Showing posts with label Terrier. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Terrier. Show all posts

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Fact Sheet: CAIRN TERRIER

(Original title: The Playful and Inquisitive Dog: Cairn Terrier)

The Cairn is assumed as one of the subcategories of Scotland’s terriers along with the Westies (West Highland White) and the Scottish, The Westies and the Cairns are highly related. For one, Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western Scotland. The Westie can be considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the other two. These dogs originated from the short-haired Skyes.

Cairn is the smallest breed among the terrier group. The name Cairn was coined after the small stone piles that marked borders of Scottish farms and graves.  During the early times, this breed was used to guide small animals into these piles of stones. However, Cairns are strong and sturdy but are not heavy.  

This dog was already present during the 1500s even before it became popular in 1930, after the appearance of “Toto” in “The Wizard of Oz” as Dorothy’s companion dog. Presently, like the American pit bull terriers, Cairns are used as companion dogs. Among the variety’s talents are tracking, watching over the house, hunting, and performing tricks and sports regarding competitive obedience.    

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Cairns:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard) 

Coat: shaggy and coarse outer coat and short and soft furry undercoat

Colors: any color except white

Height: between 9.5 and 10 inches

Weight: between 13 and 14 pounds 

Temperament: like most terriers that were bred as hunters, these dogs are mischievous, alert, restless and high-spirited; also have a special connection with children age six and above 

Breeders should note the following health issues: 

 Atopy, a type of allergy 
 Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes 
 Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
 Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increased pressure within the eye
 Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap

Care and Exercise: 

Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats.
Hair around ears and eyes must be trimmed regularly.
Do not overfeed them as they gain weight easily.
Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on a leash.
They should be on a leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts. 

Origin/History:

As already noted, the Cairns were existent since around the 1500s. At around 1700s, the Isle of Skye and other highlands in Scotland were already producing lots of small terriers. Scottish breeds were separated into two: the Skye terriers and the Dandie Dinmont terriers. 

The Dandie Dinmonts were categorized as a separate breed. The Skyes included the Scotties, the Westies, and the Cairns.



In the year 1912, the Cairns receive their official name based on their excellent ability to hunt down vermin such as otters, foxes, and badgers that were hiding in Cairns.  However, it was in the year 1913 when they received the official recognition from the American Kennel Club. 

The Cairn terrier is one heck of an agile little dog that is very appropriate for the whole family. This breed is playful, prying, and is always ready to join the fun. If you are still not convinced, just reckon how Dorothy was entertained and accompanied by this type of dog.




Saturday, November 18, 2017

Dog History: The PIT BULL Terrier

Pit Bull Hiking - Dakota - ID# A338181
Pit Bull - Photo  by maplegirlie 
Most modern Pit Bulls are believed to be descended from European bulldogs and different breeds of mastiffs that were once used in farm work. The mastiffs were known for their strength and power, so they were primarily used to help farmers with their bulls when it was time to bring them in from the fields.

The mastiff became known as the bulldog. The dog’s main purpose was to protect the farmer from being gored by an enraged bull. The dog usually accomplished this task by biting onto the bull and hanging on until the bull relented. Since these dogs were used for protection from angry bulls, they had to have tremendous strength in their jaws and bodies. They also had to be stubborn enough to hang onto a stampeding bull, no matter what the bull did to them, to protect the farmer they worked for.

As time passed, these dogs started being used in bull and bear baiting. During this time it is believed some Bulldogs were also bred with terriers to help make them better suited for these sports. By mixing with the terrier breed, the dogs were smaller and a great deal more agile than the regular bulldog. They also had more muscular bodies, which helped to enhance their damage producing ability. These sports were most popular in England around the early nineteenth century. In the year 1835, English Parliament banned the sports of bull and bear baiting, stating that it was much too cruel to the animals involved. The sport lost popularity and eventually died completely out after a few years.

Dog fighting soon took the place of the previously banned bull and bear baiting sports. Breeders began trying to produce dogs that were geared to be excellent fighters. They tried to enhance the dog’s agility, strength, and musculature to make them more formidable opponents. Breeders also tried to breed the most intelligent dogs so they would be less likely to make mistakes in fighting, and also so they would only be aggressive toward other dogs, not humans they may encounter. One of the rules of dogfighting was that the owner of the dog had to be able to enter the ring during a fight, pick his dog up, and take it completely out of the fighting ring without the dog biting him. If the dog bit the owner during this time, the dog was immediately killed.


Dog Files Ep.12: Pit Proud: The History Of The Pit Bull from GP Creative on Vimeo.

Also in the 1800’s Pit Bulls started becoming popular pets, not just for dog fighting and farming. The dog became a mascot during World War 1 and could be seen on many war posters, which helped to increase its popularity. They were popular because of their high intelligence and devotion to their masters. In the early 1900’s pit bulls began being used in movies as well.

The Pit Bull is a dog with a very detailed history and is still quite popular today. The breed does receive a lot of negative criticism, but with the right owners, still, make terrific pets.





Friday, November 3, 2017

SCOTTISH TERRIER

A white Scottish Terrier puppy
A white Scottish Terrier puppy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Scottish Terrier, most commonly known as the Scottie, although sometimes it is called the Aberdeen Terrier, is a short and sturdy dog. With a height of 9 to 11 inches and weighing between 18 and 23 pounds, they are obviously fairly muscular for their size. Because these dogs have naturally long hair, the grooming can make it look as though they have even shorter legs than they actually do. The hair on their face can grow quite long and when groomed looks almost as though they have a large moustache, somewhat typical of the stereotyped 'what ho Biffo' World War II pilot (so often seen in comedy sketches), and their long eyebrows only exaggerate this perception. They have a coarse and compact coat which is quite wiry and firm and can feel like hard bristles.

History. The Scottish Terrier was, as you may expect, first bred in Scotland, in the 1700s. Originally named Aberdeen Terrier, after the Scottish city, this is a particularly old breed, and parts of its history are steeped in myth and legend, as there is little to no supporting documentary evidence, although, a breed of dog whose description matched the Scottish Terrier was written about in 1436.


Temperament.
The Scottish Terrier breed is generally lovable, hardy, and brave. Being full of character and playful, they mature into dignified and charming adults. They make good watchdogs and will alert you to any problems they perceive. They train quite well, but can be stubborn and have been known to dig their heels in. They tend to be sensitive to criticism, and need to be handled in a gentle but firm fashion. As an intelligent dog they require to know who the master is, they must not be allowed to think they are in charge or this could lead to endless problems in later life. When training or handling this dog any command given must be in a manner that shows you mean it, and you must mean it or the dog will know, and may just ignore you. Whilst this is a very playful dog and loves nothing more than to dash about; care must be taken not to play particularly aggressive or combative games, such as challenging the dog to rope tugging. However such games can be played with members of the family who are not his master, this is because the dog may see the contest as a leadership challenge if conducted by the person he sees as the pack leader.

Health issues.
The Scottish Terrier can suffer from a fairly unique illness called Scottie Cramp (which is a problem in movements). Also are prone to Von Willebrand's disease, jaw problems, skin conditions, and flea allergies. Their life expectancy is 12 to 15 years.



Grooming. 
The Scottish Terrier will require brushing regularly, of their wiry coat, during moulting more care should be taken and brushing to be more frequent. Bathing can be conducted as necessary or dry shampooing. Their hair will require being trimmed professionally twice a year. Apart from when they are moulting, they tend to shed little hair, if any at all.

Living conditions.
While the Scottish Terrier prefers cooler climates, it is very happy living in most homes. They are entertaining and get on very well with children, and as they are fairly small, they are unlikely to knock people over. As long as they are adequately exercised they will take well to living in an apartment.

    By Scott Allan Lipe
    For more information on different Dog Breeds, Dog Training and Teacup Puppies for sale including Yorkies, Chihuahuas and Morkies please visit our websites below.

    Scottish Terrier - Puppies or Dogs

    Article Source: EzineArticles



Tuesday, October 31, 2017

History of the YORKSHIRE TERRIER

Doggy style
Yorkshire Terrier - Photo   by     jpockele 
Understanding today's Yorkshire Terrier means looking at this dog’s ancestry. There seems to be little disagreement about the way in which the modern Yorkshire Terrier came to be. Even though there are no records of the earliest relatives of the Yorkie it's widely believed that the breed is estimated to is just over 100 or so years old. The Yorkshire Terrier of the past was much larger than today's terriers. It's surprising but the early versions of today's Yorkies were working class dogs.

From the 11th Century, there was a rule that labourers were not allowed to hunt. In order to prevent hunting labourers were not allowed to own a dog big enough to be able to hunt. Dogs had to pass through a small hoop (7 inches in diameter) to prove that they were small enough.  It was originally bred to be a hunting dog, catching rats, rabbits and mice to supplement their poor owner’s diet.

Before the beginning of the Industrial Revolution people lived in small communities and grew up around factories and mines. With the Industrial Revolution came great changes to family life. People were drawn to the cities seeking work and a better life.
These people brought with them the Paisley Terrier; who were mainly working dogs who used to catch rats and other small animals.




The Paisley Terrier or Clydesdale Terrier was crossed with other types of Terriers. The English Black Terrier, the Tan Toy Terrier and the Skye Terrier. The Maltese were also crossed with these to produce long coats and a smaller stature. You can still see the similarity in shape between the Maltese and today's Yorkies. There aren't any records about the early pedigree to confirm these crosses. There were low levels of literacy and this led to poor record keeping. It is believed that this is the most likely of the crosses.

The father of the modern Yorkie is said to be a dog called Huddersfield "Ben". Bred by Mr. Eastwood and owned by Mr. Foster; this was a very popular stud dog who had a great influence in the modern breed. He won many competitions and is believed to have set many of the standards for his breed type.

The British Kennel Club registered the first Yorkies in the British Kennel Club Stud Book in 1874. The American Kennel Club started recognizing Yorkshire Terriers as a breed in 1885. The first Yorkshire in 1910 was the first specimen seen in a German-speaking area.  Known as "Halifax Terriers" these dogs shared the appearance of the Yorkshire Terrier which to this day has changed very little.  The breed standards for the Yorkshire Terrier have hardly changed. There are some small changes but these relate directly to the new knowledge in matters of canine health.



The Yorkshire Terriers of today are brave, loyal and energetic. A loyal guard dog who will be suspicious of strangers and defend their territory. Yorkies like to bark but with good training, they can be taught not to.  Some of the cross-breedings which results in tiny "teacup" varieties can cause health problems for today's Yorkshire terriers. Often their skulls are too small and this results in a range of respiratory problems.

It is widely agreed that the breeding of such "Teacup" varieties is cruel and causes all kinds of health and behavioural problems. Be responsible and buy one of the more accepted varieties. If you are intending on breeding your Yorkshire terrier keep this in mind when choosing a sire.

Today's Yorkies are energetic, fun and a delight to have around.  They will keep you entertained for hours and years to come.



Saturday, September 30, 2017

YORKSHIRE Terrier - Dogs of the World


Yorkshire Terrier



Friday, August 25, 2017

The WEST HIGHLAND WHITE TERRIER

Westie
Westie  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
So you have decided you are going to buy a West Highland white terrier, otherwise known as a Westie. Westies are great little light-hearted dogs. They are quick to learn, and as a rule, they are very self-sufficient and have wonderful, unique personalities. Most Westie owners will tell you that their dog possesses a "big personality." They are lovable, but will never be mistaken for a lap dog.

If you are looking for a cuddly lap dog, a Westie may not be the right breed for you. They are notoriously independent, and won't tolerate being held for very long periods. They like to be in close proximity to their owner/families, but they need their space. As a rule, when a Westie chooses a sleeping area they will find a private space. Away from the family, this sleeping area will most likely be somewhat protected on three sides; they also like to "cover their backs" when they sleep. Naturally, there are exceptions to the rule. If the dog is taught to be a bit of a lap dog, they will most likely be a lap dog. But the Westie is not a natural lap dog. They like to call the shots, so to speak.

The Westie likes to be taken along with the family whenever possible. They are friendly, and love people in general, especially children. They are very loyal to their families and prefer being with their owners/families whenever possible.

When purchasing a dog most people prefer to buy a young puppy, and train the dog themselves. This can be rewarding. If buying a puppy, make sure you are home regularly enough to train the puppy properly. Westies are easy to train, but someone has to be in the home to do the training. Remember, it can be a frustrating and time-consuming task to train a puppy. The other option is to purchase a dog that is a bit older and has already been trained by the breeder. This is a good option, and many breeders can accommodate with a dog that is a little older and trained.

Male or female? In regard to temperament, there is little or no difference between the two in the Westie breed. It is said that Westie males are more affectionate than female Westies. The female is smaller and lighter, so easier to control on a walk or carry when necessary.

English: Westie puppies Česky: Štěňata westíka
Westie puppies
(Photo credit: 
Wikipedia)
This pure white, sturdy small-framed dog is always full of energy and always on the alert and looking for fun. They love to get out and walk and run in a wooded area, looking for a game.

Westies’ ears stand up naturally at each side of their fluffy, happy face. At the opposite end, a perky short tail, which - by nature’s design - comes to a gradual point. As adults, it is desirable for the male Westie to be 11 inches in height; the female 10 inches in height. A Westies coat should be pure white. They have a double coat; the under coat is soft and fluffy, the top coat a bit coarse and wiry. This dual coat is natural to the Westie. The breed was developed and bread for a hard and dangerous job - that of hunting out and killing vermin. So the dual coat provides the Westie a good natural form of protection, not only from the elements but the claws and teeth of its prey. The dry texture of the Westies coat also works to cut down on doggy odor. Due to this dryer coat, they require fewer baths. They can be kept clean with frequent brushing and dry cleaning (this is done by adding a bit of corn starch to the dogs' coat, brushing it out after a few minutes.)

Choosing a reputable breeder is very important. It is impossible to know when picking out your particular puppy just how that dog will turn out emotionally and physically. This is the best reason to find a good reputable breeder. A good breeder strives to breed healthy dogs that will exhibit traits that are natural to the dog they chose to breed. There are three choices when it comes to breeders; pet shop breeders, back yard breeders, and serious hobby breeders.

The pet shop breeder is the worst possible choice you can make when buying a dog. The puppies are poorly bred and are thought of as merchandise to be sold for at a high profit. This form of breeding, as a rule, puts out sickly, unstable dogs, and I highly recommend you stay clear of pet shop breeders.

The backyard breeder can also be a poor choice. This type of breeder may be a Westie owner that thought it would be “fun” to have puppies. They know little about puppies and the training of puppies. As a rule, they are not well acquainted with the stud dogs and can offer little information on his background. They are unaware of the history of the breed, and any special needs of a given breed. To sum it up, they are ill-equipped to breed dogs and lack the knowledge one needs to be a good breeder.

Your best choice when buying a dog is to find a serious hobby breeder. They have done their homework on the breed they are selling. As a rule, they are dog fanciers and do not look at breeding as a profit-only venture. They are breeding for show dogs. They strive to breed the best of their chosen breed. They will take responsibility for any and all pups produced, and stand behind their dogs. You can be assured the dogs are healthy and have been given all the veterinary care they need as puppies along with proper training. A good breeder of Westies will belong to the “West Highland White Terrier Club of America”, and/or other well known Westie Clubs. They will most likely be involved in showing their dogs. A good breeder will ask you questions and be very discriminating on the homes their puppies go to. They will guarantee their puppies, with an agreement to take the puppy back if for some reason you find you are not compatible with your new puppy. They will give you time to have the puppy looked at by a veterinarian of your choice, just to ensure there are no health problems looming, and that the puppy is in a good healthy condition.



A good breeder will have numerous references. They will be able to provide you with such references, in the way of other persons that have purchased dogs from them, along with their own veterinarians' references. The breeder should be able to answer questions on the breed and show a good knowledge of the breed's history. The breeder should also provide written instructions in regard to the puppies needs. Diet, exercise, and health care need as a puppy and adult dog. The kennels should be clean, providing the dogs with a healthy environment. The dogs should be comfortable with the breeder and show a good rapport with them. The dogs in the kennels should be of good temperament, and healthy in appearance. The good breeder will never sell a puppy that is too young to leave its mother.

And finally, the breeder should provide you with a record of the dates and types of vaccinations and be worming that has been done on your puppy, along with any and all records on visits to the vet the puppy may have required while in the breeder’s care. It is also desirable to ask questions on the health of the parent dogs. The breeder must provide you with A 3- to 5-generation pedigree, and a "blue slip" to apply for registration of the Westie into the AKA.

Once you have found a trustworthy breeder here are a few tips on choosing the right puppy: Age is important; a puppy is usually ready to be taken to its new home at the age of eight to twelve weeks. You may find that all Westie pups look alike; they pretty much do all look alike. Look for a puppy with a sturdy build. The dog should feel firm, with good muscle tone. Their legs should be straight. The pup should be active when picked up, squirmy after a short time relaxing and willing to be petted and cuddled a bit. Their coats should be thick and clean. There should be no discharge from eyes, nose or ears, and no odor at the ears. The eyes should be bright, with an alert look. The gums should be moist and pink. The dog should be active with the other pups. It's a good idea to ask the breeder about the puppies personality. They can help you pick a dog that will be suited to your needs and your personality.

It is always smart to observe the dam for her traits. Does she appear overly shy, aggressive, stand-offish? Is she patient and watchful of the puppies, and not overly aggressive of the litter? Do the parent dogs look in good health? Are their coats healthy and do they appear active with good stamina? It is well-known puppies can and do inherit traits from the parent dogs.

If you do your homework, you are more likely to pick just the right dog. The Westie is a wonderful breed. They are bright, happy spirited dogs, and will bring with them their own special outgoing personality. They will fast become your best friend.



Thursday, August 24, 2017

Tips For Housebreaking Your PIT BULL TERRIER Puppy Dog

Housebreaking your Pit Bull puppy requires a lot of time, effort, and patience on the part of the owner. There is no set time-frame on when your puppy will be able to do this, or how long it will take, you just have to start a routine and stick with it until it is finished. Many owners lose patience with their dogs due to problems that often arise during the house breaking process. It is important to just work through them as they come and to remember not to punish your puppy, but work through this process together.

Puppy Kisses
Pit Bull Puppies - Photo   by       Beverly & Pack

Many things can be done along the way that will help make housebreaking faster and easier for you and your puppy. As with any type of training, you have to be consistent with the routine. Take your dog out at the same time every day, or if you aren’t able to, make sure that someone else can. The puppy will soon learn when it is time to go, and eventually will know what is expected of him. You should have everyone else in the household alerted to the routine, and willing to help when needed. Sometimes it is helpful to keep a journal of your dog’s habits so that if they turn into a problem later, it will be easier to correct them.

You should also try to go outside with your puppy so that you can be sure he is going to the bathroom while he is outside, which will help avoid accidents while inside. If you are unable to go out with your puppy, he should be confined to one area such as a crate or fenced in backyard, so that he can learn this is his space to go.

One thing that can interrupt the housebreaking process is irregular feedings. It is important that you feed your puppy the same amount at the same time every day, and try to avoid giving him extra snacks and treats until he is successfully housebroken.



The most important thing when housebreaking your puppy is to be patient and understanding. He is going to learn overnight, and there will be messes along the way. You have to understand that this takes time and try to maintain reasonable expectations of your puppy. It is important not to punish your puppy when that happens, rather just clean it up and accept it for what it is, part of the process. You will have a much better relationship with your puppy if you are patient with him as he grows.



Monday, August 14, 2017

Fact Sheet: BORDER TERRIER

(Original title: The Scruffy Little Hunter Dog: Border Terrier )

jimmy as tall as the trees : border terrier, esprit park, dogpatch, san francisco (2011)
Border Terrier - Photo   by   torbakhopper (cc)
The Border terrier got its name from the area called Cheviot Hills, which is actually near the border of England and Scotland. This is where these dogs were made to attack and terminate predatory foxes. 

They have wiry coat that is why they normally appear as scruffy. However, this scruffiness is an attention-grabber that is why owners do not forget to hug their little ball of energy.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Borders:


Category: Terrier

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: wiry and short; double coated

Colors: tan, red, grizzle and tan, and/or blue and tan

Height: between 11 and 16 inches

Weight: between 11 and 16 pounds

Temperament: 

Naturally, 

they are scruffy, hard and bold hunters
they are active as puppies but mellow down as they mature
they are not friendly with rabbits, rats, hamsters, and even birds
they are economical to feed
their activity die down when left alone all day as they really love to please people especially their owners

When properly trained,

they can get along with the household cats but not with cats in the neighborhood
they may even catch a burglar
they may lose timidity when accustomed to active environments

Breeders should note of the following health issues: 

  Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome or CES, also called as "Spike's disease", which is a hereditary, neurological, metabolic and muscle disorder that is sometimes confused with canine epilepsy
  Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes 
  Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
  Deafness
  Skin problems and a few skin allergies

Care and Exercise: 

Their coat needs weekly brushing.
They should be professionally groomed at least twice a year.
They should bathe only when necessary since they shed little to no hair. Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on leash.
They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts. 

Origin/History:

The exact origins of Border terriers are obscure but many breeders accepted the story that the variety was developed in the Cheviot Hills area, which is near the border of Scotland and England. The Borders have been used as hunters of rabbits and hares. They can even keep up with running horses with their short yet sturdy legs. They were also used by farmers to lure predatory foxes into their dens before killing them.

They were also trained to hunt otters, marten, and even fierce badgers. Like most terriers that were once molded as hunters, they also evolved as pets and became lovely, friendly, and loyal companion dogs. They also take part in dog shows and they can easily grab their audience attention with their agility, appearance, and bright disposition.


The breed was registered by the British Kennel Club in 1920 and by the American Club ten years after.

At present, Borders are highly favored as companion dogs and pets due to their adaptability, friendliness, and winning personality. Nonetheless, they can be reliable when it comes to tracking down vermin. In fact, some of their esteemed talents include hunting, guarding the family, and performing tricks and sports that require competitive obedience.

Like most terriers, you can be rest assured to have a loyal and bright companion dogs if you give your attention and affection to a Border. You can be sure that they can definitely drive away your bore! 



Friday, July 28, 2017

Fact Sheet: BEDLINGTON TERRIER


Original Title: Bedlington Terrier

Français : Boutchie, un Bedlington Terrier en ...
Français : Boutchie, un Bedlington Terrier en janvier 2003. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)


Breed group: Terrier

Weight: 17-23 lbs
Height: male 16.5 inches, female: 15.5 inches

Overview
This breed has its origin in England where they have been developed during the 18th century. Bedlington Terriers was originally known as Rothbury Terriers and they were named after the Rothbury district on the English border. These dogs were highly valued as hunters of a variety of game including foxes, hares and badgers. A Rothbury dog was mated with a Bedlington bitch in about 1825, which resulted in the Bedlington terrier. Bedlington terriers were used as vermin hunters by miners of Bedlington. They also used these dogs as fighting dogs in the pits.

Temperament
The Bedlington terrier of today is a more affectionate and friendly dog, and this is due to more careful breeding. Bedlington terriers are very cheerful and playful dogs, and they also love children. These dogs are devoted and energetic dogs, but they do have a stubborn streak. This breed has to be socialised with other animals from an early age onwards to prevent problems later on. The Bedlington terrier has lots of power, and they are full of courage and energy. They can run very fast, and they are keen diggers. These dogs love to bark, and they can be a bit tense. This breed should be fenced in, otherwise they will take off as they love to chase.

Care
The Bedlington terrier is a high maintenance breed and they will require a professional clipping once in every six weeks. These dogs needs to be brushed and combed every day. They should however only be bathed when it is necessary, as their coats will become lank if bathed too often. The coats of these dogs shed almost no hair, and this makes them suitable for allergy sufferers. The pluck inside their ears should also be cleaned. This breed is also considered fine for allergy sufferers.

Training
The Bedlington terrier is an independent and playful dog that is fairly difficult to train. They will benefit if they are socialised from an early age onwards, especially with cats. This breed should also receive thorough obedience training as they have a tendency to bark excessively and be destructive. The Bedlington terrier will also not do well if the training is harsh or heavy-handed. The Bedlington terrier loves human companionship, and should be trained in a firm, loving and consistent manner. They do extremely well in agility, obedience and fly ball.



Health problems
Some Bedlington terriers may have a serious inborn liver problem known as Copper Storage Disease. This breed is also prone to a genetic kidney disease, PRA, thyroid problems and eye trouble such as cataracts and retinal disease.



Monday, July 17, 2017

Fact Sheet: YORKSHIRE TERRIER - Yorkie

(Original Title: The Popular Pet and Lap Dog: Yorkshire Terrier)


Cocoa, the mini Yorkie
Cocoa, the mini Yorkie - Photo by Tnkntx

The Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, originated from Scotland but bred in England. They were molded to hunt rats, but nowadays they are popular as pets. In fact, their variety was one of the Top Dog Breeds of 2005.

They usually grow being small and light varieties. Hence, owners do not mind having their pets on their lap almost all day. Moreover, this usual bonding activity usually transforms this lap dog into a bright, playful, and loyal companion pet.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Yorkies:

Category: Toy (Terrier)

Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)

Coat: silky, glossy, long and fine; no undercoat

Colors: black when young but they attain the colors tan and blue as they mature .

Height: between 8 and 9 inches

Weight: between 3 and 7 pounds

Temperament:

Naturally,

• they are territorial and like their privacy to be respected

• they are intelligent and fearless

• they are assertive and independent

When properly trained,

• they develop close affinity with older children

• they become really playful and lively

• they become extremely affectionate

• they do not mind having other pets at home

• they focus much of their attention and affection toward their owner

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

• Alopecia, or losing hair

• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes

• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum

• Dwarfism

• Entropion, a disorder with the eyelid; lashes on the eyelid that irritate the eyeballs could lead to other complications

• Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye

• Hydrocephalus

• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or the reduction of tear production

• Low blood sugar

• Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap

• Portosystemic shunt, or the accumulation of blood toxins in the liver

• Urolithiasis, an infection of the urinary tract leading to the formation of bladder stones.


Care and Exercise:

• They require daily grooming.

• Ears and eyes must be cleaned and checked regularly.

• Dental hygiene must be regularly maintained.

• They are fit only for short strides.

• They should have a regular play time while lying under the sunbeams, chasing shadows, and joining tug-of-war.

Origin/History:

In the 19th century, a number of weavers from Scotland migrated to England and brought with them different terriers that were bred to hunt rats. Through time, these terriers were crossed and terriers with “broken hairs” were produced.

In 1870, a “broken-haired Scotch terrier” was named as a Yorkshire terrier by a reporter. He argued that the breed should be called as such because his types were bred in a town called Yorkshire.

Though the Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs, they became fashionable pets is England in the latter part of the Victorian era. In 1972, Yorkies were brought to the United States and became the country’s favorite pet.

You can say that the Yorkies developed into tough breeds because of their ancestors’ reputation as rat-hunters. However, their size, and playful and bright character have actually captured the attention and affection of most pet owners. Most proud owners would boast that they have the great giants inside the bodies of these little dogs. If you want a small but terrible breed of dog, grab a Yorkie now! Just a friendly reminder, they would really need your attention and companionship than any other terriers.



Friday, July 14, 2017

Fact Sheet: NORFOLK TERRIER

Original Title: Norfolk Terrier - Facts You Must Know Before Adopting A Norfolk Terrier

Norfolk Terrier "Virginia von den Wichtel...
Norfolk Terrier "Virginia von den Wichtelsteinen" (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Breed Description
A small and compact breed, the Norfolk Terrier has a charming and sometimes bewildered appearance. This small breed weighs around 11-15 pounds, and reaches between 8-10 inches tall.

Coat
The Norfolk Terrier is straight, messy, and coarse texture that is around 2 inches long. It is structured to keep these terriers insulated. This double-coated breed has a coarse and waterproof topcoat and thick and dense inner coat. Their coat color comes in wheat, grizzle, red, and black and tan.

Activity
The Norfolk Terrier is quite energetic, and loves playing ball or going on walks with their family. They are known to tolerate all kinds of weather. These terriers enjoy digging holes in the backyard, so owners should always be on guard with this trait. They will do great in apartment dwellings, and will be happy to travel in a car.

Temperament
Norfolk Terriers are fearless, but never aggressive despite being able to defend themselves when the situation calls for it. They get along well with Border Terriers, and Norwich Terriers, having the softest of temperaments among the Terrier Group. These dogs work in pack, and should get along well with other dogs. As companions, they love being around people and will make excellent pets. Their energy level is reflective depending on the pace of their environment. They should never be kept outdoors due to the fact that they thrive on human interaction. These terriers are known barkers, making them excellent alarm dogs.

These terriers can generally live with other household pets when raised alongside them. This self-confident little dog is very confident, and will carry themselves with importance, having their head up high with tails erect. These Norfolk Terriers are generally happy, spirited, and lively.

Overview
Small, alert, and hardy little dog, the Norfolk Terrier has been originally bred to catch a fox and go after vermin. This evenly tempered fearless dog has sporting instinct.

Care
The Norfolk Terrier should be combed and brushed once or twice weekly, paying extra attention to the mustache and beard, which more often get dirty. Their coats shed little, and will require hand plucking twice in a year. The hair between the pads of their feet should be trimmed. This low-shedding breed is considered hypoallergenic, and will be suitable for people with allergies.



Training
Norfolk Terriers are intelligent and will often quickly acquire bad habits, just as they would in learning positive habits. Consistent and varying training routines are crucial for this breed to avoid boredom and non-compliance. This breed will do best with positive rewards and a lot of praise. Ignoring the bad behavior of this breed is a great way to eliminate the bad ones.


Character

The brave little Norfolk Terrier is known to be very defensive of its family and territory. They generally get along well with other dogs, and make excellent family pet. This breed is easy going and enjoys being the center of attention. These affectionate breed is at their happiest when they are with their owners. They should never be left alone for extended periods of time as this will cause depression.



Friday, July 7, 2017

Diamond In The Ruff -- Meet The CAIRN TERRIER

The Cairn terrier hails from Scotland, as do its close and outstanding relatives, the Scottish terrier and the West Highland terrier. Much like another cousin, the Welsh terrier, the Cairn is probably an underappreciated breed in the United States, while it remains wildly popular in the old country. But its relative dark horse status is likely just fine with serious Cairn fans.

Deutsch: Cairn Terrier Nimbu und Pongo aus der...
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Unlike several fancier strains of terrier, the Cairn has never been subjected to uptown clips and beauteous barbering, like the Kerry or the Wire terrier. As a result, the Cairn can look pretty shaggy in comparison, and resembles the working dog he was born and bred to be. Cairns, after all, were named after the cairns or piled stones in the Scottish Highlands they so often set themselves to digging through, looking for rats. The Cairn was a fearless hunter of vermin and rouster of foxes, with strong claws, teeth, and an absolutely nonnegotiable hunting instinct. He is not the type of dog you can set loose in the park.

The Cairn terrier is a convenient size for most modern families, weighing only about 13 or 14 pounds. He is tough and resilient, and has a genuine liking for children, although you'll still need to make sure that they treat him gently, like any other dog. The Cairn is a cheerfully independent type with an incredibly sharp brain. You'll want to give him some interesting jobs around the house and make sure he stays as challenged as possible (otherwise, he’s likely to challenge your flower beds). Even though many modern small dogs essentially end up as lapdogs, the Cairn has the smarts and the perseverance to be much more.





Despite his shaggy locks, some terrier lovers find a unique and rustic beauty in this breed. If you want an active, enthusiastic, tough little terrier companion, the Cairn deserves your serious consideration.

Cairns come in almost all colors -- anything but white conforms to type. Anyone wanting to add a small, sharp and very affectionate dog to their family unit would do well to consider the long-lived Cairn.



Monday, June 5, 2017

Fact Sheet: SCOTTISH TERRIER

(Original title: The Stylish and Reserved Dog: Scottish Terrier) 


Scottish terrier * en blanco
Photo by jacilluch
The Scottish terriers, also known as Scotties, are short-legged British terriers.  They are one among other go-to-ground and wire-coated terriers developed in the highlands of Scotland. The Scotties are said to have jaunty attitude so they are often used to represent advertisements of the country to where they originated.

However, Scotties' nature is not in coherence with their public image or trademark.  In fact, Scotties are like the citizens of his native land who are independent, stoic, and fiercely loyal to their masters.  They also adhere much to their own privacy.

Scotties, Westies, and Cairns are very similar regarding their appearance. The Westies and the Cairns are, in fact, closely-related. The Westie can be considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western Scotland. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the other two.

The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Scotties:

Category: Terrier

Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor (mostly preferred by breeders)

Coat: wiry, short (about 2 inches) and thick

Colors: iron gray or steel, black, wheaten, or sandy; the coat may also be brindled or grizzled

Height: about 10 inches

Weight: between 18 and 20 pounds

Temperament: they need to be praised frequently and they adapt with the moods of the household

Breeders should note of the following health issues:

  Von Willibrand's disease (VWD), an inherited disorder
  Flea allergies and other skin problems
  Epilepsy
  Jawbone disorders
  Scottie cramp, a minor condition that causes walking difficulties
  Cerebellar abiotrophy, a slow-to-progress and rare neurological disease that causes loss of coordination

Care and Exercise: 
Their coats need special care to maintain its appearance and texture. It is suggested that they should be subjected to professional grooming once or twice each year for their coats to stay wiry and firm.
The fur needs to be combed a couple of times in each week and even needs occasional trimming.
Scotties' dead hairs should be plucked out through stripping. Using electric clippers will only make their coats dull and soft.
Play with them. Hunting and squeaky balls and toys are their favorites.
They should be on leash while walking in public places.

Origin/History:

The origins of the breed are obscure. It was noted that forerunners of Scotties were sent to France's Royal Highness by King James I of England during the 16th century. Later on, three different terriers were revealed as Scotch Terriers, which included the Westies, the Cairns, and the Scotties. The Dandie Dinmont variety had also been noted as closely-related to the abovementioned terriers but its apparent physical differences categorized itself as a separate breed.

Terrier dogs that were bred in Britain were developed to hunt vermin that ate grains, and pestered eggs and poultry farms. Most breeds grew as scrappy and courageous dogs and were trained to follow badgers or foxes into their dens. Their wiry coats and soft undercoats protected them against rugged terrains and harsh climates.





f you want to have a Scottie in your life, you should not be impulsive about the matter for animosity nd lack of proper training will only harm and traumatize the dog. If properly taken cared of, this breed can even appoint itself as a guardian of the family. It can also be fiercely loyal, that is it can protect you even if it means endangering its own life.

To this effect, I guess you must agree that a Scottie is a dog that is second to none.