Gundog Breed. A brief history of the Gun dog

Ever since their domestication, dogs have helped humans hunt, something that they continue to do today. Gundogs, which are also known as bird dogs, are canines that have been bred to assist in the hunt through a variety of different ways.

What might surprise you is the fact that gundogs can often be excellent family pets as well invaluable companions in the field.

The term gundog refers to a wide variety of breeds that all help human hunters take down their prey; typically, gundogs fall into one of two different categories. The first type of gundogs are called pointers or setters. Irish Setters and English Setters are two dog breeds included in this category.

Essentially, the setter will range ahead of the hunter and when the gundog detects game, it will crouch and point out the game to the hunter. The hunter will then flush the game himself. The second type of gundog is called a flushing dog and these dogs stay closer to their masters.

They never go further than the gun's range and when they find game, they will flush it up into the air. When the target has been shot, the dog is given a signal to retrieve the fallen prey. Golden retrievers and cocker spaniels are two dog breeds that fall into this category.

The history of gundogs goes back nearly to the time that they were domesticated.

It seems that it did not take very long before dog breeds started to develop based on what use they were. Terriers, for example, were bred to fight and kill animals that lived in small holes and tight tunnels, while hounds were meant to chase and corner larger game.

Gundogs started being developed when men started using ranged weapons, but with the advent of the gun as a hunting weapon, they were quickly refined and specialize for this type of hunt.

Gun dogs are bred for their energy, their endurance, and their discipline.

Gundogs, despite their ability for an active, long-spanning working life, often make excellent family pets. Retrievers are known to be an extremely trustworthy breed around children, as are Irish Setters. Cocker spaniels and fox terriers are excellent for families with older children, as these breeds are somewhat excitable and incline to nip when started.

As with any dog, make sure that your children are comfortable with and know how to handle them. While gundogs in general do make good companions, remember that you should always look at the dog breeds involved and see which breed will suit your living situation the best.

If you decide to get a gundog as a family pet, remember that these are typically very active breeds. While they don't require an excessive amount of exercise, you should definitely be ready to make a commitment to their health and energy.

Many gundogs are also intensely social and will suffer more from social neglect than they will from lack of exercise. These breeds are known to be destructive and difficult to handle if bored, so make sure that you are ready for the commitment that these breeds represent.

If you keep these factors in mind, you will be able to ensure that you have an excellent companion in a gundog!

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Many people treat their pets as family, and justly so. Well, when one of your children, or another family member has a rash or infection you take care of it as quickly as possible. Pets also deserve the same quick attention to keep them healthy. Instead of a huge vet bill, why not try an herbal remedy when your pet gets attacked by fleas. here are a few home remedy suggestions you can try.

Give An Herb Bath

At the first sign of a flea, bathe your pet with a natural pet shampoo that contains flea-repellent herbs. Pennyroyal or eucalyptus oil boost the bathwater's flea killing power. A badly infested dog needs a bath about every two weeks; a cat, about once a month.

Clean, Clean, and Clean Some More

Especially in the Summer, wash the pets bedding in hot soapy water once a week, and dry it in a hot dryer. Also vacuum your rugs every two to three days. Ninty percent of fleas are found where your pet sleeps.

Use Natural Powders

They generally contain such herbs as rosemary, rue, wormwood, pennyroyal, eucalyptus, or citronella, and sometimes tobacco powder. You can also dust the powder, or just diatomaceous earth, in all the nooks and crannyies you can't reach by vacuuming.

Diatomaceous earth is a great home remedy that removes the fleas waxy coating and dries them out, which kills them. Caution: Wear a dust mask to avoid the easily inhaled, finely ground diatomaceous earth used in swimming pool filteres; and pennyroyal and tobacco powder in large quantities can be toxic to you and your pets.

Attack Internally

Finally, add garlic and brewer's yeast to your pet's diet. Even try rubbing the yeast into your pet's fur. Both ingredients are said to make a flea's taste buds curl in disgust. There's no scientific proof, but some pet owners swear by this home remedy.

Preventitive care goes a long way with pets. Obviously they can't talk to you and let you know that they are beginning to host fleas, so be aware of your pet's behaviour and try these herbal remedies at the first sign.

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'Tis the season to buy presents for your puppies. Just like the kids, your pets know the holidays are here. They see the buzz in the house. They small all the great holiday food that's being cooked and they realize there's something interesting under the tree. On Christmas day, they also see that the other kids in the family are ripping things open and getting toys and treats, and if there's not something for them, they are wondering why they got overlooked.

Don't forget the four-legged family members this year. Don't know what to get? Here's a list of some of the more popular toys for canines.

Tug and Throw Dog Toys – There are a lot of these toys on the market. Some parts of them are heavy-duty rubber material, some parts are rope. Both parts are lots of fun for your pooch. You can throw the toy for them to fetch, then the two of you can get down and enjoy a good old fashioned game of tug of war.

Plush Dog Toys – There's nothing like a good toy to shake around and beat up in your dogs eyes. This is probably the reason there are a lot of stuffed dog toys on the market, from sporting themes to toys that look like other animals, to the bark-a-rita, which is a stuffed toy that looks like a topped off margarita glass, there are all sorts of fun stuffed toys for your pup. If you want to stick with a holiday theme, you will likely be able to find a lot of toys that are wearing Santa hats, holding candy canes, or even a snowman plush toy for your pooch.

Don't forget the tasty goodies!

Just like the kids like to see what kinds of yummy goodies are in their stockings so too your dogs will want to know what kind of tasty treats they're getting this holiday season.

From rawhide chewies to snacks that look like Christmas cookies or candy pieces, there is no end to the options when you want to create a culinary wonderland for your pet. If you want to completely do it right, you can even get a stocking just for your pet, where Santa can leave all their goodies.

A bit of a warning on this front through; just like the kids eating too much candy after Halloween, the dog eating too many treats at the holidays is not a good idea.

While you may want to give him extras, as you enjoy a festive time, many dog tummies are sensitive, and too much of those rich treats can make them sick. Not to mention they will likely already be handed a few pieces of people food during the holiday meal.

Make sure to keep an eye on what your pet is eating and keep it in moderation. While it's fun to give them gifts, you can also give them the treats over a long time period and keep them healthy and happy.

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A well-trained and nicely groomed Chihuahua is pleasant to the sight. A Chihuahua taken by his owner for a walk on the leash looks cute especially when dressed in a stylish outfit. The sight will surely grab attention from everyone. The sight will surely grab attention from everyone.

But Chihuahua care is not just about looking cute and adorable in stylish outfits. Caring for your Chihuahua is more on promoting or maintaining not just their physical appearance but more importantly, caring for their health. After all, one may not always look good if there is something wrong with its health. Just what one famous line says, “Beauty inside and out”. That explains why you should take good care of your Chihuahua.

Chihuahuas seems to look like puppies even when they are already two years old. It is during this time that you start teaching them what you want them to know especially on eating habits. They tend to eat twice a day so make sure that the feeding bowl is filled with foods always. Provide plenty of fresh water as well. One important thing to remember about feeding habits is to avoid obesity. Always provide your dog with easy access to foods but do not let them develop the habit of nighttime eating as this can lead to obesity. In choosing their foods, most vets recommend dry foods since chewing dry foods is good in the prevention of tartar and plaque build up.

There are few arguments as to how often these warm weather dogs should be bathed. Actually, giving them a bath at least once a month is enough. Even long-haired Chihuahuas need less grooming. Just make sure to keep their long coat from tangles. Their ears must also be kept free of water to prevent infections. These dogs are the only breed of dog to be born with soft skulls known as moleras. Fortunately, this molera fills with age thus great care is needed especially during the first six months and until the skull is completely formed. Take note also that a molera is different from hydrocephalus.

Since these dogs are the smallest breed, they should be kept away from human feet to avoid crushing these adorable little creatures. And even if they're small, they still need regular exercise to prevent obesity. A short walk is enough to meet their daily exercise requirement, but a short walk around the block may exhaust them.

Either large or small dog craves for their owner's attention and love. Make sure they have plenty of what they crave for.

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The Christmas holidays are fast approaching! While you're busy decorating and preparing your home for guests, here are a few important tips to keep your dog safe this season.

The Christmas Tree

Tinsel, small ornaments, and ornament hooks are major choking hazards for dogs. It's best to avoid tinsel altogether and keep small ornaments high on the tree, out of the dog's reach. Also, make sure there are no stray ornament hooks on the floor!

If your family has a real tree (as opposed to an artificial tree), it's best to block off the area around the tree with a screen or gate. Many dogs become ill from drinking tree water and ingesting pine needles. Vacuum the area around the tree regularly.

Holiday Guests

It's exciting to have family and friends over during the holidays—even for your dog! But there are certain precautions you should take when having company over.

Dogs can easily slip out the door when people are continuously going in and out. Make sure your dog is wearing an identification tag with your phone number, even if he is micro-chipped. Not everyone who finds a lost dog knows to have him checked for a micro-chip.

Your guests may adore your dog, but don't let them give your dog any food without asking. Children especially may want to give the dog a treat—hand them a safe treat and supervise while they give it to the dog. Under no circumstances should your dog be given turkey or chicken bones. They are too small and are a serious choking hazard. As an alternative, buy a marrow bone at the grocery store as a special holiday treat.

Why You Shouldn't Give Dogs as Gifts

Bringing a new dog into the family is a wonderful thing, especially if you adopt a dog from a shelter. However, giving a dog as a Christmas gift is never a good idea. Regardless of whether the dog is a puppy or an adult, his first few days in your home should be all about him. The holidays, for most families, are too chaotic and busy for a dog to get used to his new environment, and he may become anxious or frightened.

A great idea for families who want to give their children a dog for Christmas is to gift wrap a dog bone. When the child opens it, tell them it's for the new dog that you'll be getting in a few weeks. Or you can leave a note from Santa explaining that he didn't have enough room on his sleigh and will be coming back with the dog. Animal shelters are flooded every January with dogs who were given as Christmas gifts—so January is a great time to adopt a dog who needs a home.

Lastly, it's always a good idea to have your vet's phone number posted in a visible spot. Your vet's office should have someone answering the phone 24/7.

The most important thing to remember, amidst all the chaos of the holidays, is to always know where your dog is and what he's up to. That way everyone in your home, including the four-legged family members, can have a Merry Christmas.

Copyright (c) 2007 Jennifer Koretsky

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The deep emotional bond we share with our dogs and cats is one of life’s most simple pleasures.

In return for unconditional love, many pet owners do everything they can to ensure our pets have long, productive, and healthy lives.

Veterinary science has kept up with our willingness to provide life long quality healthcare for our special friends. Treatments and diagnostic procedures once unheard of in the veterinary world are now commonplace: MRIs, radiation therapy, and specialized screenings, to name but a few.

Veterinary Care Inflation and the Effect on Your Wallet

Much like the human health care sector, medical care breakthroughs result in higher costs for vets and pet owners alike. Conservatively, veterinary costs have risen over 60% in the past five years, per the American Kennel Club. Conditions that normally went undiagnosed and untreated are now becoming routine.

While veterinary medical advances extend our pet’s quality of life, the financial impact for pet owners cannot be overlooked.

Recently, our neighbor’s German Shephard “Duke” suffered from hip dysplacia. Duke is now happily on the mend, but not until his owners paid over $2000 in vet bills. Another friend’s cat “Missy” developed a stubborn kidney infection at 18 months which required extensive diagnostic and follow up treatment. Our friend was amazed at Missy’s vets proficiency, but the $1400+ in costs left our friend juggling her finances to pay the vet bills.

What is Pet Insurance, and Does it Make Sense For You?

Pet insurance has been around for decades in Europe, but is relatively uncommon in the United States and Canada. Much like health insurance for us, pet insurance drastically reduces the risk of caring for your pet. Perhaps most importantly, it can eliminate the heart wrenching decision of euthanizing your pet vs. incurring a large financial hardship.

There are several different pet insurance companies. Some policies pay for all types of veterinary care. Others pay only for accidents and illnesses. Some will cover your pet regardless of age, while certain plans have numerous deductibles and restrictions.

Anyone considering pet insurance should ask themselves this question: “Will I devote a reasonable amount of time and money to treat and heal my pet?”. If your answer is “yes”, you’re a good candidate for pet insurance. Sadly, many pet owners are forced to choose between finances and their pet’s health. Worse, other pet owners view their pets as disposable, and simply won’t treat the animal if it becomes too ill.

Typical Plans and Costs

Most pet insurance plans offer coverage for as low as $10 per month. Typically, there is a $50 deductible, and an annual cap of about $10,000. Pet insurance plans for senior pets (normally 8 years and older) will run a bit more, normally $29.95 per month. Costs for cats and dogs generally run the same.

Remember, pet insurance is designed to help you and your pet through significant illnesses and injuries. It’s easy to budget for routine expenses like annual check-ups, shots, flea preventative, etc. Some pet insurance plans offer discounts on routine care, but be prepared to use a contracted (network) veterinarian, similar to a PPO/HMO set up for humans.

Two Real Life Financial Examples

A business associate told us of his two beloved pets, 6 year old cat “Whiskers” and his 12 year old border collie mix “Diamond”. Whiskers was diagnosed with an ongoing respiratory ailment, and just a few months later, Diamond was found to have a malignant tumor and needed immediate treatment. Luckily, he had taken out pet insurance on both pets just weeks before Whiskers’ visit to the vet. With coverage through Instant Pet Insurance, he was paying $9.95/mo. for Whiskers and $29.95/mo. for Diamond, less a small multi-pet discount. All told, Whiskers veterinary bills totaled $1330, and Diamond racked up an $1100 tab.

Fortunately, he was reimbursed $1280 for Whiskers, and $900 for Diamond, accounting for a normal $50 deductible for an adult cat and a $200 senior dog deductible. Therefore, instead of an unplanned $2430 veterinary expense, his total cost was only $250.

Do Your Homework

There are several pet insurers in the marketplace, so do your homework and make sure your policy is right for your pet. If you feel comfortable budgeting for routine annual costs like check-ups, immunizations, flea preventative, etc. there’s no need to pay for routine coverage.

Our experience as pet owners and animal lovers has shown us that most pets will require some form of unexpected medical treatment in their lifetimes. If it’s important to you as a pet owner to be prepared, consider taking out a pet insurance policy. Here are some special factors to look for when taking out a pet insurance policy:

1. Guaranteed Acceptance, no matter the age of your pet.

2. The ability to use the veterinarian of your choosing.

3. Fixed Premiums and Deductibles. Make sure your premium doesn’t increase along with the age of your pet.

4. Unlimited Accident Coverage

5. Comprehensive Coverage of Veterinary Services – some pet insurers exclude common hereditary conditions for certain breeds.

6. State Licensing – Make sure your pet insurer is licensed.

By Laura and Jim Hofman

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A dog might suffer a number of diseases during its lifetime. Being attentive of these illnesses and the correct method to care for them can assist you greatly in caring for your dog better. Dogs should be vaccinated and given booster at least once every 6 months to keep them safe.

Your dog can be vaccinated against hepatitis, distemper, rabies, corona, leptospirosis, kennel cough and parvo. He could suffer at some point from domestic or outdoor parasites and there are many different types of infections which a dog owner should know about.

You might consider getting Pet Insurance if you have one or more pets. A small occasional investment and decent care for your pet usually cost much less than risking an infection and having to fork out hundreds of dollars to treat them later.

The Parvo strain of virus is the most common and deadliest dog infection. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration and eventually death.

Distemper is another viral infection. Symptoms may include fever, loss of appetite, nasal and eye discharges.

Canine hepatitis also causes comparable symptoms which should be treated with IV fluid therapy, antibiotics and nutritional support(consult your vet first).

Rabies is often spread by the bite of another animal. If your dog has rabies, he will behave oddly. A dog can be vaccinated against Rabies from 4 months of age. There is no cure, vaccination is vital.

Leptospirosis is a bacterial virus infection which attacks the dog’s kidneys and liver. Consuming contaminated liquids or infected urine from another dog can cause Leptospirosis. Fever, yellow gums, depression and blood in the dog’s urine might mean leptospirosis.

Kennel cough, or Bordatella, is a respiratory tract disease. Kennel cough symptoms often include a loud and coarse cough nasal and eye discharges. The treatment is usually anti-inflammatory medication, cough suppressants and antibiotics.

The dog infection Coronavirus or Corona for short is one of the more contagious viral illness. Vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss are possible warning symptoms and should be looked into. Antibiotics and IV fluids are used in the treatment of Corona.

Another highly common dog infection is the infection to it’s ears. Symptoms include pawing at the ears and shaking of the head constantly. You should examine your dog’s ears every month and take him to your local vet for treatment if you spot any signs, as soon as possible. Even common ear infections like blood clots may cause deafness and even lead to extreme blindness if not treated properly.

A few more obvious indications of a dog infection are heat, swelling and sluggishness. Appearing to be in hurt or pain, fretfulness or listlessness are also some more obvious indications.

If the infection is intense, then the dog might have a high temperature and be swollen around the neck, armpits or groin area. If you are unable to get to a vet straight away, you should keep the dog lying down to avoid any physical exertion that might lead to the infection spreading more quickly.

Dogs with infections might reject food and water so it is important to seek your vet’s advice.

Infections can be dangerous anywhere in a dog’s body but especially if they are around the body’s ‘wet’ regions like the nose or mouth as they could spread quicker to the blood stream and eventually to the vital organs. The key thing is to get your dog immunized as soon as he is old enough. Also be sure to follow up with a yearly injected or oral course booster.

Remember, your dog is part of the family and if you find your dog acting a little unusual or a bit ill, call the vet to schedule an appointment immediately. A dog’s body doesn’t work like a human body, dog infections can become severe very quickly and it won’t be a good idea to wait and see if the infection or illness heals itself.

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The Havanese dog is a breed that came back from a crisis in the last century to become a popular family pet today. This dog is especially popular in the United States, with some breeders still charging up to $1000 for a pup, despite the fact that the Havanese dog is becoming more readily available today. The reason for their popularity is mainly in their personality: Havanese are fiercely loyal, eternally playful and consistently cute entertainers. This makes them a good choice as a family pet for many families, including those with children and other animals in the house. These dogs are also quite brave, despite their small size, and can make excellent watch dogs. One of the best things about this breed is the fact that they never seem to lose their zest for life that they have as puppies. You will rarely see a grumpy adult Havanese dog, but you are likely to see one that is always ready to play.

Intelligent, submissive and eager to please his master. These characteristics are typical in the Havanese breed, which makes it easy t train most of the time. However, housebreaking a Havanese can be a more challenging process than with other types of breeds. Most breeders and Havanese owners will advise someone purchasing a Havanese puppy to allow plenty of time and patience to complete the housebreaking routine. One reason is because Havanese pups do not always leash train well, meaning they may not complete their "business" when enjoying a walk with you. If you are having a hard time getting your Havanese pup housebroken, one method that has worked with some Havanese owners is the use of a litter box that is designed for use with toy dog breeds. Do not ever use regular cat litter in your dog’s box, since he could eat it and get sick. Instead, you can use a hard, cylindrical paper pellet that will actually attract your dog to his box. It is also important to make sure that you spend plenty of time with your puppy, since a lonely dog can easily turn into a chewing dog.

If you are looking for a new pet for your family, and you are hoping for a dog that will be easy to train and fun to own, a Havanese puppy might be the right choice for you. This dog is submissive by nature, eager to please, and intelligent to boot. He is generally a pup that will always be ready to play with your family, and never lacking in energy. Often Havanese are natural performers and your pup may entertain you frequently with his antics. He will be loyal and loveable, and despite his small size, he may make a fairly effective watchdog. Most Havanese tend to be fearless, and even fierce when the situation calls for it. If you are thinking that a Havanese puppy might be the right dog for you, there are plenty of Havanese breeders available who can offer you one of these pups in good health and with good breeding. To find a breeder, you can search online or ask friends or your veterinarian for recommendations. It is also a wise idea to continue to research the breed, so that you can learn everything possible about the Havanese dog.

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Everyone has some dog training tips when your dog is "naughty." But few actually give you good advice.

Let's face it, your dog wasn't born knowing how to behave. Different breeds are bred for certain tasks, be it hunting, herding, guarding, killing or chasing. Therefore careful selection of your dog is the first step towards an enjoyable life with your dog.

After that there's work to do, dog house training often being the first task. And if you don't get your dog as a pup you may be buying some behavior problems with it. Excessive barking, jumping up, biting, whining, not listening? You usually can do something about it.

Just as with raising children it pays to know a bit about how to do this, and why. Getting someone in for some basic dog training can set you back anything between $300 and $2,000.

But there ain't no free dog training like your own. After all if you and your dog want to enjoy life together why not work on this together right from the word go.

Oops! Did I say "go". "Sit", and read on...

Yes, dog training is a two-way street. Your dog has to take its cues from you as to what's "good" or "bad". If you are confused or inconsistent you'll both pay for that. So, owner training is important too.

Here are some commensense dog training tips:

* Did you realise it's natural for your dog to obey your command in one setting and not necessarily in another?

* Did you realise that pups are often allowed, even encouraged to jump up, chase and bite trouser cuffs because it's so much fun and later this same behavior is not wanted?

* Use the same command words for the desired behavior every time! You may may believe your dog is an Einstein but even he believed in elegant simplicity.

* Stop your dog from jumping up by putting your open hand in front of its face every time or use your knee if a bigger dog. Then say "sit" and physically sit it down if it does not obey.

* And, of course tire out your dog with exercise. She will reward you with better behavior.

A simple and consistent approach can prevent future problems. It's not rocket science but you do need to know what you're doing. Options are joining dog training classes, getting a dog trainer to come to you, or read dog training books if you don't already know how to train your dog. And, let's face it, you would not be reading these tips if you're confident that you do.

Yes, some dogs drive you crazy but never forget that the reverse can be true too. Among the best of dog training tips is always the advice that dog training is not just for the dog!

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During long, cold winters, dogs and their owners may need a little more exercise. This article shows you some fun ways you can play with your dog indoors.

Some of you may have been told never to play tug of war with a dog. The fear is that it might make a dog aggressive or aggravate any possessive tendencies. Other trainers feel that there is nothing wrong with the game, as long as you follow certain rules: 1)The toy you choose must be long enough to avoid accidental injury. A thick rope with knots in the middle is good.

2)The game should be played only with the tug toy. Teach your dog a command such as "drop it" or "leave it" before you start playing. (It's a good idea to do this even if you never intend to play tug. That way if he wants to play with your shoe, you can simply ask him to drop it.) Never try to pull anything away from the dog, use your command instead.

3)You must be in control of the game. You decide when to play. Keep the toy out of sight in between games. You should win at least most of the time. When you decide you've had enough, simply say "that's enough" and ask the dog to "drop it." Always stop immediately if the dog gets too excited or puts his mouth on your hand.

Another game you can play is hide and seek. There are two ways to play this game; either you can hide and encourage your dog to find you, or you can hide toys or treats around the house and ask the dog to find them.

If you are to be the target, simply have the dog stay while you go into another room. At first don't go far, and hide in an easy spot. Then call the dog with "Come find me!" or something like that.

Continue to call as long as you need to. Reward the dog for finding you with treats, excited praise, belly rubs ' anything he loves. Once your dog gets the idea, you can hide in more difficult spots, and call less often.

To use treats or toys as the objects to find, start by hiding a treat under or behind something while your dog watches, then exclaim, "Find it!" in an excited voice. Once he gets the rules of the game, have the dog stay in one room while you hide treats in another.

If your dog likes to use his nose, try hiding the treats inside shoes, under rugs, between couch cushions and places like that. For other dogs you may want to put most of the treats in plain view.

Break up large treats so that you are not giving him too many. Toys can be used if your dog has a strong prey drive, or if the he is overweight.

You can also try some brain teasers with your dog. For one, find three boxes of the same size. Have the dog sit and stay, facing the boxes. Place a treat inside or underneath an overturned box.

Release the dog and allow him to find the box the treat is in. Eventually you can begin hiding the treat with the dog facing away from the boxes.

Here's another puzzle the dog can work on. Place a morsel of food on a flat plate. Cover the plate with a towel or inverted foil pie tin. If using the tin, make a small lip in it so the dog can smell the food. If the dog is good at working things out, he should soon at least try to get the towel or pie tin off of the plate to get to the food.

You can increase the difficulty by placing the plate under a chair or other obstacle. Give him a way to get it out, such as placing it on a towel or attaching a rope to the plate. Don't let the dog get too frustrated with these games ' if he's not quite up to it, help him along and let him have the treat anyway.

There are toys that you can buy that will keep the dog busy on his own. A number of toys are now made to dispense treats. These are balls or cubes in which you place small treats. When the toy is overturned, the treats come out. You can even feed the dog this way, placing his daily ration in the treat toy.

Also on the market are some puzzle toys such as the Iqube and Puzzle Pup by Kyjen. These are similar to those made for toddlers. Instead of putting rings on a stick, or shapes in a box, the dog takes the toys out of a container. Most of these are plush toys, and might not be suitable for some aggressive chewers.

These are just a few suggestions, use your imagination and your dog's abilities to come up with even more games you can play indoors.

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With their willingness to learn and their eagerness to please, their temperaments make them ideal pets for children and adults. Their lack of aggression makes them well suited to life on the farm or in apartments where small, quiet animals are more welcome than larger animals. It will also develop a loyalty to their owner, other members of its immediate human family and other pets in the household. The nature of the breed is to make friends with their owner as well as other humans and animals living in the same environment.

Finding the perfect pet for a family with small children can be a daunting task, with many small breeds that may be good with kids, the Beagle is about the most well rounded breed for children. Its even temper and eagerness to please their owners, makes the Beagle an ideal animal for indoor company.

Its use as a hunting dog dates back to the 18th century but its aggression with people it recognizes is rare. Strangers entering the home may be greeted by barking or jumping, making it a good watchdog, but typically a simple word from the owner will settle the animal down and quiet the barking. It may still want to sniff the stranger, but that is its way of forming recognition so they will be welcome on subsequent visits. This action should not be confused with aggression, as it will rarely attempt to harm a person.

Often confused with toy dogs, the breed ranges between 13 and 16-inches tall, standing well above the 12-inch standard for many breeds of toys. With a life span of about 14 years, Beagles have few inherited predisposition for illness or other medical problems although they do sometimes suffer from bone degeneration in the joints, steroid injections can usually help them deal adequately with the associated pain. One problem inherited by Beagles is hypothyroidism, giving them the penchant for excessive weight gain. They may also suffer from dwarfism, but this is a rare occurrence.

A beagle’s diet is important, especially for the ones confined to a small space. Animals that are kept indoors and allowed outdoors only to use the bathroom have more of a chance of becoming overweight than those with room to run. They may prefer the opportunity to run wild in a large yard or field, possibly tracing back to their glory days as hunters. Beagles are equally happy in the home romping and playing with children or other small animals.

Their lack of aggression and small stature make them ideal playmates for other small animals and they seem to get along well with felines with similar personalities.

With the beagle hot on the trail, hunters on horseback could hang back and leisurely follow the sounds of the hunting beagles as they chased the rabbits into dense thickets and brush. Eventually, the dog would emerge carrying its quarry making it desired for hunters who enjoyed the art of hunt more than the taking of the game. As hunters began to shift their focus onto faster hunts, the beagles’ use waned in place of faster hunting dogs.

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If a person is considering buying a new dog they should consider what type of dog they are buying carefully. There is nothing worse than having an adorable puppy grow into a dog that is inappropriate for the family, especially when a little research would have let them know that before they bought it. Havanese dogs are a great small dog breed for any person seeking a new pet. In fact, Havanese are a great all around type of dog, no matter the size they are compared to. They have a good temperament, are hypoallergenic, and are a very healthy breed. When buying dogs like the Havanese (or any other breed really) a person should make sure that the breed is right for him or her and the person’s family. Adopting or buying dog is a long commitment that should not be taken lightly. Remember, when a person is getting a dog, they are getting a new family member. If a person is thinking about getting a new dog for his or her family, that person may wish to consider the small dog breed called the Havanese dog. This is a dog that originates from breeding in Cuba, and has been made somewhat more famous due to celebrities such as Barbara Walters owning them. This is a very varied type of dog. Havanese dogs may come in many different fur types and colors. In fact, very few colors and fur types and combinations will exclude them from being shown.

The Havanese dog breed is considered a very intelligent and a highly-trainable one. Dog lovers will find many reasons to buy this particular breed. First of all, this dog does not shed so it is considered hypoallergenic, which is great for anyone who is allergic to dogs. Second of all, Havanese dogs have a great temperament and even enjoys playing with children. Third of all, Havanese dogs are considered to be very healthy and most are healthier than the average small breed dog according to reliable Havanese information.

Havanese dogs are considered (like Bichons and poodles) to be a shed-free dog. This means that they shed very little, although they must be brushed. This type of dog is considered to be hypoallergenic because although they have dander, they do not shed it off easily. This adds one bit of work for a pet owner, because that means they must be brushed frequently to avoid damage to their skin and fur.

The temperament of Havanese dogs is another great reason to have this type of dog. Unlike most small dogs, Havanese dogs do not get nervous around people and children. Most children (even fairly young ones) are able to play with this dog easily.

A huge concern among pet owners, particularly among purebred dog owners, is the general health of the dog and the dog breed. Unlike many dog breeds, particularly smaller dog breeds, the Havanese is relatively hardy. The breed overall, is a very healthy one.

Choosing a dog for one's family can be a very difficult choice. There are many factors a person should consider, many of which they do not even think about until they adopted a dog they are not ready for. One type of dog that is generally a safe choice for most families is the Havanese dog breed. Havanese Dogs are a beautiful small dog breed that fit well into most households and bring joy along with them.

Havanese Dogs fit in with most families so well because of the fact that they do not shed, which makes them hypoallergenic, they are a very good temperament, and even get along with small children. They are a very healthy breed, especially compared to other small dog breeds. In addition to these factors, Havanese Dogs are very trainable smart dogs. Overall, they will fit into almost every household and are an excellent breed of dog.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1457.shtml

Yes. Some work better than others. Some control the barking through corrections, these are bark control collars.

Other dog bark collars actually modify the dog’s behavior and teach the dog not to bark.These behavior modification collars are preferred, as the goal for all dog owners is to teach their dog not to bark and to be able to remove the dog no bark collar.

Some no bark collars are rechargeable, some are waterproof, and many others. Most of the quality no bark collars offered today are offered by either Innotek or PetSafe. The Innotek no bark collars are advanced correction and behavior modification collars. The PetSafe no bark collars are correction only.

Besides no bark collars, some companies still offer bark collars which use ultrasound to control the dogs barking. Collars or devices which emit ultrasound are not specific.

Although the ultrasound will be heard by the barking dog, so will it be heard by all other pets in the home, which were not barking! Ultrasound collars are still available, but many retailers are fazing them out because the no bark collars are much more effective. For many retailers the ultrasonic collars, because of their relative poor success rate have resulted in a high return rate. So the retailers are no longer offering ultrasonic collars.

There are also citronella collars available. This does sound strange, but they are available. Basically a reservoir filled with citronella is placed on the front of the collar. When the dog barks a citronella spray is projected through a tube toward the dogs nose and face. The harsh chemical serves as a correction when a dog barks. These collars can break, are not small for little dogs, and require repeated refills of citronella.

Do they work, probably not. But even if they did work, it is a complicated system spraying a noxious chemical which some say does not hurt a dog. If you can believe that and can bring yourself to spray citronella into your face, then consider using it for your dog.

How It Works

The no bark collar is a training device that helps reduce nuisance barking. There are two key features of the no bark collar.

The first is a mild warning sensation triggered by your dog’s first bark. The second feature occurs when your dog barks again within 30 seconds of the first bark. This will be the first and lowest level of correction. There are a total of 6 levels of correction that are triggered by your dog’s successive barks.

Each successive bark will increase the correction level if the bark is within 30 seconds of the previous bark. If your dog does not bark for at least 30 seconds the receiver resets itself. Along with each correction there will be an audible beep.

As a built-in safety feature, when your dog barks 15 times or more in a 50 second period the collar will automatically shut off for a period of 3 minutes.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1458.shtml

Twenty years ago, when a western reining trainer admitted that he took dressage lessons to improve his horse’s reining, his fellow cowboys thought he had lost his mind. Some 20 years later finds several hunt seat instructors actively using aspects of dressage in their training.

Christy, a hunt seat equitation instructor, commented that if you look at the old hunt seat equitation videos and photos of students instructed by George Morris and others, the horses are in a training level dressage frame.

Celine, a hunt seat/balanced seat instructor, noted that dressage is the basis of all riding. “Classical dressage has its roots in cavalry riding in war; whereas hunt seat has its origins in long cross country rides across fields on a hunt. Hunt seat was adapted for the show ring,” she said. She noted that combining the elements of hunt seat and dressage brings balanced seat.

Christy uses the rider-based training that she received from her dressage instructor for her hunt seat students.

"At their first lesson, I put them right on the longe line and take away stirrups and reins immediately," she described. "I spend a lot of time helping them build independent hand, seat and leg in exercises on the longe line before I have them ride on the rail."

Christy has found that by doing so, the riders have feel and balance more quickly. "Beginner issues like steering just seem to fall right into place even though they've spent their first several lessons on the longe line."

Celine also likes to apply dressage concepts early on in hunt seat education. “I start right away with rhythm and balance, teaching the student how to sit with balance. Then I address how the horse moves and how to find the horse’s natural rhythm. When you apply the concepts of dressage early on, students have greater ‘feel’ for their horses.”

She noted that in everyday hunt seat, she sees horses just going around the ring in the gaits, walk, then trot, and then canter. "The riders barely understand how to circle correctly. In many cases, you see trainers just focusing on jumping. Flatwork just becomes a term meaning getting the horse warmed up enough to jump," she said. “When I go to some of the large local hunt shows, I’m amazed that riders aren’t balancing their horses, or even riding them correctly through a turn.” She described watching strung out ponies in a hunter class. “They got over their courses by the grace of God.”

“I was aghast by the strung out, unbalanced approaches to jumps and the rushing and diving over each fence,” she said. She finds that dressage helps her riders gain a balanced and rhythmic approach to fences.

She described one hunt seat student she had recently met who had no concept of getting the horse to work back to front or flexion though she had her own horse and was taking lessons with her instructor for five years.

“When she sat in on other lessons her friends were having with other instructors, she felt she was missing out on a world of education with her horse. She said her lessons just revolved around her instructor who called out ‘heals down,’ ‘shoulders back,’ ‘posting trot,’ etc.”

Celine uses dressage to focus on the points of the ring by keeping the horse correctly between and in front of the rider’s leg. “How do you get your horse from point A to point B, not A to D?” she explained.

“When you focus on riding every stride, as in dressage, your hunter or equitation horse will always know what you want,” she explained. “You can circle, go straight, change gait, jump and make it look so easy, balanced and fluid. Riding hunt seat this way gives the horse the correct muscle development, impulsion and work ethic."

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1459.shtml

It is not uncommon that trends in veterinary medicine to mirror trends in human medicine. To that end, it's not surprising that alternative medicine is being used more frequently on sick and injured horses. Instead of prescribing the latest wonder drug, some veterinarians are instead prescribing a little hands-on healing in the hopes that less invasive techniques will bring about a return to health. In this article, we'll examine two alternative healing practices that are becoming very popular in the horse world: chiropractic and massage.

CHIROPRACTIC

Equine chiropractors traditionally deal with "subluxations" of the vertebrae. Defined, subluxations are incomplete or partial dislocations of the vertebrae; in other words, vertebrae that are out of alignment. These misalignments can not only cause the horse pain in his back, but can also cause soft tissue damage around the area of the spine. And since the spine is said to be the conduit to the central nervous system, subluxations may possibly change neurological function of the spinal cord, the spinal nerve roots, and portions of the nervous system. The equine chiropractor adjusts these subluxations—in plain speaking he put the spine back into alignment—and returns the horse to optimal health.

What conditions does chiropractic treat?

Chiropractic is used to treat back and neck pain in the horse, as well as nerve damage. It can also be used to diagnose and come up with a treatment plan for certain lamenesses. Some people even use chiropractic during prepurchase exams to determine whether the horse has any neck or back injuries.

How is chiropractic administered, and how much does it cost?

Like a vet exam, the chiropractic exam begins with a case history. Posture analysis, gait analysis, static palpation, motion palpation, orthopedic exam, and a neurological exam follow. Based upon his or her findings, the vertebra is then manipulated during the adjustment by the practitioner.

How much does a chiropractic treatment cost?

A chiropractic exam and adjustment cost approximately $50-75, depending upon the extent of the problem and the length of the session.

Are there any risks?

Some believe that in the wrong hands, chiropractic can cause back and neck pain, lameness problems, and spinal cord injury. The equine chiropractor must have strong knowledge of equine vertebral anatomy, including vertebral joint relationships, the relationship of neural components, muscle attachments and nerve supply, and normal and abnormal range of motion.

MASSAGE

During a massage, the soft tissues of the body are worked by experienced hands and fingers. As any human who has been the recipient of one knows, massage stimulates acupuncture points and relieves tension. Myofascial release therapy, in which the fascia that connect and surround the muscles are manipulated, and myotherapy, a method of relaxing muscle spasm, improving circulation, and alleviating pain, are two of the most common types of equine massage therapy.

What conditions does massage treat?

Massage can really help sore muscles and tendons. It is frequently used to repair damaged muscle fiber, such as contracted tendons, ligament and muscle strains, chronic inflammatory conditions, peripheral nerve injuries, scar tissue, and chronic edema.

How is massage administered?

The soft tissues of the body are worked by the hands and fingers. The strokes are generally performed in the direction in which blood flows, which is toward the heart.

How much does equine massage cost?

A massage costs between $25 and $75, depending upon its duration.

What are the risks?

If your horse has acute inflammatory processes of the skin, soft tissue, bone and joints, fractures, sprains, circulatory disorders, presence or danger of hemorrhage, lyphangitis, and tumors, then massage should be avoided.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1460.shtml

Some human foods that should not be consumed by dogs include:

Intoxicating Beverages, Such as Beer, Wine, Spirits:

Consumption of these beverages may lead to coma or possibly death. Symptoms of alcoholic beverage overdose may include, excitement, depression, sadness, stumbling, cardiac arrest, and death.

Chocolate, Tea, Coffee, Coffee Beans:

Their content of caffeine, theophylline, or theobromine affects the nervous system and the heart. Chocolate overdose symptoms may include, excessive panting, hyperactivity, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, and death.

Grapes, Raisins:

Kidney failure may be caused by an unknown toxin which is present in grapes in raisins. Syptoms of poisening from grapes or raisins may include abdominal pain, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, and a halt in the production of urine. Ingestion by your pet may be fatal and even cause death.

Macadamia Nuts:

An unknown toxin present in macadamia nuts may experience undesired affects of the nervous and digestive systems. They may also have negative affects on muscles. Symptoms may include muscle tremors, stiffness, weakness, sadness, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and lethargy.

Garlic, Onions:

Onions and Garlic contain contain substances which damage red blood cells. Symptoms include, anemia, lethargy, weakness, discolored urine, diarrhea, and vomiting. Processed, fresh, cooked, and powdered forms should be avoided.

Mushrooms:

Different mushrooms contain different toxins which affect several body systems. Symptoms may include, abdominal pain, shock, kidney failure, liver failure, hallucinations, diarrhea, vomiting, coma, and even death.

Prevention is the key, keeping these foods away from your pet to avoid possible toxic poisoning and overdose. If your dog is suspected of eating any of these foods get them to a veterinarian immediately.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1461.shtml

We’re all guilty of it – giving in to those big begging eyes pleading at us for a scrap from the table during dinner. Fido knows just how to get you to concede, and most of us justify that a little won’t hurt, or we don’t even think of the potential danger at all. But the truth is that human food can be harmful to your pet, and in some cases, can be fatal. It’s important to know how certain foods can be unsafe so that you can avoid them for the sake of your animal.

Here is how a few of some of the most common “human foods” become harmful for pets:

Chocolate and other foods containing caffeine

Caffeine is one of the greatest culprits because it contains an alkaloid called theobromine. Theobromine acts as a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic, which in turn can cause a heart attack or other heart and nervous system problems in animals.

Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are potentially harmful due to the fact that both contain thiosulphate, which can damage red blood cells and cause anemia in cats and dogs. Of the two, onions are the most toxic, as consumption of simply one serving by your pet could result in anemia.

Milk

Milk can harm your pet due to the fact that many dogs and cats tend to be lactose intolerant. The consumption of milk and milk products by a lactose intolerant pet creates a breeding ground for bacteria, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Bones

Bones, although commonly known as a great treat for your dog, are potentially very dangerous for pets. Once eaten, bones can splinter and get stuck in the intestines, causing damage or fatality. In most splinter cases, the bones must be removed surgically.

Other Foods

Other human foods to avoid when feeding your pet are: macadamia nuts, potato peelings and green-looking potatoes, rhubarb leaves, moldy/spoiled foods, alcohol, yeast dough, tomato leaves and stems, broccoli, and raisins or grapes.

Some human foods potentially cause only mild digestive upsets, while others can be fatal. Regardless of the level of danger, the best choice for your pet is to keep him from any potentially harmful foods in order to ensure his health and safety.

During the holiday season, veterinary clinics have noticed a rising in the number of pets that they treat for food-related illnesses. The increase in pet illness is due to the fact that animals are partaking in human foods during mealtime. Although not well known by the public, the consumption of human food to pets is potentially harmful to animals, and in some instances, can be fatal.

The rise in food-related illnesses by pets is a clear indication that the dangers of human food consumption by animals are not understood by the masses.

So, the next time your pet looks up at you with those pleading eyes, show him you care by doing what is truly best for him and feeding him only products meant for pet consumption. In the end, both you and your pet will be glad that you did.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1462.shtml

Definitely you have already heard of Puggles! Maybe for once you consider bringing home one for a pet, but still in doubt whether this breed is ideal for you and your family.

Doubt no more because Puggles, classified as lap dogs, have playful temperament. They are usually referred to as designer dogs. Meaning they are hybrid dogs, a crossbreed between a pug and a beagle. These dogs possess the mild manner quality of a pug mixed with more energetic quality of a beagle. They love to play and are affectionate and get along well with children. So more likely you will never have to worry about your children’s safety every time they are near your dog. You do not have to worry that your dog might growl or even grab your child’s finger or legs.

Another one reason why you should bring home a Puggle is that they are low maintenance dogs. You don’t need to trouble yourself with grooming as what other breed of dogs need. Bathing, nail clipping, tooth brushing and ear cleaning can be done occasionally, not everyday.

Whether you’re living in a house with a wide yard or just in one of the apartments somewhere in the city, having a Puggle as a pet is not a problem to worry. They will surely enjoy doing their daily exercise taking a walk around your yard or running from room to room in your apartment as they need a bit more exercise compared to some traditional apartment dogs.

Playful animals as they are, they enjoy playing fetch, chewing on bones and other stuff. They will even play hide-and-seek and race around with you.

And just like other dog breeds, Puggles has the capacity to learn what you are teaching them. Housetraining them is not difficult provided you are patient, consistent and is well-informed on the proper methods needed to housetrain a dog. But make sure to be gentle with the training because they are sensitive to the tone of your voice. It is always important not to yell and punish them physically even if mistake has been done.

I think the above stated characteristics are enough for you to go and get your own Puggle dog. Let go of the qualms and let your self experience how it feels to own an exceptional nice pet. These sociable, intelligent and affectionate lap dogs will surely make great pets. Not just mere pets, but friends and lifetime companions.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1463.shtml

When we say Chihuahua rescue, the first thing that comes into our minds is a pitiful dog abandoned because of sickness, behavior problem or old age. But that is not the truth. Dogs in a rescue are not necessarily problem dogs. Some of them were abandoned because of their owner's incapability to provide proper care, either they can not afford to procure the dog's needs or they find the breed unfit to their way of living.

Nevertheless, there are more reasons why a rescue Chihuahua can still be a good household pet. Most dogs in the rescue are older dogs and are already housebroken so you will never have to go through ardurous task of housebreaking. They will less likely commit accidents and the possibility of you cleaning their dirt and urine stain is minimal.

When they are turned over to the rescue, the rescue staff gathers as much information as possible from the previous owner. This information includes the temperament, whether its good with children or other dogs and animals, how much it barks and other important information. Most of them are already vaccinated so you will never have to worry about the vaccination procedure and the possible side effects of it to the dog.

Some people think that rescue dogs are turned over to ther rescue because they are sick or are already very old and dying. Another wrong connotation I must say! Why? Dogs in the rescue are older but not very old. They usually range from one to three years of age.

The rescue don't just give out Chihuahuas just like giving out of freebies or food samples in the grocery stores. Before anyone can get a rescue, they make sure you can provide proper care for the Chihuahua. Dogs at a rescue may sometimes need medical services, so they will make sure that you are aware of that and you are willing to provide care the best way you can.

While it is true that the rescue shelter requires adoption fee, it is not true however that they are doing it for a profit. The fee is to cover up the expenses spent for the dog while in the shelter. Whether it's spent for the basic needs or the medical needs, the rescue shelter has the right to require adoption fee so that they can continue helping more abandoned dogs. They earn their money to take care of their animals through donations and adoption fees.

Getting a rescue dog will not only benefit you. Rescue shelters can accommodate limited number of dogs. By getting a dog from the rescue, you help the community by freeing one space for another dog that needs the care of the rescue shelter. Thus you help minimize the number of stray dogs in the community. You will also save the dog from possible death on the pound.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1464.shtml

The time has changed and the leaves have fallen off the trees. It is the time of year to get ready for winter. In a large part of the country snow will be on ground soon and the temperatures will get below freezing. Your dog and cat know it is winter. They get their winter coat and react to the shorter daylight the same as us. Some dog owners leave their pet out for exteneded periods of time thinking that animals are adapted to living outdoors. That is not the case with domesticated pets. They are used to living indoors just as much as we are. I would like to give you a few pointers for winter pet care.

1. A good idea for winter care for your pet would be to take them to your veternarian before winter really sets in. Make sure your pet is in good health. Older dogs, like older humans, tend to get sick more easily in the winter. If your pet have arthritis or diabetes or heart problems make sure he gets a good check up.

2. If it is cold outside make sure you watch your dog and cat carefully. A good idea would be to stay outside with them. When you get cold then chances are your dog is cold too. That would be a good sign to take him back inside.

3. Watch for hazards in the winter. If you live near ponds or lakes keep your dog away from the ice. You never know what the thickness of the ice is. If your dog would happen to fall in he would have a hard time getting out. I would say if are near water stay outside with him. If you live near woods or a forest the snow can cover up hazards the dog can't see, like sticks or rocks or trash.

4. Keep an eye out for antifreeze. Dogs like the smell and will drink it if they find some. Antifree is extremely poisonous and will kill your dog. If you need to change your antifreeze make sure your clean up any spills. Dogs that don't have access to clean unfrozen water will drink whatever they can find. This includes gutter water which can contain antifreeze, oil, or other household hazardous waste.

5. If your dog needs to be kept outdoors for any length of time make sure they have a nice warm shelter. A nice sturdy doghouse would be a good idea. Make sure they have a nice warm dog bed and fresh unfrozen water. That is very important. Your dog can get dehydrated in the winter. Please check his water bowl before going off to work or shopping. If you put a wrapped hot water bottle in their shelter it will keep it cozy.

6.Rock salt and deicer can very hard on your dogs pads. When they come in the house make sure that you wipe off their pads with a warm cloth. This is important as they may try and lick their paws and they may become very ill.

7. Be particularly gentle with older or elderly dogs. Their arthritis can get worse in the winter. Stay close with them when they are going down stairs as they may slip and fall. They may be a bit more awkward and uneasy when they are outside. In the winter they may need help getting up on their favorite couch or chair. Make sure they have a nice cozy bed. A heated dog bed would be a great idea. You may have trouble getting them out of bed in the morning.

8.If you have a cat that goes outside be careful with starting your vehicle as cats like to curl up in warm engines. A good thing to do is bang on the hood of your vehicle so any cats hidden there will jump out. If a cat is on your engine and you start it, the cat will be injured or killed.

9.A good idea if you can get your dog to let you do this put a warm little sweater on them. Little paws booties will also help keep their little paws warm.

Take good care of your pet thiis winter and they will be there to keep you company for many winters to come.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1465.shtml

A puppy can grow to be your best friend and a dedicated companion. However, it is important to understand what you are getting into before going out and purchasing a dog from a breeder. I have worked with dogs for some time now and feel qualified to share a few pointers.

First, make sure you think things through carefully and over a long period of time. Adopting or purchasing a dog is not a decision that should be made lightly—it is important to understand that you are brining another creature into your household and to be aware of the needs of that animal. For example, early training is crucial to the long term happiness of both you and your pet. Obedience classes are a must, as are such points as house-breaking, establishing yourself as the ‘pack leader,’ teaching your dog how to greet guests and outsiders, etc. This all takes a substantial dedication of time and resources. A new dog in your household should be thought of in a similar way to having a child—while it may sound silly, the needs of the two are actually in the same ball park.

One very important factor is the breed you choose. There are currently one hundred and fifty seven dog breeds as recognized by the American Kennel Club and each breed has its own unique traits, strengths, needs, and of course, weaknesses and problems. There are a number of websites on the internet with extensive information on the various breeds, and it’s important that you spend as much time researching your options as possible—do not make the all too common mistake of going out and picking a puppy just because you think it looks cute.

Furthermore, as opposed to purchasing a dog from a breeder (which can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the breed and the pedigree), consider adopting a dog in need from a local rescue organization. A quick search online can help you find dogs in your area that are in need of loving homes. Sadly, many of these dogs never find the homes they need, simply because folks purchase bred dogs. It can be tricky to identify the mix of breeds in a dog you find at a shelter, but research, discussion, and naturally the help of the employees at the shelter can help give you an idea of what breed the dog is. Once you have this information you can research online or in a library to learn more about the specific characteristics of the breed.

If you do decide to adopt from a rescue, you have my thanks—you are doing a good deed and potentially saving a life—so pat yourself on the back. If, for some reason, you decide it would be better for you to purchase a dog from a breeder, it is very important that you research not only the dog you are interested in, but also the environment the animal is bred in. It is an unfortunate reality that many breeders you find have little interest in the animals and are far more concerned with earning money—these are the people you want to avoid. Look for someone who truly loves their dogs and cares for them dearly. This is the sort of breeder you want to give your business to—not only to encourage responsible breeding practices, but also because dogs that are bred in a loving environment are more likely to make successful, well behaved pets.

I hope these few tips help to give you an idea of the kind of commitment necessary for adopting or purchasing a puppy, and also the considerations you should make when selecting a breeder. Good luck, and make sure you do your research and make the right choice!

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1432.shtml

There’s a difference between disobedience and lack of understanding. If your dog isn’t obeying a command because he doesn’t understand what it is you want him to do, that’s not a behavioral problem at all; it doesn't mean that you have a disobedient dog; it just means that you need to spend some more time together in training.

True disobedience occurs when your dog deliberately does not obey a request or command, although he knows fully what it is that you’re asking him to do (and you know this because he’s done it reliably on several occasions beforehand).

Although this may seem like a relatively minor inconvenience, it’s actually a pretty serious thing – not only can it be dangerous for your dog (for example, if he’s heading towards a busy road and ignores your ‘come’ command), but it’s also bad for your relationship with your dog.

A dog's disobedience is rooted in disrespect. When your dog deliberately does not obey you, he’s saying, “I don’t respect your authority enough to do what you want me to do”.

If you allow him to get away with this, you are allowing him to form the habit of passive-aggression. This is not something that will just “fix itself” – the problem will worsen, not get better, if you leave it.

It’s very important that your dog knows that you outrank him in the social hierarchy of the household. The concept of alpha status is one that you need to be familiar with in order to maintain a healthy, functional relationship with your dog.

It may sound harsh from a human perspective, but your dog is happier when he knows that someone else is in charge of making all the decisions – including his day-to-day behavior and obedience levels.

It is not possible to have a good owner/dog relationship if he does not understand that you are the clear-cut authority figure: he must know that he’s beneath you in the chain of command.

Your first step in dealing with generalized disobedience is to reestablish your dominance. Here are some tips on doing so:

- When leaving the house and the car, you must always leave before your dog. This is clear alpha behavior: to a dog, only the alpha leaves first. If you allow him to exit the house or the car ahead of you, you are saying to him, “You’re stronger than me; you should go first because you’re the decision-maker”. Inside your home it isn't so important, but every time you leave the house or the car to go outside, you must make him wait for you to go first, until you release him from the ‘wait’ with a release-word.

- Make him wait for his food. Your family and you must always eat before him – if it means he has to wait an extra half hour or so for his meal, it won’t hurt him any. When you put his food down for him, make him sit and wait until you release him to eat. Keep his feeding schedule varied, so he’s always aware that you’re in charge of his food – don’t allow him to form expectations of when he should be fed.

- Don’t allow him free, uninhibited access to the whole house. The house is your den: you’re allowing him to be inside. Remind him that you’re allowing him into your den – it’s a privilege for him to be there, not a right - by sometimes allowing him inside, and sometimes sending him outside for half an hour or so. Keep certain areas of the house strictly for your own, as well (such as your bed, certain pieces of furniture, or some rooms).

- Never allow your dog to initiate play. If he’s nudging you for attention or to start a game, you may think that it’s cute and affectionate; but what he’s really saying is, “I’m the boss and I’m telling you to play with me right now.” If he starts bothering you for attention, ignore him for a few moments: get up and do something else. Wait until he’s given up before initiating the play yourself. Playtime is a fantastic way to bond with your dog, but it should be done on your terms, not his.

- When you arrive home, don’t rush straight over to him and shower him with affection. That is not alpha behavior at all – an alpha dog, upon arriving home, doesn’t go over to the other dogs and throw himself at them, saying, “Here I am! I missed you guys! Let’s have a cuddle!” – he ignores everyone else, relaxes for a short while, maybe has something to eat, and only interacts with them when he’s good and ready. Even though you’re probably good and ready to interact with your dog as soon as you get home, it will make more sense to him – and underscore your authority – if you ignore him for just three to five minutes upon arriving home.

Another fantastic way of counteracting disobedience is to start – and maintain – a basic obedience training plan. You don’t have to do anything fancy or super-demanding; just ten minutes a day of learning and enforcing commands. This can drop to five minutes a day once your dog is completely reliable with the commands.

Here are some tips for a good training program:

- Never give a command that you cannot reinforce immediately if he chooses not to obey you. Every time your dog takes the opportunity to ignore your command, he’s learning that it’s both easier and a lot more fun to ignore you. For example, if you call across the park for him to ‘come’ as he’s playing with some other dogs, the choices are clear-cut to him: he could cut his play-time short and come to you, or he could ignore you – which is easy, since you’re so far away – and continue to have fun. Until your dog is completely reliable with commands, he should be on a long line or retractable lead so that you can enforce them if necessary.

- Remember to use your voice to the best effect. Praise should be in a light, cheery, happy tone of voice; if possible, smile at the same time. It makes a difference to your tone of voice, and most dogs will study your face to make sense of your expressions, too. Corrections should be uttered in a stern, brook-no-nonsense tone: you don’t need to shout, but your voice should be low and authoritative.

- When you’re verbally interrupting your dog, it’s more effective to shout, “OI!” or “Ah-ah-ah!” rather than saying, “No”. The sounds are more clear-cut, and you’ll get a better response.

- Do not repeat a command. Remember, you should be training on a leash or a long line: if he ignores you, he gets a short, sharp tug (some call it a ‘flick’) on the lead to remind him that you’re present, and you’re in charge. Repeating yourself teaches him that he can wait for the command to be repeated at least once before he obeys you.

- Five to fifteen minutes per day is sufficient time for training. Any more than this in one sitting, and your dog’s concentration will likely lapse: fifteen minutes of intense training, where your dog is concentrating hard on what you want, is enough to send even the most energetic dogs to their beds for a snooze afterwards.

- You can move on to more advanced training and ‘tricks’ if you feel like it, once your dog’s completely absorbed the basics; but it’s not something that you should feel like you have to do.

- Another great option is formal obedience training classes. They’re a great way of socializing your dog (he gets to interact with other dogs, and those dogs’ owners), and also teaches him to concentrate on what you want despite the many distractions taking place around him. It’s also very helpful to have face-to-face contact with a trained professional: they can pick up on any mistakes you might be making, and give you advice for tightening up your training techniques.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1433.shtml

Among other breeds of dog, Shih Tzus and Pugs are more likely to obtain keratoconjunctivitis. Keratoconjunctivitis is a Latin word which literally means dryness of the cornea and conjunctiva. It is commonly known as dry eye.

This disease is the result of abnormal production of tears. Tears are essential because it cleanse and lubricate the cornea, carry the nutrients and also help in healing and control of the infection.

KCS is thought to be caused by some viral infections like canine distemper as well as immune mediated diseases. Other reasons of this disease are hyperthyroidism and the use of sulfa-containing drugs. Sulfa-containing drugs cause dry eyes by producing a toxic effect and the absence of this drug may improve dry eye.

Dry eye in dogs is characterized with dull and dry winking eyes. He may also experience recurrent eye infections and/or corneal ulcers. Thick, green discharge is usually seen sticking to the hair around the eye. This is usually diagnosed in one eye first and later develops in the other eye within several months. A dog with KCS tends to squint and rub his eyes and is sensitive to light. If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it is best to see your veterinarian immediately for eye examination.

Dry eye is diagnosed based on the symptoms mentioned earlier. Also with a Schirmer tear test (STT) that measures the production of the tear production in the eye. A dog’s normal STT values are 15 to 25 mm/minute. Dog breed that is susceptible to conjunctivitis, even without clinical signs of dry eye should undergo STT.

Treatment of KCS usually aims to restore the moisture of the eye by lubricating the eye, tear replacement, stimulating tear production, reducing bacteria overgrowth and reducing inflammation. Substitutes like polyvinyl alcohol, methylcellulose and hyaluronic acid are traditionally used to replace the lost tears. However, these solutions do not have a primary effect on the inflammation process and in the production of tears.

Recently veterinarians prescribe Cyclosporine, diluted in water and applied to the surface of the eye in order to stimulate tear production. Cyclosporine shows no undesirable effects even if used in long term basis. The use of cyclosporine may retain a dog’s vision for years but that doesn’t work for all patients with KCS. These treatments do not cure KCS, but are just ways to deal with this painful condition. In worst cases, dry eye can also be treated through surgery.

Dry eye seems to be a simple disease but if left untreated, might damage your dog’s vision or may even result to complete blindness.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1434.shtml

The holiday season is upon us, and we begin the sometimes maddening task of finding gifts for our friends and loved ones. Perhaps this article can be of assistance - at least if you have bird lovers on your gift list. Let us examine a few popular birding items, including wild bird feeders and birdhouses, and explore why they make great holiday gifts.

Bird Feeders

The cold weather can make finding food a difficult chore for birds, so almost any well-made bird feeder will be a welcome addition to your backyard, as far as the birds are concerned. Platform bird feeders, which feature a large seed tray, will attract many ground-feeding birds. A tube-style bird feeder brings in smaller songbirds. Suet feeders provide much needed protein for wild birds. If the bird watcher you are buying for lacks one of these types of feeders, they will appreciate the new variety of birds that it will bring.

Another good idea is to find out if your bird watcher has a favorite type of bird, and purchase a feeder that is more likely to attract that species. For example, there are bird feeders that hold a block of suet, or beef fat, and are paddle-shaped. These are specially designed woodpecker feeders. The paddle extension at the bottom of the feeder gives woodpeckers a support for their tail, which is how they keep their balance. If you could combine the thrill of bird watching with the warmth and comfort of one's own home, you would have a gift any fan of the birds would love. That must be why some clever person invented the window bird feeder. Some window feeders attach to glass by way of strong suction cups. Others are mountable in the window, providing a panoramic view of the feeding area.

Birdhouses

It does not make sense to give someone a birdhouse over the holidays, because birds nest in the spring, right? That is not necessarily true. For instance, purple martins begin arriving back in the southern parts of the U.S. as early as January! Some other migratory birds do the same. Even in places where birds are not due to nest until later, it is not a bad idea to have the birdhouse in place early, as long as the birdhouse landlord is diligent in excluding some of the non-native pest species, like house sparrows and starlings. It is impossible to predict the exact day when birds will be scouting a particular area for nesting possibilities. Having the birdhouse in place before they arrive will send a clear signal to the house-hunting birds.

Birding Paraphernalia

Of course, gift ideas for bird lovers are not limited to birdhouses and bird feeders. Many accessories or bird-related gifts will be greatly appreciated. Following are eight examples:

1) Heated birdbath - If your special bird watcher already has a birdbath, consider giving them a heater to add to it. Frozen water does birds no good. Some birdbath heaters are submersible, and some float harmlessly on the surface.

2) Binoculars - A good pair of binoculars is an essential tool for bird watchers. These days, it is possible to find a very good pair of birding binoculars for a low price. Backyard birders do not need a very high magnification, which is the factor that can drive the price higher.

3) Bird food - This one seems obvious. Birds do not frequent empty feeders. Make sure you know which type of food your bird lover prefers, whether it is a seed mixture, seeds and fruit, suet, or even insects and mealworms.

4) Bird guide book - There are books filled with tips for attracting various birds, or books that help with the identification of birds.

5) CD's and DVD's - Teaches bird watchers all manner of facts about birds, and allows them to see or hear their favorite flying critters anytime, without even leaving the house.

6) Sun hat - Even in winter, it is possible to get too much sun if one is out all day looking for birds. A good sun hat is a gift that will be cherished year-round.

7) Tickets to a birding event - Though a bit pricier, serious birders will love you for a gift like this. Many tours and events are scheduled throughout the year, giving bird watchers the opportunity to learn and share with like-minded individuals.

8) Birding kitsch and miscellany - This includes T-shirts, baseball caps, neckties, mousepads, coffee cups, ties, yard banners, framed pictures, and much more. Items like these, though you may not remember seeing any on your last trip to the mall, are very easy to find if you have an internet connection and the ability to type "bird related gifts" into a search box.

During the stressful holiday season, take solace in the fact that bird watchers are easy to shop for. Any gift that enhances their enjoyment of the birds or that celebrates their love of birds will surely put smiles on their faces. In fact, if you are not already hooked by the fascinating pastime of backyard birding, maybe you should buy yourself a bird feeder, too. There really is no better time to get started. Happy birding!



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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1435.shtml

“My dog is doing this on purpose!” is a complaint dog trainers often hear. House soiling is a common, frustrating dog behavior problem. However, it is important to understand that dogs do not eliminate indoors out of “spite,” “anger,” or otherwise “on purpose.”

Consider that dogs will urinate to mark territory and investigate animal waste. They clearly do not find the odor offensive the way we do! Owners often misinterpret the dog to be showing “guilty” body language when in actuality the dog is simply reacting with fearful body language towards the owner’s anger.

There are many reasons dog owners may have difficulty house training their dogs and puppies. Many of them are listed below.

Medical Conditions:

Various medical conditions may make house training difficult, if not impossible. It is important to work with your veterinarian to make sure your dog is healthy before assuming that the dog’s accidents are due to a behavior problem.

Insufficient Supervision:

Insufficient or inadequate supervision can result in behavior problems. Dogs that are not completely house trained need to be in the owner’s line of sight at all times when not crated or confined to a dog-proofed location.

Inadequate Clean Up:

Inadequate clean up is another culprit. Dogs will continue to soil areas that have been previously soiled. You need to clean the soiled area thoroughly with a product specifically made for pet urine. Since pet urine glows under a black light, it can be helpful to purchase one. A black light can be purchased at many pet stores in order to ensure that no accidents are missed during clean up.

Unrealistic Expectations:

Don’t harbor unrealistic expectations. Young puppies need to be let out frequently. Some toy breed dogs may take longer to house train than other breeds. Adult or adolescent dogs adopted from shelters may have never been house trained and need to be treated as though they were young puppies in terms of supervision and crating.

Previous Bad Experiences:

A “bad start” can create long-lasting challenges. Dogs and puppies that were caged in situations where there was inadequate clean up may lose their tendency not to soil in a crate. These dogs can be particularly challenging to house train.

Anxiety or Fear:

Anxiety or fear related behavior problems also contribute to house-training accidents. Dogs that are extremely stressed may lose control of their bowels or bladder. Some dogs will urinate when they are extremely excited. A qualified dog behavior consultant can be helpful in addressing these more serious issues.

Solving a house training problem may involve revisiting basic puppy house training techniques or it may require in depth behavior changes and sometimes even medical intervention. Neutering may reduce marking behavior in some intact male dogs.

Under no circumstance should you yell at or punish your dog for house soiling. The only thing your dog will learn is to be afraid of you. Make sure you reward your dog with praise and a treat when your dog eliminates in a location that is acceptable to you. And most of all, be patient and do not hesitate to hire a professional dog trainer quickly. Dog training and behavior problems take longer to change if they are allowed to continue for a long period of time.


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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1436.shtml

Some Labrador dogs are unfortunate enough to have been born with a disease. Surely you do not want to acquire disease even before you were born, am I right? But then, things happen whether we want it or not. We inherit things we sometimes don’t want to have, things such as horrid characteristics and diseases.

Dogs, same with human will less likely choose to inherit diseases if only they have the opportunity and power to do it. But sad to say, these diseases are passed on from generations to generations and there’s no way we can escape it when it’s already running through the veins of our ancestors.

As dog owners, it is your responsibility to know what these diseases are so that you could prevent it from coming before actually affecting your dog.

A dog may suffer from what it seems to be a mild deafness to eye problem and may get as worst as dysplasia, luxating patella and hereditary myopathy.

Dysplasia is a condition that involves abnormal development of the joint commonly affecting dogs. It is either an elbow or a joint dysplasia. This disease is possible caused by genetics, trauma, nutrition and other environmental factors, and is commonly found in large breed of dogs such as German Shepherds, Labrador dogs and Rottweilers. A dog with hip dysplasia may suffer from stiffness or soreness, reluctance to exercise and to stand on rear legs, lameness, pain and other abnormal gait. Elbow and hip dysplasia is diagnosed through x-rays, arthroscopy and hip scoring test. It is important that you control the body weight of your dog and to exercise him regularly to lessen the lameness and to help him improve his gait.

On the other hand, luxating patella is a condition wherein the patella or the kneecap moves out of its proper location. This too can be diagnosed through x-rays aside from palpitation of the knee. Dogs with luxating patella may exhibit limping in the rear leg. This disease may be treated surgically depending on the severity of the condition.

Another disease that could affect dogs is myopathy. A neuromuscular disease in which the muscle fibers do not function thus results to muscular weakness. This is primarily a muscle disease meaning the disease is within the muscle not the nerves. Condition such as muscle cramps, stiffness and spasm can also be associated with myopathy. Myopathy can be treated in various ways. It can be treated with the use of drugs, physical therapy, surgery and acupuncture.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1437.shtml

For any horse hobbyist and anyone who is a caregiver of horses, hoof crack can be a very serious problem if it is not handled properly.

What I have seen here in my country, the problem of hoof cracks have been decreased among trotters, because the training and racing circumstances are better for horses nowadays. The ground is better for horses to run and by that also better for hooves.

Universally looking this problem, people who have horses as a hobby, mostly as riding horses or pets, are facing hoof crack problems more often.

I think the reason for that is just the lack of information how to take care of horses in whole, and in what kind of ground horses can be exercised, and in what kind of ideal circumstances the horse should spend his time, in pasture, paddock and stable.

It is almost never possible to give the horse the ideal circumstances, and therefore it is important that the owner/caretaker of the horse helps him to manage. Some hints about that later in this article.

Common reasons for hoof crack happen when a horse is galloping or trotting on hard ground.

The hoof will get a very strong concussion when hitting the ground, much like a person who falls and hits his head. When the hoof is hitting the hard ground, there is a big possibility that the hoof will crack.

The hoof itself doesn't have a shock absorber, ok, the flexibility of sound hoof is some kind of that, but the ground should be the one for the hoof. So, soft/flexible ground is always better for the horse hoof in providing shock absorption and hard ground will not.

Weak walls of the hoof are one reason, because they can't manage the pressure and they cracks. Weak walls can be a reason of bad hoof material or thin wall.

Laminitis can cause hoof crack because of the changes in the hoof.

Very dry horn of the hoof is causing cracks because the hoof has lost its flexibility.

The list of reasons for cracked hooves is quite long: bad heels, improper shoeing, unbalanced hoof, sharp stones, these all can be reasons for hoof crack, so it is important that person who shoes the horse, knows what he is doing.

Also, if a horse has studs, and by accident steps on the coronary band making a hole to it, the hole can also start a hoof crack.

Weather conditions, climate, can cause hoof crack too: too dry conditions can dry the hoof too much and the hoof is losing its flexibility, and too wet can moist the hoof too much and the hoof will be too soft.

Heel cracks and cracks which are close to the heel, are the difficult ones, because there are not so much hoof wall to work with(to put a patch for example), and heel cracks are usually infected, so they need more work to get away the infection first, if there is a possibility to patch it.

A quarter crack mostly tells you that the horse, or the hoof, is overworked and the horse need some rest. One reason for quarter crack can be when the horse is tired, in a race for example, he can step in bad angle the hoof to the ground and by that getting the crack. The horse can't control his movements good enough anymore.

To read more about how to prevent and treat Hoof Crack, continue reading the article here: http://www.horsehoofandfootproblem.com/articles/hoofcrackarticle.html



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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1438.shtml

The Toy American Eskimo or "Eskies" dog breed is a companion dog. They are a charming and affectionate little dog with an intelligent expression.

There are two other types of American Eskimo dogs - standard and miniature. The only main difference between them is their size and weight.

Eskies have a snowy white double coat that can have biscuit or cream markings. Both the outer coat and undercoat are thick and soft. They have a very distinctive ruff, compact body; wedge shaped fairly small head with erect triangular shipped ears. Their eyes are oval shaped, dark brown with dark brown or black rims. Their tail is plumed and curled over their back.

The Toy American Eskimo is strong, swift and agile with a flowing gait. These dogs are also very loveable and high-spirited.


The American Eskimo is loving, playful, willing to please, alert, loyal, strong willed but easy to train with a quick wit and obedient.

Weight and Height

TOY
9 - 11 inches
6 - 10 pounds

MINIATURE
12 - 15 inches
10 - 20 pounds

STANDARD
15 - 19 inches
18 - 35 pounds

LIFE SPAN
15 years

These dogs are a good choice for a family. They get along well with children if given sufficient exposure and interaction early. They are also good with other pets. Eskies are considered a good breed for the first time owner if purchased from a good breeder.

They are wary of strangers until they get to know them then they are instant friends. They make excellent watchdogs - they will bark to announce a stranger.

Eskies do need to be socialized and are very trainable but need kindness and consistency. They seem to take longer to mature than other breeds. They can behave like a puppy until two years of age.

They need exercise so they do not gain weight. Toy Eskimo's just need a few laps around the house or outside but the rest need more and they love long walks.

They are a fairly healthy breed but are prone to :

hip dysplasia
progressive retional atrophy
eye and eye duct problems

They like cold weather better than warm.

Brush these dog daily when shedding, otherwise twice a week will do. They
are an average shedder. Only bath every 2 or 3 months because of dry skin problems. This is a very clean breed and grooms themselves.

The American Eskimo is part of the Spitz family of dogs. The German Spitz was brought to the U.S. and the American Eskimo was created. This breed was recognized by the AKC in 1995.


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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1439.shtml

Dachshunds are loved by everyone. Well, who wouldn't love these short-legged and elongated dog breed? They are so cute and everybody just loves to have them as pets. But before actually deciding to bring home your new Dachshund, you must carefully understand its characteristics and needs to evaluate if this breed is the right one for you.

Where do they come from? - According to modern history, Dachshund, bred to hunt badgers, originated from Europe with German, French and English hounds and terriers as ancestors. The name Dachshund literally means “badger dog”. They are also called Dackel and Teckel.

Size does matter – Dachshunds come in three sizes, full-grown, miniature and kaninchen. A full-grown dachshund weighs 16 to 28 pounds; a miniature usually weighs less than 11 pounds while the kaninchen weighs 7 to 9 pounds. Because they are low to the ground, they are capable of entering through tunnels.

Temperament – This dog breed is not suited to impatient people because they are known as strong headed dogs. They have loud bark, dislikes unfamiliar people and will usually growl or bark to show their dislike. They enjoy digging holes and chasing other animals such as birds, squirrels and lizards.

Friends for keeps – Despite being strong headed, these dogs are very much devoted and loyal to their owners. They make not only good watchdogs but also excellent companions. Actually, they do not enjoy being alone and will whine until company arrives.

Health Facts – Because of their long spinal column and short rib cage, they are prone to spinal problems especially intervertebral disk disease or IVDD. This disease may result to partial or full paralysis. Obese Dachshunds are more susceptible to this disease. To prevent injury, vets recommend stopping them from jumping and other activities that could add stress on their backs. They should also get regular exercise to prevent obesity and lessen the risk of IVDD. Other health problems include eye abnormalities, urinary tract stones and mammary gland cancers.

Grooming – Dachshunds come in three coat varieties, the smooth coated, long coat and wire-haired. However, this breed is low maintenance and only needs brushing to prevent tangles and mats from forming. Their ears must be kept dry at all times to prevent fungus, bacteria and mites.

It's time for you to ponder based on these facts. Is this breed really right for me? It's okay to ask that question. What's important is you will not make a wrong decision of getting a wrong breed of dog.

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http://www.articlecity.com/articles/pets_and_animals/article_1440.shtml