Author Archive
Dachshund Dog Breed
Posted by: | CommentsThe Dachshund was officially recognized by the AKC in the early 1900s, and according the the current AKC registration list, this dog has become one of the top five registered breeds of today. This small sized member of the hound group has an unforgettable appearance, with a short, long body, small legs, and a handsome pointed face.
The origin of the Dachshund goes back to the 1500's in which their main function was to flush out badgers. Today, however, the Dachshund has become an everyday family house pet as well as retained the sharp edge to compete in Earthdog trials and Dachshund field trials.
If you enjoy smaller sized dogs who show off a bold and adventurous attitude, then the Dachshund is the right one for you. It loves to hunt, and dig. If you are fortunate enough to live near a wooded area with trails, you'll enjoy watching your Dachshund catch a scent and go out hunting for game. He is independent but always appreciates the love and attention of his family.
The Dachshund is known to be a wonderful house pet and great around children, but can also get a bit snappy if introduced to small kids he does not know. Some of them are more prone to barking than others, but all Dachshunds are considered to be excellent watchdogs with high energy levels.
Upkeep And Maintenance
Even though these dogs are extremely active and need to expend energy on a daily basis, they are small enough to get plenty of exercise indoors by running around. However, nothing replaces a nice long walk on a leash through the great outdoors. The Dachshund also enjoys playing games and mental training challenges. Training this dog breed may be a little tough at times, as he is known to be stubborn, but with patience and time, a Dachshund can become excellent at obedience commands.
The smooth coat of the Dachshund does not require much grooming. If you own a long-haired Dachshund than a thorough brushing once or twice per week is all that is needed. The short-haired version may only need a quick brushing once weekly in order to remove stray hairs.
Health Information
The Dachshund dog breed is known to have a lifespan of between 12 and 14 years. The only major health concern that is typical of this dog is intervertebral disk disease. Minor concerns are KCS with the occasional health problems springing up of diabetes, gastric torsion, Cushing's disease, deafness, patellar luxation, and seizures. It is suggested that the only specific health test that should be requested is for eye problems. Obesity can also become a problem with the Dachshund dog when overfed.
If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Commenting on two articles gets you dofollow links to your own site and a free eBook on keeping your dog healthy. Thanks for visiting!
Welsh Terrier (Terrier Group)
Posted by: | CommentsThe Welsh Terrier is a playful and adventurous member of the Terrier group, always on the lookout for fun games and entertainment. They are not quite as temperamental or feisty as most terriers are, which makes them a reliable house dog. They can be boisterous when running around outside, yet calm and mild-mannered indoors - making these dogs a joy to have around the home.
Welsh Terriers are also wonderful around children but may be a bit territorial when it comes to other pets in the house. They are weary and reserved when it comes to strange people, making them excellent watchdogs. Some Welsh Terriers can be a little stubborn and head-strong when it comes to training. They also tend to bark and dig when given the chance
A Brief History Of The Welsh Terrier
The history of the Welsh Terrier goes back to the 1700s in Whales. They are one of only two breeds of terriers that is native to Whales. It is said that the Welsh Terrier is a descendant from the Black and Tan Rough Terrier, which was a popular breed in Britain around the late 18th century.
During that time, North Whales had produced a terrier strain known as the "Ynysfor." At the exact same time period, Northern England had produced a breed that looked identical to the Ynysfor, known as the "Old English Broken Haired Terrier." The two strains looked so much alike that when both were entered into the show ring many people mistook them for one another.
They eventually were grouped together and both became known as Welsh Terriers. The Welsh was officially recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1886. Breeders wanted to further improve the breed and so crossed them with the Wire Fox Terrier. Today they can be found as loving companions and a regular contender in earthdog trials.
Upkeep Requirements For The Welsh Terrier
A fairly active dog breed, the Welsh Terrier needs a moderate amount of daily exercise. These requirements can be met with a few brisk walks on the leash and some time to run around the yard. These dogs quickly tire after vigorous exercise and enjoy relaxing just as much as they do playing. Welsh Terriers also tend to hunt so be sure to have them confined to a safe, fenced-in yard at all times when off-leash.
Welsh Terriers can tolerate moderately cool or warm temperatures, but should not live completely outside. Sleeping indoors with the family at night is ideal as they form very tight bonds with their owners and need as much human contact as possible. Grooming requirements for the breed's wiry coat calls for a thorough brushing every two to three days. A professional shaping should also be done every few months to keep the coat neat.
Health Concerns
The average lifespan of the Welsh Terrier is between twelve and fourteen years. There are no major health concerns in the breed. Minor health issues include glaucoma and lens luxation. Rarely seen are seizures and allergies. Veterinarians suggest that Welsh Terriers get specifically tested for eye problems.
Shopping From A Breeder (1): The Best Places To Find
Posted by: | CommentsShopping From A Breeder (1): The Best Places To Find A Professional Breeder
What steps should be taken when deciding on who and where to buy a new puppy from when giving the little pup as a Christmas gift or a birthday present?
The first step is to make sure that the person or family really and truly wants a new puppy, and is totally prepared to assume the responsibilities. The second step, and equally important, is to make sure that you are getting the right breed of dog for the right person.
All breeds are not for all people. No two dogs are ever exactly alike, and temperament and behavior characteristics vary tremendously within the different breeds.
Many a retired couple has wound up with a loud, whiny, hyperactive little terrier who would have been far better off in a home filled with active children. Situations like this can easily be avoided with a little advanced preparation and a little research having been instituted.
Do Your Research & Look Past The Puppy Stage
Most buyers have a particular breed in mind before they set out to purchase their puppy. But their preferences are frequently based on how "cute" that type of puppy is, without much thought to what it will grow into.
Regardless of what your breed preference is, it would be wise to have one or two alternates in mind so you can make comparisons between them. It is quite possible you could be in love with a Great Dane on Sunday, but find yourself falling in love with a Chihuahua the following Tuesday.
Dog Shows Are Invaluable For Getting To Know Different Breeds
One of the best places to begin making breed comparisons is at a dog show. There, you'll be able to see some of the best specimens of many breeds and how well they behave under adverse conditions.
Watch the dogs perform in the obedience rings. Watch the dogs working under control of their handlers. Talk to the exhibitors on the sidelines and get some first-hand information from them. Most professional breeders carry business cards and would be most happy to have you drop by their kennels for a closer look at their particular breed.
A word of caution: Always call beforehand or make a definite appointment whether you have spoken to the breeder personally or obtained his name from your local veterinarian. Never march into a candle unannounced. You may be surprised if you do.
You may not be allowed to go through the kennel, handle any of the dogs, or for that matter, even see any of them.
There are many good reasons for this and it does not mean that the breeder is hiding anything. It might be feeding or grooming time, or they may be in the process of cleaning the kennels, or preparing to leave for a dog show.
The Best Places To Find A Professional Breeder
The best place to find a professional breeder is in the breeder and classified advertising section of dog magazines or at dog shows. Then too, readers are usually members of their breed's specialty club, and even various dog training clubs.
The Yellow Pages of your telephone book will also yield the names and addresses of a variety of breeders. Many professional breeders list their names with local veterinarians who are always willing to pass their information along to you.
Security Dogs: Is A Security Dog Right For Your Company?
Posted by: | CommentsSecurity Dogs: Is A Security Dog Right For Your Company?
With increasing crime rate constantly on the news, more and more guard dogs have been on demand. So much so that in some areas almost everybody who is anybody owns one - or so it seems. Many businessmen are purchasing guard dogs under the misconception that they will be the answer to their countless security problems.
However, once they purchase these security dogs, they find the animals ineffective, poorly trained, or unnecessary in the first place. So they get rid of their canine security and are poorer, but wiser, for the experience. Each time this occurs, the credibility of the guard dog as an effective and viable tool in industrial security is tarnished.
Having researched and discussed the problem with numerous businessmen and other executives, it appears that several factors contribute to the frequent failure of guard dogs when employed in an industrial environment. Among the most common of these are:
1. Misunderstanding of the capabilities of these dogs.
2. Inability to procure properly trained animals.
3. Failure to identify a valid need for security dogs before a program is initiated.
Other problems exist, of course, but the above reasons seem to recur most frequently. Obviously then, there is a need for a fair discussion of guard dogs in the industry, their strengths and weaknesses, and their use and misuse.
When employed properly, guard dogs can be valuable assets to a security program. Valuable, that is, if they are properly trained and expertly handled. Unfortunately, many people in the business of dog security are dishonest and are only out to make a sale. By the time a security dog salesman gets through with a prospecting client, the client is going to buy several of those wonderful dogs whether he really needs them or not.
Therefore, the decision whether or not to purchase security dogs should be based on an honest and realistic analysis of the criminal threat involved - not fad, emotion, or beliefs.
Sometimes this is difficult to do, especially when your boss is pressuring you to reduce burglary from open storage areas and increase the overall protection of the company assets. Regardless of the pressure, however, clear thinking must be applied before a security dog is added to the company staff.
We must keep in mind that canine security is not the answer for all of the problems facing security planners. Instead, it is merely one of many choices available that can help in suppressing criminal misconduct.
Use Dog Training To Bond With Your Dog
Posted by: | CommentsOwning a dog that can carry out antics and is very docile and well trained is a pleasure and delight of every dog owner. Owning a dog that in reality pays attention, hangs on to each word and abides by its master would surely be appreciated and awarded. This would firmly strengthen the bond. What's more, a dog well trained knows the way to "socialize" properly with people and other dogs.
Dogs are one of the most cherished pets in every part of the world. They are well received in more homes than any other domestic animal ever. Though they are in general affectionate, devoted and faithful, they can be taught to be more compliant. A well trained and well behaved dog is more cherished in any family and is shown more affection and consideration. The times you spent with each other performing antics and teaching equals to a connection that grows deeper each day.
You will definitely feel secure in taking your dog just about anyplace, to the park, vacations, beach, if you know that they will be conducting properly.
Getting to Know How your Dog Feels
Though animals are not thought to be as refined mentally as humans are, people can make the change. Dog training permits us to comprehend how the dog experiences and behaves.
Dogs are group animals, they fit in to groups and require a head, and we will be their person in charge. In dog training we will gain knowledge of how to behave like their head and tell them what to do. When we have set up our role as their "pack leader", the admiration and faithfulness follows next.
But apart from that, our dog is a member of our family, as each member of the family has their part to play, so does the dog. A dog training sitting would let your dog be aware of his or her part and tasks. In getting to know this, every one would be happy to co-exist with one another furnishing a good atmosphere and a strong joyful bond.
Amputation Of A Limb – Helping Your Dog Get Used
Posted by: | CommentsAmputation Of A Limb - Helping Your Dog Get Used To Having 3 Limbs
Depending upon the cause of your dog's amputation surgery, and whether or not there was an underlying disease or other condition at fault, you are going to have to work with your veterinarian or other specialist about rehabilitating the animal so that he can get back to good health and emotional stability.
Should I Exercise My Dog Now That He Only Has 3 Legs?
Most often, dog owners are going through the experience of their lovable pet having an amputation for the first time, and hopefully the last. What is common among all of these people is the thought that they should not exercise their do once it is back home and getting used to living with three legs. This could not be further from the truth.
Amazingly, within a week or two, dogs pretty much forget that they are missing a limb altogether. These doggie "tripods" (as they are called) can jump around, run, swim, play, and even climb stairs just as good as other dogs. They adapt very quickly to getting used to only three limbs.
Not only is it a delight to see your dog back to normal, with the exception of a hop or a limp (of which the animal does not notice after a while), watching this quick healing process take place is also an uplift to your emotional experience as well.
Take Care And Watch Out For Your Dog
Although your dog will bounce back to normal as soon as possible, and with vigorous energy and excitement, you still need to take a bit of care and use caution in order to help him prevent injuries, at least at first.
For example, dog amputees that have a prosthetic leg installed face great danger when it comes to slippery floors. This hazard can cause your dog to have a terrible fall or possibly knock the prosthetic limb off in the process, if he has one. To prevent this from happening it is wise that you replace any hard surfaces in the house with rugs or better yet, have a carpet installed for long-term security.
Another situation to keep an eye on is your dog's remaining healthy limbs, especially the leg which is opposite of the amputated one. Dogs can live a long and healthy life with only three legs, but of course if another of his healthy limbs starts to decline in any form or fashion, this can cause a serious mobility problem.
What you need to do is make sure that his other limbs are strong enough to hold the extra weight. Watch his movements on a daily basis and make sure that he is not getting slower or weaker. Should this happen, you must use a harness if necessary, anything that can help remove the extra weight. It is better to utilize a harness and keep his healthy legs strong instead of creating a situation where the dog will be immobile for the rest of his life.
Welsh Springer Spaniel (Sporting Group)
Posted by: | CommentsThe Welsh Springer Spaniel is a laid-back, easygoing dog that is not quite as exuberant as the English Springer. They need plenty of daily exercise and has a large appetite for bird hunting so spending time in nature's woodlands make the perfect setting for the breed.
Although independent by nature, Welsh Springer Spaniels are highly devoted to its family and make excellent house pets. They are very sensitive and may display a timid personality around strangers - but this shyness is what makes the breed an excellent watchdog.
A Brief History Of The Welsh Springer Spaniel
Mention of Welsh Springer Spaniels date back as far as the 1300s in early records of the Laws of Whales. However, there is still dispute whether or not these early dogs were directly connected with today's Welsh Springer.
There is some evidence to suggest that the Welsh Springer Spaniel may have developed from the English Springer or is a creation from the mix of English Springers and the Clumber Spaniel. Land spaniels have been used for a long time in Wales before the Welsh Springer became popular, but the land spaniels were more likely not a uniformed group of dogs.
During that time, both English Spaniels and Welsh Spaniels were shown alongside one another at dog shows because they were strikingly similar, with the only difference being color. The Welsh made a soaring boost in popularity and in 1906 was recognized by the AKC.
Upkeep Requirements For The Welsh Springer Spaniel
Welsh Springer Spaniels are solid, all-purpose hunter dogs with a keen sense of smell and can flush and retrieve game in both land and water. Because of this genetic trait they need to have plenty of outside space to run and play each day. They especially like quick bursts on a field.
While needing to be outside roaming and hunting most of the day, Welsh Springer Spaniels are happiest when sleeping inside at night with the rest of the family. As far as grooming requirements, their coat is long and lustrous, which means heavy brushing about twice per week.
Health Concerns
Welsh Springer Spaniels have an average life span of between thirteen and fifteen years. A very healthy dog breed, they only have one major health concern - CHD. Minor health problems that may show up are epilepsy, otitis externa, and glaucoma. Rarely seen are cataracts. Veterinarians suggest that Welsh Springer Spaniels get tested for potential hip and eye problems.
Weimaraner (Sporting Group)
Posted by: | CommentsThe Weimaraner dog breed is probably the most courageous and rambunctious of the sporting group. Always ready to hunt, play, and run, this dog literally has enough energy for an entire day roaming outside. If left inside the house too long they may become destructive.
The Weimaraner is top-rated on its training ability, protection, and watchdog status. They are also quite reserved with strange people and other animals. Small children in the house should be supervised with Weimaraners, as these dogs tend to play on the rough side.
A Brief History Of The Weimaraner
The origin of the Weimaraner come from Germany, which has always been a country known for its natural forests and wildlife. The breed was the result of the hunter's need for a dog that was the perfect all-around gun dog. They wanted a canine that could not only hunt small game but also tale down larger animals such as bear and deer.
The first of these dogs that were bred were known as the Weimer Pointer, which came from the first breeding efforts by the court of Weimer. Several of the breed's forebears include various early pointing breeds, the Red Schweisshund, and the Bloodhound.
By looking at the handsome Weimaraner you can clearly see its distinctive gray color throughout the coat. The exact origin of this trait is unclear, but we do know that it has been part of the dog's physical appearance since very early in the development of the Weimaraner.
The German Weimaraner Club was responsible for strict oversight of the breed. Only members of the club could own one of these dogs and becoming a member was almost impossible. The leaders of the organization were very selective.
It wasn't until the year 1929 that someone from the United States gained entry into the club and took two Weimaraner dogs back to America. This was the first time that the breed had been out of Germany and by 1943 it had become popular enough to become recognized by the AKC.
Upkeep Requirements For The Weimaraner
As stated earlier, the Weimaraner is a very active and rambunctious dog. Their energy levels are through the roof and therefore need an over-abundance of daily, vigorous exercise. They have an insatiable appetite to run and hunt so city living is out of the question.
Grooming requirements are minimal due to the short coat of the Weimaraner. Perhaps the occasional brushing now and again to remove any dead hairs is all that is needed. These dogs do not tolerate extreme cold or hot temperatures very well, so should sleep inside at night with the family.
Health Concerns
The average life span of a healthy Weimaraner is between ten and thirteen years. The only major health concern that runs common in the breed is gastric torsion. Minor health problems include hemophilia A, distichiasis, spinal dysraphism, entropion, hypertrophic osteodystrophy, and vWD. Veterinarians suggest that Weimaraner dogs get tested for possible hip, eye, and blood problems.
Neutering Your Dog: It’s Only A Matter Of Time (4)
Posted by: | CommentsNeutering Your Dog: It's Only A Matter Of Time (4)
Unwanted dogs and other pets are often times carelessly tossed on the side of the road where they are expected to pick up their instincts to live in the wild and survive. But it does not work that way. Those dogs that are abandoned in the woods are destined for a slow, painful death, usually by starvation.
Few can hunt well enough to support themselves and those that do usually can only catch some neighboring farmer's chickens. Half-starved strays often form packs, but this usually means that for self-preservation they will only cause more destruction by bringing down larger stock, such as deer, sheep and calves.
There has always been a question of how dangerous these wild packs of dogs are to humans. The Human Society of the United States in Washington, D. C. attributes only two deaths to children from dog packs in the Philadelphia area, but cases of maulings and maimings have occurred much more often.
A five-year old boy in South New Jersey had his left ear and part of his left leg bitten off by a savage pack of wild dogs early last year. Interbreeding and roaming the area for years, according to residents of the northern city where the incident happened, these starving wild dogs became desperate enough to try to kill and devour a small child.
Almost succeeding, they and approximately twenty five others were hunted down and killed or captured. Found also was a litter of puppies, "cute as could be", who paid the price with their lives for the actions of their wild parents and some past human who deserted one or two dogs to begin with.
Dogs left on our city streets to fend for themselves are just as bad off.
Owners thinking to give them a chance to survive rather than taking them to an animal shelter where there is a possibility of a happy home, leave their dogs to face garbage-bred disease, poison, starvation, highway death, and even mutilation by sadists. The stoning of dogs and cats by children in most cities is a daily occurrence, which usually produces painful injuries rather than death.
Several years ago In Philadelphia, four school children on their way to class were bitten by stray dogs, as was a policeman who went to their rescue. The dogs were rounded up by police and sent to the SPCA for rabies tests and observations. Starved and homeless, little provocation was needed for them to attack, and where there was a possibility of adoption if they had been taken immediately to a shelter, now there was no hope, no second chance.
Hi! I'm Jamie and this is my site about dogs.
