Archive for January, 2010
Australian Shepherd (Herding Group)
Posted by: | CommentsThe Australian Shepherd is a bold, loving, smart and energetic member of the Herding Group. These dogs have an athletic build and are medium in size. With amazing agility and a powerful body, they can work hard all day without sacrificing speed or stamina. Australian Shepherd dogs were bred to guard livestock and to this day maintains the genetic drive to herd.
The temperament of the breed can vary from being overly playful with its owners to an imposing and courageous watchdog against intruders. They are typically friendly towards other dogs and pets, but reserved around strange people. Without proper exercise and mental stimulation through games and dog training, the Australian Shepherd tends to become bored and may act out in a destructive manner through barking and chewing.
A Brief History Of The Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd's assumed area of origin can be misleading because it is not actually an Australian Breed. Although the exact details of the dog's history is unclear, we do know that they made their way to the United States, from Australia, where they were used to herd sheep.
One theory suggests that the breed started when the Basque people of Europe settled in Australia with their sheepdogs, then relocated to America, bringing their dogs with them. The name "Australian Shepherd" was given due to the breed's past residence and function, but they were still largely known as the Basque dog.
The Australian Shepherd excelled at overcoming the harsh conditions of herding through rough terrain in both Australia and western America. They were crossed with various other breeds and were mostly kept under the radar in terms of popularity. During the 1950s, the breed gained exposure as they were seen in various dog trick shows and even in film.
The International English Shepherd Registry registered the very first Australian Shepherd (today known as the National Stock Dog Registry). The Australian Shepherd Club of America was formed in 1957, and in 1993 the AKC officially recognized the breed. Today the Australian Shepherd is still used as a sheep herder and can be seen winning herding trials.
Upkeep Requirements For The Australian Shepherd
This breed must have vigorous exercise on a daily basis, both physically and mentally. And with its ease of training ability and high intellectual levels, the Australian Shepherd is the perfect candidate for advanced obedience training. These dogs thrive on human contact and are not meant for sitting around the house all day.
Australian Shepherds can tolerate both hot and cool temperatures but should not live outdoors completely. The ideal living arrangement is to allow the Aussie to have access to a safe outdoors area during the day and to sleep inside with the family at night. Grooming requirements call for a heavy brushing of its thick coat about two to three times weekly.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Australian Shepherd is between twelve and fifteen years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are CEA and cataracts. Minor health issues include CEA, Pelger-Huet syndrome, hypothyroidism, CHD, iris coloboma, and nasal solar dermatitis. Rarely seen is PRA, PPM, distichiasis, PDA, epilepsy, lumbar sacral syndrome, and vWD. Veterinarians suggest that the Australian Shepherd get specifically tested for DNA for CEA, hip, thyroid, and eye problems.
Miniature Bull Terrier
Posted by: | CommentsThe Miniature Bull Terrier is a member of the Terrier family, the Mastiff family, and the Bull family. Its original area of origin is the country of England and the date of origin can be traced back to the 1800s. This dog's original function was nothing more than to be a companion. Today, many Miniature Bull Terrier dogs are also used at Earthdog trials.
This dog breed was created directly from the regular sized Bull Terrier so it shares the same history in the early days. Back then, the standard drawn up for Bull Terriers allowed for all size ranges and poundages. This diversity reflected all of the breed's ancestry, including the Black and Tan Terrier, Bulldog, and the White English Terrier.
Miniature Bull Terriers have been in existence for a long time. There have been some Bull Terriers reported to weigh as little as 4 pounds. One of the first groups of smaller "toy" Bull Terriers were white in color and referred to as "Coverwood Terriers." This name was a reflection of the kennel that produce them.
In time, a better and more healthier group of small Bull Terriers were created. Their size was somewhat larger than the toy version and so became known as "miniatures." These Miniature Bull Terriers were bred and their popularity rose to such a point that the English Kennel Club recognized the breed in.
This recognition created a few problems at first. Because it was its own separate breed, Miniature Bulls could not be interbred with the regular-sized Bull Terriers. Unfortunately, the numbers of miniatures were so small that inbreeding was forced to happen. The numbers rose slowly and in 1991 the Miniature Bull Terrier was recognized by the AKC.
Personality
Most miniature and toy dog breeds are considered lapdogs. However, the Miniature Bull Terrier does not have the same characteristics as these other small dogs. As far as personality is concerned, these dogs are literally just smaller versions of the standard-sized Bull Terrier. They are rough, playful, mischievous, yet sweet and friendly, all the same time. Miniature Bull Terriers are considered to be very stubborn but when trained properly become excellent watchdogs.
Taking Care Of Your Miniature Bull Terrier
Miniature Bull Terriers should not live outdoors. Playtime in the yard and a few walks on a the leash will provide plenty of exercise for this dog. They also make excellent pets for small apartments or condominiums.
Health Information
The average lifespan for a healthy Miniature Bull Terrier is between 11 and 15 years. The only major health concern that may show itself is deafness. This issue is mostly seen in the all-white color versions of the Miniature Bull Terrier. Minor issues include lens luxation and glaucoma. Kidney disease is sometimes seen with this breed, but is extremely rare.
do dogs help children with adhd and if so is there proof of this?
Posted by: | Commentsmy son really wants a dog but he has ADHD and I want to know if the dog would help him.
How To Approach Strange Dogs (Part 3)
Posted by: | CommentsThe protective biter is something that's altogether different than the indiscriminate biter and fear biter, as discussed in previous articles. The territorial instinct of the protective biter is inbred and he certainly cannot be blamed for what nature has given him. That is, unless he happens to be the spoiled dog who owns a favorite toy and dares any member of the family to even walk close to it.
It might even be a favorite rug in the kitchen or in the living room, and the dog is ready to fight anyone who comes near it. That type of protective biter needs some special training, rather than special understanding. He could seriously injure a family member before sufficient amounts of special understanding can be administered.
Never, Ever, Run Away!
In the protective biter, certain instincts are alerted at the approach of a suspicious person or at the approach of a stranger who acts in a suspicious way. One of the most dangerous things a person can do when confronted with a protective biter is to run. That action alone is enough to trigger the protective biter to act.
In training guard dogs for protection work, a running "villain" is precisely the way such training starts. Here, too is where children often make a big mistake. They panic, run, and they get bitten as a result of this reaction. But if they stand perfectly still, the chances of them getting bit are greatly reduced and, most likely, eliminated altogether.
Since it is difficult to tell whether the dog confronting you is a protective biter, you must keep in mind to do nothing that could be interpreted by the dog as suspicious. Again, you should kneel down to the dog's level and let him come to you and be able to examine you. Let him decide at his own pace whether you are good or bad. This question may arise - can he actually smell that? Whether he can smell or merely sense it remains to be a mystery, but you can bet that he'll know.
No Fear
You must never act scared in front of a protective dog. Even if your heart is beating fast and pumping adrenalin a gallon a minute, you must act in a nonchalant way and every movement you make must be natural.
In the case of the protective biter, slow, deliberate movements could very well be interpreted as suspicious movements by the dog. Think about a slow, apprehensive movement a burglar would be using as he sneaks into the night. This kind of movement may trigger the protective dog into aggressiveness.
By keeping all movements natural and by constantly talking to the dog in a warm, friendly and cheerful manner, you exhibit the appearance of confidence. You are showing the dog that you have nothing to hide and therefore, nothing to be scared of. To the protective dog, villains are always fearful, cowardly, distrustful, and reeking with badness. On the other hand, the good guy is always fearless, confident - but not dominant, and has nothing to hide.
How To Choose A Good Obedience School For Your Dog
Posted by: | CommentsHow To Choose A Good Obedience School For Your Dog
Every person desires for a dog that is well trained, but at times your pet may be a little problematic or you simply may not have the time or be acquainted with how to train him correctly. Fortunately you can get assistance and it is as easy as signing up your dog in a dog obedience school.
Maybe you have come across people with disobedient dogs, or possibly even have prepared to accept to yourself to believe that your dog will by no means do as he is told. Perhaps you have got accustomed to returning home from work and finding chewed up shoes and litter all over the house. Possibly you have even started to take your dog for a walk at night because that is when no neighbors are outside. For the reason that you just cannot manage him when people and other dogs are all over.
You do not have to give up yourself to start believing that your dog will by no means be controlled and in reality you are accountable to yourself and your pet to do all the things that you can in order to get him trained appropriately. Possessing a well bred dog can put away difficulties for both yourself and your pet. A disobedient dog may perhaps bite off a neighbor or child creating legal troubles for you. If your dog howls a lot and tries to get loose most of the time you might get yourself in a problem with the police as well. And most significantly, if your dog will not come up to you when called, you have very few ways to keep him away from creating any trouble.
A trainer with a dog obedience school will give you an idea about you can establish contact with your pet to make him to pay attention to you. He will be trained how to act with people around and also with other dogs and the fundamental instructions such as "sit", "down", "heel" and "stay." Your dog will most likely even take pleasure in this, as he will be able to pass time with you, which is all that he in fact wants in the first place.
Selection of a dog obedience school is sort of like deciding on a school for your kids - you would like to be in no doubt to send him to the proper one. Of course, given that you will in all probability be attending as well, you would like one that works for the both of you so you have to do a bit of investigation before you decide on the school.
One thing to think about when making inquires about dog obedience schools is a recommendation from others who have been at the school. Maybe you have a co-worker, a neighbor, or a friend you can inquire from. If not, feel free to request the school for recommendations and call up somebody who has experienced the course. You ought to have a list of essential queries you can inquire about the school and the effect of the dogs training. If you get encouraging replies then you might have found your school, or else, it is time to shift on to the subsequent alternative.
One more thing you have to do when cutting down your selection of obedience schools is to drop in at the "campus." Just like selecting a college, you would like to be convinced that the school puts forward a fine atmosphere. Be sure that the school appears well structured and the instructors are well informed. In addition, you will almost certainly wish for a pleasant surrounding where your dog and you feel at ease.
Chatting up with the instructors at the school is also a good plan. Find out about the techniques that each trainer uses and you may even bring in them to your dog to be certain they will get along. Your training will be much more effective if both you and your dog are at ease with the trainer.
How should I care for my Golden Retriever’s Hair?
Posted by: | CommentsMy golden gets clumps of nappy hair around his behind and on his tail quite often. I usually just brush them out but these are too entangled to do that, as I don't want to hurt him. What is the best way to get rid of the clumps, or should I just leave them in; will they eventually just fall out?
Housetrainnig: 4 Common Housetraining Mistakes New Puppy Owners Can Avoid
Posted by: | CommentsHousetrainnig: 4 Common Housetraining Mistakes New Puppy Owners Can Avoid
Let's face it, as a new dog owner you probably have not taken a canine training class or have studied up on the latest puppy training techniques that are available.
That's okay! New puppy owners should not have to go to such lengths just to teach their pups the basics. But like all territories unknown, it is quite easy for novice puppy owners to find lots of ways to mess up simple puppy training, especially when it comes to the process of housetraining.
But you do not have to be one of these novices. To help guide your way towards proper housetraining with your new puppy, below are a few common mistakes that many people make, those of which you should aim to prevent:
1. Irregular schedule: Dogs thrive on repetitiveness and a routine schedule. If you fail to follow a schedule when it comes to taking your puppy to go to the bathroom, feeding times, and even bedtime, this can cause a disruption in the learning process.
For example, let's say it's Sunday morning and even though your puppy is waiting for you at the door to go to the bathroom at 7:00 AM (his usual morning potty time), and you feel like sleeping in, do not be surprised if you wake up to a puddle of pee or a stinky pile of poop on the kitchen floor. Adhering to a schedule is absolutely critical to successfully housetrain your puppy.
2. Ignoring crate training: Crate training is a safe and effective way to housetrain any puppy. Not only does it work well, but it is not the cruel training protocol that many people think it is. Placing your puppy in a crate when you are not able to watch over him will help your dog to develop control over its bladder.
3. Disciplining your puppy after the dirty deed has been done: In other words, if you continually yell and discipline your puppy after he has made a mistake, while not actually in the moment of the act, he will not have the slightest clue as to why he is being punished. This type of harassment will only cause your puppy to be scared of you. Only correct him when you catch him doing something wrong, never after.
4. Not cleaning up accidents when the happen: I realize that it may get a little tiring when you constantly have to clean up your new puppy's poop and pee, but it's an unfortunate part of the deal you made when you decided to bring home a new dog, especially a brand-new puppy.
Do not make the mistake of getting lazy and leaving his wastes to sit on the floor for any length of time. This can signal to your dog that it is okay to use the bathroom on the floor and he will continue to do so, typically in the same spot.
Brussels Griffon (Toy Group)
Posted by: | CommentsA spunky and outgoing member of the Toy Group, the Brussels Griffon is as bold and mischievous as they come. These dogs live life brimming with confidence and unlike many overly suspicious toy breeds, they tend to befriend new dogs quite fast. Known to be creative escape artists, the Brussels Griffon has a habit of climbing. You and your family will have a blast owning one of these breeds if you enjoy a small, entertaining and interactive dog, of which also makes a loud and vocally menacing watchdog.
A Brief History Of The Brussels Griffon
The history of the Brussels Griffon dates back to the 1800s with Belgium being the area of origin. The original function of these anxious little dogs were as companions and small rodent hunting. Today they still enjoy being the center of attention as companions to loving families around the world.
Researchers claim that the bloodline of the breed probably came from the Belgian street dog (known as the Griffon d' Ecurie) and the Affenpinscher. These dogs are said to have been seen as a favorite among cab drivers in Brussels, because they were great at attracting new visitors and warding off potential thieves.
Sometime during the latter part of the 1800s these dogs were crossed with one of Holland's favorite small breeds at the time - the Pug. You can easily see Pug characteristics in today's Brussels Griffon from the shape of its head.
The breed was officially established enough to be shown at Belgian dog shows by the year 1ᘰ. Around the turn of the 1900s, the dog's popularity had skyrocketed in Belgium and the nobility took notice. World War I caused a great decline in numbers, but after the war the Brussels Griffon slowly rose back to new heights in popularity around the world.
Upkeep Requirements For The Brussels Griffon
To own and take care of a Brussels Griffon means enjoying a clownish, outgoing, and vivacious toy dog. They can be stubborn and very active so daily exercise and stimulation is a must. Due to the dog's small size they can get plenty of exercise by running around the house.
This breed cannot live outside, but if given the chance to play during moderate temperatures in a fenced-in yard it will have the time of its life. Grooming requirements for the Brussels Griffon consist of an occasional brushing, perhaps only once per week to remove dead hair.
Health Concerns
The average life span of the breed is between twelve and fifteen years. One of the healthiest breeds of the Toy Group, there are no major health concerns that run common, nor are there any minor issues that are regularly seen. On rare cases there have been patellar luxation, weak bladder, CHD, PRA, cataracts, and distichiasis. Veterinarians suggest that Brussels Griffon dogs get tested for potential eye and hip problems.
Does anyone know any confidence building exercises for my dog?
Posted by: | CommentsHe's a year and a half and his breed is Shih Tzu. He's very well trained and a darling boy, however I think he needs some confidence boosting. Do you know of any games or exercises that I can do with him to help him feel better about himself and his position in our family? Thanks.
Children & Puppies: Getting Your Child & New Puppy Off
Posted by: | CommentsChildren & Puppies: Getting Your Child & New Puppy Off To A Great Start
Nothing is more adorable than seeing a small child and a loving puppy playing happily together. What's even better to know, is that psychological studies have proven that people who are fortunate enough to grow up with a dog in the family household tend to have happier childhoods.
Kids who grow up with a family dog learn respect for other creatures as well as caring for them. These kids learn empathy, sympathy, handling responsibilities. They also develop self-confidence and self-esteem by knowing they are contributing to taking care of a living creature.
You Must Help
These benefits and learning experiences between children and their pets do not occur automatically. It takes a responsible and patient adult to properly introduce the child to the new puppy and teach him/her how to properly interact with this new member of the family.
At the same time, the puppy needs to learn respect and obey the child the same way as he respects and obeys the other members of the household. This way, every member of the family can have a loving and healthy relationship.
The manner in which you approach your puppy and the experiences that you give him from his very first minute in the house will create a lasting impact throughout his entire life. From the first introduction, your child should learn the proper way to treat the puppy. Your child should realize that the puppy is a baby, and in many ways should be treated like one.
Avoiding Injuries To The Puppy & Your Child
Children around the age of 7 years and younger have the tendency to get excited when faced with new situations and experiences. This excitement may not be ideal when it comes to meeting a new puppy, or a dog of any age for that matter.
Excited behaviors such as making loud noises, chasing after the puppy, pulling at him, and other aggressive behaviors will result in the puppy getting scared.
In this situation, the puppy will more likely run away instead of letting the child pet him. A very young puppy will try to find his mom and hide under her, while a puppy around 12 weeks old will perceive these behaviors as either a threat or an aggressive play and will most likely react by nipping or jumping up.
The proper way of introducing your new pet to your child is through restraint and guidance. Your child should realize that the puppy is a baby and that your child should be gentle when handling him. To better teach your young ones how to be gentle, use a stuffed animal and teach her how to pet it properly. Practice this with your child for a few days before the puppy arrives home.
Hi! I'm Jamie and this is my site about dogs.
