Include Vitamin Supplements In Your Homemade Dog Treats Recipes

Author: Todd Jones

Homemade dog treat recipes give you the ability to include vitamin supplements in your dog's diet. Like people dogs occasionally need supplements in their diet but getting them to take pills can be a hassle. Many dog owners resort to wrapping the supplement in a more desirable treat but some dogs are simply too smart to be fooled by this trick. There are also pill pockets available for the purpose of hiding the treat and although they are effective, they can also be expensive. One solution to the problem of feeding your dog supplements is to include them in your homemade dog treat recipes.

Glucosamine is a popular supplement that promotes joint health in dogs. Although this supplement is readily available in commercial prepared dog foods and treats, incorporating the supplement in your own homemade dog treat recipes can be a more economical way to include these supplements in your dog's diet. You can use the glucosamine tablets available for human consumption but many dogs will be reluctant to consume this bulky pill. You could, however, grind up one appropriate amount of glucosamine for each serving that your homemade dog treat recipes yields and incorporate the ground up supplement into the treats. This will make the supplement much more palatable for your dog.

About the author: Todd runs a website where you can find all sorts of homemade dog treat recipes . Sign up for free weekly homemade dog treat recipes at : http://homemade-dog- treat-recipes.com

American Pit Bull Terrier Training: How To Train An Aggressive Dog

Author: Tim Amherst

Aggressive Pit Bulls can become a very serious problem if not dealt with in a proper manner. New laws exist that state if a dog bites or attacks someone, the dog's owner will be held responsible and the dog put down. This is just another reason that Pit Bull owners should invest the time and energy to properly train their dogs.

There are many different reasons why a Pit Bull terrier may become aggressive. Here are a couple of the most common that I see:

- Your dog may feel that his territory is being invaded - Your dog may feel threatened

When a dog exhibits signs of aggression, they usually come from a lack of confidence and feelings of insecurity. Basic obedience training won't solve your Pit Bull's problem with aggressive behavior, the only solution is serious dog training. Keep in mind that an aggressive dog doesn't just bite, he barks and lunges at people as well and he could also attack another pet.

I would strongly recommend seeking the services of a professional dog trainer if you're having a real problem with aggression. Training an aggressive dog is a challenge and can prove to be expensive, but it is a small price to pay when you consider you'll be saving your Pit's life and possibly the life of some other animal or individual. To find a professional trainer who handles cases of aggression, contact your local veterinarian and ask for referrals.

Be sure that you do your homework and thoroughly investigate the schools which are recommended. Look at their facilities and learn what methods they use when training dogs. The last thing you want is for your Pit Bull to exhibit worse behavior after going through training school than when he first entered.

I applaud your decision to be a responsible Pit Bull terrier owner and have your dog trained. An aggressive Pit can halter the relationship that you have with him, hurt other people, hurt other animals, and give this fabulous breed a bad reputation. After it is all said and done, I'm certain you'll agree that having your Pit Bull trained was a fantastic decision!

About the author: To learn all about Pit Bull dogs and training a Pit Bull , visit http://www.pitbullsrevealed.com/ today.

Effective Ways To Leash Dog Training

Author: Marc Lindsay

Leash and collar training can be very frustrating for leash training dog owners, but it does not have to be so difficult. By doing some research, and following a few leash training dog tips, the experience of leash training your dog can be much less frustrating. The following paragraphs will provide some helpful tips to follow for leash training dog owners.

The first leash training dog tip is to remember that generally with a leash based obedience training method, the dog is first taught a behavior with the leash. When the dog displays he knows the command, the leash is then used to correct the dog for not obeying. With this method of obedience training, the leash training dog will come to understand that the leash is the main form of controlling and communicating with him.

The next leash training dog tip is to always remember that the leash is just a tool in training. One of the important skills that a trainer can learn with leash training dog students is how to properly develop a leadership role in the dog's life. Thus, when leash training dog students, the leash is not only a tool used to train the dog, for the leash will help show the owner certain aspects of leadership.

Leash training dog tips should not ever be used to replace actually developing the proper leadership relationship between you and your dog. Although leash training can significantly increase the bond between dog and dog owner, leash training dog members of the family cannot replace the bond and trust that can only come through the love and devotion you have for your pet.

Obedience training with leash reinforcement has grown in popularity in the last few years, and leash and collar training is still considered one of the best methods to perform may types of dog training including:

* attack dog training * service dog training * obedience training

Leash training can be a wonderful aid in many types of dog training programs. Leash training dog tips can help reduce the stress of training your dog with a leash and collar. Leash training dog family members will also likely strengthen the bond you have with your fur baby. If you serious about leach training your dog today then try searching on the internet for information tips and courses. Find out what's available on the market. And when you do find a course you really like be sure to search on the internet about that course and see if you can find any reviews on them.

About the author: Leash Dog Training and Dog Training product reviews so you know you are only teaching your dog the very best techniques.

Quick Ways To Litter Box Train Your Dog

Author: Marc Lindsay

Litter box training a cat is a norm, and is fairly simple. You show the cat where the litter box will be located, and the cat instinctively relieves himself there. Today there are methods available for litter box training dog members of your family, as well. The following paragraphs will take a look some helpful tips when litter box training dog members of your family, and explain some of the things you will need.

To get started with litter box training dog babies, there are a few supplies that are necessary. These supplies include:

* cleaning products * a litter box * litter box filler * pooper scooper

The type of filler you will want to uses to litter box train dog members of your family will depend on many factors. If your dog is already paper trained, you may want to use newspaper shreds as filler when litter box training dog friends. If you are going to use newspaper as your litter box filler, you should also put some newspaper down right next to the litter box. If you are litter box training dog family members from scratch, litter might be the better option.

During the first stage of litter box training dog members of your family, you will need to keep a close eye on the dog. If you catch the dog using the bathroom in inappropriate places, it is good to startle the dog by clapping your hands together, or giving an aggressive ""NO!"". Doing this while litter box training dog buddies, will encourage you canine pal to run to his own bathroom area to do his business. Once your dog completes his business in his predetermined bathroom area, you should immediately praise your dog. Some dog owners have reported that placing a tissue soaked in a little bit of your dogs urine can be strategically placed in the dog's litter box, to encourage the dog to continue to go where he smells his own scent.

After several weeks of hard work, and at least a month of monitoring and frequently checking your dog's progress during litter box training dog babies, you should be able to let the dog roam freely around your home, having all the confidence that he will use his litter box.

About the author: Litter Box Dog Training and Puppy Training product reviews so you know you are only teaching your dog the very best techniques.

Husky - A Strong Working Dog For All Extremes

Author: Charles Kassotis

The Chukchi people of Siberia are credited with the origin of the Husky, also called the Siberian Husky. These dogs are strong with compact bodies that are made for working, even in the harsh northern extremes. One reason the Husky is so well known today stems from a diphtheria epidemic that occurred in Alaska in the early 1900s. Transportation options were limited and many Husky teams were used to transport the medicines needed to combat the disease. As the media covered the unfolding drama of the illness and its long-term effects, the Huskys' role in the dramatic attempts to save lives became international news.

Unlike some breeds, the Husky comes in a wide array of colors. You'll find some that have very dark coats while others are completely white. Some are mottled or a mixture of colors, including darker hairs over a light-colored undercoat. That means that there are some features common to all Huskies, but the color isn't necessarily one of them.

All Huskies seem to have an alert stance with ears that are almost always perked in an effort to hear everything that goes on in the world. That attentiveness probably dates back to the early Huskies and their need to stay alert in order to survive the harsh conditions of their homeland.

The breeding of the Husky makes them an excellent choice when groups of dogs are used. They were trained to work in teams to pull sleds, and that training has become part of their nature. That's not to say that they don't also bond with their family. In fact, Huskies are often chosen for companion dogs because of their intense loyalty.

One thing to remember about the Husky is that the coat on this dog is very heavy - a fact that allowed it to survive in the cold Northern regions. But that coat also makes it less-than-ideal for hot climates. If you do have a Husky in a hot region, you'll need to be careful that it has the opportunity to stay cool, especially when temperatures become overly warm. These dogs are highly susceptible to extreme heat.

There's no doubt that it takes an intelligent dog to work as a member of a team pulling a sled. There's extensive training involved, even though a natural tendency to do this type of work is required. That the dog can be trained is a fact. That it takes some effort is also a fact. Often, a Husky needs to see some reward before he'll willingly learn new commands, and sometimes even before he'll perform commands that are second nature. That intelligence often makes him need to see a positive end result before he's a willing participant. It takes a firm hand and plenty of patience to deal with these dogs that are not only smart, but also naturally mischievous.

The Husky is usually a very easygoing companion and many families have welcomed these dogs into their homes with great reward. Remember that these are fairly large dogs - often weighing in at more than 50 pounds. But if you have room in your living room and room in your heart, this could easily be just the dog for you.

About the author: For more information on Husky and other Popular, and not-so-popular breeds of dogs, visit The Working Dog Directory

Dog Training Tips that Work!

Author: Armen T. Ghazarians

In dog training, the most simple acts often produce the best results. In any dog pack, the alpha sets the rules and the rest follow. Therefore, by establishing yourself as the alpha, you can be sure that your obedience training sessions will be that much more productive. The following is a list of 8 simple things you can do to teach your new puppy or unruly dog that you are the alpha in your pack.

1. Never feed your dog from your plate while you're eating. A dog must learn that your are the alpha and that it can only eat when you are finished with your meal.

2. Never allow your dog on the sofa or on your bed. And if your dog sits on your path, gently shove it out of the way with your foot. By setting boundaries, you will instill in your dog that it must obey the alpha.

3. Never allow your dog to chew on your towels, socks, shoes, or clothing. Use bitter apple to discourage these behaviors.

4. NEVER HIT YOUR DOG FOR MISBEHAVING. Instead use the tone of your voice and a collar/leash to teach and make corrections.

5. Never allow a puppy to chew on your fingers. Otherwise, it will become a habit that will be very hard to break when it becomes an adult. Spray you hands and fingers with bitter apple and then allow the dog to proceed. The dog will learn not to bite your fingers without associating any negative thoughts about you as the alpha.

6. Never leave a hyper dog unexercised. Playing ball before you leave for work and after you return can help alleviate your dog's pent-up energy.

7. Never keep your dog alone in a yard for days at a times. Without proper socialization your dog will become aggressive towards other dogs as well as other humans. A dog needs contact with its own species in order to learn how to behave in a dog pack equally as well as it must learn to behave in a human pack. A dog left alone for long periods of time will believe itself to be the alpha and try to dictate to its master instead of the other way around.

8. Never allow your dog to jump on you or your guests. Its fun when your dog is a puppy, but it isn't fun when it becomes a 100lb behemoth. Practice with a collar and leash and set up situations where a neighbor rings your doorbell while your dog awaits their entrance. Make a sharp correction and command your dog to ""sit"" when as your neighbor enters the house. And, of course, don't forget to praise the dog as soon as it follows your command. Once the dog knows what to do, try the same thing off leash, but this time use a water spray bottle and spray your dogs face with water as punishment for jumping with a stern vocal correction of ""NO"". Proceed to praise your dog once again when your dog obeys your command. This way, it will learn to associate praise with correct action.

By following these steps, you will establish yourself as the alpha. And, you will have a head start in training your dog because it will have already learned to respect your authority as its leader.

About the author: Armen T. Ghazarians offers advice and articles for those interested in training their dogs like the professionals. His blog http://www.newdogtrainingsecrets.com offers information regarding many aspects of professional Dog Training for anyone who is not a professional dog trainer.

The Cocker Spaniel - The Dog with a Perm

Author: Charles Kassotis

The wavy coat of the Cocker Spaniel is the envy of many who pay dearly to achieve those waves in the form of a salon perm. But in the case of the Cocker Spaniel, the wavy hair is completely natural and only one of the notable features and characteristics of this loving dog.

There are two types of Cocker Spaniel generally recognized by canine organizations - the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. The English Cocker is the older of the two breeds and the American Cocker is the result of selective breeding of the English version. The English Cocker group was eventually divided into several breeds that are now each officially recognized in their own right. The dogs most people today refer to as ""Cocker Spaniel"" refers to the American version of this ancient breed.

The Cocker Spaniel is most often used today as a show dog or companion dog, but this hasn't always been the case. Remember that this is a spaniel. As such, these dogs were bred for performing specific tasks. In this case, the dog was initially used primarily as a hunting dog. The name comes from this dog's ability to hunt and flush a particular kind of bird - the woodcock. In hunting circles, the dogs were often called simply ""cockers.""

Today, the Cocker Spaniel is still an avid hunter and those trained to hunt are more than willing to follow those natural instincts. There are two fairly distinct lines - one bred primarily for hunting and a separate line for show and companion. The show/companion lines typically have coats that achieve longer length. Even dogs that are kept indoors and remain only companion dogs are seldom to be trusted with feathered members of the household, so strong is that instinct to chase these birds for their hunters.

As a rule, these dogs have coats of a single color, though some markings of different colors are allowed by canine clubs. Light tan (typically called buff) and black are probably the two most common colors for Cocker Spaniels. The natural wavy hair requires grooming, though the extent of that grooming depends entirely on the length of the hair and the activities of the dog. Most families choose to keep their Cocker Spaniel trimmed fairly short to make this task easier.

Though Cocker Spaniels aren't recognized as the smartest of the canines, their intensity and determination to please make them better-than-average family pets. If they're well socialized and treated kindly, they seldom snap and will become close friends with anyone who has time to be pals. From playtime to bedtime, they'll choose to be close to their people if given a choice.

As a rule, Cocker Spaniels will perform whatever task they're assigned. These dogs seldom want to challenge authority. This makes housebreaking the Cocker easier than some breeds. Repetitive training is usually the best teacher for this breed. Any behavioral problems are usually the result of poor training or mistreatment. In that case, the Cocker Spaniel is likely to become shy and sneaky.

About the author: For more information on Cocker Spaniels and other Popular, and not-so-popular breeds of dogs, visit The Sporting Dog Directory

Discover Dog Ear Infection Symptoms And Causes

Author: Rebecca Prescott

Brian Kilcommons relates a terrible story about a beautiful golden retriever dog who was usually very gentle and kind with children. It's owners had a girl aged 3 1/2, and they normally got along very well. Then one day the little girl grabbed the dog's ear. It snarled and bit her face. She needed 47 stitches in her face, and they put the dog down. The parents had the dog euthanized without bothering to find out what had caused this sudden change in their dog's behaviour. The vet, however, did an autopsy, and found our that this dog was suffering not one but two severe ear infections that were incredibly painful.

Ear infections usually start out mild, and in the outer ear. This dog's health was effectively neglected by it's owners. And when their toddler grabbed the infected ear, the dog, already in constant pain anyway, reacted out of instinct. By not taking the time to properly care for their pet, these owners were in fact responsible for what happened to their child. And then blamed the dog. And probably out of ignorance or anger, or both, they had it killed. Their emotional response to what happened to their child as a result of their own neglect aside, I find this absolutely reprehensible. And the tragedy that happened to their dog when they chose to kill it instead of investigating further, as well as their child, was totally avoidable.

Unlike these owners, show your dog the same level of care and love you'd show your children. Become aware of the signs of ear infections, what causes them, and how to avoid them, taking dogs to get treatment when it seems like they have one.

Ear infections can be caused by any number of things. Wet ears not dried after swimming or bathing, a build up of ear wax, grass seeds and fox tails, untreated ear mites, using cotton tips to clean ears (which pushes things further into the ear), and growths in the ear canal, can all lead to ear infections. If your dog is scratching at his ears, rubbing them, holding his head to one side, or down, shaking his head, or if they look bloody or waxy or swollen, they should be checked out. And if he cries when his ears are touched, this is another sign of a potential ear infection.

When untreated ear infections progress deeper into the ear, the pain the dog is in increases sharply. The dog may hold his head as still as possible, and to one side. And opening his mouth, or touching his head, will cause him pain. Dogs can also become dizzy, with poor balance and coordination, when the infection progresses to the inner ear. Dogs may walk around in circles, and vomit.

Ear infections are also related to skin allergies, especially food hypersensitivity dermatitis and canine atopy. Dogs with these conditions often develop inflamed ears. The dog's ears become very itchy, which creates an 'itch-scratch-itch' cycle that in turn creates scabs around the ear, hair loss, crustiness, and raw skin. The ear canals become filled with a brown wax.

Some dogs are also allergic to some ear medications. A common one is an antibiotic called neomycin, but can be any ear treatment products including cortisone, nystatin, chloramphenicol, thiabendazole, gentamicin, miconazole, and clortrimazole.

One thing of concern in dogs that are professionally groomed is the practice of plucking the hairs out of the dog's ear. The serum which then comes out of their pores is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria, which is a common cause of ear infection. Vets generally don't recommend you allow your dog's ears to be plucked unless their is a good medical reason to do so. An example of a good medical reason is if there is a large mat of hair that is blocking air flow.

If the mats of hair are in the ear canal, they should be removed by a vet only. If they're not, first soak the hair in a coat conditioner for a few minutes to soften it. Then, with your fingers, separate as much of the mat as possible. You may be able to untangle the rest of the mat with a comb, but more likely you'll need scissors or a mat splitter. Be very careful if you're using scissors. Using a comb, position it under the mat to protect the skin. Hold the scissors at right angles to the comb, and cut into the matted fur in narrow strips. Very gently, tease the mat out, and then comb out any snarls that are left. Regular grooming, with the right tools, will avoid mats forming in the first place.

Always check your dog's ears after he's been playing in long grasses. If you think there is a foxtail in his ear, take him to the vet's and don't try and get it out yourself. Fox tails can really damage the ear. If when you press gently on the ear canal he cries out in pain, there's a good chance there's a fox tail in there.

References:

1. Brian Kilcommons and Sarah Wilson, Good Owners, Great Dogs

2. Richard Pitcairn, Natural Health for Dogs and Cats

3. James Griffin and Liisa Carlson, Dog Owners Home Veterinary Handbook

About the author: Many dog health questions are answered in the articles presented here, including advice on

getting rid of ear mites . Rebecca Prescott presents the website, The Dogs Bone: http://www.thedogsbone.com/

Shar Pei - The Chinese Wrinkle Dog

Author: Charles Kassotis

The Shar Pei is commonly known as the Chinese Wrinkle Dog. Indeed, the origins of this wrinkly dog can be traced to China, though exact lineage used to create this breed is up for debate. Some believe there's a tie to the Chow based on the fact that both have purple tongues and that some dogs carry their tails like a Chow. There are some suggestions of ties to other breeds, but most are purely speculative. What is certain is that the Shar Pei was represented on pottery that dates back several centuries making this a very old breed.

What many people don't realize is that there was apparently a purpose for the selective breeding that created the extra folds of skin on this dog. One of the uses for the Shar Peis of centuries ago was dog fighting. Other dogs had difficulty grabbing and holding those loose folds of skin on the Shar Pei, making it a formidable adversary in the fighting ring. Today, those folds of skin make this dog unique in the dog world, and have created a demand by those looking for an unusual pet.

Despite those early breeders who apparently used the Shar Pei as a fighting dog, the Shar Pei of today tends to be very calm. That's not to say they aren't protective, but that most dogs of this breed are simply easy-going canines that are very tolerant. That tolerance is especially afforded to family and close friends who interact with the dog often, though these dogs do tend to be ""one-man canines."" They often favor the person who handles and cares for them most and sometimes simply refuse to acknowledge commands or requests from anyone else.

The unique look of these dogs made them extremely popular a few decades ago. Their popularity quickly ran its course, leaving many of these dogs in shelters or abandoned. In some cases, ""puppy farms"" turned out massive numbers of Shar Pei puppies without regard to screening and there were many of these dogs with behavioral problems - largely the result of poor bloodlines and poor care of both parents and pups. Time is rectifying the situation, though temperamental dogs still occur as a result of that period.

It was the looks that attracted so many people to these dogs, and those same looks that quickly made people dismiss and abandon them. Some Shar Pei have skin problems - not due to the wrinkles but simply as part of their genetic makeup. Many people who owned Shar Peis during the time of their fad popularity believed that extra care of the wrinkled coat would solve those problems and were disenchanted with the dogs when that proved untrue.

Unlike people, the Shar Pei tends to become less wrinkled with age. The Shar Pei may come in several colors with fawn or light brown being the most common. Though mottled Shar Pei do occur, most canine organizations don't recognize anything other than solid-colored Shar Pei for competition.

If you have a sufficiently strong will to not allow this wrinkled dog to walk all over you, you may very well find that it makes an excellent companion.

About the author: For more information on Shar Peis and other Popular, and not-so-popular breeds of dogs, visit The Non Sporting Dog Directory

The Redheads of the Dog World -The Irish Setter

Author: Charles Kassotis

The wonderful, deep red coloring of the Irish Setter is one of the most notable features of this breed. Properly maintained, the long coat of this dog is beautiful. The red hair tends to part on the dog's chest and flow backwards when it walks quickly, making an awesome picture for the Irish Setter fan. Even if kept shorter, the rich color simply attracts attention and is the reason this breed was once called the Irish Red Setter.

The Irish Setter's ancestors include Pointers and Spaniels. The breed has evolved significantly over the decades of selective breeding, gaining several inches in height. Though Irish Setters of today are exclusively red, those of years gone by were not always solid red. Some were red but many had white mixed into the coats. Today, Irish Setters may have some lighter markings, though too much white is considered a fault in the show ring. Black is also a forbidden color for showing, though some dogs have a very dark red coat.

Though many breeders and owners today select the Irish Setter based solely on the fact that these are awesome looking dogs, there's no denying that this breed is an excellent hunter, pointer and retriever. Their style of hunting varies from breeds such as the Bloodhound that can pick up scents from long distances. These hunters have a less defined sense of smell. In order to pick up a trail, they will roam in a zig-zag motion across fields and trails until they get close enough to pick up a particular scent. The fact that they're agile and fast makes this a viable option to use the best of all their traits.

Although used less often for hunting, these dogs retain their natural instinct and training is possible. Another important task assigned to the Irish Setter is agility, field and obedience trials. These dogs quickly pick up new instruction and are very ready to please.

One of the reasons for the popularity of these dogs as family pets is their complete lack of territorial guarding. They tend to be willing to share space, hearth and home with anyone (and anything) that happens by, making them much less of a threat to bite visitors than some other dogs. One important fact about Irish Setters is that some may be reserved, either all the time or in specific situations. For example, some Irish Setters are effusive with their greetings, but only with family while others will greet everyone with the same joy. Others seem almost aloof with everyone, even those they are most devoted to. Early training and socialization can play an important role in how these dogs behave.

These dogs do have plenty of energy and most are ready for playtime at almost any given point. They quickly pick up new games such as catch or Frisbee. Remember that these dogs were bred to run. They are usually able to run very quickly and may be difficult to catch. Strict training to be sure your Irish Setter will return to you when called is important as you probably won't be able to catch your Setter if he decides to run away.

About the author: For more information on Irish Setters and other Popular, and not-so-popular breeds of dogs, visit The Sporting Dog Directory

Before Buying a Designer Dog

Author: Mike Mathews

Most of you have heard about, read about or seen the new designer dogs. Some of you are probably wondering what the hype is all about. Some of you think they sound and look kind of cute and trendy. A few of you may actually be in the market to buy one of these new dogs. You have heard all the cute names like

Puggles , Schnoodle, Labradoodle and Maltipoo and you are probably wondering if they are purebreds or mongrels and why they cost so much. You may also have heard that designer dogs are healthier than purebreds, don't shed and are good for people with allergies. I will attempt to address these issues and provide other information in the following article.

Designer dogs were initially developed by crossing two purebred breeds with the intention of producing a cross-breed dog with certain desirable characteristics. For example a Puggle is a cross between a Pug and a Beagle and a Shorkie is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Yorkshire Terrier. In an attempt to design a low shed or hypoallergenic dog, breeders have crossed a variety of breeds with toy, miniature and standard Poodles. Examples of the ""poo"" designer dogs include the Schnoodle (Schnauzer), Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever), Maltepoo (Maltese), and Cockapoo (American Cocker Spaniel).

In order to better understand the concept of designer dogs, we need to know a little bit about canine genetics. Dogs have 78 chromosomes made up from 39 pairs or sets. Each puppy receives half of their chromosomes from their mother and half from their father. These chromosomes contain the puppy's DNA which defines its characteristics or genetic makeup. Generalizing, this means the puppy gets some characteristics from the mother and some from the father in a ""random chance"" manner and the number of possible combinations is well over one billion. Therefore it is almost impossible for two puppies in the same litter to have exactly the same combination of chromosomes or characteristics. Purebred dogs were developed for a specific purpose such as hunting or herding by cross breeding two or more founding breeds that the breed developers thought would best contribute to meeting that specific purpose. Then over some period of time, the resulting offspring (usually first or second cousins) were bred with each other to minimize the ""random chance"" characteristics. Then over many generations the resulting dogs would start to breed true and have physical and temperament characteristics with minimal differences across generations and bloodlines. This new breed of dog could then meet a common breed standard and eventually be recognized by a national association. A current success story is the Silky Terrier which was developed in Australia around 1900 by crossing an Australian Terrier with a Yorkshire Terrier in order to obtain the best characteristics of both breeds. The Silky Terrier was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1933 and has become a popular companion dog ranking 65th out of 154 dog breeds registered by the AKC in 2005. Not all characteristics of a new breed are desirable. Some characteristics such as inherited tendencies to specific diseases are bad and breeders try to minimize the chances of this happening by screening the parents before breeding. However this won't entirely prevent diseases from being passed on to the next generation if both parents are carrying a recessive gene for that disease.

Now back to designer dogs. Designer dogs can be created by breeding two appropriate purebred dogs. The resulting puppies are first-generation designer dogs that will have some ""random chance"" combination of the parents physical and personality characteristics. Reputable breeders will have screened the breeding parents for genetic diseases and desirable personality characteristics. Prospective buyers should ask for the breeding parents Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) orthopedic and other breed specific test results and also the Canine Eye Registry (CERF) recent ophthalmologists report for eye disorders. Many breeders will argue that first-generation designer dogs will be healthier because they come from a larger gene pool. Multi-generational designer dogs are developed when breeders have decided to concentrate on a particular designer dog. These breeders commit themselves to a multi-generational breeding program by breeding the same species of dog in order to standardize on certain desirable characteristics. Let's take the example of a Puggle, where breeders may be trying to minimize the breathing problems of the Pug and tone down the Beagle's single-minded scent following characteristics. Which is better - the possibly healthier first-generation Puggle which may have more or less of each parent's characteristics or the multi-generation Puggle with more predictable characteristics? It really is your choice.

More important is deciding on the type of designer dog you want. Size, activity level, coat type, child tolerance, etc. are all factors you need to research. Go to our Directory of Breed of Dogs and research the founding stock that makes up the designer dog. The most popular designer dogs are the Puggles (Pug and Beagle cross) followed by the Labradoodles (Labrador Retriever and Standard Poodle cross). See our Puggle/Labradoodle page for more information on these dogs.

Note that there are really two types of Labradoodles. The first is the unofficial mixed Poodle/Labrador designer breed and the second is the Australian Labradoodle which has resulted from an exhaustive Australian breeding program intended to develop a pure-bred dog breed that will be recognized by the national kennel clubs around the world. The Australian program actually involves 6 different parent breeds: Poodle (standard, miniature, and toy); Labrador Retriever; Irish Water Spaniel; Curly Coat Retriever; American Cocker Spaniel; and English Cocker Spaniel. Other popular designer dogs are the: Schnoodle (Miniature Schnauzer and Poodle), Goldendoodle (Golden Retriever and Poodle), Shorkie (Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier), Schnorkie (Miniature schnauzer and Yorkshire Terrier), Maltipoo (Maltese and Poodle), and Chorkie (Chihuahua and Yorkshire Terrier).

Some popular designer dogs are expensive and depending on the area in which you live, you may have a substantial wait time. While doing your required research, you may find you would be just as happy with one of the founding purebred breeds for less money and less wait time. Even better you may be able to save a dog's life by visiting the animal shelters or breed rescue kennels in your area to see if there is a cute dog available which will meet your needs.

About the author: About the Author - Mike Mathews writes articles about dog breeds, dog health, dog training and dog grooming. His report on

Puggles and

Labradoodles can be seen at Dog Breed Facts.com .

Training Your Dog | A Necessary Process

Author: James McDonald

Giving your dog some basic training is a necessity for any pet owner. In order for them to be trusted around other people and animals they need to follow some basic commands from you. For instance, if you take them into public where there will be alot of strangers you don't want your dog to bite or nip at anyone. And if there is alot of cars and your dog is off the leash, they should be able to sit and stay until you tell them it is safe.

Training your dog also helps develop a stronger bond between you two. Your canine friend will start to see you as the alpha or leader of the pack and follow your lead. You want to be consistent with them but not forceful during your training sessions. Dogs are smart creatures and will learn through repetitive training. And once they pick up on something it will stick with them for their entire lives with you.

Consider A Dog Obedience Class As A Start

There are a couple reasons why finding a local obedience school is a good idea, especially when your dog is just a puppy. They will become accustomed to being around other dogs and learn how to safely interact with them. This will reduce the chances of your dog getting into a fight with others when he is out around town. Proper socialization between your dog and other dogs is an important part of the training program. Additionally, your pup will get used to seeing you around other people. This helps with the human portion of the socialization process.

In addition to the proper social skills they will acquire, they will also learn the basic commands like sit and stay. You as the owner will learn how to teach your dog effectively, further strengthening your bond. And it is much more enjoyable to have a canine that behaves when they are told to.

Most trainers will have you use praising instead of punishment as it has been proven to be much more effective. Scolding a dog makes them associate learning with negative feelings and will over time make them behave worse or even skittish around you. If you praise and reward them when they do what is the correct behavior, they will quickly associate the 'right' things with positive feelings. Plus you will be much closer to them since you are not constantly punishing them. Obviously training your dog does have many rewards, and the rewards are even greater if you use the correct methods.

About the author: James McDonald writes maintains Discount Dog Products . You can find alot of dog care accessories, as well as information that can help any pet owner. We are always updating our helpful articles so make sure you visit often.

How To Choose A Healthy Pit Bull Puppy: Stick To Reputable Dog Breeders

Author: Tim Amherst

Deciding to add a Pit Bull terrier to the family is a big step. You should have already done research on the breed to learn the characteristics that Pits possess, and you should have also decided on a male of female. Once you've tackled those hurdles, it is time for the next step... finding the perfect puppy for your family.

The best way that I would suggest for finding great puppies is to check with your local American Pit Bull Terrier club. Get in touch with the club's president and find out when the club meets. Attend a meeting, get to know some of the members, and begin asking around for breeder recommendations.

Alternatively, you can buy dog magazines and go through the breeder listings contained in the resources section. Take some time to call the breeders who you are interested in possibly working with, and spend a brief while on the telephone with them. Ask them questions such as:

- How long have you been actively breeding Pit Bulls? - How long have you been involved with the breed? - How many litters per year do you have? - Where are your puppies kept? - Are your puppies socialized? - Etc.

You can also contact your veterinarian and ask them for a referral. A vet will typically know the health of a breeder's lines, so they can be a great source of inside info.

You most certainly want to stay away from pet shops and puppy mills. In most cases, these sources obtain their puppies from a variety of places and it is nearly impossible to know if they come from healthy bloodlines or not. Also, these shops often charge large amounts of money for their dogs and prey on the uneducated, spur-of-the-moment dog buyer..

Lastly, be sure not to buy a puppy from the first breeder you meet and don't buy the first puppy that you see. All puppies are cute. Spend time with many puppies so you can see the differences in their personalities and you'll make a more educated choice I assure you.

About the author: To learn all about Pitbull dogs and training a Pitbull , visit http://www.pitbullsrevealed.com/ today.

Introduction to Basenji Dog Breed

Author: Masni Rizal Mansor

The following paragraphs summarize the work of Basenji dog breed experts who are completely familiar with all the aspects of Basenji dog breed. Heed their advice to avoid any Basenji dog breed surprises.

The dog Basenji goes by many names, some of which include Belgian Congo Dog, Bongo Terrier, Congo Bush Dog, Zande Dog, and Congo Terrier. What makes this breed particularly special is that he is the only breed who has no bark. But other than the absence of bark, this breed will whine and growl like other dogs, and can express his feelings with a unique yodel or chortle sound. The Basenji does have a vocal cord. However, it is believed that the past thousands of years in training to hunt game silently may explain his characteristic quietness. Nevertheless, this breed is recognized for its gentle nature and love of children. He is very inquisitive, mischievous, does not have any doggie smell, and adaptable to most climates. He can be wary around strangers and does not like the rain. He has a number of appealing features, including his curling tail, high set and lying over to one side of the back, his wrinkled forehead that gives him a worried-like look, and his habit of washing with his paw similar to a cat.

Size: The ideal height for the male Basenji is 17in at the shoulder while the ideal height for the female Basenji is 16in. The ideal weight is 24lb for the male and 21lb for the female.

History and origin: This type of breed has been depicted in many carvings in the tombs of the Pharaohs. It is said that these dogs were brought as valuable presents by travelers from the lower reaches of the Nile. The breed almost disappeared from public sight during the ancient Egyptian times until the middle of 19th century, when the Basenji was again discovered by explorers in the Congo and Southern Sudan.

If you find yourself confused by what you've read to this point, don't despair. Everything should be crystal clear by the time you finish.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for Basenji is about 11/2-2 cans of quality dog food (13.3oz size) with equivalent amount of biscuit or 3 cupfuls of dry food. This breed will also enjoy an occasional serving of green vegetables. In addition, the Basenji is a grass eater and should have plenty of access to fresh grass.

Exercise: This breed is a terrific hunter and has a tendency to put on extra weight unless he gets plenty of exercise. He is tireless, fleet-footed, and loves to take regular walks and runs. He is an indoor dog that should not be put in an outside kennel. He would love to just relax next to you and lie down in a corner. He is a great apartment dog as long as he is given enough exercise.

Grooming: A hound glove is recommended to keep his coat in great condition. There's no doubt that the topic of Basenji dog breed can be fascinating. If you still have unanswered questions about Basenji dog breed, you may find what you're looking for in the next article.

About the author:

Masni Rizal Mansor provide tips and review on

Basenji Dog Breed .

Estrela Mountain Dog - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Large

Height: 62 -72 cm (24.5 - 28.5 inches)

Weight: 30 - 50 kg (66 - 110 lb)

Life Span: 12 years

Grooming: Medium

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Loyal but stubborn

Country of Origin: Portugal

AKC Group: Not registered

Other Names: Cão da Serra da Estrela, Portuguese Sheepdog

Temperament:

The Estrela Mountain Dog is determined, reliable, intelligent, calm, patient, loyal and gentle. Estrela Mountain Dogs make excellent guard dogs as they are naturally distrusting with strangers. They tend to bond closely to one person and can find it difficult accepting a new handler or owner. Estrela Mountain Dogs make excellent companions for children and regard all the animals and people within their household as their responsibility to look after. Estrela Mountain Dosg can be stubborn and needs a firm and patient handler to provide training from an early age.

Grooming:

Estrela Mountain Dogs need weekly brushing to keep the coat looking healthy. More grooming is needed for the long-hair variety and extra attention is needed when the coat is moulting as the entire under coat is shedded.

Exercise:

The large size of these dogs means they need a considerable amount of space and exercise. Estrela Mountain Dogs adore going for long walks, but will not make a fuss if that isn't always possible.

History:

The Estrela Mountain Dog is the most popular Portuguese breed and is one of the oldest on the Iberian peninsula. This breed descended from ancient Asiatic mastiffs and is related to the Spanish Mastiff. They were bred as mountain herding dogs to keep away wolves and bears. Earlier in the twentieth century Estrela Mountain Dogs were cross-bred with German Shepherds affecting their purity, however they are now back to their pure form. The breed standard for these dogs was established in 1934.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Sturdy, athletic and powerful

Color: Fawn, wolf gray, yellow, reddish-brown, with or without white markings.

Coat: Two coat types (1) long-haired and (2) short-haired. Both are abundant with an under coat of fine, short hair.

Tail: Thick, set moderately low, tapering and carried low when at rest and high when active.

Ears: Small, set moderately high, rounded at the tip, triangular and carried falling backwards against the side of the head.

Body: The body is preferably square in outline, but slightly longer than tall will be accepted. The brisket extends to the elbow and the chest is broad and muscular. The ribs are well-sprung and extend well back. The loin is short, wide and muscular and the back is broad, strong and nearly level from the withers to the slightly sloping croup.

Additional Comments:

Estrela Mountain Dogs are still reasonably uncommon outside of Portugal.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of Dooziedog.com, for more pictures visit http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/estrela_mountain_dog/

How To Potty Train Your Old Dog

Author: Marc Lindsay

All dogs need ground rules setting, regardless of the proposed use of those ground rules. In the case of obedience training you need to establish who is in charge and teach your dog to listen to your commands. In the case of potty training dog it is not only to keep your home looking and smelling clean but it also benefits the dog as well. Dogs are not messy animals by nature and they would much rather mess outside than where they sit and eat. It is usually necessity or bad training that leads to a dog messing in the house instead of the yard.

Start potty training as young as you possibly can. It really is never too early to learn and dogs are at their most susceptive when they are still very young puppies. Get them into a set routine as soon as you start training and make sure that you always stick to that routine as stringently as you possibly can. This routine is the one thing that will really help you and your dog get used to your new plan. Be aware that most puppies will need to go out every two to three hours during training but once they are trained and well practiced they should be able to last the full eight hours of the night.

Puppies specifically need to go first thing in the morning, last thing at night and approximately half an hour after eating and these are the times you should base the rest of your schedule around. It also means that firstly you should not leave food down for the dog all the time. You should give set meals at set times and again stick to these times. This will help your dog and it will also benefit you in keeping to the schedule.

Always keep your eyes peeled and if you see your puppy or your dog doing anything that might indicate it needs to go to the toilet then you should take him out. If you happen to catch him in the act then you should pick him up while he is still finishing up and take him out to your designated area. Let him finish and then pet him for going outside. If you come home to find your dog has messed in the house while you have been out it is too late to punish the dog. They will not associate your reprimand with the mess but simply with you coming home.

About the author: Potty Dog Training and Puppy Training product reviews so you know you are only teaching your dog the very best techniques.

How To Pick The Right Name For Your Dog

Author: Brian Alan Burhoe

It's critical that you pick the right name.

It's critical that you know how to choose a name for your puppy that will allow him to respond when it is used. This will prevent confusion and help you and your puppy to have the best obedience training experience.

How your dog name sounds - how to use your dog's Name in commands - These are all very important factors to consider when choosing your puppy's name.

Here, with the help of DOG-BREEDERS.BIZ and PET-SITTERS.BIZ, is a detailed look at picking the right name for your puppy.

Naming your puppy is one of the most important things you will ever do.

He lives in a world of human sounds that, at times, can become confusing for him. How will your dog know you are talking to him if you don't use a name with which he is familiar? For instance, you might ask your spouse to go for a walk with you, meaning to leave your puppy at home. Possibly your destination is a coffee shop or other place where he might not be welcome. As soon as your puppy hears the word ""walk,"" he is at the door waiting for you to put on his leash.

To prevent this type of misunderstanding, choose a name for your puppy. This lets him know that the words that you are speaking will be directed at him. Once his name is spoken, your puppy will become alert to what you are saying. He will know that you expect something of him and will be ready to obey your command.

When you are talking to your puppy, be very precise. Each time you want him to obey a command, the first thing you should say is his name. In other words if you want your puppy to come, say, ""Buddy, come."" If you say, ""Come Buddy,"" the translation will be lost. Your puppy listens for his name in order to know that you are talking to him.

Though dogs are fairly flexible on what name they respond to, it is best that once you have chosen and taught a dog to respond to his name, you continue to call him by that name for the rest of his life. When dogs are abandoned and placed in a shelter, their names aren't always known. This can cause some confusion when they are adopted and given a new name. In order to lessen problems, always call your puppy by his name.

When training your puppy, be sure to use his name first and often. You will say, ""Buddy, sit,"" ""Buddy, come,"" ""Buddy, lie down."" This allows your puppy to know that it is he who is being spoken to and makes training a lot easier for both of you.

Your puppy will respond to whatever word comes out of your mouth the most when training him. If you use the word ""no,"" on a continuous basis before first using your puppy's name, he will think his name is no and he will respond to ""no."" So you see how important it is for your first word to be the puppy's name.

There are a few things to keep in mind when naming your puppy. You need to take a little time, play and interact with him and get to know him before giving him a name. If he seems to vanish without a trace a good name might be Phantom. If he follows you everywhere, your might want to call him Buddy or Pal.

Keep your puppy's name to one or two syllables. King, Queen, Spike or Blue all good names for dogs. If you want something more modern, try Meeko, Simba, Nemo or Balto. These names are all chosen from animated movies. If you want a name that reflects your puppy's personality, watch him closely. Echo might be used for a dog that barks a lot, or seems to talk to you using voice noises. If your puppy runs constantly from one place to another very quickly, you might choose the name Flash, Dash or Yo-yo.

Whatever you do, never give your puppy a name that will embarrass you or cause trouble with the neighbors. Stupid or Dummy just doesn't sound good if you are outside calling your dog in a very loud voice.

Never give your puppy a name that will confuse him when you give commands. His name should never rhyme with sit, stay, fetch and other words that you will use to train him for obedience.

Research you dog's breed to give you clues on what to name him. If he is a northern dog, you might like to name him Yukon or Snow. If he is an Irish Wolf Hound, Danny or Lass might be appropriate. There are many names that can be derived from the breed of your dog.

Your puppy's name should never sound similar to that of any other member of your family. If your name is Fred, do not call your Irish setter, Red. Another thing to remember is that your puppy is going to grow into an adult dog. Give him a name that will grow with him. Baby might suit him if he's a miniature breed, but not if he's an Alaskan malamute or mastiff. Then again, maybe it does, if you think of your dog as your baby.

Keep the suggestions and tips in this article in mind when you are naming your puppy for a positive experience for both you and your puppy. If it takes a few days or a week to find a proper name, that is fine. It's better to take your time than to regret your decision later...

A popular source of classic names is DOGS IN LITERATURE & HOLLYWOOD , a study of our beloved heroic dogs from books and Hollywood, found on PUPPY DOGS INFO.

For more on dog names, training and care, as well as DOG-BREEDERS.BIZ and PET-SITTERS.BIZ, just Click on PUPPY DOGS INFO at www.puppy-dogs.info.

About the author: Brian Alan Burhoe is the author of many dog-related articles and short stories, such as WOLFBL OOD A Northwestern in the Jack London Tradition . Many of his articles are at PUPPY DOGS INFO at www.puppy-dogs.info. Or do an Author Search at GoArticles!

English Springer Spaniel - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Small - medium

Height: About 51 cm (20 inches)

Weight: About 23 kg (50 lb)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Reasonable

Exercise: Demanding

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Friendly & adaptable

Country of Origin: England

AKC Group: Sporting

Temperament:

The English Springer Spaniel is eager, willing, intelligent and active. English Springer Spaniels are able to adapt to either country or city life and make ideal family pets. They are loyal and affectionate towards their family and make good watchdogs. This breed get along with children, household animals and strangers. Training English Springer Spaniels is usually straightforward with their intelligence and pliable nature.

Grooming:

The coat needs to be brushed regularly and the excess hair in the ear canal and below the ear needs to be removed for adequate ventilation. English Springer Spaniels also need occasional trimming to keep the coat looking neat and tidy.

Exercise:

English Springer Spaniels tend to adapt to the family activities for their exercise needs. But they do enjoy retrieving, swimming and long walks.

History:

Apart from the Clumber Spaniel, this breed is the root from which all English land spaniels originated from. Because the sizes varied, spaniels were put into different classifications, due to being utilized for different purposes. In the 1800s, spaniels that were under 6.7kg (14 lb) were considered as lap (toy) spaniels; from 6.7 - 13kg (14-28 lb) they were known as Cocking Spaniels and the ones over 13kg (28 lb) were called Field Spaniels, English or Welsh Springer Spaniels. It was not until the 20th century that the English Springer Spaniel was separated from the others and became a separate breed.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Well-balanced, compact and steady.

Color: Liver/white, black/white, with or without tan.

Coat: Flat, close, water-resistant, straight with some feathering on the ears, forelegs, body and hindquarters.

Tail: Set low, commonly docked, never carried above the level of the back and well feathered.

Ears: Set at eye level, lobular, reasonable length, hanging close to the head and slightly arched.

Body: The body is strong and well proportioned. They tend to be heavier and long-legged than other spaniels. The chest is deep and the shoulders are sloping and well laid back.

Additional Comments:

English Springer Spaniels perform well in both agility and obedience competitions.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/english_springer_spaniel/

Dog Training 101

Author: Tahl Kopel

Although pet dogs are often seen as of members of the family, they can also sometimes be seen as obnoxious members of the family or even downright dangerous. In order to mitigate the annoying, obnoxious, and sometimes dangerous behavioral characteristics that dogs can display, their owners frequently turn to training programs.

Because there are around 65 million pet dogs in the United States, there is a vast amount of behavioral training options out there. There are manuals, books, schools, seminars, training experts, and classes.

Finding the right program for you and your dog is often a matter of economics coupled with the problems your dog may need corrected. Some training programs specialize in getting rid of a certain problem characteristic of a dog such as aggressiveness while other programs may be more geared towards teaching tricks. Furthermore, some programs may be geared towards puppy instruction while others are geared towards teaching dogs of all ages what behavior is acceptable as well as unacceptable for them to do. And some obedience programs may be geared towards teaching smaller dogs how to act while other courses are geared towards teaching larger dogs to put on their best behavior.

Many people find that enrolling your pet in an obedience course can be very helpful in getting rid of the aggressive behavior some dogs engage in. Training is used to help dogs that bite, nip, jump on people, and get into fights with other dogs.

Some people buy the books that teaches them to do it themselves. Or they may sign up for dog behavior classes because their pets demonstrate destructive behavior like digging holes in the yard or chewing up everything they can. Other owners seek out other courses to learn how to keep their dogs from running after cats, children, cars or even the mailman.

Many people use some form of obedience training to help with dogs that just cannot seem to stop barking. And many other people use other techniques to help canine companions that need to be housebroken.

Besides ending problematic behavior in canines, training is often used to teach dogs commands such as ""sit,"" ""fetch,"" ""stay,"" ""come,"" and ""roll over."" People also enroll their pets in specialized courses to teach their older pets new tricks and teach the younger ones new tricks.

Some trainers can also offer advice on how to deal with common canine health problems such as worms, fleas and bad breath. And behavioral training is sometimes used to help dogs that may have problems like leash fear, travel anxiety, or depression.

About the author: For more information regarding Dog Obedience training , please visit us at http://dog--obedience. blogspot.com/

What you need to know about your Dog's Health

Author: Don Krnel

Like people, dogs need to be healthy to enjoy life. Dogs are our friends, companions and often our guardians, but since they are also totally dependent on us for their well-being, it is our responsibility to look after them properly.

One of the most prevalent 'diseases' in dogs these days is one that also affects humans. Obesity. A fat dog is an unhealthy dog and is likely to suffer from arthritis and heart failure. Remember, in the wild dogs eat fresh meat that they have killed themselves. They also eat certain types of grass and may eat wild fruits like berries if these grow in their natural habitat.

Milk, custard and cake are the worst things you can give your grown dog and, though a puppy may benefit from the calcium in milk, there are commercial milk products available that are especially formulated for a puppy's needs.

Dry dog food, or kibble as it is sometimes called, is said to have all the nutrients that your dog will need for health, but the dearer brands are often better. Dogs fed on cheaper brands may constantly chew grass to supplement whatever is missing from their diet. A healthy dog should have a smooth, shining coat, clear eyes and a moist nose. If your dog's breath is disgusting, it could be due to the tartar on its teeth. Chewing on a big bone will help to clean your dog's teeth.

Regular worming will also help to keep your pet in top condition. Shots for distemper, heartworm, parvovirus and kennel cough are a must. Kennel cough is not likely to be a problem unless the dog is kept on cement. Your vet will need to administer the shots, but you can worm the dog yourself. The tablets should be pushed down the side of the dog's mouth until he swallows. If this is too difficult, crush the tablet into some tinned dog food and offer when the dog is hungry. Luckily, it is not transmitted to humans.

Symptoms of distemper include runny eyes and a dry nose. If your dog drags itself along the ground in a sitting position, suspect worms immediately.

Fleas, which will happily jump from dogs to humans, can be another problem. These bloodsuckers can actually kill a tiny cute puppy , simply through blood loss. Always be sure to keep kennels and yard clean to reduce the flea problem.

If you live in a tick prone area, be sure to keep a tick collar on your dog at all times. Your pet's life may depend on it! Grass ticks cause itchy lumps that can become infected when scratched. Luckily, the tick vaccine works well and quickly and can save a dog that looks like it is gasping its last breath.

About the author: Check out Don's directory of breed of dogs for more info

English Foxhound - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: About 60 cm (24 inches)

Weight: About 37 kg (81 lb)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Minimal

Exercise: Considerable

Feeding: Has a very hearty appetite

Temperament: A friendly pack animal

Country of Origin: England

AKC Group: Hound

Other Names: English Foxhound

Temperament:

The Foxhound is energetic, good-natured, active, independent and loyal. Foxhounds are typical pack dogs that are usually difficult to train and not overly obedient. They require firm control and handling to curb their hunting instincts. Foxhounds are working dogs and don't tend to be suitable as family pets. Although they are friendly and gentle they tend to be rather noisy.

Grooming:

Minimal grooming is required for the Foxhound.

Exercise:

Foxhounds need considerable amounts of exercise and love nothing more than going for a long run.

Feeding:

Foxhounds have hearty appetites and eat a reasonable amount of food. They are not at all fussy and rapidly devour their food.

History:

A hunting dog similar to the Foxhound existed centuries before Christ. It is presumed that these dogs made their way to Europe during the Roman invasions and its believed that they were crossed with the early bloodhounds or St. Huberts (as they were known then). They arrived in Britain with the Norman invasions in the 11th century and the larger type were used for hare hunting. These hounds were extremely valuable in safeguarding farms from foxes, before poisoning became the method for killing these pests.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Heavy-boned, muscular and active.

Color: Tricolor: black/tan/white. Pied: white/fawn.

Coat: Glossy, short and dense.

Tail: Carried fairly high but never over the back and set at the level of the back.

Ears: Set low, short and hanging close to the cheeks.

Body: The back is level and wide. The chest is massive and the shoulders are well sloped.

Additional Comments:

Foxhounds are not considered ideal family pets. They may be appropriate family companions when they are within a country environment and can put their hunting abilities to work, such as getting rid of hares from the property.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/foxhound/

Finnish Spitz - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Small - medium

Height: 39 - 50 cm (15.5 - 20 inches)

Weight: 10 - 16 kg (22 - 35 lb)

Life Span: 14 years

Grooming: Easy

Exercise: Moderate

Feeding: Undemanding

Temperament: Independent & needs understanding

Country of Origin: Finland

AKC Group: Non-Sporting

Other Names: Finsk Spets, Suomenpystykorva

Temperament:

The Finnish Spitz is active, eager, alert and friendly. The Finnish Spitz makes a lively family companion and gets on well with children. They are very loyal and sociable, but do not always follow their owners orders with their independent nature. The Finnish Spitz will alert it's family when there are visitors, but it does not take its guard dog duties beyond that.

Grooming:

The Finnish Spitz has a self-cleaning coat and does not have the typical smell of dog hair. Regular grooming of the coat is still necessary.

Exercise:

The Finnish Spitz needs plenty of exercise and is more suited for country living. They don't like to be left in a kennel unless they have fellow canine companions.

History:

These dogs are also known as the finnish Cockeared Hunting Dog or the Barking Bird Dog. The Finnish Spitz originated from the Arctic Spitz family. When the Finnish people lived in tribes and clans, these dogs were used to hunt birds and squirrels (this food being essential for the survival of their masters). They used to drive the birds into trees, then point and bark to alert their owners of their position.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Striking, squarely-built and lively.

Color: Red-brown or red-gold with a lighter colored undercoat.

Coat: The outercoat consists of harsh, stiff hairs and the undercoat is short, tight, soft and lighter in color.

Tail: Set high, plumed and curving over the back with the tip resting by the thigh.

Ears: Erect, pointed and small.

Body: The back is straight and strong with a deep chest giving a square appearance.

Additional Comments:

The Finnish Spitz can be difficult to train and is not suited for those who want a dog to always obey commands.

The Finnish Spitz is the national dog of Finland.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/finnish_spitz/

Finnish Lapphund - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium - small

Height: 46 - 52 cm (18 - 20.5 inches)

Weight: 20 - 21 kg (44 -46 lb)

Life Span: 14 years

Grooming: Fairly demanding

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Calm & intelligent

Country of Origin: Finland

AKC Group: Not registered

Other Names: Lapinkoira, Lapland Dog

Temperament:

The Finnish Lapphund is brave, calm and intelligent. Finnish Lapphunds make ideal family companions as well as sheep herders for farmers. They are faithful and intelligent dogs that like to get out and about. Finnish Lapphunds are quick to learn and can be tough on themselves. This breed is extremely sociable and gets on well with children but they can be more wary of strangers. Finnish Lapphunds are too gentle-natured to make good watchdogs but they do alert their owners when their are visitors.

Grooming:

The coarse coat needs regular brushing to remove the loose hairs from the undercoat.

Exercise:

These dogs need a moderate amount of daily exercise. They enjoy running alongside a cycle or going for long walks. With their sheepdog instincts Finnish Lapphunds tend to stick by their owner without running off.

History:

Finnish Lapphunds became established by the Lapplanders in Northern Scandinavia. The breed in Finland being known as the Finnish Lapphund and across the border in Sweden it took on the Swedish title. Finnish Lapphunds were originally used for hunting wild reindeer, however in more recent times their herding abilities have been put to use by farmers.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Bright expression, solid and striking.

Color: Any color. Black or dark brown are most common. The main color must be found on the head, neck, chest, legs and tail tip.

Coat: The outercoat is long, coarse and smooth on the head and short on the front of the legs. The undercoat is thick and soft.

Tail: Bushy, loosely curled and carried over the back.

Ears: Wide-set, erect but the tips may drop forward.

Body: Straight back with a powerfully built body.

Additional Comments:

Finnish Lapphunds are rarely seen outside of their native country Finland.

The Finnish Lapphund does very well in dog sports such as fly-ball and agility trials.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/finnish_lapphund/

Pit Bull Puppy Problems: Dog Training Tips

Author: Tim Amherst

There are a few different problems that are seen commonly in puppies who are six months of age or younger. These problems include submissive urination, urination when getting overly excited, and problems with nipping and chewing. If your Pit Bull terrier pup is having problems in any of these areas, don't worry. I'm about to reveal exactly how to correct it.

If your Pit Bull puppy tends to squat and urinate when you approach him, this is a problem with submissive urination. This behavior shouldn't be confused with a potty training problem, it is associated with insecurity if you punish your puppy or use negative reinforcements it will more than likely worsen the behavior. Submissive urination occurs when a dog is scared and feels intimidated when being approached by an individual.

To solve the problem of submissive urination, calmly approach your puppy. Try not to tower over him, crouch down so that you're not as intimidating. If your puppy begins to urinate, try offering him a treat next time. The way to correct submissive urination is to get his focus away from whatever is causing his reaction.

If your puppy has difficulty controlling his bladder when getting excited, it is known as excitement urination. Again, never punish your puppy in this situation as it will only cause problems to get worse.

The fix for this problem is easy. Ignore it. Excitement urination usually disappears as a puppy matures and his bladder control strengthens.

Puppy chewing can be extremely annoying, especially if your Pit Bull is destroying things of high value to you (I've lost my fair share of eyeglasses for example). Puppies use chewing and biting as a way to ease teething pain. To solve this problem, give your puppy lots of toys to chew on instead. Kong toys are popular, as are stuffed squeakers.

If you're having problems in these areas with your new Pit Bull puppy, have patience and take the time to work with your new buddy. He'll get through these tough times with a little love and understanding.

About the author: To learn all about American Pitbull Terriers and how to train a Pitbull puppy , visit http://www.pitbullsrevealed.com/ today.

German Pinscher - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium - small

Height: 40 - 48 cm (16 - 19 inches)

Weight: 11 - 16 kg (25 - 35 lb)

Life Span: 12 years

Grooming: Easy

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Undemanding

Temperament: Active & confident

Country of Origin: Germany

AKC Group: Working

Other Names: Pinscher

Temperament:

The German Pinscher is alert, good-natured and playful. German Pinschers make great family pets and watchdogs. They can provide entertainment with their high spirits and get along with the young and the elderly. This breed are very intelligent and are quick to learn. German Pinschers are extremely brave and loyal to their family and only bark when necessary.

Grooming:

German Pinschers only need occasional brushing to remove dead or loose hairs.

Exercise:

German Pinschers don't demand a great deal of exercise. They are happy with regular walks, running alongside a cycle or playing with their owner in the backyard.

History:

The history of the German Pinscher is rather obscure. It is believed that the Miniature Pinscher and the Dobermann are likely origins of this breed. Some believe that the breed also incorporated the Black and Tan Terrier, as it was present at that time in Germany. For no good reason the Dobermann and the Miniature Pinscher were far more popular than the German Pinscher.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Squarely-built, alert and muscular.

Color: Black, blue, chocolate, red or fawn with or without tan markings.

Coat: Smooth, short, dense and glossy.

Tail: Set high, carried erect and customarily docked.

Ears: Set high, erect or dropped. Within certain countries the ears may br cropped to a symmetrical point.

Body: The chest is moderately broad and deep. The back is level, short and slightly sloping and the belly is tucked up.

Additional Comments:

German Pinschers are a great breed for those who want a watchdog who is also a great family companion.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/german_pinschers/

German Wire-haired Pointer - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 56 - 65 cm (22 - 25 inches)

Weight: 20.5 - 32 kg (45 - 70 inches)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Reasonable

Exercise: Essential

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Intelligent & trainable

Country of Origin: Germany

AKC Group: Sporting

Temperament:

The German Wire Haired Pointer is intelligent, active and friendly. German Pointers are very intelligent and eager to learn, making them easily trainable. They enjoy working for their handler and like to be occupied. They are generally friendly towards people and animals. The German Wire Haired Pointer is loyal and brave and can be trained to be a watch dog.

Grooming:

German Wire Haired Pointers need to be brushed regularly and the excess hair between the pads of the feet needs to be trimmed. Occasionally the coat may need to be stripped (the dead hairs plucked out).

Exercise:

German Wire Haired Pointers are most suited for active families. They tend to enjoy swimming and retrieving. Exercise is essential as they are hunting dogs and need to be kept busy. If the owner is unable to hunt with them then they should be taken for long walks and given opportunities to run and play off the lead.

History:

Dogs have been used for hunting for thousands of years. Different dog breeds were developed for different hunting tasks, such as pointing to the game or retrieving from land or water. German Hunters decided to breed for an all purpose dog which could track, point and retrieve. The German Wire-Haired Pointers evolved from crosses with the Griffon, Deutsch-Drahthaar (meaning wirehair), Pudelpointer and the Stichelhaar.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Sturdy, dignified and muscular.

Color: Solid black, liver or white. Or these colors with patches, ticking or completely roaned.

Coat: Bushy eyebrows, beard and whiskers. The outercoat is harsh, thick and medium length. The undercoat is dense.

Tail: Tapering, customarily docked and never held high.

Ears: Set high, hanging close to the cheek and of average length.

Body: The chest is wide and deep and the shoulders are sloping and muscular. The loin is muscular and the back is short, firm and level. The croup is long, wide and slightly sloping.

Additional Comments:

The German Wire-Haired Pointer differs to the German Short-Haired Pointer in both its size and coat. The Wire-Haired is slightly taller at 67cm (26 in) compared to 64cm (25 in) for the Short-Haired variety.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/german_wire-haired_pointer/

Flat Coated Retriever - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium - large

Height: 56 - 61 cm (22 - 24 inches)

Weight: 27 - 32 kg (60 - 70 lb)

Life Span: 15 years

Grooming: Medium

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Energetic & active

Country of Origin: England

AKC Group: Sporting

Temperament:

The Flat Coated Retriever is good-humoured, intelligent and active. Flat Coated Retrievers thrive on human company and make affectionate family pets. Their active and energetic nature may make them too boisterous for small children or the elderly. Flat Coated Retrievers are very bright and are easily trained. They tend to get on well with most other dogs and will alert their owner when strangers arrive.

Grooming:

Flat Coated Retrievers tend to be reasonably clean dogs and only need a quick, weekly brush to keep the coat looking tidy and healthy.

Exercise:

Flat Coated Retrievers have enormous stamina and need plenty of exercise. They love the water, swimming and retrieving. If they do not receive adequate daily exercise then they can become very badly behaved.

History:

These dogs were originally called Wavy Coated Retrievers or Gamekeeper's Dogs. It's believed that the Flat Coated Retriever evolved from infusions of the Curly Coated Retriever, the Newfoundland and the Labrador Retriever. Some also believe that crosses with Gordon and Irish Setters took place which resulted in this breeds characteristic coat pattern. Flat Coated Retrievers were shown in England in 1859 and the breed was well established in 1874, when the British Kennel Stud Book was formed.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Active, powerful and lovable.

Color: Black or liver.

Coat: Dense, flat, medium texture with feathering.

Tail: Straight and never carried above the level of the back.

Ears: Small and hanging by the cheek.

Body: The chest is deep and broad and the back is short and square.

Additional Comments:

Flat Coated Retrievers have a lighter body than other retriever breeds. They are more suited for the country rather than the city.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/flat_coated_retriever/

Fox Terrier - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Small - medium

Height: 37 - 39 cm (14.6 15.5 inches)

Weight: 6.8 - 9 kg (15 - 20 lb)

Life Span: 14 years

Grooming: Wire variety - medium

Smooth variety - undemanding

Exercise: Medium

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Friendly & fearless

Country of Origin: England

AKC Group: Terrier

Temperament:

The Fox Terrier is active, intelligent and lively. Fox Terriers are easily excited and can be quite noisy. Their intelligence makes them reasonably easy to train, but they do need proper training to curb their hunting instincts. Fox Terriers make affectionate household pets and they are good with children. This breed has adapted well to domestic life.

Grooming:

Minimal gromming is needed for the Smooth Fox Terrier, but the wire coated variety needs to be stripped (dead hairs plucked out) 3-4 times per year.

Exercise:

Fox Terriers need a reasonable amount of daily exercise. These dogs are known to protest (loudly) if left out in a yard alone or tied up.

History:

Since the late 18th century, Fox Terriers have been a distinctive breed and had a definite job in the hunting field. These dogs were carried in boxes or bags by horsemen and once the hounds had driven the foxes into their burrows, these terriers were released and had to force the fox from it's lair. Fox Terriers being very game, were prepared to attack foxes twice their size. It is believed that this breed evolved from the old Black and Tan working terrier, Bull Terrier and Beagle.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Lively, alert and bold.

Color: White should dominate with or without black, tan/black or tan patches.

Coat: Smooth Coated - Flat, hard, straight and smooth. Rough Coated - The outercoat is dense and very wiry. The coat must be crisp and may be crinkly.

Tail: Set high, carried erect and customarily docked.

Ears: Small, V-shaped, moderately thick and folded over.

Body: The chest is deep but not too broad. The back is short, straight and strong. The shoulders are well laid back and slender at the points and well-defined at the withers.

Additional Comments:

Both varieties of the Fox Terrier (smooth and wire) are identical except for the differences in their coat.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/fox_terrier/

Field Spaniel - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 51 - 58 cm (20 - 23 inches)

Weight: 16 - 23 kg (35 - 50 lb)

Life Span: 12 years

Grooming: Medium

Exercise: Essential

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Docile & independent

Country of Origin: England

AKC Group: Sporting

Temperament:

The Field Spaniel is affectionate, sweet, playful, sociable, sensitive and independent. Field Spaniels are docile and sweet-natured dogs, but can have stubborn streaks. They should be well socialized with people and animals from a young age to prevent them becoming overly timid or reserved. The Field Spaniel generally loves everyone, including dogs, household pets and children. However, they can sometimes be cautious with strangers, but this usually depends on their upbringing. Field Spaniels are intelligent and will learn quickly, but harsh training should be avoided as these dogs are very sensitive and it can have an adverse effect on them. Field Spaniels bond closely to their family and tend to become attached to a particular family member. Field Spaniels should not be kept away in a kennel as they thrive on human companionship and being part of a family.

Grooming:

Regular brushing and combing about once or twice a week is sufficient for Field Spaniels. If being shown then professional grooming is necessary and the coat also needs to be stripped (the dead hairs plucked out). The ears need to be kept clean and any straggly hairs should be trimmed.

Exercise:

Field Spaniels need plenty of exercise and are ideal pets for an active family. They love to explore and run freely off the lead, however they should only be off the lead within a controlled environment as they are likely to run off after exciting scents. Daily walks and opportunities to play in a well-fenced yard is sufficient exercise for these dogs.

History:

Originally the sporting spaniel family were classified as Field Spaniels, however it was changed so that the dogs were separated by weight and the larger dogs became known as field spaniels and the smaller dogs as Cocker Spaniels. Other spaniels in this bloodline include the Sussex, Irish Water and English Water Spaniels. It was in 1892 that the Field Spaniel was recognized as a separate breed for show purposes, but unfortunately the breeding for the show ring caused a significant deterioration in this breed's working ability. At the end of World War II, Field Spaniels were almost extinct, but by 1969 the numbers had safely increased.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Proud, gentle, alert and solid.

Color: Liver, black, golden liver or roan (speckled) with or without tan markings. White is accepted on the chest, throat and brisket.

Coat: Single coat: silky, glossy, moderately long, water-resistant, dense and flat or slightly wavy. Moderate feathering should be on the chest, underbody, back of the legs, buttocks and underside of the tail. Trimming of the coat is allowed, provided it enhances the natural appearance of the breed.

Tail: Set low, carried with a natural downwards inclination and preferably docked (natural tails are allowed).

Ears: Set slightly below the eye level, moderately long, pendant, well feathered and hanging close to the head with slightly rounded tips.

Body: The body is somewhat longer than tall and the chest depth is roughly equal to the length of the front leg (from elbow to ground). The ribs are well-sprung and extend well back. The loin is short, deep and strong with little or no tuck up. The back is level and well muscled and the croup is short and rounded.

Additional Comments:

Field Spaniels happily fulfill the role of a family companion or as a working dog and hunting in open terrain.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/field_spaniel/

Fila Brasileiro - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Large

Height: 61 - 76 cm (24 - 30 inches)

Weight: 41 - 50 kg (90 - 110 lb)

Life Span: 11 years

Grooming: Easy

Exercise: Demanding

Feeding: Demanding

Temperament: Courageous & protective

Country of Origin: Brazil

AKC Group: Not registered

Other Names: Brazilian Mastiff, Brazilian Molosser, Cao de Fila

Temperament:

The Fila Brasileiro is protective, loyal, agile, determined, attentive and courageous. Fila Brasileiros can be very affectionate and dedicated towards their owners, whom they obey totally. They are wary of strangers and can become aggressive if they are not properly trained. Regular visitors are generally accepted, but Fila Brasileiros have an exceptional sense of smell, allowing them to know whenever something approaches. This breed has strong territorial instincts and can act independently depending upon how they perceive the situation. Fila Brasileiros need a confident handler and many find these dogs difficult, but they can be obedient for the right owner. They get along fine with children within their family, but not with their playmates. Fila Brasileiros will accept other household pets if socialized with them at an early age, but don't tolerate new pets joining the family.

Grooming:

Minimal grooming is needed for Fila Brasileiros with their short coats. They do need a soft place to sleep to prevent callouses forming on their leg joints.

Exercise:

Fila Brasileiros should be kept in a large and securely fenced backyard where they can take care of their own exercise needs. From time to time they should be taken to new places for a change of scenery.

History:

The Fila Brasileiro is a native breed of Brazil and probably evolved from the Spanish and Portuguese Mastiffs and Bloodhounds. They were bred to guard livestock and property and are well known as fierce guard dogs.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Powerful, strong and solid.

Color: Brindle is the most common color, but any solid color is accepted except for white, mouse-grey and spotted or piebald coats.

Coat: Smooth, short, dense and close to the body.

Tail: Tapering and raised high when alert but should not be carried over the back.

Ears: Large, pendant, thick, V-shaped and tapering to rounded tips.

Body: The body is strong, broad and deep covered by thick loose skin particularly around the neck. The ribs are well-sprung and the chest is deep and large reaching to the level of the elbow. The croup is broad and long and the brisket is well pronounced.

Additional Comments:

The Fila Brasileiro is banned as a dangerous breed in Great Britain and for those countries that do permit these dogs, they are definitely not a breed for beginners or for an urban living environment.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/fila_brasileiro/

German Short-haired Pointer - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Medium

Height: 53 - 64 cm (21 -25 inches)

Weight: 20 - 32 kg (45 - 70 lb)

Life Span: 12 years

Grooming: Easy

Exercise: Essential

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Highly trainable & friendly

Country of Origin: Germany

AKC Group: Sporting

Other Names: Deutscher Drahthaariger Vorstehhund

Temperament:

The German Short Haired Pointer is intelligent, active and friendly. German Pointers are very intelligent and eager to learn, making them easily trainable. They enjoy working for their handler and like to be occupied. They are generally friendly towards people and animals. The German Short Haired Pointer is loyal and brave and can be trained to be a watch dog.

Grooming:

German Short Haired Pointers only need occasional brushing to keep the coat looking healthy. The ears should also be checked from time to time to ensure they are clean.

Exercise:

German Short Haired Pointers are most suited for active families. They tend to enjoy swimming and retrieving. Exercise is essential as they are hunting dogs and need to be kept busy. If the owner is unable to hunt with them then they should be taken for long walks and given opportunities to run and play off the lead.

History:

Dogs have been used for hunting for thousands of years. Different dog breeds were developed for different hunting tasks, such as pointing to the game or retrieving from land or water. German hunters decided to breed for an all purpose dog which could track, point and retrieve. The German Short-haired Pointers evolved from crosses with the German tracking dogs, the old Spanish Pointer, the English Foxhound and the English Pointer.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Muscular, sturdy and graceful.

Color: Solid black, liver or white. Or these colors with patches, ticking or completely roaned.

Coat: Short, flat and coarse to touch.

Tail: Set high, tapering, carried horizontally or slightly raised and commonly docked.

Ears: Set high, rounded at the tip, broad at the base and hanging flat against the cheek.

Body: The shoulders are sloping and muscular. The back is short, firm and level. The croup is wide, long and not sloping.

Additional Comments:

German Short-haired Pointers can become hyperactive if kept confined or do not receive adequate exercise.

German Short Haired Pointers are genuine all-rounders with their overall abilities in hunting and sport.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/german_short_haired_pointer/