Archive for July, 2010
Briard (Herding Group)
Posted by: | CommentsThe Briard is a highly intelligent and devoted member of the Herding Group. With a powerful build and a hight range from 22 to 27 inches, this breed is longer than it is tall. They have an overall handsome appearance, with a coat displaying long, wavy locks of hair. The weight of the Briard dog ranges from approximately 75 to 100 lbs for the male, and from 50 to 65 lbs for females.
The temperament of the Briard can best be described as faithful and devoted, always willing to please. The are highly intelligent and maintain a confident personality. This breed is friendly towards other types of pets in the house but extremely reserved and weary around strangers and other dogs, making them excellent watchdogs and family protectors.
A Brief History Of The Briard
The Briard has its roots from France, dating back to the 1300s. The original function of the breed was as a herding dog and a dependable guardian of livestock. It was part of four other French breeds, with the others being the Pyrenean, Beauceron, and the Picardy. Of these four breeds, it is the oldest French sheepdog, depicted in artwork dating back as far as the 8th century.
These dogs did not actually go by the name of Briard until well into the early 1800s. Some people referred to them as the Chien Berger de Brie, which means "Shepherd Dog of Brie." The job of these early dogs were to protect herds as well as fight off (and win) against wolves if necessary. Human intruders were also subject to the same punishment when going up against a Briard dog when it was protecting its livestock.
After the French Revolution the breed was used less as a guard dog and more as a sheep herder. The dogs hit the show ring around 1900, and in 1897 the first breed standard was drawn up. A second breed standard replaced the original in 1909. The Briard made its way to the United States with Thomas Jefferson being one of the first owners of the breed.
Upkeep Requirements For The Briard
Like all members of the Herding Group, the Briard must have vigorous daily exercise. These requirements can be met with several brisk walks on the leash, plus long play sessions outdoors. They especially love to herd when given the chance and may attempt to herd small children if left unsupervised.
This breed can tolerate cool temperatures but does not handle hot climates very well. Briard dogs can live outdoors if necessary, but the ideal arrangement is to sleep indoors with the family at night with access to a safe, fenced-in yard during the day. Grooming requirements consist of a thorough brushing of its long coat three to four times weekly.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Briard is between ten and twelve years. Major health concerns that run common in the breed are CHD and gastric torsion. Minor health issues include night blindness. Rarely seen in these dogs are heart problems and PRA. Veterinarians suggest that the Briard get specifically tested for cardiac, hip, and eye problems.
Dog Washing Made Easy
Posted by: | CommentsGrooming your dog or puppy should be a weekly affair, and often daily depending on the breed and physical characteristics.
Bathing is at the top of the list of most important grooming habits that every dog owner must adhere to. It doesn't matter what breed of dog or what coat type - every dog needs a thorough washing on a regular basis.
Despite what the experts say, I personally believe that dogs really do like to be clean. Every time I give my Chihuahua a bath there is an obvious happiness and buzz that comes over him.
You can tell once you are done as they run, frolic, play, and in general have a blast after getting all clean. They can even be hams and like being told they look great. Besides, you will enjoy working with your dog more if your hand isn't stinky or dirty every time you get it back!
How Often Should You Give Your Dog A Bath?
In general, how often you bathe your dog will depend on its environment. Is he an inside dog or an outside dog? Does he get dirty eating? Does he have an odor?
A dog's skin and fur vary from breed to breed, just like humans, so if he smells then definitely give the pooch a bath. If he is an outside dog then the weather and parasites will have something to decide in the matter as well (bathing more often).
What Is The Easiest Way To Bathe A Dog?
It's always better (and easier) to use the bathtub to wash your dog because the water can be warm and he will be able to get a full soak. Not only that, but shampoo comes out a bit better using a combination of water temperatures.
Things you need in the tub:
1) Rubber anti-slip mat.
f) Spray attachment for faucet or shower head.
3) Gloves (not necessary).
When you shampoo your dog it can be helpful to mix some water and shampoo in a separate bottle just for that bathing. It goes into the coat easier that way and comes out better. After the scrub, have a heavy towel or rug on the floor and dry him with big towel. Let him go directly out to a grassy area to shake. No dirty sand pits please.
Note: Small dogs can sometime go in the sink for their bath but beware of the disposal and use caution with dogs that like to jump.
How Do You Get A Dog To Enjoy Being Washed?
If you get your pet as a puppy, the sooner you teach him that they will get a bath the better. The goal is to help the pup to grow into a dog that knows when to stay in the tub and how to help you by getting out when the bath is over.
Over time, the dog will learn to get in and out on his own if he isn't too small. Give the dog a treat after a bath to make it a more pleasant experience.
Collie
Posted by: | CommentsNobody knows for sure the exact origins of the Collie dog breed, or even where its name came from. One specific theory is that the Collie was derived from the same bloodline as the Border Collie.
Another theory concerning the name "Collie" is that it comes from the Gaelic word for "useful", which definitely describes how useful these dogs were for farmers and as stock dogs. They were considered to be of high value to the the Celts when they first settled in the British Isles.
The job of guarding and sheepherding by using dogs has been around since the most ancient of times. Even so, there is only evidence of the Collie's services of doing these jobs back towards the beginning of the 1800s. We know for sure that Collies did indeed exist during that time, both the rough-coated and smooth-coated Collie dogs.
The smooth-coated Collies were used as drovers. The rough-coated Collie dogs had the job of guarding the flock in all types of weather. In time, the breed became increasingly popular and fanciers of the Collie started to breed litters that grew to became more refined and taller in size.
In the year of 1860, Queen Victoria became quite impressed by the Collie and added her very first Collie dog to her collection. Having the Queen fancy these dogs created quite a stir and many upper-class families followed her lead and also took ownership of the Collie. By the late 1800s, there was an official standard drawn up and this description still holds true today.
During this same time period, sheepherding became more and more vital in America and new settlers came to the New World with their own Collie dogs. America's wealthy families also brought back Collies from their travels throughout Europe.
Today, almost everybody is familiar with the famous television show titled "Lassie." Lassie became the most famous Collie dog of all time. Needless to say, this TV series gave the breed a huge boost in popularity which has made the Collie one of the most favorite of dog breeds in America.
Personality
The Collie has a true hard-working heritage. They need to be stimulated physically and mentally on a daily basis. Without an active lifestyle these dogs can become frustrated. Collie dogs are gentle and mild-mannered with just about every living creature it comes across. But do not let this dog's overly friendly attitude fool you when it comes to being a watchdog. In fact, the Collie is top-rated as an excellent watchdog.
Taking Care Of Your Collie
As mentioned above, the Collie will need daily stimulation and better yet, the opportunity to herd is possible. Of course this activity is only ideal if you live on a farm or large area of land with animals. Collie dogs can live outdoors when the weather is cool, but they are most happywith its family that is much better to have your Collie stay inside at night. Grooming requires a good brushing once or twice per week, with the rough-coated Collie a bit more often.
Health Information
The average lifespan of the Collie dog is approximately 10 years, with healthy Collies living up to 12 to 13 years at times. There are no major health concerns to worry about and minor issues that may spring up include demodicosis, PRA, dermatomyositis, CEA, and gastric torsion. Seizures, CHD, and microphthalmia are sometimes seen, but very rare.
What breed of dog makes great in house pets?
Posted by: | CommentsIm moving into some new apartments and I was wondering what would be the best kind of small dog to get, my mom has a shi tzu and she seems to be a great in house dog, I need something pretty quiet, but a good protector, good with kids and gentle.
Italian Greyhound
Posted by: | CommentsAlthough the Italian Greyhound has been in existence for centuries, the exact origin of this beautiful breed of dog is completely unknown. There is evidence of artwork that dates back more than 2000 years ago that depicts these dogs in areas such as the Mediterranean, Greece, and Turkey.
Italian Greyhounds were known as "Miniature Greyhounds" and were found in abundance throughout areas of southern Europe. They were especially adored by Itailian courtiers.
Sometime during the 17th century, this dog breed arrived in England and rose in popularity with the nobility.They became just as popular in England as they had been in their homeland of Italy.
In the year of 1820 there were only two specific dog breeds that were mentioned in a book about dogs. The Italian Greyhound was one of them. This breed continued to attract more and more popularity, mostly with the wealthy, but reached its peak sometime during the leadership reighn of Queen Victoria.
After this time period, the numbers of Italian Greyhounds started to decline rapidly. In fact, after the end of World War II, these dogs had all but disappeared. The reason for this is unknown but it is theorized that the decline was the result of poor breeding quality over many generations. Even though their numbers had declined on the verge of extinction, quite a few Italian Greyhounds made their way to America sometime during the late 1800s and the breed was revived.
Personality
The Italian Greyhound is a moderately small dog that loves to run at fast speeds and chase anything that will run from it. These dogs are extremely gentle and a bit on the sensitive side. Italian Greyhounds are reserved, timid, and makes a lovable family pet, especially around children.
Taking Care Of Your Italian Greyhound
This is one breed of dog that is best suited to live with an active family. In other words, if sitting on your couch all day is your idea of spending time with your dog, the Italian Greyhound would not be the ideal choice. They need an active lifestyle with plenty of running outside.
Italian Greyhounds absolutely hate cold weather but can stand higher-than-normal temperatures due to its shorthaired coat. Grooming is minimal with only the occasional brushing needed in order to remove dead hair.
Health Information
The average lifespan of the Italian Greyhound can last up to 17 years when healthy, with 13 to 14 years being the average. The only major health concern that they have is periodontal disease. Minor issues include PRA, leg fractures (from running), patellar luxation, and epilepsy.
Death By Flea Collars (1)
Posted by: | CommentsWhen I was younger and living in San Diego, California, a mixed breed lab died a painful death which was eventually traced to the flea collar it was wearing.
Years later, in a small town in Texas, a puppy from a litter of 4 died, which was later found to be directly attributed to a flea collar device. The stricken puppy, however, had never worn such a collar - he had chewed on one from another house dog.
And in New Jersey, an entire litter of puppies, 6 weeks old, succumbed to what was later determined to be caused from a flea collar. Yet, not one of the puppies in the litter had ever worn such a device.
In each of the above true cases, the attending veterinarian reported that the deaths were needless and could have been prevented if a few simple facts have been known by the owners of those dogs. Moreover, veterinarians agree that literally 100% of the fatalities which do occur as a result of flea killing devices could be prevented.
It is commonly known that heavy infestation of fleas and ticks contribute to death and disease. It is also known that more deaths and sicknesses are caused by fleas and ticks than are caused by flea killing devices. The sad part of it is that no deaths or severe illnesses should ever be attributed to flea collars.
Flea collars and the newer flea control medications can actually prevent deaths and sickness if but a few basic facts are known, and adhered to, by all dog owners.
In a recent poll which questioned a large section of dog owners across the United States, more than 90% believe that their dog's flea collar merely emitted some kind of protective vapor that was repugnant to fleas and ticks, resulting in the pests dying off, due to the lethal vapor, yet without any repercussions on the dog's health.
The fact is, the pesticide in any flea collar device doesn't just seep through the animal's fur as a "protective vapor." Rather, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and metabolized by the liver. This has a strong effect on the animal's entire system. The active ingredient in such devices is usually dimethyl phosphate. Used according to directions, and in proper quantities, this ingredient is fatal to fleas and ticks.
Serious problems can occur when a dog owner simply places such flea killing devices around their dog's neck without taking the time to read the accompanying directions. Many times, though the directions are read, they simply are not taken seriously, nor are they followed.
I've even tried some pick up lines on him, but all he does is ignore my passes and chases his tail, how rude.
How To Approach Strange Dogs (Part 2)
Posted by: | CommentsMost dog bites occur on a dog's own property and the majority of these bites occur out of fear. The fear biter is protecting nothing but himself. He seldom goes out of his way to bite, anymore than any person would go out of his way to take a poke at a tiger. The fear biter will keep his distance, yapping and barking, and he may try to maneuver behind you to bite. Your first task is to attempt to make friends.
Get Eye-To-Eye With The Dog
The best way is to stop and kneel down so that you will be on his same level. You won't give the appearance of being a giant and you will help to lessen some of the possible causes of the dog's fear. The fear biter will then apply3 senses that nature has provided him: His ears, his eyes, and the most important one of the three - his nose.
If you take the time to talk in a quiet, friendly, yet enthusiastic tone, he will be able to hear by your voice that you are neither aggressive nor angry. With his eyes, he can see that you are not walking toward him, and that you have knelt to his level. If you are carrying anything in your hands, like a bag, books, etc., you need to lay them on the ground for a moment. The fear biter may confuse these objects as possible weapons.
His third defense mechanism is his sense of smell. He will use this sense to pass judgment on you. The best thing you can do is to let him approach you, with his own time, and at his own speed. He will cautiously and slowly make his way to you. You can make it easier for the dog if you extend the back of your hand for him to smell.
Some people offer the palm of their hand, which is not a wise thing to do. If the dog has ever been struck, chances are it has been hit with an open hand. An open hand, therefore, signifies a weapon. Extend the back of your hand, below his eyes and never above his head.
When strange dogs meet on the street, they obligingly stand for scent identification. You should do the same when approaching strange dogs. After the fear biter has examined your scent and comes to the conclusion that he's not in any danger from you, he will normally back off and allow you to proceed, provided that you keep a safe distance from him. His agenda is not to bite or have a confrontation with you. Keep in mind that he's the one that's scared here.
Stay Calm
Do not give the impression that you are scared, even if you are. On the other hand, be careful not to show authority or dominance. Instead, let him know that you are willing to be his friend if that's the way he wants the relationship to go. If he doesn't accept your offer of friendship by showing your outstretched hand, at least he knows that he has nothing to fear from you.
Remember to let him come to you, not the other way around. If he doesn't come, that's fine too, just make sure that whatever movement you make, it is casual and slow. As you get up, continue talking in a friendly, gentle manner. Never force your attention on a dog that's unwilling to come to you.
Shouldn’t there be a LAW against irresponsible dog breeding?
Posted by: | CommentsI mean it is just unbelievable that people can get away with breeding just becuase they feel like it. I have seen SO MANY dogs neglected and are never ever taken to the vet and are suffering (makes me cry) and yet there are fools still breeding them. It's just disgusting. There should be a law against it don't you think?
I know someone who has 9 pit pulls and is breeding MORE !! There are not enough GOOD HOMES for all these dogs being bred and the dogs are the ones who end up suffering.
Belgian Malinois (Herding Group)
Posted by: | CommentsThe Belgian Malinois dog is a loyal watchdog, smart, intelligent, and a proud member of the Herding Group, with a history that goes back to the early 1800s. This breed stands tall and poised on alert, always ready to guard and protect its family and territory. They have the physical appearance of a muscular, yet elegant canine, with the overall impression of lean power and an inquisitive expression in its face.
The temperament of the Belgian Malinois can best be described as a high-energy dog breed that is reserved around strangers, yet as playful as they come around its family. They are great around children and moderately friendly towards other dogs and pets in the house. The Belgian was born and bred to be a guard dog so they tend to have a dominating personality that must be trained by the right type of owner.
A Brief History Of The Belgian Malinois
As the name of this breed suggests, the Belgian Malinois has its roots from Belgium during the 1800s. The original Belgian sheep herding dog breeds were known as Chiens de Berger Belge and were used as all-purpose service dogs, mainly to guard livestock. They were strictly working dogs that were bred for ability over appearance.
During this time period, there were many different varieties of Belgian working dogs, thus it was hard to know if any recognizable breeds could be found within the groups. In 1891, a man named Professor Reul began studies of these native dogs and found a specific variety that had a short coat and was developed in a location around Malines. These dogs became known as the Belgian Malinois.
The breed has remained incredibly popular in its native land of Belgium but not so much in the United States. After World War II, the Belgian Malinois had rapidly declined in numbers throughout America but has since become one of the most prominent police service dogs throughout the world.
Upkeep Requirements For The Belgian Malinois
Being the proud owner of the Belgian Malinois means enjoying an active lifestyle, spending plenty of time outdoors. This is one breed that is not meant to sit inside a small apartment all day. They need to have vigorous play sessions in the yard and expend energy through sprints or fast-paced jogs with its owner. It especially enjoys herding when given the chance.
Living arrangements for the Belgian Malinois should be set up so that the dog has access to a safe, fenced-in area outside during the day, preferably a large yard with shade. At night, it is best suited to sleep indoors with the rest of the family. They have tolerance to moderately cool and warm temperatures. Grooming requirements call for a light brushing about once per week to remove dead hairs.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Belgian Malinois is between ten and twelve years. There are no major health concerns that run common in the breed. Minor health issues include elbow dysplasia and CHD. Rarely seen is cataracts, PRA, hemangiosarcoma, and pannus. Veterinarians suggest that Belgian Malinois dogs get specifically tested for eye, hip, and elbow problems.
Hi! I'm Jamie and this is my site about dogs.
