The Blog for Dogs (DogsNow.blogspot.com)

Chihuahua

2011-10-21T01:31:00.000-07:00

Chihuahuas are tiny little dogs that look solid with a big round head that feature huge round dark eyes with a short pointy nose and alert ears. This is the smallest of all the dog breeds and comes in two different coat types.

The Chihuahua finds its origins in Mexico, Central America, and South America. The Aztecs and Toltecs developed the breed for many purposes, including ceremonial sacrifices. The Mexican state of Chihuahua gave its name to the dog breed.

The Chihuahua is, therefore, quite an ancient breed, whose ancestors were likely the Toltec companion dog breed, the Techichi. Today’s breed combined that dog with some breeds of Chinese dog which came over to the Americas with Spanish traders and colonists. The Chihuahua received its first AKC recognition in 1904.

General Appearance - the smallest dog breed in the world is contained within the tiny form of the Chihuahua, which has a very small body, a big round head featuring big round eyes, triangular ears, and a pointed muzzle. The eyes can be either luminous or dark ruby colored. It should be noted that while Chihuahuas are puppies, they have a spot on their head between their ears that is soft, but the skull does harden with age. The body is not tall, but it is long, ending in a full-length crescent-shaped tail which can either be held to the side or up and over the back of the dog. There are two different kinds of coat: short haired and long haired. Common colors include chestnut, sand, fawn, silver, and steel blue, though any color, including parti-color or black and tan, is acceptable. The dog should look sturdy, solid, and compact.

Typical Temperament - Chihuahuas are bright and aware dogs that can function as terrific watchdogs. They can live in a family, but prefer a single owner with whom they can form a very special bond. They prefer dogs of their own breed.

Grooming - As there are two types of coats, there are also two types of grooming requirements. For the short coated variety, a rubber grooming comb or brush should be carefully run over the dog’s smooth coat every few days to keep it clean and distribute natural oils throughout the coat.

On the other hand, the Chihuahua with the long coat requires a brushing or combing every one to two days to keep it clean and free of knots. The ruff of the coat should also receive an occasional washing to remove bits of food and other dirt that can become lodged there.

Exercise - Though the Chihuahua is small and dainty-seeming, the risk of stumbling over and harming this dog is actually quite small. The first reason for this is that the dog is actually much more sturdy than it appears. The second is that it is actually quite agile as well and it will steer out of the way so that it isn’t kicked or crushed.

It is common to see these dogs carried around in arms or fashionable bags, but they actually do very well walking about on a leash even with their tiny little legs. They have enough energy to keep going and should receive a good walk every day. If this dog isn’t exercised enough, the odds of misbehavior increase dramatically.

It is much better for the Chihuahua to wear a harness instead of a collar when being walked on a leash. Though a collar should be worn for identification purposes, the leash should be attached to a harness as this will not put pressure on the delicate windpipe of the dog.

Chihuahuas also like to run off the leash, so a well fenced in yard that doesn’t have any escape holes will provide a great opportunity for this.

Approximate Food Cost - Depending on many factors including the weight, health, and activity level of the dog, a Chihuahua will eat around ½ cup of average dry dog food every day. Monthly, this should cost around $5 per month.

Like almost all smaller dog breeds, limb problems called subluxating patellas are a risk - likely from continually jumping up and down from furniture. The wind pipe (trachea) of the Chihuahua is also very weak and should be protected from damage by using a harness attached to the leash instead of a collar. Chihuahuas also have a predisposition to cleft palate, eye issues, hypoplasia of the dens (an irregular development in the second vertebrae which can lead to instability of the head), and hydrocephalus (too much water on the brain). Chihuahuas males are at risk of hemophilia, where the blood does not clot properly.

Common Illnesses include: heart valve disorder, pulmonic stenosis, hypoglycemia, shoulder luxation, and hypoplasia of dens.

Living conditions - Due to the tiny size of the dog and the fact that the Chihuahua wants to be around his or her owner all the time, just about any home is perfect for the dog permitted that he or she gets out for a daily walk.

Training - Though the Chihuahua may be willful, it is also an intelligent breed and, with patience and consistency, training can be very successful. Positive reinforcement, used gently, is the most effective technique to use with this breed. Crate training can help in making housetraining much easier on both the dog and the owner. The Chihuahua does also require a great deal of socialization in order to keep dominance problems under control as well as minimizing suspicion of strangers.

Common Problems - The Chihuahua has a very delicate windpipe and should not have a leash connected to its collar. Though tiny, the dog does require exercise on a daily basis, instead of being carried around everywhere all day long. This likely is not a good dog for children or in families with other dogs cats, or other larger pets as it increases the risk of injury to the dogs.

Chihuahuas are a breed that love the one-on-one bond that can be established with a human companion. Each Chihuahua as his or her own very unique personality and will make his or her individual characteristics quite clear from early on.

The Chihuahua, though very small, is also very graceful, bubbly, and full of energy. They feel emotions quite strongly and show them very clearly in their human-like facial expressions.

These are not high maintenance dogs, with easy grooming and a very basic amount of daily exercise required. The bath every one to two months is likely the largest regular event in the care of a Chihuahua.

Keep in mind that this is an exceptionally long-lived breed, so if you are getting a Chihuahua, you may have a new family member for up to two decades. This is not a short-term commitment, living longer than most breeds.

Yorskshire TerrierWest Highland White TerrierBichon FriseTraining A Chihuahua - HousebreakingChihuahua Training - The Basics

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Chinese Shar Pei

2011-10-16T23:55:00.001-07:00

The Chinese Shar Pei, commonly known as the Shar Pei, is an ancient breed of dog that originated 2,000 years ago in China. He has a very distinct appearance, as his face and body are covered in deep wrinkles, and he has a rather unique hippopotamus-like head shape.

Shar Peis are independent canines who have a strong bond with their family and can develop unwavering loyalty to their owner. He is intelligent, confident, dignified, sensible and always ready for anything. He is very protective of his home and is wary and cautious of outsiders, making him a very good watchdog, guard dog, and a brave companion.

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR, DRADogs – 55 - 65 lbs. (25 - 30 kg.)
Bitches – 40 - 55 lbs (18 - 25 kg)Dogs - 18 - 20 in. (46 - 51 cm)
Bitches – 18 - 20 in. (46 - 51 cm)12 years (average of 9 - 15 years)

The Chinese Shar Pei is an ancient Chinese dog that is believed to have existed since as far back as 206 BC. Though their ancestry is uncertain, some researchers think that the breed may be a descendant of the Chow Chow, but the only obvious link between the two breeds is their purple tongue. The name "Shar Pei" means sandy coat. The Chinese believed that the wrinkles and black pigmented scowling mouth of the dog would scare off evil spirits.

Originally, these pooches were used as farm dogs for multipurpose work, including tracking, hunting, ratting, herding, protecting live stock, as well as to guard the family and home. They were sometimes used in dog fighting events as their prickly coat gave them a good advantage.

Though they were a popular breed in China for many years, their population dramatically declined during the Communist Revolution. In an effort to save the bred, Matgo Law, a Hong Kong business man, introduced the breed to the United States, and there was plenty of interest in the Shar Pei. It was not long before this canine became a favorite among American dog lovers. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1992.

General Appearance - Shar Peis are medium sized dogs. They feature a square profile and have a broad and flat head that has a hippopotamus shape to it. They have a padded, full and wide muzzle with a moderate stop. Their tongues are a blue-black (or purple) color. Their eyes are dark (sometimes lighter if the coat is a diluted color), almond-shaped, small and sunken. Their ears are set high, are very small and slightly rounded at the tips, giving them a triangular look. The tail has a thick base and tapers to a slim point, and is carried incredibly high.

The skin on the body of the Shar Pei is very wrinkly when they are puppies, but they lose many of their wrinkles as they age. Adult Shar Peis may be heavily wrinkled with large heads, or may have tighter skin with very few crinkles and smaller heads.

The Shar Pei has three coat varieties - Horse Coat, Brush Coat and a Bear Coat (very rare and not recognized by the AKC). The coat is very harsh and rough to the touch. The fur is completely straight and off standing and does not exceed 1 inch. The Horse Coat is the shortest and feels rather prickly, while the Brush Coat hair is slightly longer and feels smoother. The Bear Coat consists of an undercoat and topcoat that is longer than 1 inch. Shar Pei coats can be all solid colors and sables. Solid color dogs may have darker shading on their ears and down their back, and may have a dark muzzle.

Typical Temperament - Shar Peis are brave, intelligent, dignified, regal and alert. They are excellent watchdogs and guard dogs, highly protective of their family and home. They are slightly standoffish and reserved with strangers, but should not be naturally aggressive towards people. He is very devoted to his pack, enjoys their company, but is also independent.

This breed can be very good with children if they are properly socialized with kids at a young age. The same is true of cats. However, this pooch does not always get along well with other dogs and can be very aggressive towards his fellow canines. In many situations the compatibility with other pets is dependant on the individual dog. Nevertheless, early socialization, obedience training, and a confident owner is key to the overall success of a Shar Pei achieving a good temperament.

Grooming - A naturally clean dog, the Shar-Pei should be brushed daily to move natural oils through the coat to help keep it shiny, healthy and free of excess hair and dirt. Their coat does not require trimming and sheds very little year round. They should only be bathed every few months to avoid drying out the skin.

The folds of the skin on the face and body need to be cleaned on a regular basis and should be checked and wiped with a damp wash cloth to remove any dirt to prevent infection. Wrinkles should also be kept dry to avoid trapped moisture, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria. In addition, eyes should be checked everyday for discharge, nails need to be trimmed on a monthly basis and teeth brushed every few days.

Exercise - Shar Peis require a minimum of a daily walk that is 10 -20 minutes long. They will happily engage in just about any form of exercise and should be given the freedom to run off leash whenever possible. This breed does not like water and will not typically enjoy swimming. They are also sensitive to heat and should not be over-exercised in extreme temperatures.

Approximate Food Cost - The Shar Pei will, on average, eat about 3 to 3 ½ cups of regular dry dog food every day, depending on the recommendation of the veterinarian who will take into account weight, age, activity level, health, and other elements of the dog’s condition. On a monthly basis, this quantity of food should cost around $25 to $30, depending on the brand of dog food and the store at which it is purchased.

The Shar Pei is prone to certain illnesses including eye problems (i.e. entropion), skin issues, hip dysplasia and kidney failure (renal amlyoidosis), which can cause fever, as well as swollen hocks syndrome. It is important to note that while many people are under the impression that Shar Peis are prone to skin problems because of their winkles, this is not always true. In fact, in most cases, dogs that have skin issues have developed them due to a hereditary condition. Thus, it is important that you obtain your pet from a reputable breeder who tests for genetic illnesses and breeds healthy lines.

Common Illnesses include: Entropion, skin problems, heat sensitivity, hip dysplasia and renal amlyoidosis.

Living conditions - The Shar-Pei is relatively active indoors and does not need a yard to be happy, as long as he is sufficiently exercised and taken on a daily walk. Therefore, this breed is suitable to apartment living when provided with the necessary exercise and the occasional freedom to run around off lead in a safe environment.

Note: remember that he is sensitive to hot temperatures (wrinkles can hold in heat) and needs to be provided with cool shaded areas and water when outdoors.

Training - A very smart dog, the Chinese Shar Pei needs a confident handler. Owners cannot be perceived by the dog to be inconsistent, uncertain, meek or mild, or their pet will attempt to take over the role as leader of the pack, which can lead to many behavioral problems. This pooch responds well to firm and consistent training, and needs to be clearly shown his place in your pack. He is a very independent breed and can be bold and stubborn if not given clear instructions. He must be well socialized as a puppy and provided with solid obedience training. Shar Peis excel at conformation, obedience, tracking and agility.

Common Problems - The Shar Pei has a strong personality and a stubborn protective nature. Owners who do not know how to treat the breed will find themselves with a very bossy pet that will attempt to rule his family. Socialization, obedience and a daily walk is a must to help prevent negative behavioral issues from developing. Some Shar Peis are prone to slobbering.

A noble, bold and often stubborn breed of dog, the Shar Pei is not a mild canine. He is intelligent, alert and incredibly loyal to his family. His wrinkles must be well looked after. He requires a strong and self-assured owner who knows how to handle him, and provide him with the training and socialization he needs to develop into the beautiful dog that has managed to survive for thousands of years.

Popular search terms for this page:

English BulldogDog Breed InformationBreed Specific Dog Training MenuShar Pei Training - How To Keep Your Dog’s AttentionChinese Shar Pei Training - Consistency Is Key

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Puggle

2011-04-12T13:20:00.000-07:00

The Puggle is a hybrid dog that is the result of crossing a Beagle with a Pug. They are a very popular breed that is quite cute, energetic and loving. They can have a very sweet-temper, and can be social, playful and intelligent. They are a wonderful small companion and possess many of the great traits that make the Pug and Beagle such wonderful canines.

They have a very curious nature and find various scents intriguing; they will follow their nose whenever they pick up an interesting smell. Puggles are truly a wonderful pet who are happy to please and are eager to be loved.

Puggles were first bred in the 1980’s in the U.S. State of Wisconsin, and are the result of crossing a purebred Pug with a purebred Beagle. Puggle breeder, Wallace Havens is credited as the person who coined the word "Puggle", and is also the first to register his dog with the American Canine Hybrid Club. The breed did not receive widespread popularity until 20 years later, when it became a favorite pet among many U.S. families across the nation. Today, the Puggle is recognized as the most popular hybrid dog.

General Appearance - Puggles are a crossbreed, and because of this fact, their physical appearance is difficult to generalize compared to that of purebred dogs, especially since they don’t have a breed standard. Though Puggles generally look alike, the appearance of these dogs is dependant on their parents. That being said, many of these pooches often have the fawn colored coat and wrinkled black masks that are characteristic of Pug’s but a body length, longer muzzle and floppy ears similar to the Beagle. It is not uncommon for this designer dog to also have a thickset body, underbite, short legs, and a Beagle-length tail with a Pug curl.

The Puggle coat is smooth, straight and short haired. It is available in a wide variety of colors, but fawn or tan with a black mask covering the muzzle and around the eyes is the most common. That said, fawn Puggles can have a varying degree of black coloring on their face, some feature full masks, while others have very small amounts. In addition to fawn, some dogs are born solid black, white, tri-colored or may have multi-colored coats.

Typical Temperament - Puggles are sweet tempered lap dogs, and yet are very playful creatures. They are energetic, affectionate and bright. They bond quickly with their owners and family, and are excellent companions. They are very social animals and require plenty of attention. and want to be involved in as much activity with their pack as possible.

They are friendly toward strangers, other dogs, household pets and children. Puggles have a keen sense of smell, like a Beagle, finding many smells very interesting, and will be inclined to track scents. They like to use their voice and will alert their owners to strange sounds and people, making them a good watchdog. Overall, they are a happy-go-lucky dog with a very friendly disposition.

Grooming - The Puggle coat is easy to care for and only requires a weekly brushing. It is important to brush him at least once a week, as this will help with the removal of excess hair and assist in controlling his overall shedding. This breed does shed their hair regularly. The coat only needs to be bathed when necessary.

Their facial wrinkles should be cleaned every few days with a damp cloth to make sure any trapped dirt is removed to prevent infections from occurring. Discharge should be wiped carefully from their eyes with a tepid wash cloth. Nails must be clipped on a monthly basis, ears should be checked and cleaned weekly, and teeth brushed every few days to help keep teeth and gums healthy.

Exercise - While he is a happy lap dog, not unlike the Pug, Puggles also have natural hunting instincts like Beagles. Since this is the case, they do have plenty of energy and need a certain amount of daily exercise to be happy. It is recommended that this breed receives a minimum of one long daily walk (approximately 30 - 40 minutes), in addition to other activities, that may include fetch, the freedom to run about a safe yard, and so on.

Note: Puggles are sensitive to extreme hot and cold temperatures. Furthermore, due to their shortened muzzle, they can have difficulty catching their breath if they are overly excited or exercised too much. When outside in warmer temperatures, they should be provided with a shaded area for rest, as well as water, as they can overheat and tire quickly when active.

Approximate Food Cost - Based on the health, activity level, weight, and other aspects of the Puggle’s life, a veterinarian will typically recommend that he or she consume between 1 ¼ to 1 2/3 cups of quality dry dog food every day. Depending on the brand and where the food is purchased, this should cost an average of $15 to $20 per month.

Puggles are a relatively healthy breed, but owners need to be aware that this dog is prone to any genetic illness that may affect their parents, and are also at risk for any disease that affects the Pug or Beagle breeds. Health concerns a Puggle may face include, cherry eye, entropion, skin infections, slipped stifles (dislocated kneecaps), back problems, epilepsy, lameness, respiratory issues, and Pug Dog Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) to name a few. This breed is also prone to overheating and is intolerant of extreme temperatures.

Common Illnesses include: eye problems, Pug Dog Encephalitis, lameness respiratory issues, skin infections.

Living conditions - This breed can happily live in an apartment and will do fine without a yard. They are active indoors and love to lie in the laps of their owners. Nevertheless, they still need a long daily walk and the occasional space where they can romp around in to release energy, have fun and to feed their natural instincts.

Training - Puggles are relatively easy to train. They are intelligent and are motivated by praise and treats. They respond well to firm, yet gentle training and will learn quickly if they are taught with persistence, consistency and repetition. They can be obstinate if the training sessions are boring, so they need to be interesting and short for best results. They need a reliable and solid leader, early socialization, and obedience training to develop a wonderful and healthy temperament.

Common Problems - Some issues that owners will experience with this particular canine is that they are difficult to housetrain. Patience, a consistent routine, repetition, praise and reward are key to making this training a success as quickly as possible. Crate training will also be helpful. Puggles are highly sensitive to temperatures and can overheat quickly. This can be a problem as this breed has Beagle instincts and likes to be active. Make sure he is never over-exercised and is provided with a cool spot to rest, as well as plenty of water. Some Puggles will howl, making a baying sound that is Beagle-like if they are excited. Finally, this dog is prone to separation anxiety.

Puggles are fantastic designer dogs that are very popular among dog lovers. They are incredibly social and are fabulous company for adults, children, seniors and other household pets. They are lively and have a joyful disposition that makes them easy to love. He is content with just about any living quarters and is happiest when in the company of those he loves. The Puggle is a beautiful crossbreed and a companion unlike any other.

Popular search terms for this page:

PugDog Breed InformationBreed Specific Dog Training MenuPuggle Training - How To Do a Basic Sit-StayHow To Train A Puggle

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Dog Training Revealed

2011-04-08T03:18:00.000-07:00

At Last! Learn The Truth About Dog Training And Learn How You Can Have A Perfectly Behaved Dog No Matter How Uncontrollable He Is Today!

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Dog Training Home Study Course

2011-03-29T23:41:00.000-07:00

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Learn the Unbelievable Secrets to Dog Training with Dog Learning Pro

2011-03-26T23:01:00.000-07:00

Cut your dog training in half. Learn how to stop your dog's bad behavior! Learn the Unbelievable Secrets to Dog Training with Dog Learning Pro.

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Why Is Dog Training So Important

2011-03-22T09:49:00.000-07:00

Dec 19th, 2010 By Brian
Whilst it may seem like an option, dog training should never be overlooked. Many owners will refrain from properly commanding their dog, seeing the exercise as merely a way to teach the dogs tricks and make him an obedience machine. This is not the case. It in fact reinforces the bond between the dog and his master and results in a much happier family.
Your dog is a pack animal and you are his leader. He looks to you for understanding of every situation and you should be able to give him the answers. When you train him you enable this and it will give a much greater understanding of your pet. You need to be able to communicate correctly with your dog to enrich your relationship and ensure you keep your bond.
Proper training removes the occurrence of many behavioural problems that plague owners such as chewing furniture, stealing food and jumping on guests. A well trained dog will sit on command and show off his good manners. This alone can strengthen your bond as you become more and more proud of your family pet.
A trained dog is also an excellent safety precaution. An untrained dog may not come when called, allowing him the option of wandering off without you. Trained dogs are more likely to respond to commands in high stress situations too, reducing the chance of danger for all parties.
Dog training can be a very satisfactory process to a dog. Whilst it may seem as though you are working your pet, to the dog it is a source of contentment being able to understand and please his owner. Many dogs become happier and calmer after training and are a continual source of pride for the owner.
There are many ways to train your dog. There are classes, books and information online. Classes are generally recommended as this allows the dog to socialise with other dogs and humans. Socialisation is a very important part of the training process and should be included in any method or program.
It is important to understand your dog before beginning any exercise. A dog may become frustrated at an owner who is too demanding or inconsistent. Learning when your dog is frustrated, evading commands or confused will see rewards much quicker.
Dogs are generally not punished when being trained properly as this method is ineffective. Positive reinforcement shows much greater results and so dogs should be rewarded for good behaviour and not punished for bad. Dogs are keen to please their master and rewards will see results much quicker.
Training still requires a lot of patience and time from the owner and should be considered prior to getting a dog. It can also be costly but overall is a necessity to ensure a healthy, happy relationship with your dog. It is not something that should be seen as optional, more something that comes as a part of owning a dog. A well trained dog will generally provide a much more rewarding experience to those around him than one who does not know his place within the home.
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Some Basic Dog Training Tips

2011-03-18T19:20:00.000-07:00

Dec 26th, 2010 By Brian
The key to proper dog training is positive reinforcement through the use of treats and a great deal of praise. You need to be very patient and avoid any harsh reprimands and punishment as this is only likely to be detrimental to their progress. When done properly both you and your pet will benefit. Follow these very simple tips if you want to train up your pet.
Start off by training your dog in the very basic obedience commands such as sit, heel, stay, and come. When your dog is in the learning phase it is very important that you praise them immediately when they do something right. As soon as they exhibit some good behaviour you need to let them know that they have done something very well. You can then follow this up with a treat or reward.
You should then start to increase their expectations very gradually. This simply means that you shouldn’t reward them or praise them straight away what they have done something right. Instead, wait a few seconds and then give them some praise. Wait a few more seconds and then provide them with a treat.
Once your dog has mastered these basic commands then you can move onto others. There are all sorts of different training commands that you could teach to your pet, and therefore how far you go is pretty much down to you. Remember that if your dog is struggling or if you are struggling to teach them properly, enroll them in a dog training class.
When training your pet to make sure that you do this in a very quiet area of free from any type of distraction. Depending upon the breed that you have, your pet may well be distracted frequently and therefore you need to try to eliminate these as much as possible. Limit every session to only 5 or 10 minutes so that their attention doesn’t wander.
As they begin to master the different commands that you are teaching them, move onto continuing your teachings in some louder and busier areas. In most cases you will be issuing many of these commands when you are in different environments with distractions. As such, it is crucial that you start from scratch and train your dog within these situations as well.
Make sure that you begin to reduce the rewards that you present to your pet gradually. You cannot keep producing rewards every single time they do something right and therefore they should be gradually weaned off any treats that you present them as a result of their good behaviour.
Be persistent. Properly training your dog is going to take time and it will certainly depend upon the breed that you have and the specific personality of your pet. While some dogs are likely to pick things up very quickly, others will take a lot more time and therefore you do need to be consistent and persistent. If you are having trouble then consider the option of enrolling your animal in some professional classes.
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Standard Poodle

2011-03-15T05:26:00.000-07:00

The Standard Poodle is a lovely dog, and is the original and largest in size of the three Poodle varieties. He is a proud and graceful pooch that is good natured and dignified. He enjoys life, is very intelligent, and is considered to be one of the most trainable breeds. They can be taught many skills and talents, and particularly excel at obedience and tricks.
Standard Poodles are very vivacious and playful. They have plenty of energy, are rather graceful, agile and love to participate in a variety of sports. They are always ready to enjoy whatever life has to offer them, and are pleased to go with their owners just about everywhere they go.
To this day, it is not known where the Standard Poodle originated, but many believe that his development took place in either France or Germany. However, since no one can prove or agree on a country of origin, the breed is considered to be tied to both. Despite the debate over his roots, the Poodle has been in existence for well over 400 years and can be seen in paintings that date back to the 15th century. The dog’s ancestors are believed to be the French Water Dog (a breed no longer in existence), the Barbet and the Hungarian Water Hound. Their name was likely taken from the German word "Pudel", which essentially means "one who plays in water".
In their early days, Standard Poodles were used by German and French hunters for retrieving water foul and sniffing out truffles that were underground in the woods. In fact, the popular Poodle look with the pom-poms and bracelets of hair around their ankles was originally intended for the purpose of allowing the dog to be more agile during hunting, and to keep the joints warm and protected from the cold and the sharp reeds in the water. The French eventually began to use the canine as a circus performer because he was very intelligent and easily learned tricks.
In the 18th century, as the Poodles popularity grew, two new smaller varieties were added to the breed - the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1887.
General Appearance - The Standard Poodle is medium to large in size. The skull is fairly rounded with a definite but slight stop. His muzzle is long and straight and he has oval shaped eyes that are dark in color, either brown or black. His ears hang close his head, are flat and long. His legs are proportioned to his body and his webbed feet are oval shaped with arched toes. The topline is level, and the tail is carried straight, up, and is set high. The tail is often docked to half or less than half its length to give the dog a more balanced look.
The Standard Poodle coat can be wiry or curly or soft and wavy. Since it does not shed, the hair can be clipped in diverse styles, such as the "Pet Clip", "Puppy Clip" or "Lamb Clip" (trimmed short all over), "Continental Clip" (The hindquarters, upper portion of the legs and part of the tails is shaved, but bracelets of hair are left around the ankles, while pom-poms are left on the tail and hips), and the "English Saddle Clip" (Virtually the same as the Continental Clip, except the hind quarters are not shaved). The coat comes in solid black, blue, silver, gray, café-au-lait, brown, red, apricot, cream and white. Some breeders even breed parti-colored poodles, though they are not recognized as part of the standard.
Typical Temperament - The Standard Poodle is a proud, intelligent, and noble dog with a gentle nature and a pleasant personality. He is cheerful, devoted, affectionate, and is highly social. Though he is a loving companion, this breed does require exercise and will not be content remaining indoors and sitting at his owner’s feet all day. Due to their active nature, they can become high strung if not provided with the proper mental or physical stimulation.
Poodles are natural born barkers and because of this, make excellent watchdogs, alerting their family to both sounds and strangers. Although they typically enjoy human company, Poodles are not always compatible with very small kids, especially those who do not know how to interact with the breed. They do better with older and more sensible children. They do, however, get along well with other dogs.
Grooming - No matter the type of "clip" a Poodle’s coat is styled in, their hair requires a comb and brushing every day to keep it free of mats. When grooming the coat, you need to be very careful and gentle, and any large knots or mats that are found should be cut out. Since they don’t shed, they will need to be trimmed every six to eight weeks. While Poodles participating in shows will need to be bathed regularly, the average family pet should only be bathed every few months or when necessary to avoid drying out their skin. Note: Owners who would like to keep grooming as hassle free as possible, will find that the Pet Clip is the easiest to manage.
In addition to the coat, Standard Poodles need to have their teeth brushed a few times per week and have their teeth scaled regularly. Their ears should be checked frequently for infection and mites, and any wax should be cleaned out. The hair inside the ear canal will also require regular plucking.
Exercise - The Standard Poodle has natural sporting instincts and requires daily activity. He has plenty of stamina, and needs about 30 - 60 minutes of good exercise per day. He can burn his energy in a variety of ways, including walks, fetch, jogging, swimming, and agility sports. He will also enjoy the freedom to run around off lead, and should be provided this pleasure whenever possible in a safe and enclosed space. Note: while he can obtain his exercise in a variety of ways, it is important to take him out on at least one walk every day for his mental wellbeing.
Approximate Food Cost - The Standard Poodle typically consumes 3 to 4 cups of dry food per day which costs approximately $20 to $30 per month when purchasing a typical quality chow.
Standard Poodles are relatively healthy and can live a long time. Nevertheless, they are prone to illnesses like cataracts, runny eyes, and PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), which can lead to blindness. Other problems include allergies, hip dysplasia, skin issues (often the cause of poor or excessive grooming), ear infections, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Addison’s Disease, Epilepsy, and Bloat (the stomach expands and fills with gas and can twist). Since Standard Poodles are prone to Bloat they should be fed 2 - 3 small meals per day instead of one large meal, and should not be exercised directly after eating.
Common Illnesses include: PRA, cataracts, ear infections, allergies, hip dysplasia, runny eyes and Von Willebrand’s Disease.
Living conditions - Though they are well suited to a house with a good sized yard, Standard Poodles are very adaptable to just about any living quarters. They can live happily in an apartment, because while they do have plenty of stamina, they are relatively inactive indoors. That said, despite their inactivity, they will still need to be provided with adequate exercise outdoors, including a daily walk and the freedom to run off lead to prevent destructive behaviors, and the potential for them to become high strung.
Training - Standard Poodles are very easy to train and are exceptionally bright. That said, they need a dedicated and consistent teacher in order to learn and remain obedient. These dogs should be socialized and trained while they are still in the early stages of puppyhood, and need to be provided with firm, yet gentle teachings. They respond well to positive reinforcement, not harsh discipline. This breed is highly sensitive to the tone of a person’s voice, and if they sense that their mind and will is stronger than their owner’s, they will attempt to take charge. Owners must be patient, reliable, confident and unrelenting on rules. The dog must respect you as his leader or you will have no control.
Standard Poodles are exceptionally skilled at competitive obedience, performing tricks, as watchdogs, agility sports and retrieving.
Common Problems - Persistent barking can be a problem with this breed, as they were bred for hunting and are born with the natural inclination to bark. Though you cannot stop your dog from barking, you can control it and prevent it from becoming an incessant habit by providing him with a command that instructs him to be quiet. This should be taught at an early age, and it is essential that you are consistent with this teaching in order for it to work.
Another problem is the Standard poodle can become high strung, which can be very troublesome. To prevent this, simply make sure the canine is provided with plenty of mental and physical stimulation daily. This can include walks, playing, training, and so on.
Standard Poodles are wonderful and unforgettable pets that have plenty of personality. They are graceful, animated and have a lust for life. They are not for owners who want to laze around all day. These dogs need activity, challenge, and full-time companionship. Furthermore, while they are an ideal breed for allergy sufferers, as their hair virtually doesn’t shed, they do require daily grooming because they have a high-maintenance coat. Overall, the Standard Poodle is a noble and cheerful dog that possesses both brains and beauty.

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Should You Teach Your Dog Tricks

2011-03-11T00:37:00.000-08:00

Sit! Roll over! Jump! Teaching your dog tricks might not be the easiest thing in the world, but it’s highly beneficial to you and your dog. Teaching your dog tricks can help strengthen your relationship with your beloved pet in many ways. Below are some great reasons why you should start teaching your dog tricks.
1. Make everyone safe- While learning to teach your dog tricks, you learn many training techniques which can also be used to gain control over your dog. Teaching him basic tricks like sit and stay can also be used in life situations like crossing the street or entering a store.
2. Give Your Dog Something to Do- It doesn’t take long before your dog gets bored and decides to take on a new hobby of chewing anything in sight, including your brand new sofa. Teaching your dog tricks will keep him focused on the task at hand, and will entertain him for hours!
3. Help Keep Your Dog’s Mind Sharp- Training your dog will keep his mind active and responsive. As dogs get older they become less physically active, but learning tricks will keep his mind active and alert.
4. Help Create a Better Bond between You and Your Dog- Your dog will look up to you as being the pack leader, and will listen to you instead of trying to get your attention in destructive ways. Best of all, once your dog learns tricks you two become a team when training or performing.
5. Show Off- You can show off your dog if you teach it some cool tricks, and your dog will get people’s attention. Dogs love attention and they love being in the spotlight so they will like performing in front of your friends and family. Of course, you will also get the recognition of being a star trainer.
6. Make Vet Check Ups Easier- Both the veterinarian and you hate it when your dog can’t control itself during a check up. If you teach it to be calm during the check up, it will make both of your lives easier, and you won’t be embarrassed that your dog is acting up.
7. Gives Your Dog a Hobby- We all have hobbies we like to do such as watching TV or playing games, but dogs also need things to do. Training dog tricks is great to do on rainy days when you can’t take him for a walk.
If these reasons have inspired you to teach your dog tricks, then you’ve come to the right place. Dog Trick Academy and our community is devoted to help teach your dog tricks, we keep it fun and entertaining!
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Steps To Good Dog Training

2011-03-06T23:01:00.000-08:00

Dog training can be a difficult task for inexperienced owners or individuals with their first companion. By following a few simple guidelines and regulations, this task becomes far more simple and regulated. It is important to be able to train the dog to the specific needs of the owner, rather than to impress or “look good”. This is crucial if there is to be any gain from teaching the animal to perform or habituate its activities.
Teaching an animal early is beneficial to both parties in that a firm relationship is established. Dogs were bred to perform tasks for their masters, and must be taught so early on in their lifetime as to strengthen this relationship. If the animal is left to its own devices for a longer than normal period of time, it will most likely become unruly and difficult to control as time goes on. Thus it is important to begin training as soon as the dog is ready to leave its littermates and be solely with its master.
There are many ways to go about teaching a dog. All involve the participation of the owner, and all variations include forms of obidience training, which is the most important. Obidience training includes simple commands that control what the dog does for the owner. It is crucial to have a grasp on obedience lessons in order to prevent the dog from becoming unruly and difficult to control.
The first step in commanding an animal to obey is to establish trust with it. By doing this, the animal feels less remorse or stress in performing for said individual. This bond should be strengthened through the usage of treats or other rewards, especially if the dog is young. In this case, food rewards are important.
By adding treats to an obidience regimen, a younger dog will be more willing to perform instead of disobey. This type of animal will require this form of reward until it is mature enough to obey without a treat.
Some areas offer facilities that the owner can take their pet to to be trained by professionals. This is not reccommended for newer owners, as the types of classes offered and given to the dogs is often subpar in comparison to owner-only training. Classes can only teach a dog so much, and these lessons should only be used on especially difficult animals.
Once basic commands are understood by the animals, more advanced lessons can begin for the animal. It is still reccommended that rewards be used when introducing new forms of commands that the dog may not understand. Once these have been adequately understood, they can be recessed until they are no longer needed.
For new owners, dog obedience can seem to be a difficult task to accomplish, but once some basic guidelines have been followed, it becomes far easier to get the animal to perform for the owner without conflict. This is beneficial to the owner who wishes to have an obidient and observant pet, without needing to constantly discipline an unruly animal.
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Miniature Schnauzer

2011-03-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

The Miniature Schnauzer is a small canine that is highly active, robust and is classified as a type of terrier. They are very busy dogs that like to play and are exceptionally affectionate, devoted and enthusiastic. Mini schnauzers are intelligent and very trainable. They are also quite alert and make fabulous watchdogs.
This breed has distinctive facial features including bushy eyebrows, beard and moustache, resembling their larger cousin the Standard Schnauzer. Mini Schnauzers are great companions and can be an excellent addition to a family. Overall they are a happy and hardy dog that makes a super pet.
Though the origins of the Schnauzer breed dates as far back as the 15th century, the Miniature Schnauzer was not established until a much later time. The Miniature Schnauzer originated in Germany. They are believed to be the result of crossing the Standard Schnauzer with the Affenpinscher and possibly the Poodle. The name of the dog is taken from the German word "Schnauze" meaning muzzle or snout. These canines were initially bred as small farm dogs to be ratters, hunting the grounds for vermin. However, they were also used as hunters, for tracking, as watchdogs and were companion dogs. The Miniature Schnauzer was recognized as a distinct breed in 1899. Today he is a popular pet (the most popular of the three Schnauzer breeds) and excels at performing tricks and in competitive obedience.
General Appearance - The Mini Schnauzer is a small but sturdy dog. He has a well built body that is square in proportion. His strong head has a rectangular shape, his muzzle ends quite bluntly and he has a black nose. He has small, dark brown eyes that are deep set. The ears of the miniature schnauzer are set high up on the head and can be cropped, tapering to a point, or they can be left natural, folding in a V-shape close to the head. The tail is typically docked and is carried erect. If left, natural, the tail is still carried high and arches toward the back.
This breed has a double coat that features a soft undercoat and a wiry outer coat. Their hair is stripped short, close to the body, except for the legs, eyebrows, beard and mustache. The coat comes in a few colors including salt and pepper, black and silver, solid back and solid white.
Typical Temperament - Miniature Schnauzers are smart, energetic and loving canines. They enjoy the company of people but also have an independent nature. They are very good watchdogs and are always on alert. They are suspicious of strangers and will bark to let their owners know of any strange sounds or sights.
These small Schnauzers love to play with and enjoy the company of children when they have been properly socialized with them. Although they can get along with other dogs that have been raised with them, they are not compatible with cats or other smaller pets, especially rodents. Since they were initially bred for hunting vermin the instinct to track and catch these creatures is very strong and cannot be trained out of them. That said, they make good family pets and are wonderful companions when properly socialized and trained.
Grooming - The wiry coat of the Miniature Schnauzer is not difficult to care for but it does need a daily brushing (short wire brush) and combing to prevent matting. In order to maintain their short cut look, they should be clipped or stripped all over twice a year, the hair on the legs and head is usually left a little longer than the rest of the body. They should be bathed only when necessary. Dogs with natural ears need to have their ears checked and the hair of the ear canal should be plucked. Nails need to be clipped monthly and teeth brushed every few days to help maintain oral hygiene. They shed very little.
Exercise - Mini Schnauzers are very energetic little pooches and will enjoy a long, brisk walk or jog. They like to play fetch and should be provided with the freedom to run around off leash whenever possible. He should be given 40 - 60 minutes of exercise per day. This will help to prevent behavioral problems and will allow the dog to expend the energy he has bottled up. Note: These canines should not be allowed off the lead in open areas as they will feel inclined to chase any rodents they happen to see.
Approximate Food Cost - A Miniature Schnauzer ingests about 1½ cups of dry kibble each day at a cost of roughly $15 per month.
Miniature Schnauzers are a healthy breed, but this doesn’t mean that they are free of health problems. Some of the illnesses they are prone to include liver disease, cysts, skin disorders, kidney stones, diabetes, von Willebrand’s disease and hereditary eye problems. Owners need to care that they do not overfeed these little dogs as they can gain weight easily.
Common Illnesses include: Skin disorders, kidney stones, diabetes, cysts, Von Willebrand’s disease.
Living conditions - This dog adapts well to apartment life and is calm and happy indoors as long as he is provided with adequate exercise, including a daily walk. That said, the Mini Schnauzer is especially pleased with a home and nice sized yard.
Training - This breed can be quite willful and independent and must have a firm and reliable trainer or they will choose to follow their own rules. Schnauzers need obedience training and need to be taught that when it comes to their pack, they are not the leader. If he does not recognize his owner as the alpha, he will assume this role and will develop Small Dog Syndrome. These are very bold, determined and intelligent dogs. They enjoy challenges and need a confident and consistent teacher. They are particularly skilled at learning tricks, obedience and agility. Socialization and training needs to be started at an early age.
Common Problems - Miniature Schnauzers are generally a happy and agreeable breed but in order to be well rounded and friendly pooches they need to be socialized and trained as puppies or they can develop a number of unwanted behaviors, such as guarding, separation anxiety, nervous and constant barking, Small Dog Syndrome and become anti-social toward humans and other dogs not in their pack. Furthermore, this dog is naturally inclined to chase rodents, other small animals and birds and needs to be kept on a lead when being walked, and is not suitable with these types of household pets.
The Mini Schnauzer is an excellent companion dog. He is a very versatile pet that is affectionate, playful, dedicated to his family, and posses both watchdog and guarding skills. He has plenty of energy, likes to be active and is happy to go for a walk, a car ride or on any other adventure with his owner. Miniature Schnauzers are very agreeable, happy and an independent breed that matures with a super personality when they are well socialized and provided with consistent obedience.
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Toy Poodle

2011-02-27T10:59:00.000-08:00

An amazingly intelligent dog, the Toy Poodle is the smallest of the three Poodle varieties. They are highly trainable, learn quickly and are exceptionally skilled at obedience, agility and retrieving. This breed has both the brains and the beauty to be a top dog.
Toy Poodles are delightful canines with a sweet, lively and joyful personality. They are very social animals and love to be in the company of their human family. This breed is very enthusiastic and alert, and is a good watchdog that likes to make his voice heard. An active and energetic pet, Poodles are lovely and devoted companions, and are very popular dogs.
The Poodle breed has been around for a minimum of 400 years and can be seen in paintings from the 1600’s. No one knows the true county of origin of the breed, as the subject has been quite controversial. That said, many believe that the roots of the dog are primarily tied to France and Germany. What can be agreed upon is that this pooch descended from the French Water Dog (a now extinct breed), the Hungarian Water Hound and the Barbet. The name "Poodle" is thought to have been taken from the German word "Pudel", which roughly translates to - "one who plays in water”.
Toy Poodles were bred down from the larger standard and miniature Poodle varieties and became quite popular with royals. They were used as retrievers, watchdogs, for competitive obedience, performing tricks and agility. The Poodle breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1887.
General Appearance - The Toy Poodle has a somewhat rounded skill with a small but defined stop. They have a long and straight muzzle. Their brown or black eyes are oval in shape, and their long, flat ears hang close to their head. Their four legs are proportioned to their body, and they have oval shaped, webbed feet with arched toes. The tail is set high and carried proudly. Sometimes the tails is docked half its length or even shorter to provide the dog with a more balanced appearance.
The coat of the Toy Poodle can be soft and wavy or wiry, curly or corded. It can be clipped in different styles, including the "Pet Clip" (hair is trimmed short all over), "Continental Clip" (The hindquarters, upper half of the legs and half of the tails is shaved, while bracelets are left around the ankles, and pom-poms on the hips and tail), and the "English Saddle Clip" (Similar to the Continental Clip with the exception that the hind quarters are not shaved). The coat is available in all solid colors that include, white, cream, apricot, red, brown café-au-lait, gray, silver, blue and black. There are even some parti-colored poodles.
Typical Temperament - The Toy Poodle is often considered to be the most reserved of all the Poodle groups and can be aloof with other people outside of his pack. To prevent this from occurring, owners need to provide this pooch with proper socialization while he is young. Socialization is also important when it comes to ensuring the poodle establishes good relationships with other household pets and children. In terms of kids, this dog is not recommended for very young children as he can become easily injured from rough handling or careless children, and will not tolerate teasing.
Poodles are cheerful, intelligent and thrive on human companionship. They have plenty of energy, are alert and are fabulous watchdogs. They will bark to alert their owners to strange sights or sounds, but sometimes they just like to make noise, so barking should be controlled. Overall he is a proud, bright, active and jovial dog.
Grooming - Poodles, regardless of the style in which their coat is clipped, require daily grooming. The coat should be brushed and combed every day to keep it free from mats. Owners need to be gentle when they brush the dog and thick mats should be clipped out. The coat requires a trim every six to eight weeks and should be bathed every couple of months. To keep coat care as simple as possible, the dog should be kept in the "pet clip" (also known as the "puppy clip" or "lamb clip"). Note - Toy Poodles that are shown will require more extensive grooming.
The ears of the Poodle need to be checked and cleaned for wax, infection and mites frequently. The hair within their ear canal should also be plucked on a regular basis to help keep ears healthy. Their teeth should be brushed a few times per week, and need regular scaling. They shed hair very little and are often good pets for allergy sufferers.
Exercise - This breed enjoys being active and his exercise needs can be easily taken care of. Walks, playing fetch, learning tricks, swimming and letting him run around off lead in an enclosed space are all great ways to help him release his energy and stay healthy. They should be taken on a minimum of a 20 minute walk per day and must have exercise that involves social interaction for their mental wellbeing.
Approximate Food Cost - Toy Poodles typically eat a ½ cup of food daily at a cost of about $5 per month.
Poodles are a long-lived breed, but some are prone to certain illnesses like IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia), heart disorders, diabetes, slipped stifles (dislocated kneecap), epilepsy, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), ear infections, digestive issues, and kidney disease to name a few. These dogs also have sensitive skin and can suffer skin problems caused by allergies, dryness and other issues.
Common Illnesses include: PRA, ear infections, kidney disease, slipped stifles.
Living conditions - Toy Poodles can happily live in city or country settings. They can adapt to apartment living well, and are perfectly content without a yard as long as they are provided with enough outdoor exercise. They love to play outside and should not be denied this joy. Furthermore, if they are exercised adequately every day, they are very docile indoors and are perfectly content to lie right next to their owner.
Training - Poodles need obedience and socialization in order to mature properly and develop the beautiful temperament they are known for. They are highly trainable and are eager to learn. They enjoy challenges and are quick to associate the tone and sound of their owner’s voice with commands. They respond well to direct and gentle teachings that are consistent, fair and feature praise and reward. They need a patient, reliable and loving leader they can understand, respect and follow. A well trained Toy Poodle can do exceptionally well at obedience, tricks, dog sports, agility, tracking and herding.
Common Problems - While he is a happy and devoted breed, he can develop some unfavorable traits, such as extreme barking. If you do not teach the Toy Poodle to stop barking on command, he can keep it up for a long time, and will also feel inclined to bark to get attention or simply because he feels like it. This can become very annoying to both you and your neighbors. Also, he needs to be exercised and requires social interaction on a daily basis or he can become high strung. Finally, without the proper training, he can develop Small Dog Syndrome, which can result in a number of unpleasant behavioral problems, including snapping, guarding, possessiveness, suspiciousness of stranger, and being untrustworthy with children. To stop this from occurring, the Poodle should never be allowed to think that he is the head of the pack.
Toy Poodles are brilliant and attractive looking dogs who are great companions for active individuals and families. He is happy to call just about any size living quarters home. Though his coat does require daily care, he rarely sheds his hair, which makes him an ideal pet for allergy sufferers. The Toy Poodle is long-lived, affectionate, sweet, loyal, and a true little pal.

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Papillon

2011-02-23T00:57:00.000-08:00

The Papillon is a small, alert and elegant dog. Also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, and sometimes called the "Butterfly Dog" because his ears give the appearance of butterfly wings, he is a hardy and lively breed that loves human company and is intelligent and highly trainable.
An animated and charming dog, the Papillion is tougher than he appears and enjoys engaging in activity and being outdoors. He is not shy, nor is he aggressive, and can be a relatively good watchdog, but has a friendly disposition and will greet everyone he meets. Overall, this small canine is a patient, proud, loving and gentle dog that is a pleasure to call a companion.
Papillons are a very old breed of dog; their history dates back to almost 700 years ago and begins in Europe. Most of the Papillon’s development has been recognized through the many depictions of these dogs in paintings. They can be seen in Italian art that dates back to the 13th century. They were frequently painted on the laps of French and Spanish noblewomen, and, like today, were primarily companion dogs.
Initially, the breed had large drooping ears and was called Dwarf Spaniels. They were later known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, the official name given by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale). Eventually, some of the dogs developed erect ears that were fringed to resemble the shape of a butterfly. These dogs were called Papillon, the French word for the insect. There were then two varieties of the Continental Toy Spaniel that were recognized - the erect-eared Papillon, and the drop eared dogs, called the Phalene (“Moth”).
The American Kennel Club, who recognized the Papillon in 1915, considers each variety to be the same breed, and both of these dogs can be born of the same litter. Furthermore, the AKC allows the two varieties to mix-mate, but this practice is strictly prohibited by the FCI to avoid problems with the ears.
General Appearance - They are a fine-boned, little dog that has a very elegant appearance. Papillons have a small head that is somewhat rounded between their large fringed ears that are either erect or droop down with rounded tips. They have a well defined stop, and a somewhat short and thin muzzle that tapers to their black nose. Their round dark eyes are medium in size and are black rimmed. The Papillon has a long tail that is set high and covered in their long hair. It is carried over their back.
Their single layered coat is straight, fine and long, with additional fringe on the ears, chest, back of the legs and their tail. The color of their coat is white, and features patches of any color with the exception of liver. A colored mask that is not white covers their ears and eyes from front to back, enhancing the "butterfly" appearance.
Typical Temperament - Papillons, or Paps, as they are sometimes nicknamed, have a friendly, alert and charming disposition. They are very animate, vivacious, playful and ready to engage in any activity that they can with their human family. They are a gentle, intelligent, and obedient dog that is hardy and enjoys outdoor exercise. This pooch is a natural born barker and a good watchdog, but is not aggressive. He will alert his owners to the approach of strangers or to any other noise he finds suspicious or of interest, but should not be overly yappy.
The Papillion can enjoy the companionship of children, but must be properly socialized with kids. They are generally fonder of older and more responsible children who understand how to play and respect the dog. They are typically not recommended for children under 6 years of age, and can be easily injured if handled roughly or carelessly. They usually get along well with other dogs, and can tolerate cats if they are socialized with them at a young age.
Grooming - Although their coat does not matt or tangle, a daily coming and brushing will suffice to keep the silky, single layered coat clean and healthy. The coat does not need to be clipped, but sometimes fur can grow excessively under the pads of their feet and should be trimmed to provide them with a more comfortable and sturdy footing. They should only be bathed or dry shampooed when necessary, as they are usually, naturally odorless and clean. Papillons are average shedders.
Their nails should be clipped on a monthly basis and their teeth cleaned frequently (every few days) to help with oral care.
Exercise - They are small, but don’t let the size of a Pap fool you. This dog needs to be walked everyday for a good 20 minutes, and should have additional play time to meet their exercise requirements. They are active indoors, but outdoor exercise is loved by this canine and it is good for his overall physical and mental wellbeing. Whenever possible, Papillons should be provided with the freedom to run around off lead in an enclosed and safe environment.
Approximate Food Cost - It costs an estimated $10- $15 per month to feed this breed, and the average Papillon eats 1 - 1¼ cups of dry food daily.
Papillons are resilient, long-lived dogs, and when provided with the proper care, exercise and nutrition, generally lead healthy lives. However, all canines, regardless of how hardy their breed may be, are predisposed to certain illnesses that may be linked to their environment, lifestyle or heritage.
Ailments that some Papillons have been known to suffer include: problems with their kneecaps (particularly their hind legs); eye issues, Von Willebrands disease; strains on their joints, muscles and bones caused from jumping too high; fontanel (a soft spot on the head that is caused by an opening in the skull that never entirely closes, putting the dog at risk of head injury that could lead to death); adverse reaction to anesthesia. Also, Paps are sensitive to cooler temperatures and can become chilled easily in colder climates.
Common Illnesses include: patellar luxation (knee dislocation), eye problems, fontanel and Von Willebrands disease.
Living conditions - Papillons can live comfortably in an apartment, as they are active indoors and will be fine without a yard as long as they have a good daily walk. That being said, they are sometimes not ideal for apartment life only because they do have a strong instinct to protect their home. Thus, many of these dogs may bark excessively when they hear noises, and will not distinguish between regular sounds and those worth of actual alarm. However, barking can be controlled with training.
Training - He is a very obedient dog and is a sharp thinker, who has a knack for problem solving, allowing him to become a dedicated and fast learner, and a pleasure to train. He excels at obedience, agility and tricks, and is very competitive in the show ring. Papillons also have the ability to be wonderful service and therapy dogs.
This breed responds well to positive reinforcement, gentle guidance and consistency. He requires a firm, kind, fair and dependable leader. He must have intense socialization when he is young, and must be taught to obey and follow the rules of his master, or he will seek the position as head of the pack for himself. A poorly trained Papillon is not a sweet, friendly or charming pet. If this canine believes he is the pack leader, he will develop Small Dog Syndrome and will display highly negative behaviors that can lead to real problems, including guarding, possessiveness, snapping, obsessive barking, become high-strung, untrustworthy with children and so on. In addition, pooches that are not socialized properly can become nervous, timid and wary of other animals and people. Hence, training and socialization are a necessity, not an option.
Common Problems - The Papillon has the tendency to bark a lot, and this can become very annoying if not controlled. Teaching the dog to stop barking on command will help with this issue. They can be difficult to housebreak, but a consistent housetraining routine and patience will eventually pay off. Papillons crave lots of attention and love to be with their owners, this makes them highly susceptible to separation anxiety when left alone. To help prevent and ease this problem, owners shouldn’t leave their animal home alone for more than a few hours per day, and need to include their pet in as much of their daily activities as possible.
Papillons are a resilient, loveable, endearing and beautiful breed that can adapt to just about any living condition (apartment, house, city or country setting), as long as they are provided with the exercise, training, socialization, care and love they need. This canine requires plenty of affection and attention from his owner, and is not suited to a person or family who is away for many hours of the day. He should be included in as much of his family’s lifestyle as possible, and should be provided with good challenges to keep him happy.
The Papillon is a smart and wonderfully charming pooch that is truly one-of-a-kind in both his appearance and in his companionship.
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Shetland Sheepdog

2011-02-18T09:51:00.000-08:00

The Sheltie or Shetland Sheepdog, is a small canine that is native to the Scottish Shetland Islands. Shetlands are loyal, intelligent and eager to please their owners. They are affectionate, very trainable and have a pleasant temperament. Their docile and loveable nature makes them ideal pets, and their alertness allows them to be excellent guard and watchdogs.
Shelties have an appearance that often reminds many people of a Collie. They are confident dogs that are independent and ready to perform just about any task that is commanded of them. In fact, while they are a popular pet, some owners still use them as herders of small livestock. Nevertheless, despite what they are used for, this long furred and charming pooch is a devoted companion.
Shetland Sheepdogs originated in Scotland in the 18th century, and were initially bred in the Scottish Shetland Islands for the purpose of herding and protecting livestock, particularly sheep flocks. Their main function was as working dogs, though they also made wonderful pets.
Shelties are related to the Rough Collie and are a descendant of Border Collies and Icelandic Yakkin, a small island dog that is now no longer in existence. Shelties were prized for their gentleness when herding small flocks, but could also command large cattle. They were recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1911.
Today, Shetlands are one of the most popular companion dogs, and due to their sharp intelligence, they have many talents including, herding, watchdog, tracking, guarding, performing tricks and obedience competitions.
General Appearance - The Shetland Sheepdog has a look that is not unlike the rough coated Collie. He has a muscular and arched neck, and his head has a blunt wedge appearance when viewed from the side. His muzzle tapers slightly from his erect ears with tips that fold slightly forward to his black nose, and features a slight stop. Shelties have almond shaped eyes that are generally dark, except in the blue merle coat variety, who sometimes have blue eyes.
Shelties have a long feathery tail that they carry in a small upward curve or straight down. Their double coat is long and full, but is shorter at the head and on the legs, and forms a mane around the chest and neck region. The undercoat is tight and soft, while the outer layer is harsh and straight. Shetland Sheepdogs are available in diverse coat colors including, sable and black with varying amounts of white and/or tan and blue merle.
Typical Temperament - Shetlands are a loyal breed who love their family and like to keep busy. He is a very alert companion who will guard and watch his property in an effort to protect his pack. He has a voice that he’s not afraid to use, and will bark frequently as part of both his watchful and herding instincts. Shetlands enjoy the company of humans and other canines and are good with children when they have been properly socialized with them.
Shelties are a highly trainable breed and are a type of dog that requires not only mental stimulation to ward off boredom and destructive behaviors, but also physical stimulation to release pent up energy. He is both a beautiful and brilliant canine whose kindness and affection is happily bestowed on owners who provide their dogs with socialization and firm yet gentle training.
Note: It is important to mention that Shelties have a natural herding instinct that motivates them to chase things including small animals and even cars. They should never be allowed to run freely off leash near roads.
Grooming - Shelties like to be clean, and while they do have a long and full coat, caring for their fur isn’t as difficult as it first appears, especially when it is tended to on a daily basis. When brushed everyday, their coat usually stays mat free, dirt is removed, as well as excess hair. If there are mats, you can mist the coat lightly with water to help you detangle and tease out knot clumps with a comb. They should be bathed or dry shampooed only when necessary. In addition, Shelties shed all the time but are seasonally heavy shedders and shed their undercoat two times per year (spring and fall).
Aside from coat care, their nails should be trimmed monthly and their teeth brushed every few days.
Exercise - This breed is very active and has plenty of energy that needs to be exhausted in order for him to remain happy and healthy. Despite their small size, Shetland Sheepdogs actually require more exercise than the vast majority of breeds. You can provide them with the daily exercise they need in a variety of ways including a brisk daily walk (20-30 minutes), a jog, playing fetch, engaging them in activities such as herding, agility, tracking or other sports. It’s also a good idea to allow this dog to run free in a safe environment.
Approximate Food Cost - The average Sheltie eats approximately 1 ½ to 2 cups of dry food per day, at an estimated monthly cost of $10 - $15.
Shelties are a relatively healthy breed of dog, especially when they are produced from reputable breeders who have carefully selected the dogs used in their breeding program to carry on strong traits, reducing the risk of genetic health problems. That said, illnesses that are known to affect Shelties based on their heritage include malformation and eye disease, hypothyroidism and patella luxation (kneecap dislocation). Another common problem seen in these dogs is obesity, which is often the result of over-feeding and lack of exercise.
Common Illnesses include: Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Corneal Dystrophy, Collie Eye Anomaly (or Sheltie Eye Syndrome), Thyroid problems, hip dysplasia and von Willebrand’s Disease.
Living conditions - Shelties are small dogs that have a lot of energy and can be quite active indoors. However, they are only suitable for apartment dwellers if they are sufficiently exercised. They thrive in homes with decent sized yards that they have the freedom to run around in off lead.
Training - Shetland Sheepdogs are highly trainable and can be taught many tricks and sports, including agility trials, herding, tracking, etc. However, regardless of your advanced training intentions for your dog, it is absolutely essential that this canine is provided with proper, consistent and firm obedience training. He needs a strong leader, whose authority he can respect or he will choose to follow his own path.
Shelties are workers at heart and thrive when they are given tasks. They can be very stubborn and independent and are naturally inclined to take charge, as it is in their nature to heard and control livestock. Therefore, keep in mind when you train that this breed appreciates working environments and requires both adequate mental and physical stimulation. Furthermore, he needs to be well socialized with other people, children and dogs to reduce aggressive tendencies and to accept them.
Common Problems - Shelties can develop behavioral problems if they are not provided with consistent training and leadership. Owners who are not constant in their training and pack leader methods often discover their dog is difficult to control and displays negative behavioral issues including guarding, possessiveness, snapping and, in some cases, biting. These characteristics are often the signs of a condition known as Small Dog Syndrome, which is when the canine thinks he is in charge.
Another common problem that many Sheltie owners face is the dog’s frequent, persistent and noisy barking. It is important to find out the cause of your pet’s barks and to teach them a "Quiet" command to control their yapping, so it doesn’t become out of hand and increasingly annoying.
Shetland Sheepdogs are very loving dogs that are well suited to families and single owners who are looking for a devoted, smart and active four-legged companion. They are happy to be part of just about any activity their owner is engaged in and are naturally eager to learn and take on challenges.
Shelties require daily grooming and shed frequently, so they may not be the best pet for allergy sufferers. They can adapt to just about any living environment but need the proper exercise to be happy and healthy.
Although they are tolerant of children, they need to be socialized with children at a young age to encourage the proper relationship, or the pooch may be inclined to herd or control a child. Additionally, though they can be friendly, they are often reserved with strangers at first. Moreover, they like to bark, and though this is a good watchdog quality they also enjoy making regular noise.
Shelties are the perfect pet for anyone who is dedicated to providing them with the love, care and dedication it takes to ensure their wellbeing for all the days of their lives.
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Easy Dog Training Tips For You And Your Pet

2011-02-13T21:20:00.000-08:00

Dec 20th, 2010 By Brian

We all have a love affair with our dogs no matter how small or how big there may get. The one thing though we all can agree on is they can get out of hand very quickly. Most people need to realize that when it comes to mans best friend, that some kind of training is needed. Without any training the results will be many headaches for the owner. Here are some dog training tips to help you and your pet co-exist in the same space.

Many people think the longer you train a puppy or dog the better off you will be. This is not the way it works. Pets all have various attention spans and once that is gone you are just wasting your time. A good rule is between ten to thirty minutes each day and you will see results. Any longer and you will not get the desire effort that you may want.

What is in a name? The one thing that many people do is choose a name that really makes no sense. Pick a name that easy for your pet to hear and recognize. The reason for this is the dog will react much better when you use it. Stay away from names that are closely associated with commands you may be using.

For your dog training to be effective you need to have some kind of consistency. Using the same commands over and over works well. Dogs rely on association a lot and this is why consistency is so important. Being consistent is one of the biggest keys to your pets success.

Find a routine that works well for you and your pet. It could be starting in the morning or right after work. An animal will look forward to the time that you spend with them. The key is to keep the same routine over and over. Pets love repetition and this is one way this can be accomplished.

We all learn at a certain rate and our pets are no different. Putting too much on them will slow down the training process. Work on one thing at a time until it is accomplished to your satisfaction. The more you put on your pet the less chance for success you will see. Take your time and success will happen.

Pets will make mistakes, but facts show that punishing them does not see to work very well. Many times it will have the opposite effect and take that much longer to get them trained. Different breeds learn at different levels so that maybe something you want to consider.

Rewards are also something that you will want to do when your pet does well. Dogs want our approval and by giving them a reward they will want to continue to make you happy. Working with your dog will also progress better if you give them rewards when they accomplish something.

Dog training is something that takes time and you must remember that. Not all dogs are created equal and this must be taken into account. If you want your pet to succeed take your time, and know once you are done the effort will be well worth it.

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Dog Training Tips That One Should Know Of

2011-02-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

Training a dog can be one of the hardest things to do. Dogs seem to have a mind of their own. When people have dogs, they might want a little bit of help in learning how to train them. Here are some things that one should know which could help a person when they are trying to train a puppy. Dog training doesn’t have to be harder than one might think. Here are some tips to know about.
The first tip would be to start training as soon as possible. There are times when one might think that puppies can’t be trained. They might even think that puppies shouldn’t be trained or that one might start later in life to go about and train a dog. This isn’t right at all. One wants to start early in order to train the dog to do what they want the dog to learn.
Another thing that might help with the dog training process is that one needs to have a firm voice. They call this the parent voice. If one is giggling and so forth when they are giving a command the dog might just think you are teasing them. So, one needs to have a strong voice and be firm with it. This can make any dog listen.
Many think that spanking is bad. However, there is nothing wrong with a light tap on the nose as one teaches a dog such things as not to bite. However, they should not do this when the dog is barking. The dog has to bark. It was trained to do so. However, if one keeps it from doing this they will wish they had it when they didn’t have it before. Keep that in mind.
Depending on what you are training the dog to do, one might find that having a crate to put the dog in is always a good way to train. Only use this when you are looking to show them that they have done wrong. Think about what you are putting them in there for as well. Some get so fed up with typical things that any animal is going to do. This shouldn’t be done. As we mentioned before, it should only be done when they act up.
Rewarding them for when they do good is something that should be done as well. When they learn that they do this and they get a treat, they do make the connection. It becomes a routine of sorts which is also why a routine is needed. Consistency is needed. When they have this, they learn when to do things and what to expect.
Here are some tips about dog training. When one takes these simple tips and use them, then they will find that they might have an easier time of actually training their dog. It’s something that can help those who are trying teach the simplest of things. These might be basic, but there are all sorts of things that one can do.
While these are just starting points, one might run into a block in the road. If this seems to be the case, then one might try obedience school. However, for the simple things, these are some tips which one should look into using. It can do a world of god for you and the puppy. So try these and see how much help they can do for you.
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How Dog Training Can Be Effective And Bonding

2011-02-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

Taking the time to train a dog is an important and responsible way to be a pet owner. Considering the number of people that end up taking their dog to the animal shelter or give it away to another family is high because they cannot deal with behavioral problems. Being able to spend time with a dog and being committed to his dog training is vital to owning the dog that has remarkable and good behavior.

When you choose a canine for a pet, you should try to get a pup when possible. This is not saying you cannot train an adult dog because you can. However, training a pup can help you to have more time in bonding. This is an important part of training and making your pet feel like part of you and your family.

Teaching basic commands is the first thing you will need to in training. With a young pup, you will want to also focus on house breaking. Combining the two is easy and making sure you remain committed is the key to success when it comes to house training any dog, especially a young one. Make sure you always take your pet outdoors during house breaking at the same time every time.

Consistency is important to teaching dogs even the simplest commands. Sit, stay, fetch, and lie down are some commands you want a dog to know. These are also commands that will come in handy when you have guests to your home. Those same guests will be amazed at how behaved your canine is. Be sure to always take time out each day for teaching him the things he needs to know. Try to do so at the same time as well.

Effective training is done with positive reinforcement. One way to do this with your dog is by rewarding him with treats every time he displays good behavior. Teaching him to be obedient in every situation takes time and commitment on your part. Be sure to take your dog with you to many places for helping to reinforce good behavior in different situations.

Some problems you might experience with your dog are hard to break, but it is possible to do so. Urinating from excitement, food aggression, constant and unnecessary barking, and jumping on you are some types of absolute unacceptable behavior. Taking the time to teach your dog from a young age not to do these things is important. However, you can also break the adult dog from doing these acts when you are patient and understanding that he might have never has proper training from a former owner.

Showing a dog you are the boss can be done in a gentle way. By trying to do so in a manner that causes you to yell or hit the dog will only build up a serious distrust of you from a dog. Always make sure you speak to your dog in the same tone of voice all the time and never hit him for any reason. The adult dog you might have acquired may have unacceptable behavior due to being mistreated by a previous owner. Keep this in mind when trying to teach him the commands and other things you would like him to do.

When you choose to have a dog, let dog training be fun and a part of the bonding process. Do not let it stress you or the dog out and always remember to have the greatest patience. You will never regret spending the time to properly train your dog. He will also never forget it is you that loves him the most.

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Keys To Successful Dog Training

2011-02-02T03:45:00.000-08:00

Dec 21st, 2010 By Brian
If you have a new puppy in the house you will quickly realize how important it is to get the puppy well trained. There are several effective dog training methods out there and it is important to do your research so that you can settle on the technique that will work best for your puppy. We’ll look at some things to keep in mind while trying to teach your puppy not to use the bathroom in the house.
Whether it is training a new puppy or trying to work and older dog through behavioral problems the owner is always in the best position to teach a dog how to behave. It is also important to recognize before you even purchase a new puppy that there is a lot of work involved on the part of the owner.
Puppies unlike other pets are virtually completely dependent on their owners, so the love, affection, care, and discipline that you show during the beginning years will do much to shape what kind of dog you will have later on. Do not expect that it will be all fun and games as you train your puppy either. There will be chewed shoes, sleepless nights, and poop in places where you prefer that it not be. Nevertheless training your puppy should on the whole be a positive experience for both you and your puppy.
When you train your puppy you should use short sessions because let’s face it puppies do not really have long attention spans. Start out with basic commands and being sure to reward your puppy regularly for good behavior. By putting in the work and effort while still a puppy you can enjoy the company of a well behaved dog through its adult years.
Certain schools of though on training encourage ideas like punishment and breaking the puppy’s spirit to encourage obedience. These methods do not create the mutual trust necessary to have a well-trained animal.
Teaching a puppy not to use the bathroom in the house is one of the most important and first lessons that an owner should embark on. It does not have to be as difficult as some people imply if you have a method clearly in mind before you start the process. One of the biggest keys to success in this regard is to keep a close eye on your puppy for the first few weeks, so that you can reinforce the idea of using the bathroom outside and not in the house.
Do not allow a few occasional mistakes during the process and even after to discourage you. If mistakes are cleaned thoroughly and you make good use of odor neutralizer mistakes should be few and far between and eventually cease all together.
You love your puppy and you want it to be well-trained so that your friends and family can enjoy your pet’s company. A clean house is also important and house training a puppy will aid in that. If you are willing to put the time and effort into dog training it can be an activity that both you and your pet enjoy.
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Basic Dog Training Tips To Help You And Your Puppy

2011-01-28T23:56:00.000-08:00

Dec 30th, 2010 By Brian
Puppies are beautiful fuzzy little fur balls that very few people can resist. Many people are caught up in the moment to make a quick decision to get a puppy but unfortunately, not everybody considers all that is involved with owning a puppy especially as they later turn into adult dog. As well as house train to use the bathroom outside you must also consider how you’re going to deal with dog training when it comes to all the other important things your dog must learn.
Before you’re even chosen to bring your dog home with a good idea to sit down and consider what it is you want him or her to learn. There are some basic commands, such as come, sit, stay you will want to teach in order to keep both the dog and everyone else in the family safe. After they have learned the basics then you can teach them fancier commands if you would like.
It is helpful to think of your puppy is a very young child or baby as they are very similar in the way that they are not able to keep their attention focused on any one thing or the few moments of time. It’s for this reason, it is important not only to be consistent, but to repeat what it is you’re trying to teach them in short intervals a number of times a day.
Though it may be frustrating for a while to get the new little member of your family doing what he or she is supposed to it is really important to remember that they are still young, and it will take them time to understand and remember what it is you’re teaching them.
Always use a firm but calm voice when talking to a dog. The tone of your voice will make a difference as to whether or not the dog listens to you and takes you seriously or ignores you. It’s important to remember never to yell as most dogs will just block out what you’re saying in frustration.
Along with the tone of your voice offer your new pet encouragement when something you want to do is done correctly. Some people choose to offer a special toy, affection with an excited voice while others choose to offer bits of treats. Some dogs may respond to one type of encouragement more than others. All are great options you just have to decide which the best choice is for you and your dog. If you decide to go, with treats do keep in mind that is important to keep them very small and monitor them so that your dog does not gain weight quickly. While training measure out the amount of treats for the day and spread them throughout the day this helps you keep track of how much your dog is getting. It helps to avoid unintentionally becoming overweight.
Though most people won’t deny they have a moment or two of weakness when they look at that cute little puppy it’s important to make it clear to the pup that if a behavior is not acceptable. You must make sure that you consistently point out inappropriate behaviors as it’s just important for them to understand what they’re doing wrong, along with what they’re doing right.
There are many resources available for new pet owners these days to help with training. There are varieties of books as well as websites on the Internet many of which offer tips for specific breeds. There are often also newsletters available that you can have directed it to your e-mail on a daily weekly or monthly basis which can offer you information, as well as personal accounts that advice from other pet owners. If you feel as though you need more help don’t hesitate to call a dog trainer. They can offer you professional advice and encourage you to continue on the path of positive training.
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Dog Training For Dog Shows

2011-01-24T22:20:00.000-08:00

Jan 10th, 2011 By Brian
Getting your dog ready for a dog show is something you want to be careful about because you don’t want to over work your dog while you are putting him through dog training. If you over work him, it could lead to bad results including him not feeling well or he won’t win the prize that you want at the dog show so you need to take it easy and take it one step at a time.
You have to have the proper training to get ready for a dog show but you can’t under any circumstances over do it. To get him ready, you may want to take him on long walks every day. This may be a good thing or it may be a bad thing. Dogs love going on walks but depending on where you live and what time of the year it is, then it might be too hot to take him on a long walk because dogs need water to drink.
If dogs don’t get enough water, then they won’t do what you want them to do. Besides you’ll find that they will be moving slow by dragging their paws and their tongue will be hanging out almost to the ground. Whatever the prize may be at the show, it’s not worth it to be over working your dog like this. You need to give them water when they need it so they can survive.
Some people may be overly obsessive about this kind of thing and they have always wanted to enter a dog show that they may give them protein shakes instead of water. You don’t want to do this; dogs are not people. All they need is food and water to survive. They will do fine at the show if you don’t work him too hard.
Dogs always need to look their best when they’re in front lots of people so you may want to either take him to be groomed or you might want to groom him yourself. A majority of the people would want to get their dog groomed somewhere because they want to have it professionally done, or other people might want to do it themselves because they don’t trust other people and they want it done how they want it done.
Grooming includes doing their nails, taking a bath and getting their coat nice and shiny, and depending on how obsessive you are over all of this you may want to see about getting their teeth cleaned. Don’t expect your dogs to wait patiently through when all of this is over. They might howl so loud you would think they’re being killed. Or you might have some dogs that will sit and weight until it’s over but don’t count on it.
Once the show finally arrives, this is when you see that all your training has paid off. If you trained him well without overworking him, then he’ll probably do really well and you might win. If you did over work him, don’t expect him to even get past the first round because he may be too tired.
The whole point of dog training is to spend time with your dog and not worry about whatever prize you’re going to be getting if your dog wins. Their’s more to winning then that. It’s getting the chance to train your dog well and getting in on a little one on one action with your dog.
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An Overview Of Dog Training

2011-01-20T12:28:00.001-08:00

People who love their canines enjoy spending time with them. Playing and having fun is important to both of you, but it’s also important that your canine friend be taught to obey certain commands. As long as you’re going to be spending time with them, you may as well let it be a fun thing to do, while you start their dog training.

Before canines were being domesticated, they did very well in communicating with each other using body language. Even though they could bark and growl, their meals depended on working together as a team, and silence was important to sneak up on their prey. They still have these keen instincts, and consider you as part of their pack.

You may consider your canine friend to be a member of the family, and you can see evidence of this by the way they keep watching to see what you are doing. If you walk toward the door, they will get up and attempt to go with you, wherever that might be. They want to keep the pack together and work in a team with you. As a result, you can use this bond to help in their education.

Regardless of what type of dog you have, the success of its behavior depends on learning the basic commands. From those, you can easily teach it whatever else you want it to do. Most people will teach them to do some types of tricks, which can be very entertaining. But, once they learn their basics, you can continue their education past obedience. There are many practical uses for well trained dogs.

You’re probably familiar with K-9 units in law enforcement agencies, and the military, but canines are also used in search and rescue. In many locations, you don’t have to be employed by the squad, in order for your dog to be used in an emergency. Some people think it takes a big dog for this type of work, but smaller ones can squeeze into tight places.

Another advanced area where your canine might be of use is in assisting people with disabilities. Seeing Eye Dogs where the first venture into this area, but there are now more services they can offer, such as watching over semi-invalids, and people who have heart problems. Canines can detect when a person is about to have a heart attack, and they can smell cancer cells.

Our ‘best friends’ are also trained for doing dog sports, and to herd livestock, and help in hunting. You can even train yours to pull a cart. There are circuits for pulling contests where these canines are trained to pull sleds with specific amounts of weight. These can get very competitive, and your dog could love it.

Dogs were first being domesticated about 13000 BCE, and have been protecting people and property ever since. You might not be interested in educating yours to be a guard dog, but you can still enjoy them barking at possible intruders. Whatever your future intentions, for your best buddy, it all starts with basic obedience dog training.

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Dog Training Tutor

2011-01-20T12:12:00.000-08:00

Dog Training Tutor is the latest dog training product in CB - Get on and promote this Hot Product while no one else is and claim the commission for yourself! Email support@dogtrainingtutor.com for more information.

Check it out!

Raw Diet - 2

2007-11-30T01:03:00.000-08:00

As I promised in the last post here are a few specifics about the raw natural diet for your dog. Please come back in a few days for more about dogs.

In the last post we started with some general information about a natural diet for your dog. This post continues that information with a few more details on specific ingredients.

Juicing the vegetables helps to digest the enzymes for your pet. This is similar to the wolf consuming the contents from a stomach. Your dog's diet will need a variety of different vegetables daily to maximize the potential for best vitamins and nutrients.

Carrots should always be the base and alter other veggies daily. The carrots will regularly supply potassium, calcium, vitamin A, B, C, D, and E. Greens offer vitamin A, C, and chlorophyll. Apples are good for vitamin C.

Certain veggies have healing properties. Kale, for instance, helps to remedy digestive disorders. Watercress and mustard greens help to cleanse the intestines. Parsley helps the metabolism and thyroid. Celery has numerous advantages. It helps with chemical imbalances, blood flow, and is a natural diuretic. Beets are good for the blood. They offer copper and manganese.

Some foods to avoid include broccoli, cabbage, and turnips. These create intestinal gas. Cucumbers, onions, and potatoes do not digest well in a dog's diet.

Flaxseed is a great addition to the raw diet to encourage healthy joints and coat. The omega 6 and 3 fatty acids help with such conditions.

The raw diet for your dog can combat several health issues. The natural diet allows your dog to eat what nature intended. You know what foods are in your dog's diet. The raw diet is high in quality and healthy for your pet.

Look for more information about dogs in my next post in a few days. If you are serious about your
dogs diet and health take a look at this: Click Here!

The Raw Dog Diet

2007-11-27T23:25:00.000-08:00

You may have heard of the "Raw Dog Diet" but not be clear on what it is. This short article will try to introduce you to a few concepts behind this diet that is becoming more popular by the day. The interest from dog owners in alternative foods for their dogs are a result of learning about what is in commercial dog foods. Many of the ingredients are suspect when they come from slaughter houses that kill animals that could have potentially harmful diseases or drugs. As with humans dogs are what they eat. Taking an interest in your dogs diet you can prevent him from being part of the epidemic of unhealthy dogs being seen by vets everywhere.

This diet consisting of raw ingredients attempts to duplicate what dogs eat in the wild. It is a balance of meat, vegetables, fruits and grains that can be prepared fresh by the dog owner daily. Once the ingredients are assembled the time involved is only 5-10 minutes per day. This natural diet supports your dogs immune system that will allow his health to be optimum and he will feel his best. While here we are talking about diet, don't forget the importance of excersize. With adequate exersize and a good natural diet your dog will be both healthy and happy.

When preparing the dog's diet, feed the dog about the same amount of the raw dog diet as you would kibble. This is a good starting point. From here, you can adjust the diet as necessary to meet your dog's specific needs. Each day prepare a bowl of 50% raw ground turkey with some wet oats. Juice some vegetables such as carrots and swiss chard and add the juice to the mix.

More specifics of what to include in this diet in my next post. In the meantime if you are wanting more health related information for your dog I reccommend taking a look at this:

More Dog Information - click here

First post on The Blog for Dogs

2007-11-27T23:19:00.000-08:00

Hi and welcome to my blog. It will be all about some of God's greatest creations...DOGS!!
I will try and cover lots of interesting topics and have lots of information about our favorite four legged friends.

Check back every few days, I will do my best to have fresh info posted for you on each visit.

thanks
GM