Types of HYPOALLERGENIC SPORTING DOGS

Brown Standard Poodle
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Even though many breeds are no longer used just for sporting or hunting, these dogs have become popular favorites among those who need a hypoallergenic dog that has an easy temperament. Sporting dogs are considered intelligent, playful, and obey their owners when given commands.

Hypoallergenic sporting dogs include Poodles, Australian Terriers, and Kerry Blue Terriers. Each of these dogs has been used to hunt small and large game and also to hunt for rodents and other pesky animals that carried disease. Now, these animals are kept in the home as pets. While still playful and easy going, these dogs are now treated more like friends that as sporting partners.

Each of these breeds has a short coat that is more like human hair because it is soft and thin. Unlike other breeds, these dogs do not shed as often and when they do, it is usually not noticeable. People who want to own a medium-sized dog will appreciate any of the breeds mentioned above. Grooming is an essential part of their care as is brushing their coats once or twice a week to prevent matting.

The Poodle comes in a few different varieties that are all hypoallergenic. Poodles have been used sporting dogs, show dogs, and lap dogs for those who wanted a breed that would sit still on command. The Poodle is a friendly dog that does not make a lot of noise. They are very active and enjoy getting their exercise. People who want are thinking about buying a Poodle should conduct more research to see if this is the dog they truly want. Even though the Poodle can live for many years, they may suffer some health problems as they age.

The Australian Terrier was once used to catch mice and rats, but today it is kept at home because of its pleasant disposition and its long hair that does not shed. You can choose to cut the hair closer to the body if you choose.  For those looking for a smaller dog, the Australian Terrier is a good choice. These dogs are considered companion dogs, meaning that they enjoy the company of people.

Kerry Blue Terrier (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Kerry Blue Terrier is a relative of the Australian Terrier, but is much larger and has a more pronounced head and chest. Their head is almost square shaped. Their cost is soft and curly. It will not shed and needs to be groomed often to prevent matting. While the dogs are actually gray or black in color, a blue sheen can be found on their coat. This is where they got their name.

Kerry Blue Terriers need daily exercise that can range from long walks to running in the park with other dogs. If you have a backyard, you can let the dog run around and it will tire itself out. People who live in larger homes should consider buying a hypoallergenic dog like this one.

Even though these dogs are no longer used primarily as sporting dogs, this does not mean the dogs prefer to sit around all day long. Exercise is very important for dogs like these because they have been used for generations for sporting parties and long hunts in the woods.

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CATS And PILLS - Tablets.

Русский: Кошка (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Nearly everything alive becomes ill at some stage in its life, and pets are no exception. I have been very fortunate in that my two cats have been very healthy for most of their lives. Recently the oldest cat becomes ill and had to go to the vet. Unfortunately, she was diagnosed with a form of cancer. The treatment options were pills or radiation 'therapy'. The radiation therapy was very expensive so that left the pills. Pills are fine for humans, but if you have ever tried to administer pills to your cat then you would know some of the problems I have had.

I usually feed my cats on a dry 'all in one' biscuit diet. This diet and a supplement of fresh food have kept them very healthy for over 14years. But now I need to add pills to her diet every twelve hours. So what do I feed her that will hide the pill well enough for her to eat it without complaining? Well after some experimentation I came to the conclusion that hiding a whole pill was not the answer. Not the answer at all. Whole pills are located and removed from the food with amazing accuracy. The simple answer is to crush the pills before adding them to the food.

(Note: The pill should be added to a small quantity of food - half a normal service or less, and that small quantity should be given to your pet BEFORE the rest of the meal. This helps to ensure your cat is hungry enough to eat the entire pill. Once the pill food is eaten you can give them the rest of the meal.)

Pills are usually quite easy to crush into powder, I use two spoons, one small teaspoon as the crusher, and a larger desert spoon to hold the pill. Place the pill into the larger spoon and using the edge of the small spoon as a blunt knife, carefully break the pill into smaller chunks. Now use the small teaspoon to gently crush the chunks into powder. In less than two minutes you should be ready to sprinkle the powdered pill onto a small serve of food. Crushing the pill gets much easier once you have done two or three.

This is how I prepare chicken or fish for my cat at pill time :

Chicken: Cooked (cold)

Cooked chicken is a favorite food of my cats so it is a good pill food for them. To make the most reliable pill hiding food from cold chicken is really quite easy. First of all, you need to prepare the pill by crushing it into a powder as described above. Then you need a small serve of chicken that you can break up into smallish pieces - use your fingers, it gives the best results. Once you have broken up the chicken add a small quantity of water to the serving plate and roll the chicken in the water until it is wet all over. Now drain the excess water from the plate - too much water will leave the pill on the plate and not on the food where it needs to be.

The next step is optional, but it makes a big difference for my pets. The next step is to place the food in a microwave oven. All you want to do is VERY GENTLY warm up the food, I use about 6 SECONDS on high. What you are looking for is to remove the coldness of the food - which activates the SMELL of the food. Do not make the food hot! ( The heat could damage the pill that you are trying to feed them, and not many cats will eat hot food anyway.) Now that you have a very gently warmed serve of food it is time to add the pill. Just sprinkle the crushed pill over the wet, warm chicken and serve it up!

Note: Always add the Pill LAST!

Fish: Raw

If you want to use raw fish as a pill serving food then it pays to make sure that the cat in question likes the fish that you are going to use. ( Cats are fussy!) I have two cats, one eats fish at every opportunity, and the other will walk right past it and ask for something else...

So get a small piece of fish to test the cat with, and assuming that the fish is accepted it is easy to prepare. I use a pair of kitchen scissors to cut the fish into small pieces. A sharp knife is ok but the skin on fish is very tough, so for safety and ease of preparation I use scissors. Once you have the fish cut up all you need to do is sprinkle the powdered pill over the fish and serve it up. Raw fish is usually wet and quite smelly, so it doesn't require water to be added or the microwave to warm it up.

Fish: Cooked (cold)

To prepare a cooked cold fish you basically follow the steps outlined for cooked chicken. Prepare the pill, get a small bit of cooked fish and cut or break it up into small pieces. Make it wet, drain off the excess water and zap it in the microwave for a few seconds - do not make the food hot! Add the crushed pill to the warm wet fish and serve it up.

Note: Always add the Pill LAST!

The purpose of warming up the food is to make it smellier. Most food has a much stronger scent or smells when it is at room temperature than it does straight from the fridge.

If you need a small quantity of fresh raw fish it can usually be purchased from your local take away food shop. If you want to use cooked fish from a takeaway shop bear in mind that the batter or breadcrumbs should be removed before it is served to the cat. (Well, it should be removed if your cat won't eat the fish with it still on there...) Also, remember to cool the fish down to about room temperature before you add the pill - otherwise the heat may damage the pill.

Never microwave any pill - it could damage the active ingredients or even make them toxic to your pet.

For those that are interested, my cats' name is "Eff-Gee" ( "F"+"G" ) and she can tell the time as well if not better than I can. Every 12 hours (+ or - 30mins) she is asking me for her pill food :-)

My other cat - that doesn't like fish, is called "Sox". He doesn't really like chicken either. Actually, he prefers the biscuits over most other foods - unless it is meat with chili on it. He is a nice cat :-)

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BOXER DOGS: Ten Things You May Not Know About Them

Boxer (dog)  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Legend says when God was fashioning different breeds of dog out of clay, he came to his final task and decided to create the most beautiful dog ever and call it a ‘Boxer’.   But this new breed of dog was vain and rushed to see himself in the mirror before the clay was properly set and bumped headlong into his own reflection.  That accounts for the flat nose characteristic of the Boxer, and also proves that God really did accomplish his design for the world’s most beautiful dog!  Here are another ten things you may not already know about Boxer dogs.

The Boxer Dog Who Cheated Death and Became a Television Star Instead

In 1985, a white boxer dog called Bomber was snatched from a vet’s surgery by an animal nurse and later appeared in the UK television series, Oliver Twist.  It appears the dog’s previous owners, Tony and Elaine Chapell, decided to put the dog to sleep when they learned he didn’t quite fit new Kennel Club standards for his breed!  In filming, he was made to look flea-bitten, dirty and covered in sores.  Bomber even had a dressing room all to himself and was congratulated on giving a superb performance.  Well done Bomber, and shame on those who gave up on him!

A Boxer Dog With His Own Fan Club

A boxer dog called George was used in media advertisements in the early 1990s and became so well known that he eventually had a fan club all to himself.  George’s strange expressions appeared in ads. for Coleman’s Mustard and eventually, the dog became a household name and even made guest appearances at public functions and schools.

The Boxer Dog With The Longest T-o-n-g-u-e! 

A boxer dog called Brandy featured on Ripley’s Believe It Or Not due to her incredible 17-inch long tongue!  Brandy, from Michigan, USA, was bought from a local breeder in 1995 and her new owner was assured the dog would eventually grow into her l-o-n-g   t-o-n-g-u-e!  She didn’t and on television, she was shown performing antics such as eating from a bowl 13 inches away.  Her owner, John Scheid, says brandy likes sunbathing and even gets tan lines on her tongue, but says the beautiful boxer is fit, happy and healthy, so her unique feature isn’t a problem at all.

Zoe, The Boxer Dog Who Came Back to Life!

Zoe’s owner, Cathy Walker, from Manuden, near Bishop’s Stortford in the UK, has been told by a medium that she is surrounded by all the pets she has lost.  That certainly seems true of Zoe, a tan and white boxer bitch who died several years ago, aged eleven.  The Daily Mail (November 6th, 2001) printed an amazing photograph of the bark of a tree under which Zoe spent her last day, showing what can only be described as the image of a boxer dog in the bark. Cathy tells how she is a great believer in life after death and claims the image of Zoe has strengthened that belief.

The White Boxer Dog Who Received Hate Mail

To anyone who loves dogs in general, and oxer dogs in particular, Solo was as beautiful as any other of her breed.  To her owner, Joyce Lang, she was more than just beautiful, she was a constant friend, a much loved family member.  But not everyone thought the same way and, surprisingly, in 1982, in Burgess Hill in the UK, an anonymous letter arrived addressed to Solo, saying: “I think you are the ugliest dog I have ever seen.”  What sort of human could write such nonsense is beyond most people’s comprehension, and probably the letter was intended mainly to upset Joyce, an objective the hateful writer most definitely achieved.  Letters continued to come saying: “Why don’t you get your master or mistress to take you for a face lift?”.  One even contained a paper bag which the sender said should be placed over Solo’s head!  When local newspapers heard the story the headlines proclaimed that beauty is always in the eye of the beholder and in Joyce’s and other dog lover’s eyes, Solo was beautiful. 

A Little Boy’s Tribute to His Pet Boxer, Lance

This story appeared in The Faithful Friend (Writings About Owning and Loving Pets) and concerned dog owners in the United States who often loaned their pets to the military in World War Two.  Lance, a Boxer, worked with Dogs for Defence which eventually became the noted K09 Corps, and belonged to a family with young children, one a boy who wrote this letter to Dogs for Defence:  ‘My Boxer, Lance, was in the army since last June.  I have not heard anything about him since I received a certificate from the Quartermaster General.  The number on it was 11281.  I love Lance very much and want to know if he is doing anything brave.  Can you please tell me where he is and what kind of a job he does?  Please answer soon because I can’t wait much longer to know what has become of him’.  

Origins of the Boxer Dog

What we know about the origins of most breeds, including the Boxer, is largely owed to early sculptures, painting and drawings.    In the Boxer’s case, a carving of a dog looking much like a boxer can be seen on a tomb in Arnstadt where lies Elizabeth of Hohenstein who died in 1368.  Flemish tapestries from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries show dogs resembling the Boxer engaged in stag- and boar-hunting.  

German Origins

Boxer dogs became very popular in Munich where the breed is thought to have originated.  But the history of the breed has not been without controversy.  In fact the first Boxer Club in the UK was closed because of disagreements over almost everything pertaining to Boxers.  By 1905, however, the most enthusiastic followers of the German Boxer met to develop a standard for the Boxer which would be accepted by all.  The Munich Boxer Club drew up the standard which exists largely unchanged even today.  

Boxer Dogs in America

The first Boxer dog in America was imported in 1903 from Switzerland.  The new owner of the dog was New York Chief Justice of the Court of Appeals, Irving Lehman who imported many other Boxer dogs.  The first Boxer dog registered with the American Kennel Club was in 1904.  The dog was Arnulf Grandenz, bred in America by James Welch of Illinois.

Boxer Dogs in Warring Nations

The boxer dog gained rapid popularity soon after the Second World War ended, ironically more prominently in countries formerly opposed in a war with the Boxer’s most likely native home, Germany.  Listen to what Rowland Johns says in Our Friend The Boxer:  ‘The re-emergence of the Boxer breed has added proof that warring nations do not carry their antagonisms for long into the relations between them and other nations’ dogs.  Both with the Alsatian and the Boxer their popularity derives directly from the contacts made during a state of war.  In those two wars, the adoption of both breeds by members of the British forces provided some personal satisfaction and uplift of the spirit in long periods of exile from home, family, and friends.’

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WHITE PITBULL - Dogs of the World

White Pitbull - Dogs of the World

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What is the most popular CHIHUAHUA?

Photo  by faith goble 

For starters let's dispel a nasty rumor...

Chihuahuas are not a type of rodent bred to look like a dog. This is an urban legend that has been thoroughly debunked.

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world and the oldest breed in North America with its origins shrouded in mystery. The dog came into prominence about 100 years ago in Mexico but many believe the dog originally came from Egypt while others insist that the Chinese first bred the dog.

Chihuahuas can live up to 15 years old and make great apartment dogs due to their small size. They typically do not like the outdoors and hate the cold which accounts for their tendency to shiver. A sweater is usually a welcome gift and is well tolerated on cooler days.

Many people carry them but it is a good idea to let them walk to keep fit with several 15-20 minutes walks a day enough to maintain general fitness. It is generally better to use a harness instead of a collar when walking to prevent choking and throat injuries because of their delicate bone structure.

An affectionate dog, they love to snuggle, make good watchdogs and are safe around children provided they are not teased. They are also relatively cheap to own because they obviously don't eat as much food as a larger dog.

Chihuahuas are born with a soft spot on the top of their head similar to a human that doesn’t always close so care must be taken to avoid serious bumps and repeated jumping down from a chair, bed or couch can cause stress injuries on leg joints so you might want to consider buying a pet ramp if you get a Chihuahua.

There are two types of Chihuahuas that are identical except for coat length, the short-haired and the long-haired with the short-haired being the more popular as evidenced by all of the appearances in television and movies.

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Who really is the BOSS in your house?

Photo  by JSF539 

People let me tell you ‘bout my best friend, he’s a warm boy, cuddly toy, my up, my down, my pride, and joy. People let me tell you ‘bout him he’s so much fun………….

If you’re old enough to remember that theme song – let’s get together for lunch and commiserate. If you’re not, it’s from an old TV show called “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father,” and you should seek it out on DVD. The point here isn’t nostalgia, though. It’s a cute theme, but it’s not good parenting – of children or dogs.

Dogs are pack animals and need leadership clearly defined. If you don’t take the lead, Muffy thinks she’s in charge. And Muffy has absolutely no clue how your household should be run. You can be absolutely certain that if Muffy rules the roost, everyone’s going to be miserable. You won’t be able to eat, sleep, or live in peace.

On the other hand, if you’re in charge, Brutus is going to be a happy camper. Teach him the rules and insist that he lives by them. It works. 

The most difficult dog we’ve ever had is a Boston Terrier. She’s a sweet dog, but her wiring is tangled. A friend of mine who works in a social service agency likened her to a child with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. We have developed a strict schedule for her and we stick to it. Given the opportunity, she would play constantly, whine when we didn’t indulge her, and generally make life difficult. 

She does get to play fetch – when we decide it’s time and for as long as we choose. We have a special timer for play sessions and when she sees us reach for it, she sits and cries for her special ball. We get the ball from her special shelf and throw that ball, without interruption, for as long as that timer is going, sometimes just five minutes, or as long as 15 minutes. When the timer beeps – that’s it. The ball goes back on the shelf. Playtime is over. It took a while for her to adjust, but now she hears the beep, drops the ball, goes to get a drink of water and then finds a place to lie down.

Our dog is an extreme example – but a valid illustration of the concept. When guests come over, she is allowed to greet them, but not jump on them, harass them, or drown them with licking (unless they invite it). After she’s given the opportunity to say hello, she is confined to a crate in the same room, with chew toys to occupy her, where she can see and hear everything. 

We’re able to have a nice evening with our company and without worrying about the dog ruining the gathering.

It may be easier to “give in” to your dog’s whining, begging or bad behavior. It’s also a recipe for disaster – most dogs who are given up or abandoned lose their homes because of behavior problems. It’s never too late to train a dog – they can always learn new tricks – and the most valuable trick of all may be learning to sit quietly. 

That’s a good place to start. Put on your dog’s leash and collar. Grab a handful of treats. Go sit down at the dining room table. Tell your dog to sit next to you sit on the leash. Read a magazine for five minutes. Have someone join you for a conversation. Drink a cup of tea. 

When Zeus is good, say “good quiet” and pop a treat. Ignore him if he whines. Try it for five minutes today. Maybe six or seven tomorrow. Don’t push it too far – you want him to succeed. Reward like crazy when he’s good. It’s a first step in taking control of your dog and your life.

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Taking Care Of A DOG In Its SENIOR YEARS

Photo  by Tobyotter 

When you have a dog, you have a best buddy. Millions of dog owners around the globe know this to be true. Nevertheless, you are tasked with caring for a dog if you should opt to bring one into your home. That's why you have to have some tips about how to do this. Keep reading for some great dog tips.

Consider teaching your dog hand signals along with oral commands. Consistency and practice are key to teaching a dog these non-verbal commands. Many owners get annoyed and resort back to oral commands, but a professionally trained dog should understand both. Try utilizing only oral commands when the dog is out of the way range, but when close up, only use the hand signals.

Keep on top of fleas. Not only can fleas give rise to infection in your dog, if you are swallowed, your pet can get tapeworms also. Speak to your vet about the best prevention system, but remember that this is not a single shot deal. You will have to continue your efforts over the life of your pet.

If you have got an interest in providing your dog with the healthiest of diets and making positive contributions to the earth's environment, make his food from scratch. You can buy locally grown organic ingredients and provide him with all of the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats he wants with no preservatives while reducing the waste from packaging too.

Pup

In order to make sure your dog is healthy, be absolutely certain to permit it to have access to clean water at all times throughout the day. Just like with all living beings, water is one of the most vital elements. The sole exception would be that you would want to keep water from a pup for 3 hours before bedtime.

Dogs need frequent check-ups, as well. At regular intervals, your dog desires indications of dog worms testing, vaccinations, and general check-ups. With a puppy, you're going to need to visit your vet a little more frequently. If your dog becomes unwell or is hurt, don't delay in getting him to the vet.

Owning a new young dog is very similar to having a new baby. Puppies need lots of attention and need to be looked after continually. They are not prepared to be left alone for lengthy amounts of time and need to have a fair degree of attention devoted to them.

Treatment

When taking your senior dog to the vet for a yearly visit, be sure to request senior blood work. A blood panel can help your vet to identify any kidney, heart or vascular concerns. If caught early, treatment is often minimally aggressive and less expensive. This is the best way to keep your pet healthy for several years to come.

Your coaching methodologies should only use positive reinforcement. The promise of reward or praise will incentivize your dog faster and agreeably than domination or force. This form of training will give you numerous benefits in the future for your dog. Therefore, be kind when coaching your dog and revel in the great end result!

Don't bathe your dog once you have applied for a flea or tick medicine. Some medications out that they are waterproof, but they only mean against rain or swimming. They will mostly wash away with a dog shampoo, rendering the treatment ineffective. If you've got to wash the dog after a treatment, employ a soap free shampoo.

Not only do you have a chum when you have a dog, but you've also got a responsibility. It's important that you do your utmost to ensure that your dog is well-fed, healthy and happy. You need to make certain that you use the tips here to help so you and your dog both enjoy a good life.

Author: Timothy Huff

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A Brief Look at the ALASKAN MALAMUTE Breed of Dog

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The Alaskan malamute breed is a rather large dog that can weigh up to 90 pounds, and measure up to 25 inches in height. They have a thick gray, black or white coat, and are best known as working dogs, pulling sleds in Alaska. Their ideal habitat consists of cool climates where they can keep them cool, even in the heat of summer. 

These dogs have a shiny and coarse outer coat, and a soft inner coat, which almost feels like wool, specially designed for living in cold weather. In the event that you are caring for an Alaskan Malamute in warmer climates, you should make sure to provide a place in the shade with plenty of water available at all times.

The coats on an Alaskan malamute come in various shades of grey, black, white, and even red. Specimens, who show mixed colors, will predominantly be white on the extremities. The American Kennel Commission only accepts white as a solid color.

These dogs show a high degree of independence and loyalty. They show a lot of energy as puppies and mellow down a little as years go by. They will chew on anything they can find, dig a hole wherever they please and play dog games all day. If you don’t want it destroyed, better hide it from them. They make a bad choice for an apartment dog or even the pet for a small home. In houses with limited space, the owner will need to take precautions with the fence in order to prevent him from escaping.

This breed loves the outdoors and playing games, they would be especially good for older children until they mellow down a little bit. Malamutes which are trained, and given some sort social behavior classes will handle themselves well among other animals, and even work together with them. However, if left up to their own instincts, they can turn aggressive towards other animals and consider small ones as prey to be devoured and eaten.

This breed of dog is native to Alaska and dates back over two thousand years. Originally, these dogs were trained to work, pulling sleds in the Alaskan Malamute Eskimo tribe. Besides being a great companion to any family, these dogs are still used for pulling sleds in racing events and assisting families who live in arctic regions...

For families living in cold and snowy weather conditions, such as the Eskimo tribes in Alaska, these dogs are of crucial importance for their survival. It is important for aspiring pet owners to consider the design of this dog before opting for him as a pet. The two different coats in the dog’s fur are not made for aesthetic purposes, but rather to provide a lot of warmth in an otherwise inhospitable environment. Getting this dog as a pet, and condemning him to live in the warmer regions near the equator, would only become a permanent form of torture to a dog not equipped to live in such conditions. In other words, it would be like leaving a fish in the sands of the dessert.

Author: Damian Cross - Source: www.isnare.com

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AMERICAN SHORTHAIR - Cats of the World

American Shorthair - Cats of the World

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Meet The BEAUCERON

Beauceron -Photo: Pixabay

The Beauceron is a large dog that weighs between 75-110 lbs. Their height ranges between 24" to 27 ½". Loyal, protective and territorial, the Beauceron makes an excellent watchdog that will ward off any intruders or those that they perceive as a threat to their family and home.

Although the Beauceron is not currently recognized by the AKC, an application for recognition has been filed. Acceptable colors for Beaucerons include black and tan or tri-color (black, tan and grey). They are double coated with a medium length, dense, coarse and straight outer coat, and a dense undercoat. Their coat is easy to care for and requires minimal grooming.

This large, energetic dog is extremely protective of family and territory. They can be aggressive with animals they don't know or strangers. However, when raised with other dogs, pets and children from puppyhood they can do well. Because of their size, they are recommended for older, well-behaved children. When outside, they should be in a secured yard. They can be calm with their family but are an overall energetic breed that requires plenty of exercises, play and time to run. Early training is recommended as they can have a stubborn streak. Once trained, they will follow their master's commands. With a strong herding instinct, they have a tendency to herd family and other pets. They like to be with family.

Dating back to 16th century France, the Beauceron was bred to herd sheep. They are also known as Berger de Beauce and Bas Rouge (Red Stocking) for the markings on their legs. They were used during WWI and WWII to detect landmines and find the wounded. Their high trainability makes them excellent at this job as well as in police work. The Beauceron has a natural guarding instinct and has also traditionally been used as a guard dog and watchdog. 

With such a high instinct to protect their home and family, the Beauceron makes an excellent guard dog. Homes that can appreciate their loyalty and protective drive are essential. They are also very energetic and work well with families that enjoy outside activity.

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GERMAN SHEPHERD. Protective Noble Breed. His Highness The German Shepherd Dog

The History of the German shepherd

German shepherd (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The German shepherd dog is known to be one of the most beautiful and devoted dogs around today. With its toughness and nobility, the breed can sometimes, unfortunately, get judged unfairly; though, despite that, it still remains one of the most popular breeds of dog around today.

The History of the Breed

The German shepherd has not actually been around for a long period of time. It was developed in the late 1880’s when a man named Captain Max von Stephanitz decided to standardize the breed.

He saw a wolf-like dog at a show in Western Germany and he noticed just how energetic, tough, steady and intelligent the dog actually was. It was medium in size and the dog was also a natural sheepherder which knew exactly what to do. So Captain Max von Stephanitz bought the dog and named him “Horand von Grafrath”.

That was the first ever registered German shepherd dog.

So the main purpose of the breed was to herd cattle and sheep. The main priority was to develop a dog which was intelligent and stable. The looks of the dog were not as important; just as long as the breed could herd really well that was all that mattered. If a dog was born that was not intelligent and which would not obey its owner then it was automatically classed as being useless.

At first, mistakes were made with inbreeding. Captain Max von Stephanitz would breed the pups with their half-sisters and the daughters of dog’s sons. This created a lot of problems with the breed and eventually, dogs were brought in that were not related by blood.

Another problem also occurred which needed to be addressed and that was the fact that the pastoral era had started to decline. As the main purpose of the German shepherd was to herd, the fact that the pastoral era was declining meant that it was likely that the breed would no longer be needed.

German Shepherds were then introduced into police dog roles as well as for tracking and guarding purposes.

Throughout the war, the breed was even used as a Red Cross dog and they were also used partially as messenger dogs, too. So they certainly had a wide range of purposes throughout the war period. As time went on, various breeders started to experiment with the German shepherd and a newer version of the breed was developed.

However, it had a faulty temperament and Captain Max von Stephanitz was horrified. The breed may not have been around for a large amount of time, but for the time it has been developed, it has changed quite a lot.

Its popularity after World War II meant that Americans became interested in the German Shepherd and they were developed completely differently to the German standard.

These days the German shepherd is mainly a companion dog but it is also widely used as a police dog and a guarding dog, too. Its temperament has changed over the years, though it still has a fantastic working instinct.

Submitted by: John E Adams About the Author: copyright John Adams. Dog Breeds Explained. Choose the right dog for you. Compare the German Shepherd to every other dog breed German Shepherd explained Source: www.isnare.com Permanent Link: https://www.isnare.com/?aid=205784&ca=Pets

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Fact Sheet: RAGDOLL CAT

This is a real seal point ragdoll cat. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The ragdoll cat is a large breed of cat, best known for its easygoing and mellow nature. They have long, thick fur coats and markings that resemble a Siamese. Caring for your ragdoll cat should involve a regular feeding and grooming schedule, along with regular visits to the veterinarian for checkups and vaccinations. If you take good care of your ragdoll cat, they will be healthy, happy, and a better active pet for you to enjoy.

Feeding 

Fresh food and water is an absolute necessity for your ragdoll. It is recommended that you always have a bowl full of dry food available for your cat, as well as a bowl of clean water. Wet food is probably not necessary on a daily basis, but it is really up to you, and what your ragdoll prefers. You may need to experiment with different brands and flavors of wet food. It can provide extra nutrients and add variety to your ragdoll's diet. We recommend feeding your ragdoll one of the premium brands of food, as the quality is usually better. Usually, kittens should have a special formula for food, so check with your veterinarian or local pet store if you're not sure.

You should try to clean the water bowl daily, and the food bowl as much as possible to prevent germs and bacteria from building up.

Grooming 

Ragdoll coats can vary in thickness and hair type. The average ragdoll hair is fairly thick and very soft to the touch. The length of the fur can be medium to long.

They usually do a good job of grooming themselves and don't require excessive brushing. It is a good idea to brush them strenuously a couple of times a week to prevent matting of the fur. The other reason for brushing on a regular schedule is if you happen to find a knot forming, you can easily brush it out before it gets out of control.

Ragdolls tend to enjoy grooming and make it easy for you to brush away!

Bathing 

Bathing is not really necessary if regular grooming is done. It may be beneficial to give your ragdoll a bath a couple of times a year, to clean the coat if really dirty or if they have gotten into something that can not be brushed out.

Make sure that you use a shampoo and conditioner that is formulated especially for cats, as regular human products may be harmful to your ragdoll.

Claws 

Declawing a cat is a controversial subject and one that brings many different opinions. We generally don't recommend declawing a ragdoll unless it will help with the safety within a household, specifically with children. Clipping the claws can be done on a regular basis to avoid damage to your furniture or other items in the house, so if that is your only reason for declawing the cat, your decision should be weighed carefully because it is not reversible.

Keep in mind that if a ragdoll cat is declawed, it should be limited in it's exposure to the outside world. Without front claws, a ragdoll doesn't have much of a defense against other animals or threats that it might encounter.

Litterbox 

The litterbox should be kept in a fairly secluded area to allow for privacy, but not so out of the way that it is difficult to access for cleaning. Usually, a laundry room or other spare room serves as a good location.

We recommend scooping out the inside of the box at least once a day and actually replacing the litter weekly. If you have more than one cat, then it may be necessary to clean the box twice daily, morning and night for example.

There are many different brands and types of litter out there, it is just a matter of preference. The main thing is to find something that your cat will use, is easy to keep clean and affordable for your budget.

Veterinarian 

You should take your ragdoll to a veterinarian on a regular basis according to what they recommend. You will want to get vaccination shots and any other treatments that will keep your cat healthy and safe.

There may be special considerations if your ragdoll spends more time outside, such as pest control and a higher susceptibility to disease. Make sure you discuss this with your vet and work out a plan that makes sense.

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CATS & DOGS - Soul Mates?

Photo  by jeffreyw 

Soul Mates?

I had heard more than once how Chows are very cat-like in their demeanor and attitudes and since I have had two of them in my life I can confirm this!  Given this similarity, I was still unprepared for my current Chow’s love of cats.  My last dog chased cats like every genetically correct pup should do, so I was amazed at my current pup and her feline fascination.

My pal Keisha was only five months old when she met her first cat.  His name was Pongo and he was also five months old.  We were visiting with family in Omaha Nebraska for Christmas and Keisha was determined to make friends with Pongo.

Pongo would have nothing to do with her!

They tiptoed around each other for three days even coming nose to nose eventually.  Then on Boxing Day, we had just finished our lunch of leftovers…you know turkey sandwiches and such, when we heard a crash in the kitchen. Assuming nothing serious we were slow to react.

When we finally moseyed into the kitchen to get going on the post-lunch cleanup they were caught in the act! There they were…Pongo and Keisha nose to nose eating the turkey that someone (?!?!?) had pushed off of the counter onto the floor.  They had a fine feast together and even after their tag team mischief, Pongo was still reluctant to become fast friends although  I think he was beginning to warm up to the idea after all Keisha had eaten the turkey and not him!

Unfortunately, we had to leave before the relationship was cemented.  We have not seen Pongo since but Keisha responds most enthusiastically to his name still, over three years later.

Keisha is almost four years old now and since meeting Pongo she has tried to make friends with every cat she meets.  They have all wanted absolutely nothing to do with her. And then came MOJO.

Mojo is owned by a neighbor and is an outdoor cat.  He totally suits his name and struts through the “hood” as though he owns it and has complete control over all that goes down in it.  He definitely has his MOJO going on!

At first, Keisha approached him cautiously, and he would bat at her with his paws, but never with claws out.  Slowly but surely they came closer and closer to each other.  There was the dancing around each other period that looked really funny as each would take their turn jumping forward then backward not unlike some ritual.  Then came the purring and then the rolling over and belly sniffing.  After that Mojo began to walk around and under Keisha strategically putting his tail in her face.

She managed to maintain her aloof dignity when he does the tail in the face thing.  All of this has progressed to Mojo coming for walks with us, he comes to visit and waits at the door for Keisha to come out to play.  Keisha will put her paw on his bum to get the game of chase going and if Mojo is in the mood he will start the game by running or he will roll onto his back and swat at Keisha with all four paws.  Mojo is the alpha in the relationship in spite of his 10 lbs to Keisha’s 60!

It is the most wonderful thing to observe and the neighborhood is mesmerized by these two fast friends.

To see them together one wonders why some cats and dogs get along and others want to destroy each other. Is it perhaps a past life spent together? Early influences like Pongo? Maybe Keisha was a cat in her last life and thus the affinity for cats and cat-like behavior? Or are they just all very different souls with very different personalities and perspectives?  Who knows for sure?  All I know is that my heart always warms when I see them together and am awed by this amazing friendship that truly looks like soul mates in action.

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Cat Breeds: PERSIAN

Persian Cat - Photo by akk_rus 

Are you looking to get a new cat soon? Great! You may want to consider a purebred cat. There are many breeds that can be found in this country, each with its own characteristic appearance and temperament and history. Think carefully about what you would characteristics you would like to see in your new companion. Perhaps you would care to consider:

The Persian

A very ancient breed of cat, the Persian was first mentioned in hieroglyphs beginning at approximately 1684 B.C. The Persians' beginnings have long been lost to time. The Persian was so named for their ostensible country of origin, the great ancient empire of Persia which was located in around the modern country of Iran. The first known Persian cats to arrive in Europe were brought by an Italian traveler, Pietro della Valle, in the 1600s. Persians became very popular throughout Europe. At the first modern cat show, held in 1871 in London at the Crystal Palace, Persians were a featured breed. The show at the Crystal Palace, and the others that followed served only to increase the popularity of this already very popular breed. Queen Victoria herself adored blue Persians.

      Persians are a wildly popular breed. They are, in fact, the most popular breed of cat on the planet. Their long flowing coats and sweet faces immediately endear them to so many people. Their personalities are gentle and affectionate. They are strong creatures of habit and are most comfortable in secure environments with regular routines, but with gentle support, they can adapt to a more lively environment if need be. Persians are soft-spoken cats with pleasant and melodious voices that many people enjoy. Their expressive eyes charm people of all ages. Persians are built long and low with sturdy short legs. They are not big jumpers but do enjoy lounging in their favorite strategic locations. They can often be found beautifully draped on a sunny windowsill posing for the sheer pleasure of it. Friendly cats, Persians will seek attention, but not demand it. Persians have long been a fixture in an artwork. Their great beauty has earned them frequent roles in commercial advertising and in movies.

Persians need to be kept indoors, away from dirt and burrs that could knot up those beautiful coats. Daily combing is a must to prevent snarled fur and hairballs. Those huge beautiful eyes do tend to do a bit of tearing. Washing a Persians' face daily will take care of tearing. A well-bred Persian can be hearty and healthy. When properly cared for, Persians can live to be 15 years old.

      The Persian is an extraordinarily beautiful breed and comes in an amazing variety of colors and patterns. The registry divides their colors into seven categories: solid color division, silver, and gold division, shaded and smoke division, tabby division, particolor division, bicolor division, and Himalayan division. Each color and pattern exquisitely beautiful.

The Persian cat is an ancient breed whose winning ways continue to charm people to this day. They appear in a rainbow of colors and patterns, one of which is sure to catch your eye. Give the Persian cat a closer look. The Persian has long been a gentle, loving, loyal companion to many people over the years. This cat may be exactly what you are looking for in a new companion. 

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NORFOLK TERRIER - Dogs of the World

Norfolk Terrier - Dogs of the World

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Why Own a NORFOLK TERRIER Dog as Pet

Norfolk Terrier (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you are planning to get a Norfolk terrier pet dog, here are some things you should know:

The Norfolk terrier originated from England. It is actually very affectionate and does not exhibit a disagreeable nature. Because of this, many people like to keep them as pets. However, there can be quite some difficulty housetraining a Norfolk terrier pet dog. This is because of the fact that a Norfolk terrier pet dog can be quite stubborn. The best method recommended for this breed is crate training.

What is crate training? Well, it involves training your Norfolk terrier pet dog to stay in a crate when it is left unsupervised. Used humanely, a crate can be a great den for your Norfolk terrier pet dog. This will help your Norfolk terrier pet dog when it needs some sort of privacy or alone time. This will also train your Norfolk terrier pet dog not to soil around the house. One advantage of crate training is the fact that you can be reassured that your pet will be safe even if it is left unsupervised. Travelling will also be much more comfortable since your Norfolk terrier pet dog will have adjusted to his den.

A Norfolk terrier pet dog does not naturally shed its fur. This fact has a good side and a bad side. On the good side, no shedding means no mess. This means that they can be kept indoors without risk of leaving fur on your floor. However, you do need to take your Norfolk terrier pet dog to a groomer twice a year in order to strip the coat. This is done in order to promote the growth of a new weather-resistant coat. In a sense, this allows your Norfolk terrier pet dog to freshen up.

In order to properly care for the coat of your Norfolk terrier pet dog, you need to brush it at least twice a day. This will help get rid of tangles and prevent matting.

Ideally, a Norfolk terrier pet dog should be kept in a place with a fenced yard so that it can have a large space to romp around. This is because of the fact that Norfolk terrier pet dogs thrive on activity. Boredom for this breed usually leads to destruction so you should try to keep it occupied.

The best quality that a Norfolk terrier pet dog exhibits are the ability to get along with other pets. They also love children. This means that kids will have a lot of fun with a Norfolk terrier pet dog. You should be careful, however, as Norfolk terrier pet dogs may perceive smaller animals as prey.

One thing that may be admired in a Norfolk terrier pet dog is the fact that though it is not aggressive, it is generally a courageous breed. Because of this, a Norfolk terrier pet dog can make an excellent watchdog. Another factor that contributes to this is the fact that a Norfolk terrier pet dog is usually very alert and will bark immediately to alert the family.

Before you get a Norfolk terrier pet dog, you need to make sure that you gather as much information as possible. By understanding the different aspects of the Norfolk terrier pet dog, you will make sure that you have the ability to care for one.

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