Dog Breeds

Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds - Dogs For Allergy Sufferers

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:34:00 +0000

By Jessica Grace

Loose skin flakes, known as dander, is what causes the allergic reaction to dogs for some people. Most people think it is the loose hair which they are reacting to, but it is actually the dander. There is a solution - a hypoallergenic dog. A dog with minimal dander which won't cause an allergic reaction in people who usually have allergies to dogs.

There's no such thing as 100% hypoallergenic dog, because all dogs release some dander. However, the following breeds listed shed very lightly and also release much less dander from their skin than other breeds:
# Bedlington Terrier

# Bichon Frise

# Chinese Crested

# Maltese

# Irish Water Spaniel

# Portuguese Water Dog

# Kerry Blue Terrier

# Poodle (toy, miniature and standard)

# Schnauzer (miniature, standard and giant)

# Xoloitzcuintli

These breeds will probably not trigger an allergic reaction. The Chinese Crested hairless variety and the Xoloitzcuintli both have no hair. As well as being the most hypoallergenic of all dog breeds, these dogs make very efficient hot water bottles.

Once you decide which of these dogs suits you, spend some time around the breed you've chosen to see whether you react. Spend a few hours in the home of the breeder, handling the dog and being in it's environment to see if you still have an allergic reaction. Chances are you won't.

Keep in mind that some people react to dog saliva when they are licked by a dog. Unfortunately, if you're allergic to dog saliva these breeds may not help you, because although they don't shed much dander, they will still lick.

For more information on hypoallergenic http://www.justdogbreeds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Grace

Small Dog Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:32:00 +0000

By Sandra Oberreuter

Small dogs are cute and adorable! They make wonderful and devoted companions and they make good watchdogs. People love small dog breeds because they are great lap dogs and are so lovable. They are popular for people who live in apartments, RV’s or small homes since they don’t require a lot of room. They are also easier to travel with.

There are many different breeds and they all have different and unique temperaments and character tics. If you are thinking about getting a small dog breed, choose one that fits your lifestyle, living space, time you have to devote to him, how old your children are and grooming needs of the dog which you have to deal with.

These breeds are prone to health problems as most dogs and it's important that you get a dog from a reputable breeder.

The number of people having small dog breeds has risen according to the AKC. Their latest (2006) most popular dog list says that Yorkshire Terriers outranks the Golden Retriever in the number two spot this year. The small breed’s registry was 18% in the 1940’s but now they are 29% of the registry. The toy group has risen steadily since the 1970’s when they only had 12% of the registry versus 23% today.

Here is the list showing the small dog breeds spots:

#2 – Yorkshire Terrier

#5 - Beagle

#6 - Daschund

#8 - Poodles

#9 - Shih Tzu

#10 - Miniature Schnauzer

#11 Chihuahuas

#13 Pugs

#14 Pomeranians

#18 Maltese

#23 Miniature Pinschers

#27 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

#29 Bichon Frise

In case you wondered what the number one dog is it's the Labrador Retriever.

Sandy has a web site on small dog breeds with information on different breeds including pages on dogs good with children and the elderly, choosing a dog and breeder, vet, dog clothes, dog houses and much more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Oberreuter

Dog Training - How To Stop Your Dog From Acting Aggresively

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:29:00 +0000

By Milos Pesic

There is always a reason for aggressive behavior in dogs. If you can discover the reason for the aggression, you can usually correct or at least control a dog's aggression. Some breeds of dogs have gotten a really bad reputation of late; pit bulls, rottweilers, and chows, for example. Some breeds are even forbidden in certain communities. This is just sad. Aggressive dogs are MADE and not born. All puppies come into this world completely innocent. They are like blank slates that have yet to be written upon, and they become products of their environment and training, or lack thereof.

There are many breeds of dogs. There are large breed dogs and small breed dogs; long hair dog breeds and short hair dog breeds; but there are simply not aggressive breeds and non aggressive breeds.

Dog aggression is caused by health issues, environment issues, or training issues. There are, of course, several subheadings under all of these causes for dog aggression.

If you see that your dog is aggressive or is becoming aggressive, the very first thing to do is to take him to see his veterinarian. The vet will examine the dog to see if he has any health issues that are causing him pain or discomfort.

If the dog doesn't have any underlying health issues that are causing his aggressiveness, the next thing to consider is his environment. Is the dog being walked with a gentle lead? Does the dog have a crate that he calls home? An environment that the dog considers unsafe or uncomfortable will often be the cause of his aggressive behavior.

If the dog is healthy and if his environment is good, the next thing to consider is the structure of his pack. You see, dogs are pack animals. They need and expect order. You may have inadvertently put the dog in charge. He thinks that he is the alpha dog and as such is responsible for the pack (the family). Aggression caused by a dog's belief that he is the alpha dog can be easily changed by simply providing obedience training and convincing him that he is NOT the responsible party.

Milos Pesic is a certified dog trainer and owner of popular and comprehensive Dog Training information website. For more articles and resources on dog training, dog training certification and programs, free online dog training classes, dog potty training and much more visit his site at:

=>http://dog-training.need-to-know.net/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Milos_Pesic

Dog Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:28:00 +0000

By Jason Montag

Before anyone gets a dog or a puppy the first thing that they need to think about is what dog breed do I get? The breed of dog that you choose will have a huge effect on how your family operates and runs in the future. Why? Well a dog breed will determine a lot of things. How? A dog breed has specific traits that are common among all dogs of that particular breed. For example, a Rottweiler is a wonderful dog breed in my opinion but they have certain traits that many people cannot handle. Since you can have a wide array of personalities while sticking in the same dog breed we will focus on the general things. In our example of the Rottweiler, they are huge dogs. They are considered a large dog breed and must be recognized as such. Large dog breeds will require more room in a house and yard than smaller dog breeds. When it comes to food, larger dog breeds will require substantially more dog food that the smaller dog breeds. That is just the tip of the iceberg.

When many people by dogs they choose the dog breeds at random and based off of what they think looks nice or sounds fun. Depending on where the dog will be living that may be OK to do, however some people live in areas that certain dog breeds should not be purchased. One example would be a Siberian Husky. A Siberian Husky is a dog breed that has a thick and heavy coat of fur. They have this coat of fur because they are meant to live in extremely cold environments. If you live in south Florida this may not be one of the dog breeds you should be looking into. Granted, you can shave the coat down so that the hair is suitable for that climate but that is not necessarily the point. My opinion is that a dog breed should be able to survive happily in the climate without alterations to their natural state. Many people will disagree with me and that is alright.

In addition to the physical attributes of dog breeds there are the mental attributes. Many dog breeds like to be very active and do require either a large area to run around freely or substantial amounts of walking and exercise on a leash. If you are a person that lives in a small apartment and does not have a yard or a lot of time for walking your dog then the larger and more active of the dog breeds may not be the best for you. This is not a horrible thing and many people fit into this group. The good thing is that there are a ton of dog breeds that will fit just that situation. Many dog breeds do not require a whole lot of exercise or room to run around, mostly the smaller dog breeds. If you have limited room and time consider selecting one of these dog breeds.

In a nutshell, dogs are great and there are huge amount of dog breeds to choose from but do yourself and your dog a favor, choose a dog breed that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Learn about dog training or puppy house training.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Montag

Dog Insurance Could Be A Dying Breed!

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:25:00 +0000

By Terry Ross

Dog insurance is becoming an emotive issue with some insurance companies beginning to classify certain breeds of dog as high risk. In such instances dog owners are finding it increasingly difficult to get their dogs covered under their homeowners insurance policy and existing policy holders are finding that premiums are increasing for breeds of dog that have been classified as ‘dangerous’.

Dog insurance providers are homing in on those dog breeds that are generating the highest number of insurance claims to do with dog bites or other insurance claims that can be associated with an act of a dangerous dog. The problem is rapidly increasing with dog insurance issues across the US in an attempt to better cover the insurance risk of what is perceived to be dangerous breeds of dog.

It is not yet clear on what foundation some pet insurance companies are placing their reliance on for establishing what breeds of dog are supposed to be dangerous but what is clear is that there is a continuing trend, with dog insurance providers, towards discriminating against certain breeds of dog.
What will make the issue worse is the possible move towards making dog insurance mandatory at which point dog owners could find themselves either unable to obtain dog insurance or priced out of the dog insurance market but illegally owning their dog if they don’t have dog insurance.

One recommendation is to avoid the dangerous dog breed list when purchasing a dog but this advice is of little help to those devoted dog owners who already own a dog from the ‘taboo’ list and are struggling or are likely to struggle to get affordable dog insurance.

At the end of the day dog insurance should only be there as a safety net in the event that the something might happen. It is in every dog owners interest (supposedly dangerous breed or not), and that of any poor unsuspecting victim of a dog attack, to ensure that dogs are kept in a safe and secure environment, not left unattended with strangers, can’t get out and are muzzled if there is even the remotest chance that they might bite someone while out walking.

It doesn’t need to be said that is the responsibility of dog owners to help reduce the number of insurance claims resulting from a dog attacks, despite what might be considered sometimes unthinking actions by people who are less dog aware. This in turn will help reduce the stigma that is currently growing in regard to dog owners and greatly improve the chances of obtaining affordable dog insurance for all breeds of dog in the future.

For more about pet insurance visit 24-7-insurance.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Ross

Dog Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:24:00 +0000

By Michael Malega

I hope that the following article will help you to better empathize this topic.

There are likely more dog breeds in the world at this moment than there are dissimilar strains of bacteria! Okay, that was a flimsy exaggeration, but only a very slight one mind you. There really are a astonishing number of dog breeds or so with more being recognized every year.

It’s not that new dog breeds are being found from the four corners of the earth, it’s that new dog breeds are advent into being because of cross breeding programs. The resulting dogs aren’t always reasoned to be a new dog breed, but some of them do stack up to the standards to be reasoned as one of the dog breeds, and this is when the number of dog breeds starts to grow.

Since dog is so-called to be man’s best friend, it actually is no surprisal that the more ardent of dog lovers went on to cross breed dissimilar dogs to get what they well thought out to be the perfective dog for them.

This required many years of dedication on the part of these breeders as well as a love for the dogs. And the consequence of so many, many years of breeding programs by so many, many dog breeders is the large diverseness of dog breeds we have about us today.

And of these, one of the latest editions to the mix is none other than a precious cross breed known as a Puggle who is crossed with a Beagle mother and Pug father. Of the latest new dog breeds to come to the attention of the public this cute, wrinkle faced dog with the big pendulous ears and the soulful eyes, is one of the most sought after.

And just as with these Puggles, there are many new dog breeds which come into being on a steady basis. Some people deliberate that these cross bred dog breeds are better even than their unmixed bred parents as the cross breeds will have less chance of carrying the same transmissible illnesses and diseases which the pure breeds carry in their genetic makeup.

If you’re on the look out for a good dog to suit you and you find that the very number of dog breeds to take from is too overwhelming for you to look into, the best thing for you to do is to differentiate your choices down depending on what your requirements of a dog are... to read more on this topic, please click on our link below...

Thank you for Taking you time to read through this selective information if you’re interested in gathering more knowledge please continue to search this site.

Michael Malega presents several Dog Breeds articles for your information. You can visit Michael's network place at: Dog Breeds

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Malega

How To Pick A Dog Breed

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:21:00 +0000

By Dee Bovis

Buying a new dog can be an exciting experience. However, before buying a dog, you should research different dog breeds before selecting one. This article lays some principles on how to pick a dog breed. Also, you'll learn some questions you should ask yourself before choosing a dog.

The key to proper dog breed selection is research. Take as much time as you need to research different dog breeds. As you're learning about dogs, consider the breeds that would compliment you and your family. For example, ask you yourself how often you stay at home. If you are out of the house a lot, you should not own a dog breed that needs much exercise. But if you take daily morning runs, it would make sense to pick a dog breed that likes to exercise and can keep up with your pace.

Here are a couple other things to consider.

Think about your living arrangements. How large is your house? Large dogs need more space to roam than small dogs. Where will you keep your dog, inside or outside? Many dogs do not do well living outdoors. If you are planning on keeping your dog outside, make sure you find a breed that can handle outdoor living.

Take into account the other people that live with you. If you have kids in the home, choose a dog that interacts well with children. Also, understand that small children can unintentionally hurt the smaller dog breeds.

What if you have other pets in your house? Some dogs do not have a problem with living with other animals. On the other hand, some dog breeds do not get along with other pets.

These are issues to think about before picking a dog breed. It takes some time to learn about dog breeds, but whenever you find that perfect dog for you, you will be glad you did the research.

The Dog Guide is an excellent place to find the perfect dog breed for you. As you do research at the Dog Guide, you will be able to pick a dog breed that is right for you and your family.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dee_Bovis

Dog Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:19:00 +0000

By Sandro Azzopardi

Numerous dog breeds exist today. The last reported official recognized breeds were over 900. All dog breeds derive from mixed breeds and it is important to recognize the fact that a purebred can only be called so if it hasn’t bred with a different breed for a certain number of generations.

The major few dog breeds have evolved during early civilization, but most modern breeds are relatively new. Choosing a dog breed as a pet is not a straight forward process. Many times, unfortunately, the selection is wrongly made, resulting in the over population of dog centres. What are the main characteristics in choosing the right breed from all the dog breeds?

1. Choose a puppy suited to you and your circumstances, whether you live alone, or with other adults and children.

2. Are you a first-time dog owner or an experienced one?

3. Consider the needs of that particular breed; training, exercising, grooming, etc.

4. The space in your house allocated to the dog. Inside and/or outside living is an important factor.

5. The full size the dog is expected to grow to.

6. The amount of time you will be spending with the dog.

7. Watchdog or friendly dog

8. Allergy to dogs

9. Is the dog going to be left alone or not?

Not all dog breeds are appropriate to your lifestyle. Before determining the breeds you like, make sure the above requisites are considered and adhered to. Doing some research now is very important before you make your final decision.

Of all the factors one needs to consider in choosing a breed, the relationship one is ready to give to his dog is the most important of all. The main purpose of owning a dog could be different. Different dog breeds are ideal for different situations. A dog can be:

1. your family pet for companionship

2. specifically chosen for security

3. used for training, exhibitions and shows

4. utilized for sports, like for example, hunting

It is also ideal to make some good research in order to determine the characteristics of the dog breeds one is interested in. Talking to friends and relatives who had experience with dogs is also an important factor as there is nothing better than hands on experience for these decisions.

As usual, when dealing with pets, especially dogs, the final decision should be taken anonymously and with the help of all the members of the family. The dog breed selected should be one which is in harmony with the characteristics and lifestyle of everyone who is interacting and involved in taking care of the dog.

Sandro Azzopardi is a professional author who writes several articles on various subjects on his web site and local newspapers and magazines. You can visit information about this article and others on: http://www.theinfopit.com/science/animals/dogbreeds.php

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandro_Azzopardi

Toy Dog Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:16:00 +0000

By Stephanie Hetu

Toy dog breeds include greyhounds, terriers, pinschers, pugs, chihuahuas, pekingese, spaniels--the official list of the AKC is quite extensive. Regardless of breed, toy dogs are desired for their cuteness and cuddle-ability. Many retain the characteristics of a puppy for their entire lives. This may be one of the big attractions that toy dog breeds hold over larger breed dogs.

Diminutive size, however, does not mean that toy dog breeds are less hardy. Once safely past puppyhood, their energy levels and enthusiasm rival any breed of dog. Some are excellent watch dogs, but they won't be able to follow through preventing entry of an intruder. The hue and cry of toy dog breeds can be enough to make your hair stand on end!

There are several advantages to toy dog breeds. Besides the ease of handling a smaller sized dog, they are more appropriate for apartment dwellers because they do not require as much exercise space as a large dog. Additionally, toy dog breeds usually shed less than their larger counterparts--not because they have different coat characteristics, but because there is less dog! All sides of dog care are smaller: from cleaning to clean-up and food consumed to food expelled.

Historically, toy dog breeds were used as companion dogs. They were friendly and alert, yet willing to be held and petted. They are very comforting and can bring peace to an owner. Nursing homes and adult care facilities have found toy dog breeds to be soothing for their patients. Contrary to common perception, there is no law preventing animals from living in nursing homes. It is up to the eldercare facility to allow--or disallow--pets. The calming influence of any pet, especially one that will transfer affections to everyone equally, is a wonderful aid for patient facilities.

You don't have to reside in an eldercare facility to enjoy toy dog breeds. They do provide companionable joy for many who otherwise would be concerned about space, exercise and care requirements of a larger breed of dog.

About The Author

Stephanie Hetu

Website: http://www.cutepuppydog.com

Description: Stephanie is a dog lover and the editor of the Cute Puppy Dog Newsletter. You can subscribe at http://www.cutepuppydog.com/cutepuppydognewsletter.html (every subscribers get 20 exclusive puppy pics, 2 dog screensavers and 3 dog ebooks).

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stephanie_Hetu

The Easiest To Train Dog Breeds

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:14:00 +0000

By Jessica Grace

When learning commands, some dog breeds learn faster, remember more, and respond faster to commands than other dogs. If you want a dog that is easier to train then consider one of the following breeds:
# Poodle

# Border Collie

# Golden Retriever

# German Sheppard

# Doberman Pinscher

# Labrador Retriever

# Papillon

# Shetland Sheepdog

# Miniature Schnauzer

# Vizsla

It is important to note that all dog breeds can be trained to learn and obey commands. You'll see just about every dog breed competing in obedience competitions. However, these breeds (listed above) learn training commands faster than other dog breeds do. This means that training them is a lot easier and requires a lot less patience and time. Just because these breeds learn faster than other breeds doesn't mean they are more intelligent. Unless, you're definition of "intelligence" of a dog is "it's ability to learn training commands quickly".

You see, when it comes to dog intelligence, experts have a lot of difficulty determining what dog "intelligence" actually is, just as they do when trying to define what human "intelligence" actually is.

For example, other breeds may understand your commands just as well as these faster learning breeds, but they simply may not have as much desire to carry them out. They simply may not be as eager-to-please you and are therefore not as obedient as the breeds listed above. Does that make them less intelligent though?

No. For example, a Siberian Husky is not as interested in pleasing his owners as some other breeds, so teaching him to obey commands - training him - takes longer. However, just because he is not "quick to learn" the Siberian Husky has other talents, such as his ability to figure out ways to escape from seemingly inescapable backyards. So if you are measuring a dog on his ability to find ways to "escape", the Siberian Husky would be right up there.

So don't think that the breeds listed above are any more intelligent than any other breed of dog. They're are just quicker to learn and obey your commands.

To learn more about these easy-to-train http://www.justdogbreeds.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Grace

Picking The Perfect Dog Breeds For Your Family Pet

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:04:00 +0000

By George Phillips

The American Kennel Club only recognizes 143 dog breeds, but you will encounter many thousands of possible mixed dog breeds, when trying to pick the perfect dog for your family. There are upwards of 70 million dogs in the U.S., so you definitely need to have some guidelines in place to bring home the perfect family dog.

You may want to visit your local library for books with pictures and histories of the many different dog breeds in order to narrow down the choices when trying to pick one of the perfect dog breeds for your family.

Another factor in picking the perfect dog breeds for your family may be price, as not everyone can afford some of the prices being charged for purebred dog breeds in your local pet store. Many of the most popular purebred dog breeds can have a price tag from several hundred dollars to well over a thousand dollars or more. Locally you may want to visit your local animal shelter to see what they have available.

If you have children you may want to pick one of the less aggressive, smaller dog breeds that have a gentle temperament and are perfect for kids.

You will find these descriptions in the dog breeds history when doing your research on the different breeds. One important consideration is, when a dog is not a purebred dog, the mixed breeds dog may have a temperament different from what is projected for the main dog breeds temperament.

If you rent, your landlord may have a no pet clause in your rental agreement, so be sure to check first as I have had that happen to me before I bought our present home.

You may be wondering what kind of dog I own as a family pet, mine is a purebred Bichon Frise. The Bichon Frise is a sturdy, happy, playful, adorable, smaller dog breed, which is great with kids.

George Phillips is the webmaster of The Better Home Living Guide and the Continuing Your Education Online website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=George_Phillips

How to become a top dog breeder

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:29:00 +0000

by John Pawlett

Many people want to become good dog breeders. Dog breeding and doing it properly is an expensive hobby. There is the picking up of a good bitch, waiting for her to become old enough before breeding, choosing the best dog for her to mate with, and undertaking all the health checks she needs, and ensure that the dog you need also passes through the same health checks. There are potential extra expenses during pregnancy, you have to pay a stud fee (or return a puppy), you have the time at your disposal, and can incur the expense of whelping. The puppies are to be kept for a minimum of 8 weeks before sending them to their homes.

There is the need to advertise and look for good homes before sending them to their homes. As a breeder, you also need to see that the dogs have had their shots before going. You may be and ardent dog lover and want to better a particular breed of dogs. You may devote your time and energy to bettering a particular breed of dogs. Often this requires breeding dogs of a particular bloodline, thus creating particular traits that will be passed down through future generations. There is the requirement to have one or two un-neutered female dogs. If you have two or three adult dogs, you may not even need to register your kennel.

A good dog breeder does not want to use dogs with major blemishes. The breeder may show the dogs to endeavor to have a championship before breeding them. This increases the value of the dog's future puppies. It also leads to the breeder networking with the people who know the most about the breed. The dog may not get a championship but a few wins and the dog exhibitors will take you more seriously. If one of the exhibitors has a dog with characteristics that will even out any of the flaws that your dog has, then you can breed show quality puppies.

If, as a dog breeder, you want to breed dogs for many years, you may want to choose a kennel name. The kennel name has to be registered with the corresponding Kennel Club. It may be a good idea to get a kennel permit. The permit will eventually be needed as you may require a few puppies to continue the bloodline. There is the requirement to get the permit before you are attached to your puppies. When you are breeding your dog for the first time, you should seek out a male dog that belongs to a practiced dog breeder. When the dog has bred, you need to take it to the veterinarian. You need to ask the vet about the birthing procedure. When the delivery time comes near prepare a quiet spot for your dog to deliver. These steps ensure that you are a successful dog breeder and you take care of your dog and ensure that the best dogs only breed to carry on the bloodline.

Everything you need to know about Bichon Frise's

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:28:00 +0000

by David Wilson

Are you maybe thinking of buying a Bichon, not sure how to go about it, what questions to ask, how to look after and train your little friend?

Maybe you already own one or more Bichons and want to make sure you care for your Bichon Frise properly? Bichons do require special care and once you learn and understand their needs its not that hard to care for a Bichon. They are worth every bit of effort of course as they will reward you a hundred fold in enjoyment and unwavering companionship.

Don't make the mistakes I did though and presume a Bichon Frise is cared for the same way as any other dog. They aren't and that mistake could cost you dearly in time, money and heartache.

Maybe you just simply want to have your Bichon trained a bit better. A dog that pees inside, chews everything in sight, "pulls" on a lead, and barks too much can take some of the fun out of owning a dog can't it? And you know a Bichon can easily be trained when you know how!

If some of this describes you and you would like a healthy, happy, well trained Bichon that brings years of enjoyment for you and the family that doesn't end up costing you a small fortune then please take my advice and continue reading I really get upset seeing Bichon owners ending up with big disappointments just because they didn't have the right information at hand. There is a better way.

This is what happened to me.

I remember the first Bichon Frise we bought , Asti. She was a pure bred 7 week old female . Her favorite sleeping place used to be in one of my Apple crates

I didn't know then what questions to ask the breeder or what to look for when we went shopping for her. To cut a long story short we spent over $2700 on Asti over the first 2 years for 2 knee repairs and countless visits to the vet for on going allergy problems.

If only I had known then what I know today about a Bichon's diet, exercise and general needs we wouldn't have had to fork out all that money. and go through that stress. I guess in a way its a bit like buying a car. If you don't know what to look for can easily end up with a car that is not really in good condition . Bichons generally are a very healthy, sturdy dog but like any breed have weaknesses to watch out for.

Our last few Bichons have been absolutely perfect. OK they have been to the vet once or twice for their shots but we've had no major expenses in the last 6 years . We did our homework this time and had spent much of our spare time over the years finding out everything we could about Bichons. It honestly has taken the worry and expense out of buying, training and caring for our Bichons.

Imagine This For A Minute.

Imagine being confident that you are asking the pet owner/breeder the right questions before you hand over your hard earned cash for you new "little friend". You don't want to end up with anything less than a healthy perfect little Bichon do you?

And when you get home with your puppy, won't it be so nice knowing exactly what you need for your puppy in those first few months rather than "guessing"? Your role in the first 4 months is absolutely vital in developing a happy healthy Bichon. Why risk making the mistakes so many other owners are making and paying for!

If you already own a Bichon Frise I'm sure you want to know the solutions to the common training, caring and breeding questions owners every day are asking? Questions that if unanswered may end up costing you literally thousands of dollars and can bring so much heartache.

Imagine knowing and mastering the simple training techniques that are unique" to Bichons? Having a dog that is a pleasure to have inside the house at all times, that walks well on a lead, that's gentle with children and is really your best friend without costing a heap of money to look after. You'll be the envy of other dog owners too!

For a more Comprehensive Guide then click here

Jack Russell Terrier Care-7 Tips You Need To Know!

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:25:00 +0000

by Hank R Hanson

The Jack Russell terrier is a medium-maintenance breed. This is a dog that tests your limits. You must be able to be firm and kind to it. If you tend toward being the doting type of pet owner, the Jack is not for you.You will benefit greatly learning how to Care for a Jack Russell Terrier.

The scrappy little dog popularized in television comedies and commercials and on the big screen is the epitome of the assertive and energetic personality: he's bold, brash, vigorous, and supremely self-confident, characteristics that often stun owners who thought they were purchasing a couch potato or a lap dog.Jack Russell Terriers are part of the working terrier group. They are valued for their energetic, lively, work ethic and playful nature, easy to Care for.

SOME HISTORY OF JACK RUSSELL TERRIER'S

*Origin: England.

*Height: 13-14 inches.

*Weight: 13-17 lbs.

*Life Span: 11 - 18 Years.

*Nicknames: Jack Russell.

*Typically white-bodied.

*Type of working terrier.

*Breed developed by Reverend John Russell.

The breed history is wrapped in legend. Named for Parson Jack Russell, a hard-drinking, hard-riding hunter of the 1850-70s, the dog is from the same basic stock as the AKC-registered Wire-haired Fox Terrier1. The parson favored a dog that was bold enough to follow the fox into its earthen den but not so aggressive that it would kill the quarry. His terrier was trained to find and flush the fox for the houndsmen and their foxhounds; it was a flexible dog, able to maneuver in underground dens, mostly white so it could be easily seen, and of the same flamboyant character as the parson himself.

The Jack Russell is a fearless, happy, alert, confident, intelligent and lively hunting dog. These qualities make him a sturdy, vigorous companion, ready to meet the world on a moment's notice, and, unless he is appropriately trained and exercised, can be subverted into wanton destructiveness.Proper Care Of the Jack Russell Terrier Is Important The Jack Russell Terrier Club of America describes the character thus: "The unique personality of this feisty little terrier is capturing the hearts of many, but they are not a dog for everyone. While adaptable to a variety of environments, they are first and foremost bred to be hunting dogs."

The Jack Russell needs little grooming and no special physical care. However, he does need to be obedience-trained to walk on a leash, come when called, and stand to be handled. As usual with terriers, owners must have saintly patience to Care and Work these dogs.

7 QUICK TIPS YOU NEED TO KNOW.

*Jack Russell Terriers need a lot of exercise.

*Jack Russell Terriers do not usually do well with cats or other small animals and many breeds of dogs.

*Plan on bringing your Jack Russell Terrier to the veterinarian at least once each year, as part of His/Her Care.

*Your Jack Russell will need regular grooming.

*Jack Russell Terriers need obedience training.

*Plan on waiting until your children are over school age before bringing home a Jack Russell Terrier.

*Make sure that you are ready to make a lifetime commitment to your Jack Russell Terrier.

I hope You have Found This Information on Jack Russell Terrier Care Helpfull! Enjoy Your Little Friend.

Dog Breeders in California and Buying a Puppy

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:24:00 +0000

by steve.last

Before you visit a dog breeder do check that their puppies are sold with a guarantee, full registration if pedigree stock, up to date vaccinations and micro-chipped or tattooed. All pups should be breed for structure and sound temperament. It is also best that puppies are raised in family environment one litter at a time. Many will seek an AKC registered puppy, and with all their vaccination shots current.

Puppies from good breeders will hold on to them and they will not be sold until they reach at LEAST 8 weeks old.

Micro-chipping of your puppy is advisable to ensure that should your puppy get lost he will be traceable through his microchip tag. Tag fitting (insertion and activation) is offered by most vets and will be done at the agreed expense of buyer or seller according to agreement.

If you are unsure about the best way to go about buying a puppy, veterinary pet centers will often have adoption guides to educate you on what you need to think about before adopting a puppy.

Breeding dogs can be very time consuming when it comes to maintaining the health of the mother and puppies once they are born, and is best done by small breeders that love the breed and really care about the puppy and the mother.

However, in California, and elsewhere, the plethora of small breeders that exist are hard to find. One way of finding breeders is through Pet Net California. Pet Net California states that they offer a comprehensive dog breeder directory to help you find a puppy in your area.

Each breeder advert includes a telephone number, email address, and web page so that you can make contact with the breeder to view photos of puppies for sale, inquire about prices, seek dates for upcoming litters, apply to purchase a puppy, or just find out more about the breeder and their dogs.

Breeder Web also provides a similar service. They require that all their breeders sign up to an agreement of humane breeding. They are said not to allow any dog breeder that breeds more than three types of dogs into their service, as that tends to point at breeders who focus less on the dog and more on the profit.

www.freedoglistings.com and Breeders.NET are web resources which again are active in the sunshine state for kennels, puppies, adult dogs, information and pictures. If you're searching for information from the Affenpinscher to the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon or if you want to know, say if a Yorkshire Terrier puppy is right for your family â€" they may be able to help you.

Whether you want puppies suitable for showing, obedience or just loyal family pets. Whether you seek puppies which are pedigreed and eligible for registration with the AKC at 1 year of age, or a non-pedigree, do take care to make sure that your puppy will be:-

1.Healthy, happy and home raised. 2.Supplied with health guarantees and contracts provided. 3.From a healthy adult dog, as this leads to a healthier litter. 4.From a dog breeder that has the availability of facilities to isolate a mother and her pups from the rest of the adult dogs.

There may be more requirements which you may have, but the point is that there is scarcely a pet store than can guarantee that these requirements have been met.

Pet stores cannot tell you any personal stories about the parents of your puppy, nor can they tell you about the grandparents. Also, you cannot call pet stores to tell them stories about your puppy like its first experience with an obedience command!

We wish you well in you puppy hunt, and we hope you find like so many people with patience do; an adorable little pup which will be well behaved by nature and get along well with all dog breeds, and also any of your existing house pets.

Healthy Homemade Dog Food Recipes

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:23:00 +0000

by Gurudwara Baba

As a pet owner, you are probably very concerned about the ingredients that go into commercial dog food. There have been recent recalls on dog food, which have now exposed it as being far from the best option to give to your pet. In many cases these food contain high amounts of fillers, artificial colors as well as unnatural flavors. In most cases, commercial dog food is made using low quality meat, which has been imported from other countries where standards of quality are not met. If you are at all concerned about your dog's health, then making your own healthy homemade dog food is a great option.

It is much easier than you would think for you to make healthy homemade dog food. The first step in this process is to discuss the matter with your vet. Often they will be able to give you some general guidelines to follow before you start the search for healthy homemade dog food recipes. They will carefully explain what quantities of the meals should be made up from meat, grains, and vegetables. They may even provide you with particular nutritional guidelines for you to follow for the breed of dog that you own.

Once you have gathered this information you can then start to search for recipes to use. There are a number of different ways that these recipes can be obtained. You can either go to the local pet store, bookstore or library to see if they have any books on the subject, or you can download recipes for free online. If you do go for the free ones then you need to look through the ingredients list carefully to ensure that it is both healthy and nutritional and meets your dog's particular eating requirements.

When purchasing the ingredients make sure you only use the highest quality, ones in your homemade dog food will ensure that it is healthy and nutritional for them. In order to make sure that you only produce healthy homemade dog food use the same sort of ingredients that you would use in meals for yourself, and not anything artificial which has been highly processed.

So it is wise to take your time when shopping for the ingredients for your dog's homemade food. When it comes to the meat you can actually use the much cheaper costing cuts in the dog's food compared to what you eat. Plus if you tell the butcher what they are for he may well provide you with cuts that he would not normally sell and offer at an even lower price to you.

Cooking healthy homemade dog food at home is easier than you would think. You can even cook food for your dog when you are preparing meals for the rest of your family. Once made you can then store the food in the refrigerator or freezer until it is needed. However, clearly label the container that this is food for the dog.

Also, if you cook their food in large batches it may mean that you will only have to cook for your dog once a week or even once a month, instead of preparing a fresh meal each day. By planning carefully what recipes, you are going to use and when to cook them you can make the process much quicker and easier to do.

Being sure that your dog is eating well is worth the investment of both your time and energy. So why not take the time to find out more about homemade dog food recipes that only use high quality ingredients, and then prepare them regularly for your pet. You will be amazed at the changes you will see in your dog's health and vitality once you have begun to cook healthy homemade dog food for them.

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Choosing A Crate For Your Standard Poodle

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:21:00 +0000

by Richard Cussons

Crate is one of the most indispensable tools used in training a dog of any breed - be it as dignified as a Standard Poodle or as great as a Great Dane. Apart from being an indispensable training tool, crate also provides security, safety, protection of household goods and safety during travel. Now that you have discovered the many benefits of crate and have decided to use it for your Standard Poodle, your next step is to buy one. But before you finally rush to the nearest pet store or make a purchase online, you should at least know the factors to consider when buying a crate.

Crates may be made of collapsible wire mesh, wood or molded plastic. Collapsible wire mesh crates are ideal for transport and have great air flow but difficult to clean considering the debris trapped within the meshing. While wooden crate fits appropriately with your furniture, it is difficult to move. Crate made of molded plastic is lightweight and easy to clean but do not collapse making it difficult to transport. Determine which style of crate best suits your dog's needs.

The size of the crate is another factor to consider. It should be large enough for your Standard Poodle to stand up without hitting his head and turn around at the same time lay down stretched out flat on his side. If you still have a puppy, it is wise to choose a crate size that will accommodate his adult size. It is always better to have a crate that is large than too small for a dog. To prevent your puppy from eliminating at one end and retreat to the other, better block off the excess space with movable wire or board partition. Movable wire or partition can be made or purchased from any pet supply stores.

The crate can become a den substitute - their home they can call their own, thus comfort should be considered. Look for one with a smooth floor and care to add some of his favorite toys and soft bedding material. Do not expect that your dog will gladly get inside the crate at once, but with proper introduction and association, he will eventually love to get in and out of that little sanctuary.

Pug Dogs Information - What Are Pug Dogs?

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:19:00 +0000

by Ken Tan

Pug dogs are great all around dog breeds, distinguished canine and the cutuest, most lovable dog out there! Pug Dogs are small sized â€œToyâ€ Dog, tiny little-built and sweet-natured breed that are so named because of its habit of staring in the air looking clueless even for itâ€™s pug owners.

By nature, Pugs are companion dogs, which is suitable for family and safe with children. Throughout history pugs are commonly known as:

- natural theraphy dog - companion dog - stubborn dog - house dog

Pugs are definitely not trained for as: - hunting dog - police dog - seeing-eye dog for the blind - fighting dog in the once popular sport of dog fighting.

Pugs are clasified similar to Pekingese, Japanese Spaniels and Toy Poodles. Pugs are also known as Chinese Pug, Mops, Puggu, Carli and Dutch Bulldog.

The American Kennel Club (AKC) categorizes dogs into 7 groups of herding, hound, non-sporting, sporting, terrier, toy and working. And the largest sized registered in the Toy category is the Pug.

No doubt the Pug Dogs make for great utility dog but the greatest advantage to owning one is that Pug Dogs can be your most outstanding companion on four legs and great source of personal fulfillment.

By the way, the AKC registered over 150 different breeds totaling nearly one million dogs. To put that in perspective, the animal shelters in America rescue up to 12 million homeless dogs and cats every year and 25% of these are purebreds.

Devoted and glad owners of Pug Dogs have come up with a long list of attributes and traits of their favorite pet that include:

Even-Tempered Stuborn Strong and stable Sturdy built (although small-sized) Delicate (but not as delicate as other â€œToyâ€ dog) Loyal Expressive Extremely Affectionate Charming Lively Boundless energy Brave Canine clown Drive owners to distraction Easy going Compliant Courageous Devoted Family dog Friendly Intelligent Intuitive Keen judge of character Loving Loyal Patient with children People dog Easy going Playfulness Self-assured Smart Soulful Spirited People dog Good natured dog Wonderful pet

And you can add to the listâ€¦

The Pug Dog's history could be traced back to the Shang Dynasty in East China, where it was solely kept by monks. That probably explained why Pug is a natural therapy dog. Pugs were then spread over to Tibet, Japan and finally Europe. Pug breeds only reaches United States in the 19th century and recognised by the AKC in 1885. Since then, pugs were widely accepted at home and show ring. The Pug Dogs as we know it today is a large round headed face in proportion to its body sized. When stand up with its four very strong, straight moderate length leg, it stays firmly on the ground with poise. Itâ€™s muzzle is short and wringkle expressed around its face. Its usually available in fawn or black coloured.

Natural Therapy Pug dog: Within the canine world, Pug Dogs are small-sized dog standing at less than kneecap height for a full-grown pugs, and weighs some 14 to 18 pounds.

It has a striking charming palyful look with its short muzzle, big gigantic round eyes, short neck and muscled body, make pugs a very sturdy yet expressive silhouette. Also because of this, pugs often breath through its mouth, as much as through their nose.

The ears are cropped, and they are not shy from barking to get their owners attention. This specialy human kind of dog, perform what normal human being do, which includes snoring, grunting, growling, whinning, woofing and farthing!!

The shortened muzzle makes pug panting for breath any may cause health problem for the Pug Dogs.

The coat is short, shinny and smooth, and possesses a natural sheen that can be enhanced with rubdowns with a chamois cloth (especially after a bath).

Despite short coat, pug couldnâ€™t protect him well from extreme elements of the weather and thus Pug Dogs should definitely not be kept outdoors. It is a housedog, sensitive to extreme temperature, and does not enjoy the summer heat or excessive exercises.

Pug Dogs come in attractive basic colors of fawn and black. The fawn coloured pug is usually chosen by pug lovers because of it enables pug lovers to distinguish its wrinkled faced with its coat color. Though, less known, the only Pug to earn Utility Dog Excellent degree from the AKC is a black Pug.

Personality-wise, Boxer is a cool dog that will not bark without cause. Its expressive face ï¿½ï¿½" the furrowed forehead and dark, soulful eyes - is a charming quality that sets the Boxer apart from other breeds.

If you your home is dull and boring, you will be assured that the presence of pug will definitely stirred up the environment and bring happiness to your home with pugâ€™s playfullness and their devontion to its owner. It can changed the moods of its master and adopting one could bring you 9 to 11 years of joyful companionship. In exceptional cases the Pug can live up to 15 years.

Pug Dogs As Pet

Pug Dogs although low-maintenance (because of small consumption of food compared to other breeds), it require your consistent attention, exercise, human interaction, consistent obedience training and lots of love. You cannot leave them to their own design for too long or they get separation anxiety, lonely, bored and into trouble.

Although being a small but sturdy dog, as well as a highly intelligent one, Pug Dogs need both physical and mental stimulations to keep them even-tempered while still keeping their affections and loyalty in tact.

All the best!!!

Warm regards, Ken Tan A Pugs Enthusiast. Discover How You Can Make Your Pug The Happiest, Loving Dog Alive, Running Healthily With You... http://www.trainyourpugs.com

Get free information all about Pug Dogs at: http://www.trainyourpugs.com

My Pet Has Food Allergies! How I Can Treat My Pet?

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:18:00 +0000

by z.pduvedi

This is a basic description of popular dog foods based on cost and marketed as advisable for dogs with food allergies.

Quality food for less: Chicken Soup dog food offers more fruit and vegetable in their recipe and they incorporate potatoes, carrots, peas, apples, tomatoes, blueberries, cranberries and spinach into the food.

Avider is manufactured from avocados to promote healthy, glowing, beautiful skin and coat. Vegetarian options are also available.

In the mid price range Eagle Pack make Holistic Select which are protein rich recipes with added prebiotics, probiotics and antioxidants. The chicken meal is hormone free and fruits and veggies are all human grade. Eagle dog food comes in dry and canned formulas in a variety of flavors.

High protein, whole grains, veggies and fruit constitute the ingredients of the blue dog food or the Blue Buffalo dog food, which is based on what humans eat. Dogs are less likely to be allergic since these foods contain unusual ingredients such as sweet potato and brown rice, and dogs have not developed sensitivities to these foods yet. These food varieties are available in the market as dry and canned; however some of their products were recalled from the market in 2007.

Similarly, Pinnacle's Canine Holistic Allergen-Free Formulas for dogs use foods in recipes such as trout and oats to which dogs are less likely to be intolerant. Nature's Recipe dog food contains no beef, wheat or corn products as these often are allergy-promoting ingredients. The makers of Inova dog food also make a protein rich food with fruits and vegetables, called Evo.

You will not find by-products such as wheat, corn, artificial flavors or colors, or chemical preservatives in Life's Abundance dog food. Key ingredients are chicken meal, fish meal, carrots, apples, spinach, celery, alfalfa meal, ground brown rice, antioxidants, live probiotics and chelated minerals.

The Abady dog food company makes frozen raw diets for dogs containing fewer unwanted foods such as soybeans, beet pulp, and others. Expensive canned and dry formulas can also be purchased.

IVD dog food ,known at present as Royal Canin, manufacture recipes which are breed specific, and special recipes like Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Hypoallergenic HP 19 that is a lactose and wheat gluten-free recipe.

Simply using these recipes might solve the problem quickly, but if you think your dog has food allergies, it is best to find the culprit and remove it.

If your dog is displaying symptoms of food allergies, schedule a visit with your vet as soon as possible.

What If My Standard Poodle Is Obese?

noreply@blogger.com (rhadika) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 05:10:00 +0000

by Richard Cussons

A Standard Poodle may not be genetically predisposed to becoming overweight but that doesn't mean it can't happen. Every dog, regardless of breed, should be given close attention when it comes to food intake and exercise so as to prevent obesity. A healthy Standard Poodle with ideal weight can avoid the following health risks associated with obesity:

Heart Disease. Just like in people, obesity can be associated with high blood pressure or hypertension. The heart must pump additional blood to excess tissues and may eventually lead to congestive heart failure.

Breathing Problem. The additional body fat can increase pressure on a dog's lungs and interfere with normal function. The excess fat results in less space in the chest cavity thus restricts the expansion of the lungs. The lungs then have to work harder to supply the increased demand of oxygen.

Arthritis. In an overweight dog, the joints, bones and ligaments are required to carry excess weight. This could damage certain ligaments or joints making it harder to move around. Arthritis and hip dysplasia can eventually develop resulting to difficulty in going up stairs, getting into cars or just going for a walk.

Surgical Risk. The excess fat makes surgery more difficult for the surgeon as this may hinder the access to the organs you are looking for thus prolonging the procedure and increases the risk associated with anesthesia.

Decreased Stamina. An overweight or obese dog exhibits less physical activities because those extra weight can slow down a dog.

Other health risks are diabetes mellitus, decreased stamina, heat intolerance, skin problems and decreased liver and immune function.

To sum it all up, obesity, a what seems to be a minor health issue causes other complications that can decrease the quality and length of a dog's life. Dog owners should bear in mind that fat dogs don't necessarily mean healthy dogs. Losing weight is not easy but if you want to spend long years of companionship and love with your Standard Poodle, do your best to keep him fit. All it takes is your time, effort and commitment to achieve that weight of your dreams.