Sunday, December 6, 2020

HUSKY Feeding - Why Is a Husky's Diet So Important?

A copper "bi-eye" Siberian Husky. 
A copper "bi-eye" Siberian Husky. (Photo credit: Wikipedia) 

 I know that you really do love your Husky. After all your husky is loyal, loving and your best friend.  Of course, you want to make sure that your Husky is as healthy as possible. There are numerous ways that you can make sure that your husky is healthy. Good nutrition is the cornerstone of your husky's well-being and has the greatest influence on how long your friend will remain with you.

It is scientifically proven that if a husky is fed the wrong type of food over an extended period of time, they will become depressed and lethargic. You need to do your homework about what is best for your husky to eat. This will ensure that they enjoy life to the fullest.

Key Points to Consider with Husky Feeding
Although it may cost a little more, selecting high-quality pet food for your dog will add years to their life. Basic Vitamins and Essential Minerals are the two key aspects of a husky's nutrition.

Combining these two ingredients with a diet that your husky enjoys is a challenge but the results are well worth it. Nutritional supplements are also worth considering. Glucosamine and fish oils have become popular in order to combat arthritis and skin ailments. These supplements are not compulsory for your husky but they are definitely worth speaking to your local vet about it.

The Results of Good and Bad Nutrition
Your husky's energy levels will go up or down depending on the quality of their diet. If your dog is lacking the required nutrition you may notice them becoming lethargic. Huskies are very active dogs and you need to keep this in mind when feeding them. Although they eat relatively little once they are fully grown, make sure what you do give your husky is dense in basic vitamins and essential minerals.

Other Benefits of Good Husky Feeding Habits
The better quality the food that you feed to your husky, the more they will take into their system to sustain their health. What this means for you is that there will be less excrement around your yard to clean up. This is a big bonus for any husky owner. The consistency of your huskies poop is a very good indicator of the quality of their diet. You want your huskies poop to be firm but not too hard or soft.

The Risk of Obesity
Obesity can affect your husky just the same as it affects people. Along with regular exercise, a good diet is essential to make sure your husky stays within a healthy weight range. Use treats sparingly and only for training purposes. Treats soon add up and they can lead to serious health problems if your husky is overeating.

Avoiding Allergies
If your husky has been suffering from a mystery ailment then a change of diet may be just what the doctor ordered. There is the possibility that your husky is allergic to something that is inside their regular pet food. Keep in mind that diet affects every part of your dog's life. Monitor their nutrition constantly and maintain annual checkups at the vet.



The Benefits of a Healthy Diet
You will certainly notice that your Husky's coat will have a great shine with good nutrition. Combine this will good grooming and not only will your husky feel great, but they will also look great.
A healthy mouth is another byproduct of good husky feeding patterns. Dry food is very good for polishing and sharpening your husky's teeth. On the other hand, all the preservatives and sugars in canned food can cause plaque and tartar build-up.

Think Holistically With Husky Feeding
The saying 'you are what you eat' definitely applied to your husky. Everything from the skin condition, coat, teeth, weight and psychological well-being is affected by nutrition. Consult with a vet and experience husky breeders when making choices about husky feeding.



Sunday, November 15, 2020

Bedding For Your GOLDEN RETRIEVER

A 15 year old Golden Retriever dog, unusually ...
A 15-year-old Golden Retriever dog, unusually old for a larger breed such as Golden Retriever. The dog's name is Spencer.  - (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Bedding for your Golden Retriever is very important, as this is where he will be spending quite a bit of time - especially at night.  The ideal bedding for your Golden should be a natural fiber, such as wool, as wool absorbs most moisture and will keep your companion warm.  When you get your blanket, you can try thrift stores, as they aren’t very expensive.  You don’t want to buy an expensive blanket, for the fact that Golden Retrievers love to chew.  They can chew or tear the blanket in no time at all, which would make an expensive blanket a waste of money.

When bringing your Golden puppy home, he may be a little upset having to leave his mom and the others of his litter.  The scents and memories that he comes to know and love are now being replaced with totally new ones.  If you provide a towel for your Golden to sleep with, it may help to ease him a bit.  Towels are a great way to remind Golden puppies of their mom and their litter, which will help them to sleep and relax.

If you are planning to have your Golden Retriever sleep with you, you should be ready to get up in the middle of the night and take him outside to use the bathroom.  You should keep his food and water near his bedding at all times, so if he gets hungry or thirsty he can get what he needs.  Then, you should be planning on taking him out around an hour or so after he has eaten.

If you plan to leave your Golden Retriever outdoors, you’ll obviously need to use a different style of bedding.  Doghouses are essential for Golden’s who stay outdoors, as it helps to keep them warm and free of weather.  Inside of the doghouse, on the other hand, most people tend to use a straw so the Golden can make a bed out of it.  You can also use a blanket or quilt as well so that your Golden can wrap himself up in it should he get cold.



You can also use wooden shavings as well, as most Golden’s tend to like them.  Newspapers work well as well, as they give your Golden something to lay on besides a wooden floor.  Although doghouses work great for outdoor dogs, you should take your dog for walks on a daily basis and let him join you in activities that he finds enjoyable.  This way, you can build a unique and lasting friendship with your pet.  Golden Retrievers can quickly become the best friend you have ever had - as long as you take care of them.  Making sure that have the proper bedding is a great place to start.



Sunday, November 8, 2020

The Role of Calcium in Your DOG'S DIET

It is important for your dog's diet to contain all of the essential vitamins to ensure excellent health. One of the important nutrients in your dog's diet is calcium.  When we think of calcium, strong teeth and bones come to mind. 

Your dog's diet should be rich in calcium to support healthy teeth and bones, but a delicate balance exists in relationship to calcium and your dog's diet.  

It is possible to have too much or too little calcium in your dog's diet.  When a dog's diet contains too little calcium, your dog may develop a condition called rickets.  This condition creates soft bones that bend under the weight of your dog.      

In contrast, too much calcium can create bone abnormalities, as well.

Large breed dogs, for example, who are given too much calcium as puppies in their diet, will develop large bones that are low in density.  Strength is a problem with such bones due to a large number of calcium supplements.  

When your dog's diet contains appropriate levels of calcium, such bone abnormalities occur infrequently.

This is just one more reason to carefully select an appropriate diet for your dog.  Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the best amount of calcium in your dog's diet.  

Calcium plays an important role in your dog's diet, but other vitamins and nutrients work hand in hand with calcium.  Some minerals are interdependent.  Calcium happens to be one of such mineral nutrients. 

Calcium works together with phosphorus.  A balance of the two nutrients calcium and phosphorus must exist in a healthy ratio to ensure a dog diet that will maximize the potential advantages for your pet.  Studies involving animal nutrition show that a ratio of 1.0 to 2.0 parts calcium should be coupled with 1.0 part phosphorus.  When calcium and phosphorus ratios vary greatly from this range, bone troubles result.  

Dog diets consisting exclusively of meats, will not provide the proper amount of calcium and phosphorus to create healthy bones.  Such a diet results in a ratio of about 1.0 part calcium to 18 parts phosphorus.  The range of absorption is where the trouble begins.

Vitamin D is another nutrient that influences the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.  If a dog's diet lacks the appropriate amount of vitamin D, the other nutrients will not provide all the benefits to your pet.  Excessive amounts of vitamin D can have toxic effects on your dog.  It is imperative to maintain appropriate levels of vitamin D in your dog's diet.  Again, feeding your dog food from a reputable company will allow your confidence in knowing that your dog's diet is healthy.  


 

During pregnancy or when your dog is nursing, higher levels of calcium are important in your dog's diet.  At this time, feed your pet extra amounts of balanced dog food.  You should not have to supplement your pet at this time.  

Milk fever, or eclampsia, cannot be avoided with calcium supplements.  Eclampsia is not a nutritional deficiency, but a metabolic condition that affects the dog after the pups have been born and begin nursing.  

Avoid supplementing your dog's diet with calcium or other nutrients without specific discussion with your vet.  When calcium, for example, is out of balance, health can truly be affected negatively.  Feeding your dog a balanced diet is essential.  Reputable dog food companies have researched animal nutrition to ensure the best possible health for your dog.  Providing your dog's diet in a healthy, balanced formula may be the best way to take care of your pet.  



Sunday, November 1, 2020

Cultivating OBEDIENCE In Your Dogs

English: Chihuahua mix and Great Dane. Brindle...
Chihuahua mix and Great Dane (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

They are man's "best friend", but like your real friends, dogs also have annoying habits that you normally despise. But because you love them, you suffer for it until you can't take anymore. Just as we all try to talk to our human friends about their bad habits, it is also vital that we do the same for our pets. This is not impossible since dogs are proven to be intelligent animals. Experience also proves that they can pick up and understand instructions with proper training. In fact, training your human friends to ditch their bad habits is harder than training your pets.

Dogs are natural diggers. It might be some part of their genes that make them such enthusiastic diggers. It is amusing to watch them dig and bury whatever they like. But, it is equally irritating when your pets leave unsightly clumps of dirt on your manicured lawn. Other than the cartoon tradition of burying bones, there are other reasons why your pets dig. These reasons also differ depending on their breed and age. Younger and more "macho" breeds like Great Danes or Rottweilers dig because of pent-up and excess energy. If this is the case, frequent exercise walks, and training release these energies. Your pets are likely to be too exhausted to think of digging and your lawn efforts are not wasted. However, if your mutt is of the breeding age, the most likely reason behind its digging is a female. Your pet is probably digging to reach the next door bitch. Having your pet neutered is the only solution. However, there are cases when your pets dig because they just want to. In cases like this, your best bet is to train your dog not to dig by spraying the grass with non-toxic repellants. You can set aside a portion of the yard in which your pets can dig as much as they want. Remember to find them a spot in your backyard and not on your front lawn.




Other than lawn-digging, destructive chewing is a common problem of most pet owners. There are three reasons why mutts engage in this activity: attention, boredom, and teething. Neglecting your pets' playtime but chasing them when they got hold of your shoes are common scenarios. Scenarios like these teach them that chewing stuff is a way to frolic with you. Bored pets also have strong inclinations to be chewers. Teething is also a likely cause of chewing problems especially with younger pets. A way to stop your pets' chewing habits is to spend time with them through playing. Provide dogs with chewable toys and play catch. They will soon understand that these chew toys are the only things they are allowed to chew.

These problems are easily prevented if you make it clear to your dogs that you expect obedience from them. There are dog training camps for unruly pets and lots of articles on the internet for personal dog training. Dogs are not problems at all if you cultivate obedience in them.



Sunday, October 25, 2020

AINU DOG Breed History and Description

Ainu Dog

Description: 
The Ainu is thin but sturdy and muscular. Here is a spontaneous and speedy dog. The Ainu has upright triangular ears; these are at right angles to the dog's brows. It has small but triangular dark brown eyes. The teeth are non- protruding, solid and healthy. In some dogs, we see black spots on the tongue. 

The muzzle is straight and ends with a black nose. The tail has a curl like the Spitz family. The legs are straight and lean. It is 18-22 inches in height and the weight is 45-65 pounds. This breed has a double coat that is harsh and straight. The colours are white, wolf, brindle, red, brown, and sesame. The life expectancy is 11-13 years.

History: 
This dog came from Japan and is part of the Japanese Spitz family. This breed is still rarely seen outside of the country. The start, and history, of this breed is not known, but we know that they were in Japan some 3,000 years ago where they were brought by the Ainu tribe. This led to the tribe, and the dog, being pushed onto the island of Hokkaido. Here the dogs' role was one of the guardian to the local villages as they are very alert.

The Ainu is thought to be one of the oldest dogs' of Japan. The blue-black tongue shows a distant relationship with the Chow Chow and the Shar-Pei. This dog is good at big game hunting such as bears and has now become a designated Japanese Natural Monument. Some of their talents are in guarding and hunting. This dog has been used for sledge pulling and can be trained to be defensive. 




The dog has a fantastic ability to sense direction and can find its owner over vast distances. This dog is also called the Hokkaido, after the area it lived, by Thomas Blankiston in 1869. This is a rare dog breed.



Sunday, October 18, 2020

An Overview of the Costs of PET ADOPTION

Busted!!
Photo by Woody H1

You can know the costs of pet adoption before you commit to it. The easiest option may be to open your PC and connect to the World Wide Web. You must remember that your choice of animals will depend a lot on the lifestyle that you are leading. Adoption centres can help you with the process of finding the right one for you. They are also concerned about the well-being of the animals after they have left the centre. So as much as possible, they want the right pets to land on the right hands


Does it already sound like a dating game wherein people are being matched according to their traits and preferences? Well, that is very much true. As the pet owner, you must also make sure that when you already acquired the animal, you must do everything in your capacity to look out for its well-being. Now it is already sounding more like parenting, right? But this shouldn’t scare you. Pets bring lots of joy for those who are open to accepting them with loving arms.

But before your thoughts go as far as the many advantages of being a pet owner, you must first be informed about the costs that it would take for you to find the right pet.

1. In calculating the annual costs of owning a pet through adoption, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests that the following items must be included: food, treats, toys, required licensing if any, medical treatment and vaccinations. They have come up with the following figures for the pets listed below.

• Fish will cost about $20. The aquarium’s prices differ from $20 to $200 and even higher depending on the quality and the features.
• The prices of dogs will differ depending on the size and breed. A medium built may cost about $600 while a large built can be up to $800. 
• Rabbits are easy to deal with. But the costs for this type can be up to $700.
• Cats may be within the range of $500 to $600.
• The prices of birds will also depend on the size and type. A small one can cost about $100 to $150.

After you have acquired these pets, it is your responsibility to provide for their shelter, fun and training if you want. You may want to purchase cages for your pets, training bundles and dog crates. The costs for these can range from $80 to $500.

2. You must also be prepared for unexpected conditions such as accidents and sudden medical problems. You must save up for your pets as well for you to be able to afford the treatments in such conditions.



3. To give you a detailed sample of the costs of adopting a pet, here’s one example where you can base your decisions from. As stated previously, the annual costs that you may incur from owning a cat can reach from $500 to $600. And why is that? Here is the breakdown. The cost of adopting an adult cat is $60. The prices vary from location and the breed of the feline that you choose. If you will buy cats from pet stores, the prices may range from $150 up to $1000. The cats from the centre have been neutered ($30 up to $80) or spayed ($45 to $90). The vaccinations for its first year can be about $150 to $300. Cats must also undergo FeLV or Feline Aids and FELV or Feline Leukemia testing that can be about $50 to $80 per test.

But the costs of pet adoption must not discourage you from being a pet owner. The joys your pets will add to your life will make it all worthwhile.



Saturday, October 17, 2020

History of the GREAT DANE (Deutsche Dogge)

A black Great Dane (Deutsche Dogge).
A black Great Dane (Deutsche Dogge). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It is commonly agreed upon that the Great Dane is an old breed. There is evidence of them appearing in many ancient cultures. Artefacts from these civilizations bear images with a startling likeness to the Danes we see today. For example, the Royal Museum at Munich houses a Grecian coin dating from the fifth century BC that depicts a dog strongly resembling the Great Dane. Artistic evidence of these dogs has been found in Pre-biblical Assyria, Egypt, Rome, and ancient Greek archaeological sites. These dogs were also commonly used among early Celtic and Teutonic tribes.


The oldest ancestors of the Great Dane were known as "Bullenbeissers". The Bullenbeisser had its origins in early Germanic cultures. Also known as the "Deutsche Dogge", or "German Dog", the Bullenbeisser closely resembled the breed we call the Mastiff and was the original dog used to breed the many Mastiff variations. Since mankind's early history, dogs with Bullenbeisser strains benefited men like war and guard dogs. Eventually, they became "Molossian Dogs" after the ancient Grecian city.

According to literary references, the massive Bullenbeisser was the most used guard dog in Germany throughout the middle ages. Their original purpose, however, was that of highly efficient hunting dogs. They were extremely adept at chasing and bringing down wild boar, as well as wolves, elk and cattle. As wild boar became scarce, so did the need for these dogs as hunting dogs.

Interestingly, Dane-like dogs were also used extensively as offensive weapons long before gunpowder was ever thought of being invented. Their early ancestors wore armour consisting of jointed plates of metal with a light chain mail vest. It was common to see these dogs with a huge spike attached to their armour. Great figures of history, such as Attila the Hun, protected their camps from surprise enemy attacks by enlisting these massive, ferocious and courageous armour-plated dog warriors. In his battle against Francis I, Charles V of Spain used nearly five hundred of these fearsome dogs as soldiers. Meanwhile, in the British Isles, dogs of the same breed stock were becoming the English Mastiff. Cross-breeding with Greyhounds and Irish Wolfhounds altered the basic Bullenbeisser genetic pattern. These offspring were eventually to become the Great Dane.


Around the middle of the 19th century, in England and the rest of Europe, the sport of competitive dog shows brought about the pure-bred modern Great Dane. With the breed enjoying enormous growth and popularity, the first Great Dane Club began in England in 1883. By 1888, the German Deutsche-Doggen club was newly formed and they are responsible for selectively breeding toward the ideal Great Dane. In northern Germany, the dogs were aggressive, very heavy and had a coarse coat. Their southern counterparts were milder of temperament, slender and lighter. The best traits between the northern and southern types became the breed standard. Detailed records of pedigrees, breeding practices and prize-winners were kept, allowing for further recognition of the breed.

In 1857, Mr Francis Butler imported a Harlequin Dane named Prince into the United States from London. However, the first time a dog entered the show ring as a "Great Dane" was only in 1886. These early American Danes were totally unmanageable as they were so aggressive. Due to their volatile nature, they were not welcome in any American Dog Shows during this period. Their job of hunting by day and guard dogs by night had ensured an aggressive temperament. The early American breeders are responsible for actively subduing their aggressive tendencies, by painstakingly breeding selective pairs of milder mannered Danes.

Due to the dedication, responsibility and concern that Great Dane breeders have shown in improving the breed, Great Danes are now known globally for their gentle natures. Their extreme size, loyalty, devotion and intelligence have earned them the titles of "Gentle Giants" and "Apollo of Dogs."



Sunday, October 11, 2020

Fact Sheet: WHIPPET DOG

(Original Title: Whippet Dog Breed Profile Information)

Megsy whippet.jpg
Photo by Tai McQueen
Description:
The Whippet is a medium-sized dog in the sighthound group. The dog will be 19 to 22 inches at the shoulder and the bitch 18 to 21 inches. This dog can range in weight from about 25 to 45 pounds. The Whippet is a very streamlined dog with a long neck and legs. The chest is deep for aid in running. The short coat of the Whippet can be found in nearly all colors including white with brindle, white with black, yellow patches, blue, or red. The color may also be solid. The Whippet will live for approximately 12 to 15 years. The name comes from the expression "whip it", which meant to do something quickly. This dog is also known as the Snapdog.

History: 
The Whippet was bred from the Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound, and an unknown terrier at the end of the 1800s in England. The Whippet found itself used as a hunter of rabbits by the peasants, but became a dog used for races during the migration to the cities during the Industrial Revolution. It became known as the "poor man's racehorse", and sums of money were bet on the outcome of dog races. Mill workers from England brought the Whippet with them when they emigrated to America and helped to establish dog racing here.

Temperament:
The Whippet is a docile, affectionate dog that exhibits a good disposition. This dog gets along well with children and will play with them. As the dog has sensitive skin, however, the children should be instructed to take care not to hurt the Whippet accidentally. This dog is calm in the house, reserving its play for outdoors. It should be remembered that the Whippet was developed as a hunting dog and its instincts are still strong. This dog will chase and kill small animals and cats. If the dog is socialized with cats while young, there will generally be no problem. The Whippet makes an excellent companion dog and loves to cuddle and receive attention from its owner.

Health Issues: 

This is a fairly healthy breed with few health problems. Whippets do not seem to suffer from hip dysplasia. This breed is sensitive to the cold and should be protected from winter temperatures. The Whippet has trouble with some anesthetics (barbiturates), and your veterinarian should be aware of this before any surgery is performed.





Grooming: 
The short coat of the Whippet does not require much grooming, just the occasional brushing and bath is all. The teeth, however, should be brushed on a daily basis to prevent build-up of tartar, and professional cleaning is recommended once a year. The Whippet's skin is rather thin and delicate, so care must be taken to prevent cuts or scratches.

Living Conditions: 
Physically and emotionally, the Whippet is a housedog. This dog bonds very closely to its family and is happiest when near them. Although it has been said that the Whippet can live in an apartment, it should be remembered that it needs a good deal of exercise. The Whippet is built for running and should be given an opportunity to burn off its excess energy through a brisk walk, at the very least, every day. The Whippet must sleep in a warm spot and should be dressed in warm clothes during cold weather.



Sunday, September 13, 2020

Things You Need To Know About The EXOTIC SHORTHAIR CAT


Brown Exotic Shorthair Female Kitten.
Brown Exotic Shorthair Female Kitten. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Cats have been one of mankind's most treasured companions throughout history. They are known as playful and loving pets. The exotic shorthair is a recent cat breed that has been increasingly popular among cat owners everywhere. The breed originated in the United States during the early 1950s. The breed was formally recognized during the 1960s. It is a cross between the Persian cat breed and the American Shorthair. Other crosses between Persians and Shorthair cat breeds like the British Shorthair are also considered by some as Exotic shorthair cats. 


Due to its long-haired Persian heritage, there is a one in four chance that a longhair will result from breeding two Exotic Shorthairs.
The breed has a distinct appearance that sets it apart from its Persian and American Shorthair forebears. The Exotic cat has a large, almost massive head. Its face is flattened, with full cheeks and a pug-like nose. A strong chin and broad, powerful jaws give the cat a distinct look. It has widely spaced ears and large, round eyes. Eye color is dependent on coat color; blue eyes are common in blue and white varieties, green is the norm for chinchilla-coated specimens and golden is the most common among the other varieties. The exotic shorthair exhibits similar coloration found in Persian breeds, though they have shorter and more erect hairs. 

Their coat hair is slightly longer than the American and British Shorthair breeds. They are medium-sized, well-muscled cats with massive chests and broad shoulders. The breed has a short and thick tail. This cute and cuddly appearance makes The Exotic shorthair cat is a favorite among enthusiasts and regular owners alike.

The breed is known to be affectionate and loyal. The exotic shorthair is quick to bond with its owner. They are naturally curious and playful though they tend to be less rambunctious than their Persian ancestors. This makes them good lap cats, perfect for people living in apartments. The cat is friendly to other people as well as towards other cats and even dogs. Their dense and fluffy hair may require weekly combing to help remove matted hair and dirt, though the breed is fully capable of cleaning itself. Their American Shorthair heritage makes them good hunters and mousers especially when offered with treats and other incentives by their owners

Breeders are the only source of certified exotic shorthair kittens. Animal shelters may have adults up for adoption. Adopting an adult is a short process, which usually entails a couple of minutes of paperwork and payment of a standard fee. Obtaining kittens from breeders may take more time. 



Certification, pedigree, and other paperwork may take a while to be processed. It is important to check if the breeder conducts Feline polycystic kidney disease tests on their cats. PKD is a common ailment found in Persian-derived breeds. This disorder can lead to eventual kidney failure. It is highly recommended to test exotic shorthair kittens for PKD. The exotic shorthair price ranges from $100 dollars or so for adults from animal shelters and up to $600 dollars for kittens from reputable breeders. Yearly maintenance costs for the exotic shorthair can reach $1000. These include medical check-ups, cat food costs, and other miscellaneous expenditures.


    Article Source: EzineArticles


Sunday, September 6, 2020

Information Regarding the American WIREHAIR CAT

English: American Wirehair cat sitting in a ca...
American Wirehair cat sitting in a cat show. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
American Wirehair is a domestic feline that was first seen in the mid-nineteen sixties in the United States when two otherwise normal cats produced kittens with curled 'wiry' hair. An interested breeder took to their development and after some years of dedicated efforts, litters with consistent physical and behavioral traits were born. Registration came soon afterward and the cat was accepted for championship status by the late seventies. 

Even as the cat has been exported to European nations, its spontaneous mutation occurred only in the United States, a fact that surprises some geneticists. Since American Wirehairs evolved from a single ancestor, they are periodically outcrossed with American Shorthairs to maintain diversity in their gene pool.

Physically the pretty cats resemble American Shorthairs to an extent. They are well-built cats with good physical development. The wire-like hair is often not seen uniformly in litters. They may even change in character with age. The coat can range from short and dense to curly and spiked. It is generally very soft though and may occur in any color like the eyes. Cheekbones are well developed, giving the eyes a slanted appearance.

Even the whiskers of the American Wirehairs are like curled up wires. Owing to their wiry hair these cats are prone to an oily coat. They also get allergic readily and may lose hair under stress, and thus require regular grooming and maintenance. It is best to keep them indoors. Also, it is suggested that their ears be swabbed regularly since they often accumulate wax.
American Wirehairs are very people-oriented and affectionate.



They totally adore their owners and shadow them everywhere they go. Like most cats, they have a pleasant temperament and are tolerant of other pets. Active and vigorous animals, American Wirehairs just love to play and have fun in a calm indoor environment.



Sunday, August 30, 2020

AMERICAN WIREHAIR - Cats of the World

AMERICAN WIREHAIR - Cats of the World


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Sunday, August 23, 2020

What Is the Hungarian VIZSLA?

English: a picture of a vizsla
A picture of a Vizsla (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Hungarian Vizsla is a high energy, affectionate, trustworthy, and loving. Frequently they're referred to as "velcro" dogs due to their faithfulness and affection. In general, Vizslas are quiet dogs, only barking if required or provoked. Occasionally when they feel neglected or desire something, they'll cry. The Hungarian Vizsla is a great retriever on land and in the water, making the maximum of their natural instincts. For the Hungarian Vizsla, games like fetch, swimming, and Frisbee are all preferred because they permit them to use those tracking and hunting instincts. In regards to training the Hungarian Vizsla, they need to be handled carefully and without tough commands or robust physical correction, as they have delicate temperaments and can easily be damaged.


Vizsla Problems


Every dog owner has their share of problems. Their dogs will dig, chew, jump, whine, or bark away whenever it is least convenient. So, if you own a Vizsla, problems are a very real possibility, especially if the dog is not properly trained from a young age. To help with each of these problems, here are some common issues and Vizsla training tips:

Vizsla Separation Anxiety

The Hungarian Vizsla can easily grow agitated and start showing signs of extensive anxiety - especially if you give them too much attention when leaving or coming home. Not only will the dog bark when you're away, but they may also begin to hurt themselves, pulling hair, scratching their paws, breaking teeth, or making messes in the house. This is a major issue for many reasons, not the least of which is the sanctity of your home. To help the Hungarian Vizsla with anxiety, teach the dog from a young age not to seek attention before or after you leave or return home. Furthermore, this behaviour needs to be taught by the whole family. Even one person "saying goodbye" to your Vizsla can create anxious feelings.

Vizsla Neuroses

Beyond separation anxiety, Vizslas can grow neurotic over a number of issues - sounds, digging, scratching, eating, or other common behaviours. It is usually easy to avoid many of these issues by keeping the dog busy and giving them lots of exercises. The Hungarian Vizsla needs at least 1-2 hours of exercise a day in some form or another. If you cannot spend time at home with your Vizsla in the first 1-2 years of ownership, you should definitely consider a breed that does better spending time alone. The Hungarian Vizsla is in general quite needy - they crave interaction with both humans and other dogs. Additionally, consider getting a second dog for company or try to spend at least 2-3 hours of every day in the company of your Vizsla, no matter how busy you get.



Vizsla Hunting Drive

Another potential problem which relates to their hunting heritage is the drive to chase (and kill) small animals such as mice and birds. It's a good idea to keep your Vizsla locked up when outside, and to make sure they meet any other family pets at a young age. The Hungarian Vizsla's problems are similar to most dog problems but can grow exponentially if you are not careful to nip them in the bud early. Spend time with your Vizsla, address common tendencies and build a relationship early so that your dog remains healthy and happy for the duration of their life.

The question is, can you alter your Vizsla's bad behaviours for good? Yes, you can!



Sunday, August 16, 2020

Fact Sheet: PULI - PULIK

(Original Title: Puli - Facts You Must Know Before Adopting a Puli)

English: Puli "Ch Banhegyi Ancsa with Mor...
Puli "Ch Banhegyi Ancsa with Mornebrake" (Ancsa) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Breed Description
The Puli is a medium-sized breed with a fairly muscular sturdy build. This squarely shaped dog has the height that ranges between 16-17 inches for males, and 14-16 inches for females. The typical male weighs between 25-35 pounds, while the female is around 20-30 pounds.

Coat
The Puli has a dense and waterproof double coat. Their outer coat is curly or wavy, while their inner coat is woolly and soft to touch. Puppies don't form cords until they reach 6 months, and will require a lot of care to make these cords presentable. They come in black, white, rusty black, and shades of apricot and gray, with overall appearance as that of a solid color.

Activity
A very active breed, the Puli loves to run around outdoors. Some can even swim. It is important to supervise them while swimming as it is better to be safe than sorry. They mostly enjoy joining with their owners and other companion dogs in playing.

Temperament
The Puli is a highly intelligent breed and quick to learn. These energetic dogs have a great deal of enthusiasm and love to socialize and play. With a lot of agility and endurance, they can be too obstinate resulting in challenging training. They are best for confident and assertive dog owners with some experience in dog ownership. They are quick to their feet, with an inquisitive nature. It is therefore advisable that they are allowed to play in a securely fenced area.

Overview
The medium to small-sized Puli is a Hungarian herding breed and a livestock guardian known for a long and corded coat. Appearing similar to dreadlocks, the coat of this breed is virtually waterproof.





Care
The coat of the Puli will not form cords until it reaches 6 months. At this time, the mats that are formed will be needed to be pulled apart by hand on a regular basis. Clumps are torn apart by hand as well, starting from the tip of their skin. Keeping their coats neat will be easier if these are done constantly.

Bathing the Puli is basically simple. The part that takes a while is drying their coats. Blow drying their wet coat may take hours, and if they are only air-dried, it may take up to two days.

Training
Among the most intelligent breed of dogs, the Puli is an eager worker that can be easily trained to follow directions and commands. It is ideal that they are trained alongside older Puli. Although, the younger should never get too used to being an assistant as this will decrease the ultimate goal, which is teaching him to be responsible in caring for a flock.

Character
The Puli is a cheerful family pet that is highly adaptable and lively. With a mind, if their own, these dogs are obedient, and a barker if threatened.



Sunday, August 9, 2020

The CHIHUAHUA - A Faithful Companion

English: Chihuahua puppies
Chihuahua puppies (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the world and is named after the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, where it was discovered in 1850. Some scholars believe the Chihuahua to be descended from Chinese hairless dogs-who may have crossed over from Asia to Alaska on a land bridge before continental separation created the Bering Strait and bred with the ancient Techichi dog, creating the modern-day Chihuahua. But due to the lack of archaeological proof to support this theory, it was later believed that Chihuahuas were brought to Mexico by settlers from Spain. The American Kennel Club registered its first Chihuahua in 1905.

There are two types of Chihuahua. One of which has a smooth, soft glossy coat, which covers the whole body except head and ears. The other version has a long coat with an undercoat. This type of coat could be curly or flat. The Chihuahua falls under the AKC's toy category. Generally, their height is 6 to 10 inches at the shoulders and their weight is 2 to 6 pounds. Chihuahuas come in various colors, from plain white to solid black and spotted, or other colors like silver, blue or gray, chocolate, fawn or tan, tricolor-chocolate, blue or black with tan or white markings, merle and brindle, and each of the colors varies in tone and shade. Chihuahuas are mostly known for their small body and large, sharp ears. A Chihuahua's nose is usually short and slightly pointed. They have lean jaws and cheeks and blue, mole, or chocolate colored noses. However, a pink nose is permissible in blonde Chihuahuas. The tail is either up or curled in a loop with the tip of it slightly touching the back.

Many Chihuahua owners often are confused by the variety of dog foods available on the market. They often complain that their pets suffer from intestinal disorders, itching, dandruff, allergies, etc. As a responsible Chihuahua owner, you should provide your pet with meals containing proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, fatty acids, and minerals. A proper balance of these components will not only keep the dog healthy and happy but it will also save you from the hassles and frustration of frequent vet visits and costs. Dry foods usually help to keep the dog's teeth clean and also, help to work his jaws. This kind of dog food is easily digestible. Aside from a few premium quality dog foods, you should avoid branded food items or commercial dog food. 

They contain preservatives, additives, artificial colors, non-nutritive residues, etc. and can adversely affect your dog's health. The chihuahua's diet also must contain vitamin and mineral supplements in balanced concentrations. You can safely give your Chihuahua a normal lamb and rice combination. This not only takes care of the nutritional needs of your Chihuahua, but it also reduces the risk of allergies and other health disorders. Due to lack of proper nutrition, Chihuahuas can suffer from vomiting, belching, loose stools, gassiness, and stomach ache after meals. Some foods commonly enjoyed by humans are dangerous to Chihuahuas like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, macadamia nuts, alcoholic beverages, salmon (sometimes triggers allergies), etc. Also, do not overfeed your Chihuahua. Obesity is dangerous. In order to give your Chihuahua a long, happy, healthy life, you need to be conscious about what you are feeding it.

Chihuahuas are prized for their devotion, ferocity, and personality. Their curious nature and small size make them easily adaptable to a variety of environments, including the city and small apartments. Chihuahuas are usually intelligent and independent by nature. Some dogs are bright and can learn quickly, while others are more stubborn and obstinate. Some are outgoing and friendly towards strangers while others are withdrawn and aloof. Whatever your Chihuahua's attitude now, your love, care, and training can change your dog completely, from an unruly, out-of-control dog to the best dog in the neighborhood. Chihuahuas, in general, are delightful characters and are lively, entertaining, and very loyal. They crave for constant love and attention from you and your family members. Chihuahuas are not well-suited as small children's pets because of their size, temperament, and tendency to bite when frightened. It is recommended that children be school-aged or older before adding a Chihuahua to one's home. Also, many Chihuahuas focus their devotion on one person, becoming overly jealous of that person's human relationships. This can be nipped in the bud through proper socialization. Chihuahuas also tend to have a clannish nature, often preferring the companionship of other Chihuahuas over other breeds of dogs. Chihuahuas seem to have no concept of their own size and may fearlessly confront larger animals, which can result in injury.

Chihuahuas get sick from parasites, viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and fungus. In some cases, these diseases and infestations are fatal unless caught early and treated. Sometimes they sow the seeds of death or debilitation years down the road by causing chronic illness or damaging organs. Fortunately, veterinary researchers have developed drugs and treatments that reduce the occurrence and effects of many diseases and parasites, but they do not eradicate the diseases, they only hold them at bay. Immunizing Chihuahuas against disease is a simple process. Pet owners may even take vaccinations for granted. It is the most routine procedure performed in veterinary clinics. The major viral diseases are rabies, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and coronavirus. The major bacterial diseases are Lyme, leptospirosis, and kennel cough. Diseases like Rabies, Lyme, and Leptospirosis can also infect people.



Chihuahuas can also get sick from debilitating diseases like arthritis and hip dysplasia but are most common in older Chihuahuas. Chihuahuas are also very susceptible to hypoglycemia and diabetes. Before trying any treatment options, you should get an accurate diagnosis of your Chihuahua, which is usually done by a physical examination combined with x-rays performed at your veterinarian's. Treatment and prevention are personal choices but involve several options when considering your Chihuahua's health. You can either go for modern-day medicines or homeopathic treatments.

Proper Chihuahua health care also involves grooming. You will often notice many Chihuahuas with dirty, rough or greasy hair, their nails too long, teary eyes, and dirty ears. Obviously, these Chihuahuas are not well-groomed. Remember, a well-groomed Chihuahua not only looks good, but he feels good from within as well. This paves the way for better health for your Chihuahua. Incredibly enough after grooming, chihuahuas can look very different and seem to have more pep. Ticks, fleas, mange and other parasites often breed on a Chihuahuas coat. With regular grooming, you can avoid this.

Physical exercise is important for your Chihuahua. Puppies, adolescents, healthy adults, and senior pets alike need lots of regular daily workout sessions to maintain their health. The type of exercise depends on the age and fitness of your Chihuahua and your own lifestyle. Chihuahuas are adaptable and are happy to play Frisbee in the park or take long walks in the neighborhood. Daily exercise is recommended unless the weather is especially dangerous or a medical problem limits your Chihuahua's activity. If there is a medical problem, consult your veterinarian about exercise limitations. Keep in mind that obese Chihuahuas and those with heart and lung diseases may have a problem, and be sure to consult your vet before starting a new regime.

You know your pet best and can often notice subtle early warning signs of illness that someone else may not detect. If you observe symptoms or other signs that worry you, call your veterinary immediately. The safest approach would be to have your pet examined before it is too late. Although figures often vary, as with any breed, the average lifespan for a Chihuahua is approximately 8 to 18 years of age.

Although an owner needs to take great care of a Chihuahua it will be your best friend and faithful companion for their life. And will give the owner great joy if taken care of properly.



Sunday, August 2, 2020

BRUSSELS GRIFFON

English: 1yo Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Grif...
Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon). red with the black mask. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Brussels Griffon breed is in the toy dog category and is described as a Star Wars Ewok. The head is large with a round domed forehead. It has a very short muzzle that has the appearance of being pushed back, with a small short nose. This breed has an overbite with a hanging tongue. The eyes are prominent and widely set with long black eyelashes. The ears are high set and can be cropped or left natural. The natural ear is carried in a semi-erect position. This breed has straight leg bones of medium length. The tail is set high, and in some countries docked. This breed has two types of coat, rough and smooth. On the smooth coats, the fur is short, tight, glossy, and straight. 

On the rough coat, the fur is dense and wiry. It is to be noted the short coats are easier to groom. Coat colours include red, brown with a little black on the chin and whiskers, brown coloured dogs usually have a black mask as well. Black and tan come with a reddish-brown marking under the chin, above each eye, and on their legs. This colour is also seen around the ears and around the vent.

History: The Brussels Griffon dog, as the name suggests, came from Brussels, and were first shown at the Brussels exhibition of 1880. In the 17th century, this dog was kept by cab drivers, to rid the stables of rats and mice. This breed then went on to become a companion dog. There is a large mix of other breeds, to name just a few, we see English toy spaniel, Yorkshire terrier and Irish terrier. Somewhat rare the Griffon may be very difficult to find.

Temperament: The Brussels Griffon breed has a happy disposition, and is intelligent. This makes for a great personality and a fine companion dog. They are good with other dogs and cats. This breed is very affectionate lively and loves everybody. They make good watchdogs and can be taught to do tricks. Care is needed to help the dog know their place in the family, or they can suffer from small dog syndrome. It is not a good idea to treat this dog as you would a human baby, as this will cause the dog to wish to take over the home, and you will have a dog with behavioural problems.

This can cause obsessive barking, over-demanding, separation anxiety, snapping and even biting. If you remember this dog is a dog. With enough mental and physical exercise, they are a good companion and do not become highly strung, moody or oversensitive. This dog may be small but still needs good leadership, with consistent rules that they must follow, to become a well-balanced dog.



Health issues: The Brussels Griffon breed can have eye and respiratory problems, sensitivity to heat and prone to slipped stifle.

Grooming: As mentioned earlier, the coat of the rough variety requires a lot of grooming. Grooming will need to be done at least every other day. The Brussels Griffon breed sheds little to no hair.

Living conditions: The Brussels Griffon breed is good as an apartment dog. They can be very active indoors, but it is important that the dog is walked daily to fulfil their needs.



Sunday, July 26, 2020

Obese PET DOGS

Huffing and Puffing
Photo by swong95765
Unfortunately, increasingly more dogs are becoming too heavy. Overweight dogs live shorter lives and often develop other related health problems. What can you do in case your dog is gaining weight?

The first thing to do is to have a look at how you interact with your puppy.

Do you feed the dog family table leftovers? Does he have between-meal treats? Does your dog have chips along with you while you are watching television?


These items can certainly be eliminated. Only feed your dog at his meal times. Your dog doesn't need to have all those excess calories. You don't need to be terrible, but you will have to cut down the number of doggie snacks he receives every day.

Observe just how many dinners you're providing him and examine your dog food content label carefully. You may be overfeeding the family dog. The majority of family pet foods list on the label precisely how much food a dog needs to be given each day. Be certain that you are adhering to these guidelines. Quite a few owners learn they have switched brands and didn't bother to read the content label and discover that the canine is receiving an excessive amount of food.

Do you have to give your puppy a treat to make him obey? If you do, you have to spend time training your furry friend. Dogs want to delight their masters and can work for praise by itself. Keep the canine guessing. Ask the pup to perform a trick but just reward him every second time. Provide the dog lots of compliments and pets as soon as he does respond correctly. Continue doing this and bit by bit eliminate the need for a food reward.

You also should look into the amount of exercise your furry friend is actually getting each and every day. Leaving the puppy outside in the backyard is just not adequate. Not many pets will workout on their own. They may be in the garden however they are probably not getting rid of unhealthy calories. It's good to get out and have fun with the dog or take him for a walk.



When the weather conditions or perhaps your situation doesn't allow for plenty of walks you have to consider various other workout solutions. Retain the services of a walker, find ways to get the dog active indoors, but get your four-legged friend active.

As a dependable pet owner looks at what and how the dog eats and your companion will live a lot longer and healthier lifestyle.