Showing posts with label Dog Fact Sheet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dog Fact Sheet. Show all posts

Friday, November 10, 2017

Fact Sheet: BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG

(Original Title: Bernese Mountain dog - What you must know )

Bernese Mountain Dog
Photo  by StooMathiesen 
Bernese Mountain Dogs - Breed Introduction
The Bernese Mountain Dog is an affectionate, gentle, intelligent, and loyal animal that bonds to his family at a very younger age. This dog loves folks and kids and likes to be in physical contact with them by leaning against them or sitting on their feet.

Through the years this canine has been used for driving livestock, as a farm guardian, and for draft work. He excels in monitoring, herding watchdogging, guarding, search and rescue, and aggressive obedience.

A large, heavy dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog matures to 23 to twenty-eight inches in the top (58 to71 centimeters) and weighs between eighty and 110 kilos (36 to 50 kilograms).

History of Breed
Named after the Berne canton of Switzerland, the precise origins of this breed are uncertain. It more than likely started as a farm canine within the Swiss mountains.

There is work showing dogs of the Bernese type relationship back to the end of the 18th century, although it was not till the late nineteenth century that Professor Albert Heim, Franz Schertenleib, and others worked to protect the native dogs of Switzerland. It was then that the Bernese Mountain Dog (Berner Sennenhund) became a definite breed.

Color and Coat
The Bernese Mountain Dog has a heavy double coat that is moderately lengthy and could be either straight or barely wavy. The coat is climate resistant and thick and may make the canine uncomfortable in warm weather. He is sometimes better suited to cooler climates.

This tricolored dog ought to have a black coat with a white blaze on the head and chest, and white on the toes. There must be rust colored markings over each eye, on the cheeks, on the perimeters of the chest, on each leg, and underneath the tail. The markings ought to be symmetrical. A superbly marked canine gives the phantasm of a white "Swiss Cross" on the chest when the dog is considered from the entrance in a sitting position.

Personality and Temperament
The Bernese Mountain Dog prefers the outdoors, although he's usually effectively-behaved and relatively inactive while indoors. Although this canine can move with nice speed and agility, it has little endurance. In addition to enjoying activities reminiscent of mountain climbing, these canines will be skilled to tug small wagons or carts.

Often known as extremely devoted animals that crave attention, the Bernese Mountain Dog is greatest suited to a family that may spend an excessive amount of time with him. Due to his intense loyalty, this canine has an extremely onerous time adjusting to a new owner as soon as he has bonded along with his family.


This dog is a really friendly breed and gets along effectively with people and animals alike. He's simply trainable but needs time to assume things through. Endurance and consistency are key, as he does not reply effectively to rough therapy and harshness. The Bernese Mountain dog loves to please and enjoys working with praise and treats.

Show Characteristics
The coloring described above is strictly adhered to, and any foundation shade other than jet black leads to disqualification. Eyes must be dark brown and oval formed, with tight-becoming lids. The ears ought to be set high, triangular and medium-sized, hanging close to the head. The nostril is always black and the enamel ought to meet with a scissors bite.

Regardless of the square appearance of the Bernese Mountain Dog, his physique needs to be barely longer than it is tall with sturdy, dense bone structure. His legs should be straight with a compact, round feet. The tail should be bushy and straight.

This dog ought to have an intelligent yet mild expression. He should be alert and self-confident yet remain good-natured.

The Bernese Mountain Dog should have efficient gaits, whether or not working for speed and agility or at a slower working trot that's typical of his use as a draft animal. His hindquarters ought to generate power and he should have good reach with his front limbs.

Typical Health Concerns
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a much larger occurrence of fatal most cancers than different breeds. Most cancers are the main reason behind the Bernese Mountain Dogs brief life expectancy, with some canines dying as young as three or 4 years of age. The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America is aggressively researching this problem in an effort to improve the dog's life expectancy and quality of life.

These canine are also vulnerable to musculoskeletal points resembling arthritis, hip dysplasia, and cruciate ligament rupture.

Many instances the signs of arthritis set in at a very young age - as early as 4 to 5 years. This massive canine may have mobility issues and might have particular consideration reminiscent of ramps for home and vehicle access. Comfortable, snug bedding helps alleviate joint pain for these dogs.

Grooming
This dog sheds heavily and regularly and requires brushing a minimum of every week or two. When the thick undercoat is shedding, the dog needs to be brushed daily. The coat is naturally resistant to dust, and ought to be washed or dry shampooed solely when necessary.

Country of Origin
The Bernese Mountain Dog originated in Switzerland.

Average Life Span
Compared to different dog breeds of similar dimension, the Bernese Mountain canine could be very quick lived. This canine may be anticipated to dwell 6 to eight years, with a mean life expectancy of 7.2 years.

In previous years the life expectancy of this dog was 10 to 12 years. The longest-lived Bernese Mountain Dog died in the UK at 15.2 years of age.

    Author: Boykins Bender       



Monday, October 23, 2017

Fact Sheet: GREATER SWISS MOUNTAIN DOG

(Original title: Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Facts You Must Know Before Adopting Greater Swiss Mountain Dog)

Beauty from the Swiss Alps
Photo by Randy Son Of Robert
 
Breed Description

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large, muscular and sturdy breed. Also known as Grosser Schweitzer Sennenhund, this breed is the largest of the long-established Swiss Sennenhunds, which are dogs that involve four regional breeds. This breed weighs typically between 110-140 pounds for males, and 90-120 pounds for females, and stands around 26.3-29.3 inches for males, and 24.6-27.8 inches tall for females, both at the withers.

Coat

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has a distinctive tri-color pattern. They have solid black legs, head, ears, and body, with tan or rust-colored calves and cheeks, white chest, toes, muzzle, and tail tip. Their outer coat is very dense, and their undercoats should never be seen.

Activity

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog loves being involved in various sports. They are a very diligent breed, and desires long walks and herding, with pack hikes, particularly pulling. This breed prefers cold climates and has a great desire to play and run off leash whenever possible. Avoid vigorously exercising them as puppies as they will need all their energy to build strong joints and bones.

Temperament

Sociable, active, yet dignified and calm, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a breed that loves to belong to a family. These dogs are loyal and fiercely protective, making them great watchdogs. This breed is appropriate to a simple family life but does require a great deal of space to exercise in. Determined yet stubborn, these dogs do best with owners that have some experience with handling dogs. Generally an intelligent and quick learner, the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog makes a loving and loyal family pet that offers a lifetime devotion to those whom he loves.

Overview

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a powerful, keen, and handsome breed that was originally developed to be a watchdog, pull carts, and herd cattle. They love having jobs to do and are competent in conformation, obedience, and agility competitions.

Care

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog requires brushing weekly, with extra care should be given during shedding season. Bathing should only be done when necessary for this breed. But due to their large size, owners may find this a difficult task. They can be taken to a professional groomer.

Training

Training the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog requires a very consistent and firm yet gentle method at a very young age. Due to their dominance, these dogs should be shown that the handlers are higher in the order than them. Training can be quite a challenge due to the delayed maturity of this breed and may remain as puppies for 2-3 years.


Socialization should be done and is imperative for the Greater Swiss Mountain Dog. Their natural instinct to protect and guard makes them suspicious toward strangers and new situations if not socialized properly.

Character

The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is friendly, intelligent, eager to work, protective, and reliable. They are composed and watchful, with highly recognized obedience and sociability. They thrive on human companionship.



Friday, October 6, 2017

Fact Sheet: CAVALIER KING CHARLES SPANIEL

(Original Title: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dog Breed Profile)

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at the  Palo Alto Baylands
Photo by donjd2
Description: 
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is considered a toy dog. This dog stands 13 to 18 inches at the withers and weighs between 10 and 18 pounds. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a long, silky coat with feathering on the legs, tail, and ears. The coat comes in four colors: Blenheim, ruby, tricolor, and black and tan. Although the tail of the Cavalier is usually left its natural length, it is sometimes docked by one third. This dog can have a life span of 9 to fourteen years. It is also called the Ruby Spaniel or the Blenheim Spaniel.

History: 
King Charles II of England is most closely associated with the Spaniel that bears his name. Even as a child, he was surrounded by this breed of dog. After he attained the throne, he promoted the breed and allowed the little dogs the run of the palace. It is said that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel even whelped on the royal bed. This small dog is present in art from the 16th to 18th centuries and was used to help attract fleas as well as its duties as a comforter dog. Breeding with the Pug produced a shorter faced dog, the King Charles Spaniel. However, an American fancier Roswell Eldridge, bred the breed back to the more original dog and recreated the Cavalier.

Temperament: 
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is exclusively a companion dog, despite its old Spaniel hunting instincts. It is a very affectionate and happy little dog that thrives when given attention by its human friends. This is a very playful dog that wants to please those around it. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an excellent companion for anyone and is trustworthy and gentle with children. It loves to cuddle and bonds strongly to its family.

Health Issues: 
Although the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a fairly healthy toy breed, it can suffer from a variety of inherited health problems. One of the most serious problems is mitral valve heart disease, which begins as a heart murmur and can become worse as time goes on. Another serious condition is syringomyelia, in which cysts will form on the spinal column. This can be a painful condition for the dog. The potential owner of this engaging little dog would be well advised to make sure the dog is purchased from a reputable breeder who has followed intelligent breeding practices.





Grooming: 
Since the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has such a long coat, it is important to keep it well groomed. The dog should be brushed every day to prevent matting and the hair on the feet should be kept trimmed, especially around the toe and foot pads. The long ears should be checked regularly and kept clean and dry to prevent infections. Pay some attention to the eyes, too, to make sure they remain infection free.

Living Conditions: 
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a house dog. It cannot live in an outside situation, either physically or mentally. This little dog needs to be around people as much of the time as possible. The dog will adapt its exercise needs to its owner, so it is suitable for both active and inactive lifestyles. Regardless of the owner's exercise needs, however, the dog does need a walk every day. It is very suitable for living in an apartment.




Thursday, September 21, 2017

Fact Sheet: FINNISH SPITZ

Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz
Finnish Spitz - Photo   by      Llima

Group: Non-sporting
Weight: 25 lbs
Height: 18 inches

Overview
The Finnish Spitz was originally brought from the area of the Volga River Area to Central Russia about 2000 years ago. This breed is the national dog of Finland, and the Finnish Spitz is referred to in quite a few Finnish patriotic songs. These dogs are now extensively acknowledged throughout the Scandinavian countries. The Finnish Spitz is fine at hunting birds, and they also make good family pets.

Temperament
You will find this breed to be lively and sociable, energetic and enthusiastic, devoted and courageous - but at the same time careful. The Finnish Spitz is tolerant of children and other animals in the household. They have a good hunting instinct so they may chase after smaller animals. This breed is very intelligent and likes to be a part of the family. On the other hand, this breed is not ideal for all families - especially in households with lots of tension or loud bickering.

Care
The Finnish Spitz has a coat that cleans itself seeing that these dogs are viewed as arctic dogs. This breed does not need a lot of overall maintenance, but if dead hair can be removed with a brush or a comb. The coats of the Finnish Spitz don't have a typical doggy odor. The Finnish Spitz sheds heavily on a seasonal basis. The coats of these dogs are very rich, and they can remain shiny and thick all year round if these dogs are maintained throughout the year.

Training
The Finnish Spitz is a very smart, self-assured and intelligent breed. They will learn new skills very quickly and are easy to train when the right training methods are used. This breed can, however, be stubborn when overly anxious or full of fear. It is imperative to work with the Finnish Spitz in a calm manner whenever possible. These dogs are willful and brave and will perform at a high level once they are comfy and have admiration for their owners. The Finnish Spitz has time and again been used in competitions as show dogs seeing that they have so many good qualities and virtues. This is an impressive hunting breed, and they can also be trained to be racers and rescuers from an early age onwards.

Health problems
The Finnish Spitz is a relatively healthy and has one of the lowest occurrences for health issues. There are however a few conditions that potential owners should be aware of and these include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and deafness.



Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Fact Sheet: BRIARD

Original Article: Briard - Facts You Must Know Before Adopting Briard

Briard - Photo: Wikimedia


Finally got your first new puppy? If you want your first puppy training experience to be fun, here are helpful dog training tricks that will surely get you started.

The Briard, also known as the Berger de Brie, is a large agile breed that has a powerful stature and muscular build. A herding dog, this breed was primarily bred not only to herd sheep but to protect them. They weigh an average of 75-90 pounds and stands 23-27 inches in height.

Coat
A double-coated breed, the Briard has a hard, dry, and coarse top coat that lies flat, falling in long, slightly waved locks; and a fine undercoat that covers tightly all over the body. Their hair is so abundant it masks the shape of the head or totally covers the eyes. Coats uniformly colored are all accepted except white. White can be permitted if it is only scattered throughout the coat, and/or a white spot that should not exceed one inch at the chest. Black or various shades of gray and tawny, and deeper shades of colors are usually preferred.

Activity
As with another working breed, the Briard should be given a long walk or be made to run alongside a bicycle. If not exercised enough, they will become destructive and restless. This breed makes a wonderful jogging companion, and also enjoys a good swim. Ideally suited for defense/police dog trials, this breed has a marvelous supply energy.

Temperament
The Briard is a protective and devoted breed. With a heart of gold, this breed is highly intelligent and loving. Once bonded with their family members, they will be loyal and very protective of them. Aloof with strangers or undiscovered things, this breed has to be introduced may it be furniture, a visitor, or a new baby. Early on, they should be taught if something is safe or harmful. Proved to have an excellent temper, this breed is great to have around children.

Overview
Bred primarily to herd and guard flocks of sheep, the Briard was often used to search for injured soldiers by the French Army. Now, this breed is a recognized companion dog that continues to be a delightful herder and a guardian.

Care
The coat of a Briard sheds water and dirt, with little shedding if well-groomed. They need brushing and combing daily to prevent mats to form. Bathing should be done only when necessary as it can damage the coat, making it difficult to groom. Ears should always be kept clean. The Briard is a generally healthy breed, although they may have a tendency to develop hip dysplasia, PRA, and cataracts.



Training
Extensive socialization should begin as puppies for this breed. The Briard has excellent memory skills and is highly trainable. They need firm and consistent training who is able to take charge. However, if not trained properly, they tend to be exceedingly fearful, hostile, or both.

Character
The Briard is a placid, affectionate breed with a lifetime of loyalty and devotion for their owners. They are highly intelligent and easy to train, making them a delightful household pet and excellent guard dog. As a herding dog, they are sturdy and it is recommended to provide them enough space as they are large dogs. Playful and loving, but cautious of strangers, the Briard is a breed with the impressive build and a big heart.



Monday, August 14, 2017

Fact Sheet: BORDER TERRIER

(Original title: The Scruffy Little Hunter Dog: Border Terrier )

jimmy as tall as the trees : border terrier, esprit park, dogpatch, san francisco (2011)
Border Terrier - Photo   by   torbakhopper (cc)
The Border terrier got its name from the area called Cheviot Hills, which is actually near the border of England and Scotland. This is where these dogs were made to attack and terminate predatory foxes. 

They have wiry coat that is why they normally appear as scruffy. However, this scruffiness is an attention-grabber that is why owners do not forget to hug their little ball of energy.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Borders:


Category: Terrier

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: wiry and short; double coated

Colors: tan, red, grizzle and tan, and/or blue and tan

Height: between 11 and 16 inches

Weight: between 11 and 16 pounds

Temperament: 

Naturally, 

they are scruffy, hard and bold hunters
they are active as puppies but mellow down as they mature
they are not friendly with rabbits, rats, hamsters, and even birds
they are economical to feed
their activity die down when left alone all day as they really love to please people especially their owners

When properly trained,

they can get along with the household cats but not with cats in the neighborhood
they may even catch a burglar
they may lose timidity when accustomed to active environments

Breeders should note of the following health issues: 

  Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome or CES, also called as "Spike's disease", which is a hereditary, neurological, metabolic and muscle disorder that is sometimes confused with canine epilepsy
  Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes 
  Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
  Deafness
  Skin problems and a few skin allergies

Care and Exercise: 

Their coat needs weekly brushing.
They should be professionally groomed at least twice a year.
They should bathe only when necessary since they shed little to no hair. Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on leash.
They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts. 

Origin/History:

The exact origins of Border terriers are obscure but many breeders accepted the story that the variety was developed in the Cheviot Hills area, which is near the border of Scotland and England. The Borders have been used as hunters of rabbits and hares. They can even keep up with running horses with their short yet sturdy legs. They were also used by farmers to lure predatory foxes into their dens before killing them.

They were also trained to hunt otters, marten, and even fierce badgers. Like most terriers that were once molded as hunters, they also evolved as pets and became lovely, friendly, and loyal companion dogs. They also take part in dog shows and they can easily grab their audience attention with their agility, appearance, and bright disposition.


The breed was registered by the British Kennel Club in 1920 and by the American Club ten years after.

At present, Borders are highly favored as companion dogs and pets due to their adaptability, friendliness, and winning personality. Nonetheless, they can be reliable when it comes to tracking down vermin. In fact, some of their esteemed talents include hunting, guarding the family, and performing tricks and sports that require competitive obedience.

Like most terriers, you can be rest assured to have a loyal and bright companion dogs if you give your attention and affection to a Border. You can be sure that they can definitely drive away your bore! 



Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Fact Sheet: ALASKAN KLEE KAI

happy asher would like a treat, please
Klee Kai - Photo   by _tar0_(CC)

Klee Kai

Breed group: Nordic

Weight: Toy: 10 lbs; miniature: 15 lbs; standard: 23 lbs

Height: Toy: 13 inches; miniature: inches; standard: 15-17.5 inches


Overview
The Alaskan Klee Kai have been developed by Linda Spurlin during the early part of the 1970's in Wasilla, Alaska. After an unintentional mating between an Alaskan Husky and an unknown smaller dog, Linda Spurlin took a liking to this offspring. She ended up breeding a prototype dog that was suppose to act as a companion dog as she was so stunned with the good looks and size of these dogs.

In order to reduce the size of these dogs, she developed this breed with Alaskan and Siberian Huskies - and also using American and Schipperke Eskimo Dogs in order to abolish problems with dwarfism. This breed was first known as the Klee Kai, but in 1995 the name changed to the Alaskan Klee Kai. Even today these dogs are fairly rare.

Temperament
The Alaskan Klee Kai seems to be very shy and wary of strangers, but will alert their owners by barking. These dogs are average guard dogs, and they will not attack someone seeing that they were bred to be companion dogs. But they are outstanding watch dogs, and will always alert you of something when necessary. Alaskan Klee Kais are very clever dogs that are very committed to their owners. They love the attention and company of their families. These dogs get along well other pets and children they have been raised with.

Care
This breed is average shedding dogs, and will require a brushing on a regular basis. These dogs should not be bathed too often, only when it is really necessary. Make sure that you use a good shampoo to prevent possible skin irritations. Also check the ears of the dog for too much dirt, hair or too much wax build up. Their nails can also be trimmed to keep their paws in a good condition, and to ensure that they don't have any discomfort when walking.



Training
It is important to be consistent when training the Alaskan Klee Kai. The training environment should be fair and positive. This breed is very clever, but also very independent. Although they are compliant, they are not always obedient. But you will be glad to know that this gets better as these dogs get older. It is important to get this dogs socialised from a very early age onwards.

Health problems
Although these dogs are very tough, there have been some concerns uttered about an inherited bleeding disorder. Apart from this disorder, the Alaskan Klee Kai is fairly healthy.




Friday, July 28, 2017

Fact Sheet: BEDLINGTON TERRIER


Original Title: Bedlington Terrier

Français : Boutchie, un Bedlington Terrier en ...
Français : Boutchie, un Bedlington Terrier en janvier 2003. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)


Breed group: Terrier

Weight: 17-23 lbs
Height: male 16.5 inches, female: 15.5 inches

Overview
This breed has its origin in England where they have been developed during the 18th century. Bedlington Terriers was originally known as Rothbury Terriers and they were named after the Rothbury district on the English border. These dogs were highly valued as hunters of a variety of game including foxes, hares and badgers. A Rothbury dog was mated with a Bedlington bitch in about 1825, which resulted in the Bedlington terrier. Bedlington terriers were used as vermin hunters by miners of Bedlington. They also used these dogs as fighting dogs in the pits.

Temperament
The Bedlington terrier of today is a more affectionate and friendly dog, and this is due to more careful breeding. Bedlington terriers are very cheerful and playful dogs, and they also love children. These dogs are devoted and energetic dogs, but they do have a stubborn streak. This breed has to be socialised with other animals from an early age onwards to prevent problems later on. The Bedlington terrier has lots of power, and they are full of courage and energy. They can run very fast, and they are keen diggers. These dogs love to bark, and they can be a bit tense. This breed should be fenced in, otherwise they will take off as they love to chase.

Care
The Bedlington terrier is a high maintenance breed and they will require a professional clipping once in every six weeks. These dogs needs to be brushed and combed every day. They should however only be bathed when it is necessary, as their coats will become lank if bathed too often. The coats of these dogs shed almost no hair, and this makes them suitable for allergy sufferers. The pluck inside their ears should also be cleaned. This breed is also considered fine for allergy sufferers.

Training
The Bedlington terrier is an independent and playful dog that is fairly difficult to train. They will benefit if they are socialised from an early age onwards, especially with cats. This breed should also receive thorough obedience training as they have a tendency to bark excessively and be destructive. The Bedlington terrier will also not do well if the training is harsh or heavy-handed. The Bedlington terrier loves human companionship, and should be trained in a firm, loving and consistent manner. They do extremely well in agility, obedience and fly ball.



Health problems
Some Bedlington terriers may have a serious inborn liver problem known as Copper Storage Disease. This breed is also prone to a genetic kidney disease, PRA, thyroid problems and eye trouble such as cataracts and retinal disease.



Monday, July 17, 2017

Fact Sheet: YORKSHIRE TERRIER - Yorkie

(Original Title: The Popular Pet and Lap Dog: Yorkshire Terrier)


Cocoa, the mini Yorkie
Cocoa, the mini Yorkie - Photo by Tnkntx

The Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, originated from Scotland but bred in England. They were molded to hunt rats, but nowadays they are popular as pets. In fact, their variety was one of the Top Dog Breeds of 2005.

They usually grow being small and light varieties. Hence, owners do not mind having their pets on their lap almost all day. Moreover, this usual bonding activity usually transforms this lap dog into a bright, playful, and loyal companion pet.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Yorkies:

Category: Toy (Terrier)

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: silky, glossy, long and fine; no undercoat

Colors: black when young but they attain the colors tan and blue as they mature .

Height: between 8 and 9 inches

Weight: between 3 and 7 pounds

Temperament:

Naturally,

• they are territorial and like their privacy to be respected

• they are intelligent and fearless

• they are assertive and independent

When properly trained,

• they develop close affinity with older children

• they become really playful and lively

• they become extremely affectionate

• they do not mind having other pets at home

• they focus much of their attention and affection toward their owner

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

• Alopecia, or losing hair

• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes

• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum

• Dwarfism

• Entropion, a disorder with the eyelid; lashes on the eyelid that irritate the eyeballs could lead to other complications

• Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye

• Hydrocephalus

• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or the reduction of tear production

• Low blood sugar

• Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap

• Portosystemic shunt, or the accumulation of blood toxins in the liver

• Urolithiasis, an infection of the urinary tract leading to the formation of bladder stones.


Care and Exercise:

• They require daily grooming.

• Ears and eyes must be cleaned and checked regularly.

• Dental hygiene must be regularly maintained.

• They are fit only for short strides.

• They should have a regular play time while lying under the sunbeams, chasing shadows, and joining tug-of-war.

Origin/History:

In the 19th century, a number of weavers from Scotland migrated to England and brought with them different terriers that were bred to hunt rats. Through time, these terriers were crossed and terriers with “broken hairs” were produced.

In 1870, a “broken-haired Scotch terrier” was named as a Yorkshire terrier by a reporter. He argued that the breed should be called as such because his types were bred in a town called Yorkshire.

Though the Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs, they became fashionable pets is England in the latter part of the Victorian era. In 1972, Yorkies were brought to the United States and became the country’s favorite pet.

You can say that the Yorkies developed into tough breeds because of their ancestors’ reputation as rat-hunters. However, their size, and playful and bright character have actually captured the attention and affection of most pet owners. Most proud owners would boast that they have the great giants inside the bodies of these little dogs. If you want a small but terrible breed of dog, grab a Yorkie now! Just a friendly reminder, they would really need your attention and companionship than any other terriers.



Friday, July 14, 2017

Fact Sheet: NORFOLK TERRIER

Original Title: Norfolk Terrier - Facts You Must Know Before Adopting A Norfolk Terrier

Norfolk Terrier "Virginia von den Wichtel...
Norfolk Terrier "Virginia von den Wichtelsteinen" (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Breed Description
A small and compact breed, the Norfolk Terrier has a charming and sometimes bewildered appearance. This small breed weighs around 11-15 pounds, and reaches between 8-10 inches tall.

Coat
The Norfolk Terrier is straight, messy, and coarse texture that is around 2 inches long. It is structured to keep these terriers insulated. This double-coated breed has a coarse and waterproof topcoat and thick and dense inner coat. Their coat color comes in wheat, grizzle, red, and black and tan.

Activity
The Norfolk Terrier is quite energetic, and loves playing ball or going on walks with their family. They are known to tolerate all kinds of weather. These terriers enjoy digging holes in the backyard, so owners should always be on guard with this trait. They will do great in apartment dwellings, and will be happy to travel in a car.

Temperament
Norfolk Terriers are fearless, but never aggressive despite being able to defend themselves when the situation calls for it. They get along well with Border Terriers, and Norwich Terriers, having the softest of temperaments among the Terrier Group. These dogs work in pack, and should get along well with other dogs. As companions, they love being around people and will make excellent pets. Their energy level is reflective depending on the pace of their environment. They should never be kept outdoors due to the fact that they thrive on human interaction. These terriers are known barkers, making them excellent alarm dogs.

These terriers can generally live with other household pets when raised alongside them. This self-confident little dog is very confident, and will carry themselves with importance, having their head up high with tails erect. These Norfolk Terriers are generally happy, spirited, and lively.

Overview
Small, alert, and hardy little dog, the Norfolk Terrier has been originally bred to catch a fox and go after vermin. This evenly tempered fearless dog has sporting instinct.

Care
The Norfolk Terrier should be combed and brushed once or twice weekly, paying extra attention to the mustache and beard, which more often get dirty. Their coats shed little, and will require hand plucking twice in a year. The hair between the pads of their feet should be trimmed. This low-shedding breed is considered hypoallergenic, and will be suitable for people with allergies.



Training
Norfolk Terriers are intelligent and will often quickly acquire bad habits, just as they would in learning positive habits. Consistent and varying training routines are crucial for this breed to avoid boredom and non-compliance. This breed will do best with positive rewards and a lot of praise. Ignoring the bad behavior of this breed is a great way to eliminate the bad ones.


Character

The brave little Norfolk Terrier is known to be very defensive of its family and territory. They generally get along well with other dogs, and make excellent family pet. This breed is easy going and enjoys being the center of attention. These affectionate breed is at their happiest when they are with their owners. They should never be left alone for extended periods of time as this will cause depression.



Monday, July 3, 2017

Fact Sheet: AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER - APBT

(Original Title: The Loyal Working Companion Dog: AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER)


English: American pit bull terrier (named Tutt...
American pit bull terrier
(Photo credit: 
Wikipedia)
This breed of dog, also fondly called as APBT, is known for its loyalty and intelligence. The dogs with this breed make excellent companions since they are very aggressive because of their protective nature.

How, then, are they different from the Staffies? For the UKC or the United Kennel Club, Staffies and APBT are of the same breed but many disapprove of this suggestion. For instance, if the American Kennel Club has an American Staffordshire terrier, it will be registered as an American pit bull terrier by the United Kennel Club. Furthermore, many breeders noted that their lineages have been separate for a long time already for these dogs to be still considered as having the same variety.

Meanwhile, the American Kennel Club does not register a UKC-listed American pit as an American Staffie. In order to gain dual-registry, the dog must initially be recorded as an AKC American Staffie before it can be listed with the UKC as an American pit bull, and not the other way around.


The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about APTBs:

English: Apbt playing
Apbt playing (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Category: Terrier

Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor

Coat: smooth, shiny, thick, and short

Colors: color varies

Height: between 18 and 22 inches

Weight: between 30 and 60 pounds

Temperament: courageous, full of energy, and loyal; should be socialized early on with other animals especially with children

Health Issues: heart murmurs and mange

Care and Exercise: 
Bathe when necessary.
Brush their coat only occasionally using a brush with firm bristles.
Rub down their coat with a towel or a chamois to remove hairs that are loose.
Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time and/or running along a bicycle while on a leash.
They should be on leash while walking in public places.

Origin/History: 

The ancestors of APBT came to the US in the mid-1800s with some Irish-Boston immigrants. Like the Staffie, they were originally bred from bulldogs and terriers. Since APBT is a forerunner to the Staffie, it was also molded to be a fighting dog. However, the Americans made their variety some pounds heavier and trained them to have a more powerful head.

Bull baiting and dog baiting were prohibited in England so bull terriers were no longer bred for bouts. It is in America where the pit bull also gained its popularity for many uses and reasons like:

1. It was used to embody the country in one WW1 artwork.
2. Well-known companies like the Buster Brown Shoe Company and even RCA used the breed as mascots.
3. Petie, a pitbull, was one of the stars in, "Our Gang", a well sought children's TV series.
4. A mix breed called Stubby was transformed into a popular and decorated WW1 hero.
5. Pits became good companies of pioneer families on their journeys.
6. Jack, a working pit bulldog was owned by Laura Wilder of lines of books called "Little House".
7. Popular people like Helen Keller and US President Theodore Roosevelt owned the variety.

Here is some history about the cause of dilemma regarding the registries of APBTs.

In 1898, the United Kennel Club or UKC was structured to provide fighting guidelines and registration for APBT as fighting dogs. Later, there were breeders who shun away from dog fighting so they asked the AKC to recognize their pits so they would be fit for performance events like dog shows. In 1935, the AKC approved of their petitions but the dogs were registered as Staffordshire Terriers, naming them after the little province in England that the breed was known to have originated from. Thus, many breeders have dogs that have dual-registry.

It is interesting to note that Petie, which was one of the stars in the, "Our Gang" TV series was the first breed that was dual-registered to be Staffordshire Terrier/Pit Bull. However, the UKC later started registering other performing-type varieties and they also began holding dog shows comparable to those of the American Kennel Club.

The AKC soon sealed its studbooks to APBTs. They allocated registration to those pit breeds with lineages that are listed as Staffies. For a little time during the 1970s, the AKC disclosed the American pits to their studbooks.

In 1973, the American KC decided to add the word "American" with the pit's name to discriminate it from a Staffie. At present, those dogs with mixed APTB-StaffIe parents are recognized by UKC and even the American Dog Breeders' Association as "American pits or American pit bull terriers".

Nowadays, the pit has employed as search and rescuers, police/armed service dogs, livestock workers, and even as therapy animals because they are good as companions and working dogs.



Moreover, the variety can even compete in dog sports such as herding, obedience, and conformation, French Ring, and Schutzhund. Breeds of this type can be very loving as pets for everyone. The physical demands and harshness of various activities developed a healthy, strong, and stable animal.

If you want to have an APBT as a pet, be sure that the puppy is handled well and properly socialized. A solid and good training will surely produce an obedient, tranquil, and good companion or even a working dog!



Monday, June 5, 2017

Fact Sheet: SCOTTISH TERRIER

(Original title: The Stylish and Reserved Dog: Scottish Terrier) 


Scottish terrier * en blanco
Photo by jacilluch
The Scottish terriers, also known as Scotties, are short-legged British terriers.  They are one among other go-to-ground and wire-coated terriers developed in the highlands of Scotland. The Scotties are said to have jaunty attitude so they are often used to represent advertisements of the country to where they originated.

However, Scotties' nature is not in coherence with their public image or trademark.  In fact, Scotties are like the citizens of his native land who are independent, stoic, and fiercely loyal to their masters.  They also adhere much to their own privacy.

Scotties, Westies, and Cairns are very similar regarding their appearance. The Westies and the Cairns are, in fact, closely-related. The Westie can be considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western Scotland. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the other two.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Scotties:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor (mostly preferred by breeders)

Coat: wiry, short (about 2 inches) and thick

Colors: iron gray or steel, black, wheaten, or sandy; the coat may also be brindled or grizzled

Height: about 10 inches

Weight: between 18 and 20 pounds

Temperament: they need to be praised frequently and they adapt with the moods of the household

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

  Von Willibrand's disease (VWD), an inherited disorder
  Flea allergies and other skin problems
  Epilepsy
  Jawbone disorders
  Scottie cramp, a minor condition that causes walking difficulties
  Cerebellar abiotrophy, a slow-to-progress and rare neurological disease that causes loss of coordination

Care and Exercise: 
Their coats need special care to maintain its appearance and texture. It is suggested that they should be subjected to professional grooming once or twice each year for their coats to stay wiry and firm.
The fur needs to be combed a couple of times in each week and even needs occasional trimming.
Scotties' dead hairs should be plucked out through stripping. Using electric clippers will only make their coats dull and soft.
Play with them. Hunting and squeaky balls and toys are their favorites.
They should be on leash while walking in public places.

Origin/History:

The origins of the breed are obscure. It was noted that forerunners of Scotties were sent to France's Royal Highness by King James I of England during the 16th century. Later on, three different terriers were revealed as Scotch Terriers, which included the Westies, the Cairns, and the Scotties. The Dandie Dinmont variety had also been noted as closely-related to the abovementioned terriers but its apparent physical differences categorized itself as a separate breed.

Terrier dogs that were bred in Britain were developed to hunt vermin that ate grains, and pestered eggs and poultry farms. Most breeds grew as scrappy and courageous dogs and were trained to follow badgers or foxes into their dens. Their wiry coats and soft undercoats protected them against rugged terrains and harsh climates.





f you want to have a Scottie in your life, you should not be impulsive about the matter for animosity nd lack of proper training will only harm and traumatize the dog. If properly taken cared of, this breed can even appoint itself as a guardian of the family. It can also be fiercely loyal, that is it can protect you even if it means endangering its own life.

To this effect, I guess you must agree that a Scottie is a dog that is second to none.




Wednesday, May 31, 2017

Fact Sheet: The COCKAPOO

(Original title: The Cockapoo – A Mix of The Poodle and Cocker Spaniel Breeds)


IMG_5312.JPG
Cockapoo - Photo  by funkblast 
Poodles are a very popular breed to have as a pet and also very popular to breed with other dog breeds. To learn more about the popularity of the poodle see the article on this site at Poodle Popularity.

Although there are not Breeds of Poodles, there are plenty of Poodle mixes. One of the most popular poodle mix is the Cockapoo described in this article.


COCKAPOOS

By mixing the breed of poodle with the breed of Cocker Spaniel, a Cockapoo is created. The Cockapoo is not a dog breed, rather it is a mixed breed and in theory takes all the desirable qualities of their parents. In reality one hopes the mixed breed dog will take the desirable traits of the purebred dog.

From the Cocker Spaniel, the mixed puppy will hopefully take Cocker’s characteristics of being mellow, friendly, having a pleasant personality and a sturdy build. The Poodle bred traits wanted are intelligence, cleverness, and a non-shedding hypoallergenic coat.

THE COAT OF THE POODLE

The poodle’s coat is a major reason the poodle is mixed with other breeds. The poodle’s coat does not shed and is hypoallergenic, meaning the poodle is (in my opinion) the best dog breed to have if you suffer from allergies. Most people will not have an allergic reaction to a poodle.

HEALTH AND GENETIC DISORDERS

By mixing two breeds Cockapoo Puppies become less prone to genetic disorders. Poor breeding, like mating a brother and sister, is a cause of genetic disorders. Breeding with a completely different bloodline from a different breed strengthens the gene pool of the puppies.

When Poodles became a popular dog, this caused a very high demand for poodle puppies. Poodles were generated for money not health. Inbreeding and unhealthy breeding occurred rampantly causing genetic health problems for future generations of these poodles. The same poor breeding was done with Cocker Spaniels as their popularity grew. Known health ailments are associated with each breed due to breeding to meet demand versus breeding to advance the quality of the breed.

It is possible to obtain a healthy purebred. Proper breeding was also done at the time of the breed’s popularity. By researching the bloodline of the parents, and/or having both sire and dam registered with the AKC can insure healthy genetic bloodlines for the purebred puppy.

NO GUARANTEE OF TRAITS

Remember, by mixing the breeds, the traits you like about a breed will not necessarily be passed on to the litter. Combining the best traits of both breeds is the goal. Some of the mixed bred puppies will have the desirable traits, or may have one or two of the desired traits.

It is hoped that by mixing a poodle with a Cocker Spaniel, the cockapoo will have a coat that is non-shedding and hypoallergenic, be very intelligent, be friendly and have a sturdy build. Some cockapoos will have a less shedding coat and will be less likely to cause allergic reactions. Some cockapoos will have a shedding coat and will cause allergenic reactions. The same is true of all the traits.

Cockapoos are not a recognized dog breed. At least not yet. If cockapoos with the desired traits are bred with other cockapoos with the desired traits from a different bloodline, then over time the cockapoo will have predictable traits. For example, all pure bred poodles have a non shedding coat and is hypoallergenic. The pure breed Cocker Spaniel has a shedding coat and will cause allergic reactions. As of now, cockapoos may or may not have a non shedding coat, or a coat that sheds less than the Cocker Spaniel. Researching the breeder of the cockapoo and seeing the parents is the best indication of the traits of a specific cockapoo puppy.

The mix of traits will be in each litter and puppies in the same litter could have different characteristics. One may have a shedding coat and one may have the non-shedding coat. One puppy may be very active and another calmer.

PERSONALITY

Well bred cockapoos are calm, fun, mellow and loving. They are pleasant, have patience and very sweet. Their intelligence helps them be trained and entertaining.

A personality of a dog is mainly dependent on the parents. To predict personality meet the parents and take time to get to know them. There are Cocker Spaniels and Poodles that are skittish, nervous and not friendly, who will pass on these undesirable traits. There are known health issues for each breed who will pass on the genetic tendency for that health problem.

By spending time with the puppy before committing a great deal of heartache can be avoided.

TAKING CARE OF A COCKAPOO

Cockapoo puppies can be taken care of with weekly bathing, brushing and clipping of nails. They can live a healthy and a long life with proper nutrition, medical care and good living conditions.

Cockapoo puppies have a very good immune system so they are less prone to diseases. They remain healthy with regular physical exercises. The cockapoo needs physical activities and loves to play. At a minimum take them for a daily walk, and have space for them to run and play or take them to a dog park.

COCKAPOOS AND KIDS

The nature of Cockapoo make them ideal for kids. They love to be with children and will be an excellent companion. The personality traits of calmness and patience can make the cockapoo an excellent choice for a child with emotional challenges, such as being withdrawn or autism. The cockapoo can make an excellent therapy dog.

FINDING COCKAPOOS

Cockapoo breeders can become state licensed or register with the American Cockapoo Club as a way to show they are knowledgeable breeders. Cockapoo breeders breed healthy well socialized puppies in a variety of colors and coats. Research the breeder and ask lots of questions until you feel confident about the puppy you are about to buy. Saying a dog is a Cockapoo does not exactly imply purebred Poodles and Cocker Spaniel parents. Many cross breeds of poodles have more than one breed in the bloodline. See if the breeder has a hereditary chart of the parents, called the sire and dam.


It is worth taking the time to examine breeders. Be sure the cockapoo is healthy and pleasant mannered. A well breed cockapoo will be a loving wonderful addition to your home. Take Care.


By Vicki Meltz

Discover the potential hazards of commercial dog food, and what you can do to make sure your dog is safe!

Article Source: EzineArticles