth with another pitbull while hundreds of savage onlookers watched the dogs rip each other to shreds. It was the one who actually took the care to breed pitbulls that won all the praise and became a leader in the breeding industry. Many people whom did breed pitbulls in those days were in a constant position to always be battling for supreme breeder of the pitbull and especially the champion pitbull fighter.

Understanding Breeding Pitbulls

There are many contributing factors that play a role in a pitbulls personality and general disposition. Despite the belief that people breed pitbulls for the purpose of being mean and extremely aggressive is a gross misunderstanding because they are not bred to fight and they haven't been for a considerable amount of years. It is the people who own the dogs, not those that breed pitbulls generally that turn the dogs aggressive and mean and as a result the dogs become quite untrustworthy because they have been taught aggression. Again it is important to repeat that those who breed pitbulls are typically not to blame for a pitbull turning on a neighbor or an owner. These people are generally very irresponsible and the people that breed pitbulls didn't pick up on it.

Breeders that breed pitbulls typically watch for those potential owners that may be abusive because they don't want their dogs going out and later coming back that they have viciously attacked a young child or worse. Those who breed pitbulls are extremely responsible people and take the pitbulls reputation to heart due to the very nature of their livelihoods. While it can't and shouldn't be ignored that these poor dogs were subject to breeding for merely fighting purposes, it also shouldn't be something that intimidates you as your raising and treatment of the dog plays a very large role.

Those who breed pitbulls and raise them always insist that pitbulls are loving dogs and they adore human interaction and human affection. The pitbull actually believes that it is a lap dog and will often try to crawl into the owners lap to smother him or her with kisses however there are also many pitbulls that can develop very severe behavior problems if they are poorly bred, abused and not socialized. Like every animal care must be taken to ensure it is comfortable and at ease with other humans as well as dogs.

If you want to learn more about Brindle Pitbulls please visit our site which is free to the public. You'll find the best tips on everything to do with Pitbulls

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Melissa Coleman

One of the most rare dog breeds in the world is the Shar Pei (pronounced Shar-Pay). This ancient Chinese breed's name translates to "sand skin" after its short, coarse coat. This dog faced extinction and was named by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's most rare dog in 1978. The breed has gained popularity since that time and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1992.

The Shar Pei is easily distinguished from other breeds by its unique wrinkled appearance and blue-black tongue. Puppies have wrinkles all over their bodies when born but as adults grow into their wrinkles. The original Chinese Shar Pei grew out of its wrinkles almost completely so that the body was smooth and only the face and neck retained wrinkles. A modern breeder maintains a western version of the dog, which retains more wrinkles. A Shar Pei comes in many colors including red, tan, white, blue-grey and black. The breed's coat comes in three types, horse, brush and bear. they also have high-set, short, curly tails.

Finding a good Shar Pei breeder may be a daunting task at first because the breed is so rare. Potential buyers can utilize the Internet, the local ASPCA and word of mouth to find a good breeder. Most breeders also run or are at least affiliated with rescue centers that save purebred Shar Pei from abuse and neglect. Buying a rescued dog may be a good option for some buyers.

Some traits to identify a good breeder include maintaining a kennel to whelp and raise healthy puppies, encourage visits to the kennel to see the puppies and mothers, the puppies are friendly, happy, and do not appear afraid of people and they also interview potential buyers to make sure dog and new owner are a good match. Professional breeders are also affiliated with other animal support groups and rescue centers, recognized by the American Kennel Club and are able to provide references of other owners who have bought Shar Pei from them. Before turning over a puppy to a new owner an experienced breeder will have had the puppies evaluated for typical health conditions common to the Shar Pei breed, provide medical records and history of vaccinations and evaluations and provide pedigree information and registration papers

A good breeder will never sell Shar Pei to a pet store. There are several reasons for this. First, pet stores sell animals just like any other merchandise. Puppies are shipped from one place to another and put on display for hours at a time. Second, buyers are not screened, as they would be by a breeder. Anyone with a credit card can buy a puppy. Third, unsold puppies may be shipped to yet another store, sold to a smaller pet store or euthanized. Shar Pei breeders ensure that their puppies remain in a stable environment until they are sold to a good home. Lastly, pet stores do no follow-up on sold puppies.

Breeders, on the other hand, usually keep one out of every litter for themselves and ask for buyers to return dogs to the breeder if owners cannot keep them for any reason. Pet stores cannot offer a real guarantee or warranty on health or pedigree since their merchandise comes from illegitimate backyard breeders. An ethical Shar Pei breeder offers pedigree information, registration papers and a warranty.

Melissa Coleman has published hundreds of articles on dogs, including Shar Peis. The Shar Pei has a sketchy history at best. By learning Shar Pei information, there will be fewer Shar Peis abandoned.

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Connie Limon

The true origin of hairless breeds, including the Chinese Crested, of the world is steeped in myths and legends. Because of its genus Canis Africanus name, it is felt the numerous hairless breeds originated in Africa. The hairless breeds have survived through centuries and are found in many sub-tropical locations throughout the world. They have been found in Mexico, China, Turkey, Peru, Ethiopia, Paraguay, Argentina, the Caribbean and the Philippines.

Tombs in ancient burial sites revealed skeletons and clay figures of hairless dogs suggesting evidence that a small hairless dog lived in Mexico for thousands of years.

The hairless breeds were held in great reverence during the Toltec period of 900 - 1200 AD and was classed as one of the ten symbols of good, belonging to the Kingdom of the god Quetzalcoatl, the all-good. It represented love.

The ancient Toltecs thought a dog's love for its master was the most perfect manifestation of unselfish love. The master's dog was buried in the same grave when the master died, and according to legend, the spirit of the dog followed its master. When the master had to account for all his good and evil deeds, the dog testified in his favour. The dog was the only possession taken to the other world. Later, the Aztecs conquered the Toltecs and the spiritual image of the dog was destroyed. The dog was eaten at sacred festivals as food.

The hairless dog breeds were also thought to have medicinal properties. Relief from asthma and other aches and pains were attributed to the hairless breeds. The hairless dogs were also used as body warmers.

It seems that no one knows when the first hairless dogs arrived in China. It is known that they were bred in the 16th century and that Chinese merchants took them to the number of different countries.

There is often confusion between the Chinese Crested and the Mexican hairless and vice versa.

Other hairless breeds include:

• The larger Xoloitzcuintli

• Inca Orchid

• Abyssinian Sand Dog

• Turkish Greyhound

• African Elephant Dog

• Indian Rampur Dog

Hairless dogs have also been found in Central and South America, West Indies, China, the Philippines and parts of Africa.

If all the historical descriptions of hairless breeds are correct, the Mexican hairless is probably one of the oldest unchanged breeds in America.

Source: Book of the Breed, the Complete Chinese Crested by Brenda Jones

Written by: Connie Limon. For more information about the Chinese Crested breed visit http://smalldogs2.com/ChineseCrested for a variety of FREE reprint articles visit http://www.camelotarticles.com

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Michael Burows

Mastiffs are a powerful, muscular type of dog, generally classified as a working breed. While they make great pets, they're also classically used for guarding homes and other areas. They're reliable, watchful, and intelligent, and known for their loyalty and devotion. They can be very good with children, and are possessive and protective of the home and family that they're associated with. Despite their enormous size (a hundred and seventy to over two hundred pounds on average, with individuals over three hundred pounds), mastiffs are gentle and very sweet. They do not respond well to harsh methods, and require early socialization. A firm, fair, and patient trainer will get the most out of the mastiff dog breed. Don't be tempted to allow your mastiff to do whatever he or she wants, however. What's cute when your dog is a puppy can be a real problem when it gets to weigh as much as a large person.

Mastiffs come in a few color variations. All members of the mastiff dog breed have a short, coarse outer coat with a dense under coat and a dark nose, ears, and muzzle. However, the coat itself can be apricot, fawn, or brindle. White marks are considered bad in show dogs, but make no difference in pet animals. The breed doesn't shed a great deal, but you should expect to do occasional grooming. Use a firm bristle brush to remove loose hair. When necessary, you can give your mastiff a wet or dry bath.

Like most purebred dogs, the mastiff dog breed has several health problems that are common. Dysplasia of the hips and elbows, bloating, and heart problems are common. This doesn't mean that your dog will develop these problems, but that there is a risk. Mastiffs are also prone to obesity and laziness in old age, and will have to be encouraged to exercise. Some larger mastiffs will be prone to snoring and drooling.

The mastiff was developed primarily as a guard animal, though they were also favored by nobles for use in hunting. Bear, bull, and lion baiting were common until these practices were outlawed, as was the use of mastiffs in dogfight pits. The outlawing of these cruel practices actually caused a sudden drop in their numbers, since fewer dogs were being bred, and the breed was nearly extinct by the end of the 1940s. Imports into England from North America revived it, and mastiffs are now fairly common.

If you're thinking about getting a mastiff, be sure that you can offer it the socialization, time, and space it needs. The mastiff dog breed is known for its attachment to families, and that means that individual dogs are often needy. It's important to be able to give your dog lots of attention, as animals who are often left alone may feel neglected. Mastiffs are also not good at dealing with other animals, unless they have been raised around them, so households with one of these dogs will be unable to introduce new pets once their dog is out of puppyhood.

Michael Burrows is a caring and loving Mastiff owner with more than 20 years experience in Mastiff care and training. To find out more about The Mastiff Dog Breed. Check Out:

http://www.MyMastiffSecrets.com

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Susan Bailey

Pet stores used to make their money by hoping that you are an impulse shopper. That was why there were puppies in the shop window - to break your heart and open your wallet before you realized what you were doing. Thankfully, this trend is changing, but not fast enough. There are still pet stores unscrupulous enough to sell puppies to impulse buyers, especially Yorkshire Terrier puppies. No reputable Yorkshire Terrier breeder will send their puppies to a pet store!

If you don't know any basic Yorkshire Terrier information, then that would be like moving to a country where you don't speak the language or know any of the customs. After the cute stage wears off, the Yorkshire Terrier puppy often turns out to be a lot more work and a lot more money than the impulse shopper bargained for. The puppy then gets sent to an animal shelter, where he has a fifty percent chance of being euthanized.

You get many advantages by getting your Yorkie puppy from a Yorkshire Terrier breeder. You get a contract, usually with a limited health guarantee for the puppy. You get to see what conditions the puppy will grow up in. You get to see the puppy's mother, which will have a lasting impact on the puppy's temperament. You also get reassurance that your puppy is a purebred Yorkshire Terrier, so you know you are getting your money's worth.

Don't just go to the first Yorkshire Terrier breeder you happen to come across. Since the Yorkshire Terrier breeder will have a profound impact on the health and training of your puppy, you want to choose the breeder as carefully as the puppy. You can find licensed Yorkshire Terrier breeders from your vet, from dog magazines, from going to dog shows and from the Internet. You can also ask the American Kennel Club for any help.

You also are free to ask a lot of questions to a good Yorkshire Terrier breeder that you just can't ask a pet store clerk. You get access to years of experience living and training all kinds of Yorkies. A good Yorkshire Terrier breeder will be a bit possessive about their puppies. The money is not that important to them (although they will expect you to pay when promised). They want to be sure their "babies" will not end up abandoned or abused. And, unlike pet store puppies, you usually get to see the parents and the parent's health certificates.

Take your time finding the right Yorkshire Terrier breeder that you can get along with and has the dogs you can get along with. You can find them from the American Kennel Club, from the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America, any proud Yorkie owners where you live, your vet or your local animal shelter. You can also look on the Internet for Yorkshire Terrier rescue groups which will have older puppies as well as adults.

Susan Bailey loves everything having to do with dogs, including Yorkshire Terrier history. The Yorkshire Terrier was a much larger breed in the beginning. This author is currently writing a series of articles containing Yorkshire Terrier information for interested readers.

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Kelly Marshall

The gameplan of the mite is to burrow 3-5 layers deep and attack the hair follicles. Dogs with demodetic mites will experience major hair loss and lowered immune systems. The microscopic mange mite usually shows up in all puppies, but mostly puppies from 6 weeks to over one year of age.

The minute eight legged bloodsuckers will appear in the pores causing localized infestation in the beginning (if left untreated, these areas can quickly become "generalized" making it a far more serious condition to treat). Veterinarian and medical treatments are very costly and take months to treat with poisons and insecticides.

With Demodetic mange, there is usually a characteristic smell - sort of a "wet puppy dog" smell. Veterinarians can usually diagnose demodex just by looking, although a skin scraping will give a more definite diagnosis. The itch, although not quite as severe as that caused by the toxins from sarcastic mites, can be intense (or there can be no itching at all), and many times demodex can cause severe secondary bacterial infections, not only from the infected pores, but from the abused skin from the dog scratching itself.

Unlike the mites that bite and live off the blood of the dog, the mites that cause demodex don't bite and they don't consume blood from the animal. They live in skin pores and hair follicles and literally feed on the skin and hair oil they find there.

Mites are similar in appearance to Narcotic Mange mites. Notoedres cati is the primary cause of mange in cats. It will also infect dogs, but will not live a full life cycle on humans, but will cause itching and possible rash. Also known as 'face mange', the infection usually begins at the tips of the ears, progresses over the face and, if untreated, over the body. If your cat suffers from severe itching or hair loss on the head and neck you should consider having her examined for the neoteric mange mite.

The female mite burrows into the skin and lays eggs several times as she continues burrowing. These tunnels can actually reach the length of several centimeters. After she deposits the eggs, the female mite dies. In 3-8 days the eggs hatch into larvae, which have 6 legs. The larvae mature into nymphs, which have 8 legs. The nymph then molts into an adult while it is still in the burrow. The adult's mate, and the process continue. The entire life cycle requires 2-3 weeks.

The symptoms usually start with hair loss and itching on the ears spreading rapidly to the face, eyelids and neck. The mites can also spread to the feet and lower abdomen. This characteristic spread probably occurs from the cat's habit of grooming, and sleeping curled up in a ball. As the disease progresses the skin will become thickened, wrinkled and covered with grayish/yellow crusts. Because of the intense itching the infected cat will often scratch and irritate the skin causing secondary infections to develop. The surrounding lymph nodes may also become enlarged as the problem worsens.

Authored by Kelly Marshall from Oh My Dog Supplies - the place to go for dog steps in all shapes and sizes

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Cynthia Alexander

Purebred dogs are all the rage. For many people who are looking to purchase a purebred dog, they do a dog breeder search in order to buy it. Before you rush out and plop down several hundred dollars for your pure breed pup, there are a few things that are important to know. It is very important to educate yourself BEFORE you buy your puppy from a breeder.

You can find breeders by searching the newspaper or using the Internet, and a number of different places. But what do you really know about the breeder? Some breeders are nothing more than "puppy mills" or farms. Since you don't have to be licensed to be a breeder, the backyard breeder - the dog owner who decides to raise puppies for sale as an income generally has little knowledge – or do they bother to understand – the genetics of the breed or proper nutritional requirements to keep the dog healthy. And it's not uncommon for puppies that come from unlicensed breeders to be sickly and harboring diseases. And puppy mill puppies frequently turn up in pet stores.

Ironically, pet stores are the WORST place to buy a dog. These dogs come from puppy farms where they are often abused, neglected and inbred. Dogs from pet stores are many times nearly impossible to train, prone to illness and disease, prone to behavioral problems like compulsive chewing or barking, as well as being almost impossible to crate train.

Believe it or not, practically any breed that you could want to purchase is available in your local area. Purebred dogs are increasingly found at your local animal shelter. And there are breed specific rescue organizations. Of course most of these dogs are no longer young puppies because people turn them in once the fad has worn off - generally that happens around 6 months to one year from the time they got the pup.

If you are insistant on getting a puppy, the safest route is to find a dog breeder who is licensed. Some of the best options for finding a professional dog breeder would be to attend local dog shows, visit pet supply stores, pet expos or ask a veterinarian for recommendations. However you still need to do your own homework.

Ask lots of questions about the dog you're getting, expect the breeder to ask you questions about yourself and your lifestyle as well. If they don't, be cautious. Good breeders don't want their dogs to end up in homes where the potential owner doesn't have time for the dog or doesn't understand the work involved in raising one. A store clerk or amateur breeder who simply hands you a dog in exchange for your money is not doing you any favors.

Many people buy their puppies over the Internet via some sort of dog breeder directory, but it is highly recommended that you buy from a breeder that you can visit. You can never be 100% sure of what you're getting over the Net. You need to be able to see the facility where the dogs are being bred. Is it clean, is the breeder a caring person, do the mothers look healthy, do the puppies have room to play? These are just a few things you'll need to see with your own eyes. And the answers to these questions will determine whether or not you buy your puppy from that breeder. Don't neglect this vital step. It could mean the difference between getting a healthy pup and a pup that may have eventually have problems.

Did you know that barking is one of the major reasons that people end up losing their dog? Discover how to get your dog to stop barking once and for all. Read Cynthia Alexander's "Ultimate Guide to Stop Your Dog from Barking…FAST."

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Lee Dobbins

Dog clothing is growing in popularity and is great for keeping your furry friend warm and safe. Pomeranian clothes can help you Pom look cool while protecting him from bad weather. Dressing your Pomeranian in practical but stylish attire can be fun as well as practical.

Protecting your dog from the bitter cold is one practical reason for dog clothing. Although your Pomeranian does have a thick coat to protect him, he is sure to appreciate an additional layer against the cold. Your pet is sure to appreciate the extra warmth a dog coat or sweater can provide. If you are taking your Pom for a long walk, you might consider a thick coat, but a quick trip out to do his business may only require a sweater.

You can buy all different kinds of clothes for your Pomeranian. Everything from party clothes, to tuxedos, to raincoats to boots can be found. For girl Poms, you might try a pink sweater with fur on the edges or maybe a Harley Davidson jacket for a boy. Many dogs don't mind being dressed up and appreciate the extra protection. You want to go slowly the first time you put a piece of clothing on our Pomeranian as they will not be used to it, but after a fashion it won't bother them at all. For safety sake, make sure to pick clothes that don't have loose strings that could get wrapped around his neck or legs and no embillishements he could chew off. It's better to spend more on quality clothes that are safe for your dog.

Most Pomeranian clothes manufacturers keep safety in mind when designing outfits. Many coats have a reflective piece for safety when walking. To keep your Pomeranians paws clean, you can buy boots for dogs that will also give him comfort on cold and rainy days You can get rain slickers for dogs too, and hats to protect them from the fierce rays of the sun. If your Pomeranian like to romp in the woods, a coat will also help keep burrs off his fur and save you the trouble of having to try to get them out.. When choosing a coat, one that has a nylon shell as well as a fleece lining will help keep your pet snug and dry.

If you are dressing your Pomeranian, you need to make sure the clothing is a good fit, not too loose or tight, and also that he has enough room underneath to do his business if necessary. It's great if you an actually try the clothing on your dog before you buy it, that way you can be sure it fits him well and has no loose parts that may catch on trees and furniture.

Finding Pomeranian clothes that suit your dogs needs should be easy as there is a large variety available both on and offline..

Lee Dobbins writes for The Pomeranian Pages where you can learn more about caring for your pom and how to pick Pomeranian clothes.

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Labels: Dog Breeding

Breeding dogs – a pastime for some, a livelihood for others – requires patience, dedication, and adequate financial resources. The reasons for breeding are various – from the earning of money to the desire to produce champion show dogs. Breeding Labradors, specifically, is a time honored tradition taken on by those who have a great reverence for this beautiful breed of dog.

Breeding Labradors is done with the utmost respect for the history of the animal as well its place in the modern family home. Equally regal and unassuming, pure-bred Labradors are stunning creatures who were traditionally bred for their hunting ability. Today, breeding Labradors takes this history into consideration while still allowing for the modern Labrador’s family-friendly temperament.

In order to go about breeding Labradors successfully, it is important to understand the general distinguishing features of the animal. The Labrador Retriever can be easily recognized by its strong, athletic body, square jaw, short-haired and shiny coat, short triangular ears, and an otter-like tail. Medium in stature, the Labrador is a sturdy breed; it’s a working dog with a sweet and gentle temperament. The shades of their coats – yellow, black, or chocolate – change their facial appearances slightly. Because of their many attributes, the Labrador does quite well in a show ring and is often bred for these purposes.

The key to breeding Labradors, therefore, is to look to combine all the beautiful features that make it such a good work and show dog with the easy-going temperament that will allow it to be amiable in the ring.

If you are considering breeding Labradors for show purposes, it is best to thoroughly research what judges look for in the ring. There are very specific sizes that judges like to see that differ between male and female Labradors, as well as a variety of face and body features. Look into what makes a successful Labrador show dog before you begin the breeding process.

But no matter what you’re reason for breeding Labradors, if you do it properly and responsibly, you will gain an enormous amount of joy from this beautiful animal.

For easy to understand, in depth information about breeding labradors visit our ezGuide 2 Labradors

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Labels: Dog Breeding

You will find that dogs are very nice pets. Not only are they intelligent beings, but they also are very amazing and playful animals. As for your own well-being and health, you will notice that your dog will help you to become more active and exercise. You will be more inclined to go for a walk, and you'll be able to keep your blood pressure down. Keep in mind that there are a lot of ways for you to bond with your dog, however, you will need to make sure that this is truly what you want and that you'll be able to take care of this major responsibility.

Some of the things that you will want to consider is things like if adopting a dog is right for you. Can you give up some of your time to take care of the dog? Where will the dog go if you aren't home? What can you offer to a dog? Can you make the commitment? The last thing that you will want to ask yourself is if you are physically able to take care of a dog. A lot of people will adopt because they are lonely. Dogs can be great companions, however, you have to be prepared to walk, feed, and love your dog. There is a great amount of time and attention that you have to give your dog in order for them to feel loved. You will want to make sure that you have thought about the dog's mental and physical well-being.

Another thing that you will want to consider is if you have any pet allergies. If you are looking for a dog, then you should stay around some of your friends and family members who have dogs, so that you can see if you have allergies. Also, you have to think about things like your family. Perhaps, you should consider about family allergies too. You will need adopting a dog that not only agrees with the family, but also mostly works well with children. Also, consider the size of the dog and the size of your house or apartment. Make sure that your landlord allows you to have dogs. Keep in mind that there are some insurance policies that do not go with dogs.

When it comes to the kids, you have to think about the age of the child and also the child's natural movements. You need to tell your children about how to deal with adopting a dog and how it is appropriate to act around the dog. Teasing a dog will only promote a bad situation. Also, you should never leave small children around with dogs. You will notice that dogs that they know attack children, mostly. It could be his or her own dog or the neighbor's dog. It is very important that you promote a healthy bond between the children and the dog. http://swa-pets.com

For further information please visit our site http://swa-pets.com

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Labels: Dog Breeding

By Ed Frawley
Copyright 1999

Puppy

I have been breeding dogs for over 25 years and I still never get used to a puppy that gets sick and starts to die. This article deals with what I have learned about trying to save very young pups (under 2 weeks of age) when they get sick. As I write this article I have a 2 week old puppy in a box at my feet. Three days ago he weighed 264 grams. This evening he weighs 485 grams and is on his way back from the dead. This article is about what I did to save this pup. Maybe my experience will help you save some of your puppies in the future.

Before I begin I have to make the point that healthy puppies begin with prevention. I have written an article titled Save a Puppies Life which deals with a lot of things a breeder can do to keep dogs healthy. This article will talk about what to do when things go bad, and a puppy starts to go down hill.

Before I begin I also want to say that this program is not going to work on all pups. There are so many things that can make a puppy sick I could never begin to cover the entire scope of problems that come up. But I have proven through this protocol that some of these sick puppies can be saved with a little luck and attention to detail.

The first issue a breeder needs to deal with is to determine when a puppy is in distress and getting sick. I have to say that after 25 years and over 200 litters I can often look at a litter of puppies in a whelping box and spot a pup that's in distress or not doing well. New employees and breeders who don't have the luxury of this experience can accomplish the same thing with the use of a "gram scale." The fact is it's impossible to know when a pup does not have a daily weight gain. No one (not even myself) can spot a pup who has not gained 10 or 20 grams a day. By using a gram scale and weighing pups you will be alerted to the first sign of a developing problem.



Heating Pad
Heating Pad





Here at my kennel if a pup is born small (around 300 grams) we automatically start a weight gain chart. It's weighed at least once a day and if there is any question on it's energy and sucking ability it will be weighed twice a day. I begin a weight chart before I even begin to treat a pup.

Simply picking puppies up and handling them will also help point out a pup in distress Puppies will normally scream when they are picked up, but sick puppies have a different tone. Their scream is often louder and more forlorn. In addition, they will often begin to dehydrate. By becoming familiar with the feel of the skin of healthy pup, you will develop a feel for recognizing a dehydrated pup. You can easily feel the ribs and their skin feels like cardboard. It loses its elasticity and becomes stiff.

Dehydration kills pups in a hurry. They can do downhill and die in 24 hours. Dehydration is often caused from loose stools. If the mother is cleaning her pups, this can be hard to spot. What I look for is a puppy whose back end looks wet (or slick) even though it may be dry. The hair will look slicked down, and stuck together to give a wet look. If you see this you need to step in and help this pup.

The first thing to do is to begin to tube feed the pup. I initially tube with puppy milk replacer. Get it from your vet. Never use cow's milk. Cows milk will give puppies diarrhea and make matters worse. I add a couple of "cc's" of Pepto Bismol or liquid Imodium AD. ( I prefer Imodium added to a tubing.) We need to settle the puppy's stomach and bowls before dehydration take its toll. The Imodium or Pepto seems to do this most of the time. Depending on the circumstances I may administer an antibiotic. This is something to discuss with your vet. Amoxicillin or Clavomox are two very popular antibiotics that can be stored for a long time and easily administered with a normal tubing. These little bottles of antibiotic are cheap (under $10.00). They have a long shelf life because they come as a powder and are not active until water is added. Once water is added they must be kept in the fridge and are only good for 14 days.

Antibiotics
Add antibiotics to the tube feeding. (They should not be used
unless you consult your vet.)

Determining how often to tube and how much to tube needs to be properly calculated. A 300 gram puppy needs 15 cc's 4 times a day. Use the directions on the box and advice from your vet to determine how much to feed. It should be noted that once a pup is taken from the mother and tubed for a day or so they seem to lose the sucking instinct. This means you are in it for the long haul. It will have to be tube fed until its old enough to lap from a bowl (about 3 1/2 weeks of age).

Tubing is done with a catheter and a 30 cc syringe tube (no needle). You determine how far to insert the tube by holding the catheter next to the puppy's side. Feel for the back of the rib cage to the tip of the nose. This is the length to insert the tube. Less than that will not get the liquid into the stomach, more than that may damage the stomach wall. You will often feel a slight resistance when the tube enters the stomach - this comes with practice. When you open the pups mouth, insert the tube on top of the middle of the tongue. People ask about getting it into the lungs. If there is any question, pull the tube out and reinsert it. But if you have marked your catheter length at the rib cage with a marker and inserted it all the way (without force) it can not be in the lungs; they are much closer to the dogs nose than his stomach.

I feel that when the puppy is really dehydrated and sick, one needs to be careful not to feed too much. When an adult dog has diarrhea your vet will often tell you to not feed them anything other than water for 24 hours. With pups I think we need to be careful. If it's really not feeling good it needs nutrition, but we should not constantly pump food down it's throat every 4 hours. I make a judgment call and will tube 10 to 15 cc of Lactated Ringers 2 to 3 hours after a formula feeding, especially if I feel I still have a dehydration problem. I think this helps flush the system. Water (or Lactated Ringers) will move through the pup much quicker than milk replacer. It will not cause the pup to back up with food. On the contrary, I think that it helps the digestion process. If any vets read this and disagree I certainly have an open mind on this issue. Maybe there is something better to use that has more electrolytes than Ringers.

While on the subject of medical attention from a vet, in regard to these very young puppies, my experience is that most vets are not going to be able to say "this is what's wrong." Pups that are sucking mother's milk and begin to fade are often a mystery to everyone involved. I spend between $500 and $800 a month on normal vet bills in my kennel and respect the heck out of my local vets. But when it comes to these small pups I no longer get a vet involved. I follow the protocol in this article. It works as many times as it fails and I am of the opinion that when it fails my vet could not have saved the pup, either.



Whelping Puppies and Their First 8 Weeks

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Whelping Puppies and Their First 8 Weekds DVD





If you get behind the 8 ball and a pup really gets dehydrated, you are going to have to deal with this. Simply tubing is often times not enough to bring the pup around. Fluids injected under the skin do more to improve hydration than simply giving oral fluids (that's why people get I V's when they are dehydrated).

Go to your vet and get a bag of Lactated Ringers. (They are cheap only about $5.00). You will also need to get a 30 cc's syringe. A small pup (300 grams) will need to have 10 to 15cc's of Lactated Ringers injected under the skin (not in the muscle), twice a day, usually for a couple of days. Sticking small puppies with big needles is not easy. It's in the same category as sky diving or bungee jumping. Some people can simply not do it. They will have to go to the vet to get it done.

I have found that when a pup is really dehydrated this is a "do or die" situation. Under these circumstances I will do it but I don't like it. I accomplish this unpleasant task by picking the pup up with 2 fingers by the skin at the shoulders. This creates a pocket of skin. I insert the needle just below my fingers, making sure I don't hit a muscle and being careful not to push it all the way through both folds of skin. If you push it through both folds you have created a broken balloon effect. Pulling the needle back through the second fold of skin has created a hole and that area will not hold fluid. You will now have to try a different spot (which makes it even harder on your mind).

I only do this a few times until I see an improvement in the hydration. If he improves you will see an increase in the elasticity of the skin.

measuring a catheter for tube feeding a pup
Measuring a catheter for tube feeding a pup. Insert from the nose to the back edge of the ribs (feel for the rib line and mark the catheter).

During this entire process I take the pup away from the mother and keep it in a small 2 foot by 2 foot cardboard box. I find it easier to monitor the health when it's in this box rather than when it's left in with the litter. I lug the box around with me. I will keep it in my office or my secretaries' office. I take it home at night and keep it next to the bed. That way I can get up in the middle of the night and give it a light tubing of either puppy milk replacer or Ringers (whichever I feel is more appropriate). When it comes to night feedings I usually let the puppy tell me when it is hungry. It will cry just like a baby. So rather than wake up every 4 or 4 1/2 hours and tube the pup at night I let it tell me what it needs.

Puppy Milk Replacer
The puppy milk replacer I like, (DO NOT USE COW'S MILK.)

It's important to keep the pup warm without over heating it. Too warm only adds to your problems. Take an outside wall thermometer and lay it on the box to monitor the temperature. Some people use hot water bottles but I have found that a combination of a heating pad (set to LOW) under a 2 gallon zip lock bag filled with dry uncooked rice and beans works better. I make sure the box is big enough that the pup can get away from the heat source if it gets too warm. If it is healthy enough it will crawl off. If it is are too sick you will need to watch for them panting (or laying with their mouth open) and move it off.

There have been times when I have come into the kennel in the morning and found a pup moved off to the side of the litter. It's cold, flattened out and almost gasping for breath. This is a pup that is very close to dying. The first thing I try to do is warm the pup up. I do this by filling the sink with warm water and immersing the pup up to its neck in the water. I hold it in my hands until I feel that it is getting warm. This has worked for me in the past, but when a pup is that far gone it usually is going to die.

For normal heating, bags of rice are much better than hot water bottles. Uncooked rice and beans hold the heat longer than water. You can put the bag, with a couple of pounds of rice and beans in a microwave for 3 minutes, then shake the bag around to redistribute the heat and you have a very nice heat source for the pup. These bags also work wonders for your own stiff neck and shoulders (those cloth bags that are heated with microwaves that wrap around your neck are just bags of rice.)

Bag of Uncooked Rice
Use a Zip Lock bag of uncooked rice and beans heated in a
microwave to keep the pup warm.

Puppies must be kept at 85 degrees or greater for their digestive system to work properly

There are 2 important things that need to be done with sick puppies:

1. You need to constantly turn the pup over from one side to the other, kind of like a bird that's constantly turning the eggs in its nest. If you have ever seen a really sick pup in a whelping box (just before it dies), it flattens out. Turning and moving the pup will stop it from flattening out. I don't know that this is so important, but it does make a difference.

2. I also feel an important thing in the recovery of a sick puppy is to handle it a lot. Pet it, stroke it move it around. This helps the natural body functions of the puppy. I also think it helps it's spirit. I believe that puppies need to have their spirit treated in addition to their health. Taking it away from it mother makes this process all the more important. Don't underestimate how important this aspect of the healing is. Hold it and cuddle it as much as possible. As I type this my puppy was crying. He had just been fed so it was not a hunger issue. Petting him did not stop the crying, but the very instant I picked him up and laid him on my chest he got quiet and went to sleep. Things like this never cease to amaze me.



Disposable Puppy Tube Feeding Kit

$4.50+s&h
Tube Feeding Kit





Bringing a puppy back from the edge is a great feeling. Unfortunately too often a great deal of work does not work and the pup dies. It's hard to loose one of these little guys after days of close contact. We often think that the pup was just a little weak and needed our help to jump start it, but this is not always the case. When a pup dies I look at it like there was something seriously wrong that I didn't know about. When pups starts to fail, you never know if there is an internal abnormality or an unknown injury that has caused it to fail. I have learned to look at it like "I did my best but it was not in the cards for the pup to make it. Luck was not on its side." That's the hard part about being a dog breeder.

One final point on this issue is that there is always the possibility that after days of treatment (which includes getting up a couple of times per night) the pup lives but ends up having some type of abnormality that forces you as a responsible breeder to make the difficult decision about its future. I have had this happen twice.

I am open to other ideas from both vets and breeders on this issue. If you have an opinion let me know. I will post the good ones at the end of this article.

Puppy
With luck and the proper care and treatment a pup has a chance of making it.

Here is an outstanding web page on how to administer subcutaneous fluids to dogs. It was written by the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

EMAILS from other breeders of sick puppies:

When I get a puppy doing the death cries I have had very little luck tube feeding normal amounts of 10-15 ccm. Recently I discovered that if I propped the puppy upright with a heating pad folded around it and braced with towels I was able to administer small frequent feedings until the puppy was a little stronger. Also began giving them a drop of Karo syrup on their tongues for a quick energy boost.

Another trick I recently stumbled across....
When attempting to get a bitch to take on a foster puppy or litter I smear the new puppy with milk replacer mixed very thick. I use Esbilac and have successfully gotten three bitches to take on a litter that wasn't theirs.

You have been so gracious to share your experience with the rest of the world, so I wanted to give back to you just a little.

Best Wishes,
Tony Keiser

Try inserting a lubricated red catheter feeding tube several inches into the rectum of a puppy with severe diarrhea until watery/thin diarrhea siphons out of the catheter (Be prepared, it really stinks and can flow quite suddenly at times. I cut the catheter as long as possible and siphon into a plastic bowl ½ filled with cat litter, puppy should be laying with rump at edge of table or raised surface and bowl positioned below to catch flow.). When diarrhea quits draining from tube, withdraw tube and flush with air filled syringe, once flushed draw up 5-20 cc kaolin pectin or similar anti-diarrheal into catheter and syringe and reinsert catheter into rectum several inches and depress syringe plunger to allow kaolin to coat and soothe intestines.

This can be done 2-3 times a day as needed. I have had many very ill and crying pups fall into a restful, sound sleep for the first time in days within minutes of receiving this treatment.

As with tube feeding practice makes this technique a simple, quick way to aid a sick, perhaps dying puppy with, at times, miraculous results. Make sure this equipment is kept separate from feeding equipment. Rinse with bleach water to sterilize.

You have a great web site with helpful advice,

Thank you, Diane Briggs



Bottle Feeding Puppies
Bottle Feeding Puppies eBook

eBOOK


QUESTION:

Dear Ed and Cindy,

I called you earlier to get some feedback from you, but I was asked to contact you by email instead. I am writing you from Istanbul Turkey. I have been referring to your web site quite often these days.

Three and a half days ago I had a litter of twelve puppies. After first night I lost a puppy. The second day I lost another one, which was completely still for couple of hours and had no suckling reflex. He seemed to be pretty healthy and one of the bigger ones in the litter. A few hours ago, I lost the third one, which was chilled lying away from the rest of the litter. I tried warming him up, but unfortunately could not save him. The situation is tremendously worrying me. I am thinking that I got bacteria in the puppies.

I read an article online that recommended giving antibiotics( amoxicillin) to the mother and the puppies(if I can) for treating against bacteria. But I was not sure about it. The vets in the country seem to lack knowledge about suckling puppies as well. Given your vast experience I wanted to check if giving antibiotics can have any drawbacks on the rest of the litter that seem to be quite healthy(currently looking healthy..). There is one puppy which seem to be very weak and small compared to the others and he has been worrying me since he does not seem to be as healthy as he appeared yesterday and he is constantly whining even if he is nursing.

What would be your recommendation in such a situation like this? Should I give antibiotics to the mother? Any other thoughts?

Thanks very much for your help.

sincerely,

Pars

Whelping Puppies

ANSWER:

On three day old pups it is not an antibiotic issue. The pups should have colostrum from their mother to handle any bacteria.

When we have small pups like you have we identify each pup with a separate colored ribbon around each pup's neck. Then we can look at a large litter and instantly identify each pup.

We also weigh the litter and write down weight – with a gram scale. This is done twice a day.

With small pup we put them on the bitch 10 times a day and make sure they are not pushed off a nipple. We will actually sit and watch the pup nurse for at least 15 minutes. We also may give them a few drops of karo syrup under their tongue – this is like sweet syrup-- I don’t know what you have in your country for this.

If they are small and have a strong sucking instinct I will bottle feed them.

Also, I noticed from your picture that the whelping box that you have your dog in is WAY too small for that sized dog. It also should have rails or shelves on the sides to prevent the female from laying on the pups and killing them. Please see the whelping box on the web page for a well equipped whelping room.

Labels: Dog Breeding

Hi it's fuzzy! Today I am going to give you a some quick tips on finding a perfect dog companion. Unlike most cats I get along well with dogs. This is because I grew up with a dog, Chewie. Since we tend to have a lot of time on our hands the topic has come up.
What kind of human are you?

Are you active? Do you want a jogging partner?

Active Dogs:
Irish Wolfhound, Beagle, Bloodhound, Dachshund, Barsoi, Basenji, Jack Russell Terrier, Whippet, Australian Shepherd, Dalmatian, Siberian Husky, Bearded Collie, Border Collie, Dalmatian, Siberian Husky, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Setters, Samoyed, Weimaraner, Greyhound, Saluki

Are you a first-time dog owner:

Beginner Dogs:
Pekingese, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Silky Terrier, Australian Terrier, Tibet Spaniel, Norfolk Terrier, Westie, Pug, ShiTzu, Basset, Dachshund, Scottish Terrier, Papillon, Whippet, Sheltie, Mini Pinscher, Border Terrier, Toy Poodle, Tibet Terrier, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Cocker Spaniel, Bedlington Terrier, Mini Schnauzer, Collie, Bearded Collie, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Flat Coated Retriever

Do you want to spend time making your dog pretty?

Grooming Dogs:
Pekingese, Pomeranian, Bichon Frisé, American Cocker Spaniel,Poodle, Afghan, Collie, ShihTzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Old English Sheepdog, Shetland Sheepdog, Bearded Collie, Chow Chow, Sheltie, Tibetan Terrier

Got Kids?

Family Dogs:
Basset, Beagle, Bearded Collie, Belgian Sheepdog, Boxer, Dalmatian, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Old English Sheepdog, Irish Wolfhound, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Pug, Saint Bernard, Poodle, Dachshund

Labels: Dog Breeding

Our dogs are trusted companions to all of us, but to some people they represent even more than that. Some of us have grown to love our dogs just as much as we love ourselves, without asking ourselves why, as it came naturally. If your dog is a member of your family that you love as much as you love the other members of your family, you will understand what I am talking about. Taking good care of your dog comes without saying, but since your life has effortlessly become a dog-loving universe, you feel like showing everyone else how much your dog means to you. Hanging pictures of your dog all over the house is probably something you feel like doing when you love your dog as much as you do. You can also order a painting of your companion that you can hang on the wall and admire all day long. But these are far from being the only ways in which you can let your beloved companion truly become a part of your life. We are talking about dog breed gifts, and you probably have no idea as to how many of these you can find.

There are specialized web sites where you can browse through an extensive and, dare I say, impressive list of dog breed gifts that you can purchase for yourself or as a present to other dog lovers. Aside from being tasteful decorations in your home, these dog breed gifts can also be very functional objects that you can use on a daily basis. For instance, you can opt of a magazine rack, a mug, a bottle rack, a coat rack, or a dog feeder, and the list can go on forever. All these objects are hand painted or hand carved, which adds all the more aesthetical value to them. Decorating your entire home with these fine works of art may seem a little out of place, but no one says you have to have one or several in every room of your home. You can try adding small touches to the furniture that you already have, for instance, and see how the room in question literally lights up. If you have solid oak furniture, you can combine one or more of the pieces with a carving of your dog, and you will certainly come to realize that the combination is spectacular.

The dog breed gifts are available for over one hundred and fifty breeds, which means that you are very likely to find one with your dog as well. Furthermore, all these hand carved pieces are customizable, meaning that the woodcarving that you purchase can be exactly what you wanted it to be.

If you want to purchase dog breed gifts for someone you know to be passionate about dogs, let me tell you that there is such a gift for any occasion. Truth be told, you don’t need a special occasion to a hand carved or hand painted piece for someone who loves dogs so much, because they would appreciate the gesture at any time. A hand carved piece is a very refined gift to give someone, especially if you consider the hard work and dedication that are put into creating these woodcarvings. Being hand carved, each piece is unique in itself. The hand carved dog breed gifts are all the more valuable if you know they have been carved by an experienced and certified wood carver.

All in all, be it for yourself or for someone you love, the dog breed gifts are unique, just as your relationship with your dog is one of a kind.

If you are looking for dog breed gifts or hand carved gifts for your pet please visit http://www.onlyfordoglovers.com


Source: High Quality Article Database - 365articles.com

Labels: Dog Breeding

Giving presents is something we usually enjoy doing, especially around the holidays or on special occasions. When you choose a gift for someone who is dear or important to you, you can hardly wait to see the surprise and delight on that person’s face. And when want to really surprise that person and make sure that your gift will be appreciated, you usually think of something you know that person would love. But it has to be more than just that. The gift you choose for a special person has to be special, something unique that he or she will hold dear. What follows is addressed to people who love dogs or to those who want to choose a unique gift for their dog-loving friends.

You can always have a dog picture framed or have an artist paint a painting of your friend’s dog, and that person will certainly be delighted. But I have to say that there is hardly anything creative and original about that. Instead of choosing a present that anyone could think of, your gift can be unique, if you simply do a little thinking out of the box. If imagination is not your strongest point, you can still rest assured that you can find original dog breed gifts, as other dog lovers have already beaten you to creating all sorts of excellent pieces, works of art in the true sense of the words, pieces that bear the image of breed dogs.

The diversity of dog breed gifts that you can choose from is nothing but overwhelming. Go online, and you will have so many woodcarvings with dogs to choose from that you can be certain you’ll find something appropriate. I mean, you can always go to the shop down the street an buy something ordinary for the dog’s owner, but that’s no way to impress and delight the person that you care about. Instead of doing that, you can place your customized order from the privacy of your home, without wasting precious time on going from shop to shop, hoping that you will eventually find something worth spending money on. And you’ll probably be surprised by the extensive list of dog breed gifts that you can order from, as there are hand carved and hand painted pieces for more than one hundred and fifty dog breeds.

Woodcarvings with dogs are fine works of art, but you may not happen to agree with me on that one. If the case is such, you should know that the dog breed gifts you can find online are hardly the only option you have as a gift to a person who loves dogs. You can choose from yet another extensive list of gifts, other than hand carved pieces, such as t-shirts, pillows, handbags, hats, or even mouse pads, all personalized with the image of that trusted companion. Tree ornaments, pieces of jewelry, clocks, and so much more can bear the image of the dog that your friend loves so much.

Undoubtedly the most hard work and dedication is put into creating those fine works of art that I was telling you about earlier, namely the hand carved dog breed gifts. You can only imagine how creating something with your hands is special, but you have to agree that carving wood is unique. Choosing a woodcarving as a gift for a friend who loves dog is not only appropriate, but also unique. Aside from the fact that the person will love the gift for what it is, he or she will also appreciate its high quality and uniqueness, not to mention the fact that you have been so thoughtful as to give an extraordinary gift.

If you are looking for wood carvings gifts for your pet please visit the best only for dog lovers site on the net http://www.onlyfordoglovers.com


Source: High Quality Article Database - 365articles.com

Labels: Dog Breeding

As far as the visual aspect is concerned, you will already recognize what style of pooch you're searching for. But are you sure if that's the best dog breed for your lifestyle? For example, you might love the curly hair of a white Poodle, but are you prepare for the grooming treatment that's required to maintain that delightful curly coat? You respect the intelligence of a German shepherd dog, but are you aware that this breed will shed year-round? So unless you could bear to have hair constantly on your furniture, this affectionate dog might not be perfect for you.

Here is a list of the best dog breed species that belong in the top three of there respective categories. Find out which one has the ideal temperament for your household!

The Best Dog Breed For Child Friendly Living

If you have children in your family, it's necessary that your doggy will get along with them. The following breeds will certainly enjoy playing with your children:

1. Beagle
2. Collie
3. Labrador Retriever

The Dogs That Will Need Less Grooming

Any dog will require some form of grooming. The teeth must be brushed, nails need to be trimmed, the coat needs to be brushed and they all require a bath on occasion. But as far as caring for the coat is concerned, these breeds of dog don't need that much maintenance:

1. Whippet
2. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
3. Chihuahua

The Small Lapdog

If you're seeking a small dog breed that you will nestle on your lap, these can be the finest option:

1. English Toy Spaniel
2. Pomeranian
3. Shih Tzu

The Energetic Dog

If you enjoy a great run and want a companion dog that could join you for a trek on a trail or a ten mile jog. Consider one of these:

1. Siberian Husky
2. Border Collie
3. Parson Russell Terrier

The Athletic Dog

Are you looking for a sporting buddy? These breeds are strong, vigorous, agile, and active – the formula of a winner:

1. Sheltie
2. Border Collie
3. Greyhound

The More Obedient Dog

If you're seeking a dog who will listen, one that's willing to please and does not become distracted easily, go over one of these best dog breed:

1. Shih Tzu
2. Golden Retriever
3. Border Collie

If you're interested in getting a more detailed look at dog ownership (like the best dog breed), including a huge variety of detailed information on canine problem behaviors, dog psychology, and the most effective ways to train your dog, you ought to take a look at http://www.dogs-for-all.com


Source: High Quality Article Database - 365articles.com

Labels: Dog Breeding

Tips in choosing the best dog breeders

Dog breeders can be found anywhere. However, buying the best-looking puppy in the pet store does not necessarily guarantee that you bought a pet with a top breed.

What are the different types of breeders? Which of them provide the best dog breeds?

1) Look for reputable breeders. Well known breeders know specific details about their specialized breed. They examine genetic diseases that are known to have physical and emotional impact on that breed, perform veterinary maintenance and sustain breeding records.

A breeder of good reputation will provide you with both the good and bad points about the breed you prefer. They offer useful advice and assistance to new dog owners.

You can spot a reputable breeder by the way they maintain the dogs they personally own. They will let you observe the kind of care they give the dogs and allow you to see where the dogs live.

Most outstanding breeders are not just out to make money. They provide a written health guarantee with all the dogs they sell.

The majority of reputable dog breeders belong to local or national breed organizations and clubs.

2) Avoid backyard breeders, puppy mills and pet shops.

* Backyard Breeders. These people have limited education about the breed standards. Commonly, backyard breeders do not maintain a regular check-up on the dog’s health and genetic makeup. Usually, these people breed to make money and that is their focus.

* Puppy Mills. This is a term commonly used to describe a business that produces large quantities of dogs. The majority of the puppies born and trained in puppy mills do not usually follow a regular veterinary care and appropriate feeding. Puppy mills do not sell directly to the public. They only allow sale to pet shops, brokers and dog auctions.

There is no generic breed testing conducted in puppy mills. The dogs born here have not been adequately socialized and trained. Most of the puppies are sold in large numbers at the age of 3 to 4 weeks and could later give the dogs emotional and health problems.

* Pet shops. Many pet shops grant guarantees. However, these guarantees last for only a year while majority of genetic diseases found in dogs materialize when the animal is over a year old. Most pet shops buy their dogs from puppy mills at a very young age for a cheap price. Young puppies that are not suitably socialized could cause behavior problems and poor health.

Finding the best dog breeder means your pet could live a longer life. Find a reputable breeder now and spare yourself from possible heartache.


For more information on dog training, visit http://dogtrainingvideos.com


Dan Law is a dog enthusiast and trainer committed to writing articles and providing free information to dog owners and dog lovers.


Source: High Quality Article Database - 365articles.com

Labels: Dog Breeding

A puppy can grow to be your best friend and a dedicated companion. However, it is important to understand what you are getting into before going out and purchasing a dog from a breeder. I have worked with dogs for some time now and feel qualified to share a few pointers.

First, make sure you think things through carefully and over a long period of time. Adopting or purchasing a dog is not a decision that should be made lightly—it is important to understand that you are brining another creature into your household and to be aware of the needs of that animal. For example, early training is crucial to the long term happiness of both you and your pet. Obedience classes are a must, as are such points as house-breaking, establishing yourself as the ‘pack leader,’ teaching your dog how to greet guests and outsiders, etc. This all takes a substantial dedication of time and resources. A new dog in your household should be thought of in a similar way to having a child—while it may sound silly, the needs of the two are actually in the same ball park.

One very important factor is the breed you choose. There are currently one hundred and fifty seven dog breeds as recognized by the American Kennel Club and each breed has its own unique traits, strengths, needs, and of course, weaknesses and problems. There are a number of websites on the internet with extensive information on the various breeds, and it’s important that you spend as much time researching your options as possible—do not make the all too common mistake of going out and picking a puppy just because you think it looks cute.

Furthermore, as opposed to purchasing a dog from a breeder (which can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the breed and the pedigree), consider adopting a dog in need from a local rescue organization. A quick search online can help you find dogs in your area that are in need of loving homes. Sadly, many of these dogs never find the homes they need, simply because folks purchase bred dogs. It can be tricky to identify the mix of breeds in a dog you find at a shelter, but research, discussion, and naturally the help of the employees at the shelter can help give you an idea of what breed the dog is. Once you have this information you can research online or in a library to learn more about the specific characteristics of the breed.

If you do decide to adopt from a rescue, you have my thanks—you are doing a good deed and potentially saving a life—so pat yourself on the back. If, for some reason, you decide it would be better for you to purchase a dog from a breeder, it is very important that you research not only the dog you are interested in, but also the environment the animal is bred in. It is an unfortunate reality that many breeders you find have little interest in the animals and are far more concerned with earning money—these are the people you want to avoid. Look for someone who truly loves their dogs and cares for them dearly. This is the sort of breeder you want to give your business to—not only to encourage responsible breeding practices, but also because dogs that are bred in a loving environment are more likely to make successful, well behaved pets.

I hope these few tips help to give you an idea of the kind of commitment necessary for adopting or purchasing a puppy, and also the considerations you should make when selecting a breeder. Good luck, and make sure you do your research and make the right choice!

A useful resource for researching the various dog breeds is BreederRetriever.com. You can discuss your decision in the dog forums for further advice.


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Labels: Dog Breeding

A.k.a. the Alsatian or German Police Dog, the German Shepherd is a 'young' breed, having exclusively recognized as a distinct breed for nearly a century. The German Sheperd can retrace its ascendants back to an array of shepherding dogs in Germany, and a few groups tried to informally breed this dog. This attempt failed but in 1899, a recently reknowned group was established. Der Verein fur Deutsche Schaeferhunde was founded by Max von Stephanitz, who desired to breed an all purpose functional dog.

The German Shepherd came up to the United Sates in 1908 with soldiers impressed by the bravery and abilities of this dog. German Shepherds will achieve an average height of 22 to 26 inches, weighting 77 to 85 pounds and last an average of 13 years. There are an extensive mixtures of coats in this breed. Some German Shepherds are longhaired and some are shorthaired. The color is most often black and tan, but can likewise be coal black, entirely black, blue and liver and white.

The one thing all German Shepard coats have in common is that they shed extravagantly, and shed bigger during their shedding time of year. Daily brushing usually helps fight the shedding, and German Shepherds should only be bathed once in a while. Just about all German Shepherds are identified as self-confident and loyal.

German Shepherds are extremely intelligent and frequently used as police dogs, rescue dogs and guide dogs. German Shepherds can be excellent guard dogs and are very loyal to their family. They make excellent defenders, barking when someone unfamiliar is drawing near. German Shepherds do make good family pets and will protect the children of 'their' family. They will permit the poking and prodding children are prone to do. However, they are occasionally unaware of their size and power relative to a small child and may arbitrarily bang them across.

A German Shepherd and child should always be watched to avoid this. German Shepherds can endure apartment living if given adequate physical exercise on a regular basis and given enough activities. If left alone too long or not stimulated enough, German Shepherds will get bored and destructive. They love being in the companionship of their human family but not other pets. As a working dog that wishes to delight, a German Shepherd will do alright with obedience training. German Shepherds are prone to some genetic disorders including hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, digestive problems, epilepsy, chronic eczema, keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), dwarfism and flea allergies.


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Labels: Dog Breeding

Dog training – The Basic Commands

There are of course many reasons for owners to want a calm, obedient and faithful dog. For one thing, obedient and trained dogs are happier dogs, less likely to get into tussles with people or with other dogs. Another reason is that many communities require that the dogs living in their neighborhoods be well trained. This is especially true for many breeds thought to have aggression and behavior problems – dog breeds like pit bulls and rottweilers for instance.

And of course, training your dog well will also make he or she a much better family companion, especially in households where there are young children. Many studies have shown that proper dog training makes a big impact when it comes to cutting down the number of dog bits and other behavior problems encountered by dog owning households.

When considering training your own dog, or having someone else help you train it, there are certain basic commands that must be mastered in order for a dog to be considered truly trained. These basic commands include:

*Heel – it is important that any dog learn to walk beside its owner on a loose lead, neither pulling ahead nor lagging behind

*Respond to the word No – the word no is one word that all dogs must learn. Training your dog to respond to this important word can save you a ton of trouble.

*Sit – Training your dog to sit on command is a vital part of any dog training program.

*Stay – A well trained dog should remain where his or her owner commands, so stay is a very important command in dog training.
*Down – Lying down on command is more than just a cute trick; it is a key component of any successful dog training program.

Dog training does much more than just create an obedient, willing companion. Training your dog properly actually strengthens the bond that already exists between dog and handler. Dogs are pack animals, and they look to their pack leader to tell them what to do. The key to successful dog training is to set yourself up as that pack leader.

Establishing yourself as pack leader is a very important concept for any potential dog trainer to understand. There is only one leader in every pack of dogs, and the owner must establish him or herself as the dominant animal. Failure to do so leads to all manner of behavior problems.

A properly trained dog will respond properly to all the owner’s commands, and will not display anxiety, displeasure or confusion. A good dog training program will focus on allowing the dog to learn just what is expected of it, and will use positive reinforcement to reward desired behaviors.

In addition to making the dog a good member of the community, obedience training is a great way to fulfill some of the dog’s own needs, including the need for exercise, the security that comes with knowing what is expected of it, a feeling of accomplishment and a good working relationship with its handler. Dog training gives the dog an important job to do, and an important goal to reach.

Giving the dog a job is more important than you may think. Dogs were originally bred by humans to do important work, such as herding sheep, guarding property and protecting people. Many dogs today have no important job to do, and this can often lead to boredom and neurotic behavior.

Basic obedience training, and ongoing training sessions, provide the dog with an important job to do. This is especially important for high energy breeds like German shepherds and border collies. Training sessions are a great way for these high energy dogs to use up their extra energy and simply to enjoy themselves.

Incorporating playtime into your dog training sessions is a great way to prevent both yourself and your dog from becoming bored. Playing with your dog helps to strengthen the all important bond between you – the pack leader – and your dog.

Visit here for immediate access to even more dog training tips:

www.train-my-dog.org



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Labels: Dog Breeding