Fact Sheet: CAIRN TERRIER

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

Photo by Cuyahoga jco 

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.

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ASIAN CAT Breeds

Adult female Balinese cat (siamese longhair)
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I would like to share with you today the cat breeds of Asia. The cats of Asia are unique breeds both natural and developed types. They have their own markings and personalities. Some of the breeds date back to ancient times when a cat was worshiped like a god.

The Balinese is a longhair mutation of the Siamese. The Balinese has a long silky coat, plumed tail, and Siamese markings. The Balinese's coat is white or cream colored with grey, blue, lilac or chocolate points. The Balinese is intelligent, alert, curious and fun loving.

The Birman, originally from Burma, was a sacred companion of the priests. The Birman is a large, long stocky cat with silky hair. Its' coat is light with darker points and white feet. The Birman is gentle, active and playful.

The Colorpoint Shorthair is a hybrid of the Siamese. The Colorpoint is very similar to the Siamese with a white or cream coat but has 4 times the point colors. The Colorpoint produces low levels of dander making it a good choice for someone with cat allergies.

A show-quality female Japanese bobtail
 looks attentively at the camera,
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Japanese Bobtail is a symbol of good luck in Japan. Originally from China, the Japanese Bobtail has been around for centuries as shown in ancient paintings. The tail is the unique feature of the cat. The Japanese Bobtail is friendly, active and intelligent.

Named for the island next to Bali, the Javanese is identical to the size of the Balinese but differs in coat color. The Javanese is highly intelligent and easily adaptable to its' surroundings.

Considered a symbol of good luck in Thailand, the Korat (or Si-Sawat) is a rare breed of cat. The Korat is known for its' green eyes and a keen sense of hearing, sight and scent. Its' coat is silver blue and multi-layered. Pricing of a Korat depends on its' bloodline and show history.

The Oriental is a very curious and intelligent cat. The Oriental's coat is fine and silky and can be over 300 different colors. The Oriental's body is sleek with a whippy tail. The Oriental is very loyal.

Originally from Singapore, the Singapura is a small shorthaired cat with large eyes and ears. Its' light beige coat is unique. The Singapura can have hazel, green or yellow eyes. The Singapura is intelligent, curious and playful.

Native to the mountains of Lake Van in Turkey, the Turkish Van is a desired breed due to its' rarity. Its' coat is white with semi-long hair. Its' eyes can be amber, blue or one amber, one blue. Unlike most other cats, they love the water.

Probably the best known of the Asian cats is the Siamese. Originally from Thailand (formerly known as Siam), the Siamese can be found in most parts of the world. The Siamese have short silky coats with almond-shaped eyes. The light coat with dark points makes them easily recognizable. The Siamese is intelligent, curious and loving.

When considering a cat for a pet, you may want to explore the attributes of the Asian cats. You can view pictures of the Asian cats at petside.com.

By Frank Loethen Frank Loethen, live in Georgia with my wife and three cats. Have 5 children a 4 grandchildren. Article Source: EzineArticles

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GERMAN Vs All Other ROTTWEILERS

Photo by arne.list 

If you don't own a Rottweiler or aren't involved with the breed, then it might come as a big surprise that the typical Rottweiler (American Rottweiler) you see here and again, getting walked in your neighborhood or being often portrayed in a negative light in most media, is actually world's apart from the original Rottweiler from Germany, the German Rottweiler.

The German Rottweiler can trace its roots as far as back as the Roman Empire and is considered by many to be one of the oldest herding dogs. The Rottweiler was used for various activities in different periods of history. In ancient times. the Rottweiler was used to herd and protect livestock, while in modern times was used primarily as a guard dog by militaries and police. Thus, the Rottweiler is a multi-faceted breed capable of performing various tasks and is very smart, loyal, eager to work, and is very confident.

Now, there are two basic differences between the kennel organizations like the AKC and ADRK. In the early 20th century, Germany had a few existing Rottweiler clubs covering the span of Germany, and it was in the 20's when they all came together to form the Allgemeiner Deutscher Rottweiler Klub (ADRK), i.e. General German Rottweiler Klub. Now, this organization has for almost 100 years now maintained a strict standard and guidelines to what the Rottweiler should be, as after all the Rottweiler is German and they wanted to preserve the Rottweiler for what it is (a working dog), and thus to this day have the best Rottweilers. In Germany, one cannot simply just breed any Rottweiler they like, be it a Rottweiler with papers and a Rottweiler without papers, like you can in America, but instead there is a procedure to it.

If you have ever looked at an import German (Pink Paper) pedigree, you will notice that there is a detailed paragraph for every Rottweiler in that dog's pedigree. These paragraphs are official "critiques" of the Rottweiler given by certified ADRK judges, These critiques are given when you take your Rottweiler to Zuchttauglichkeitsprufung (called the ZTP or BST) which translates to "breeding suitability test," and it officially certifies that a Rottweiler is acceptable as breeding stock. In Germany, a Rottweiler must meet this degree before being bred and hence, is the affirmation that this particular Rottweiler is within the standard and is an ambassador for the breed. This sort of "screening", if you will, helps weed out weak genetics and assures that the breed of Rottweilers will only continue to get better. The ZTP also tests the dogs working ability, because a Rottweiler not capable of working is not a Rottweiler. He just falls into the group of all other Molossoid breeds and isn't distinguishable.

If I can put it into an analogy, it would be like if you saw a really sporty looking car on the street being passed by a Geo. The car may look like it's fast, but in reality, it isn't. The Rottweiler is the same, you might see one that may look really nice, but if he can't do what he is naturally intended to do, which is to work, then he isn't a true Rottweiler. Germans test the dogs working ability with Schutzhund. Schutzhund is like the police dog training that most people have seen, consisting of the dog biting a man wearing a padded suit with a bite sleeve. But, it is a little more thorough than just biting. Schutzhund consists of 3 parts: Obedience, Protection, and Tracking.

Now, I can go on speaking about Schutzhund for the next hour, but the gist of it is that it makes the Rottweiler completely controllable, confident, and ready to do any command that is asked by his owner. The obedience part does just this, the Rottweiler is tested in various ways on his ability to listen and perform tasks that are commanded by his owner. The Protection part, falls in line with obedience, as the Rottweiler is commanded to find the perpetrator (in Schutzhund he is hiding behind Teepee-like blinds), get up as close as possible to the perp and consistently bark to acknowledge to his owner that he has found him and to await the owners commands. Lastly, the tracking not only tests the Rottweiler's scenting ability but his overall mental soundness and ability to find items precisely. This is just the very basic explanation of it, I'll write a very thorough article on Rottweilers and Schutzhund shortly.

So, the ZTP critiques the dog's look or confirmation, and also these 3 phases of Schutzhund. Point being, this sort of testing is paramount if you want to preserve the integrity of a breed like the Rottweiler.

In America on the other hand, there is none of this. There was a large influx of Rottweilers being imported from throughout Germany and Europe and being registered in the 70s and 80s, that at one point the Rottweiler was one of the most registered dogs in the AKC in the 80's. AKC almost has zero Rottweiler-specific regulations when it comes to breeding like the ADRK has, so for the last 30-40 years, anyone with a Rottweiler was able to breed to any other Rottweiler, not taking into consideration the German standard, and thus resulted in the American Rottweiler.

Now, one of the first things you will see when placing a German Rottweiler side by side an American Rottweiler is that the German Rottweiler has a tail. Docking tails have become part of the German standard in the early 2000's and are outlawed in most of Europe. In America, the vast majority of breeders still do it as it is still legal. The separate point also being, that if you encounter Rottweiler breeders saying that they breed German Rottweilers, but you see the tails cropped, they are obviously not following the ADRK standard and are not breeding German Rottweilers.

Another difference you will immediately see is the sheer size difference between the two. German Rottweilers tend to be a lot larger and more compact than typical Rottweilers. German Rottweilers have heavier bones, thicker necks, wider chests, bigger headpieces, more pronounced stops (arched foreheads), shorter muzzles, deeper chests, and won't have as long legs like American Rottweilers.

The German Rottweiler also tends to learn a lot quicker than American Rottweilers and has inherent guard instincts that are more pronounced than typical Rottweilers. The German Rottweiler as well will have more pronounced and a lot darker eye and mouth pigmentation.

This was just a general introduction to the differences between the real German Rottweiler, and the rest. If you encounter someone proposing that his Rottweiler is a German Rottweiler, first ask who his parents or grandparents are and Google their names to see if they are real ADRK registered German Rottweilers. And of course, don't ask them this if you see that he has a cropped tail, as more likely than not, he will not be a German Rottweiler.

By Slobodan Petrovic If you enjoyed this article, and enjoy Rottweilers in general, please make sure to visit our website and see pictures of our beautiful Rottweilers, our adorable puppies pictures, about us as German Rottweiler breeders, and a lot more! http://www.vbrott.com Article Source: EzineArticles

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Dog History: The PIT BULL Terrier

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.

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The Basic Needs Of TOY POODLES

Toy Poodle - Photo  by Yasuhiko Ito 

Many people and families consider having Toy Poodles to share their life with. But every owner or soon-to-be owners of dogs should realize that dog ownership requires ten to 15 years or more of commitment. Just like humans, Toy Poodles as well as other dog breeds, need food, water, shelter and nurturing to survive.

Proper nutrition.
Look at your dog's diet and see if there is something you can do to improve it. Look for dog foods and dog food companies proven to use high-quality ingredients. There are also pet foods specifically formulated to dogs with a certain health condition like obesity and diabetes. If you prefer to give homemade dog foods, ask your vet's advice for the ingredients that are appropriate for your furry friend. When switching dog food, remember to do so gradually to prevent gastrointestinal upset and other digestive problem.

Physical maintenance.
As much as it is important for humans, exercise is also vital in keeping your dog fit. Toy Poodles are active little dogs who need a daily walk - be it around the block or in the park nearest to you. Behavior problem such as chewing, digging and urine marking inside the house can be avoided with daily as well as playing ball and fetch. But remember not to over-exercise your dog, allow exercise that is only appropriate for your dog's age and breed.

Grooming and cleaning.
Grooming doesn't necessarily mean dressing your dog up. Grooming is one way of making sure that your dog is clean and doesn't look and smell dirty. A Toy Poodle needs regular bath and clipping every six weeks. Clean the ears, the teeth, and the gums. Dog shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste and other cleaning and grooming supplies are available at most pet supply stores.

Shelter.
Dogs have natural den instinct. They need a space they can call their own, their shelter and home. Make the shelter - be it a kennel, crate or bed comfortable as much as possible. The bed or the crate must be appropriate for your dog. It shouldn't be too small to allow movements.

Training.
Training is an important part of a dog's life. Even if you do not intend to have your dog appear in dog shows and rings, training is still necessary. Remember that a well-trained dog is pleasant to be around. Less accident in the house, less trouble!

Providing your dog the above-mentioned needs will certainly create a long, happy and healthy life with your furry friend.

Richard Cussons writes articles including articles about Toy Poodle. Visit poodlesavvy.com for your Toy Poodle information. Article Source: GoArticles

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The Beautiful KARELIAN BEAR DOG

Karelian bear dog (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I first met the Karelian Bear Dog in 1997, and when I saw this beautiful breed with its excellent conformation and color contrast, I fell in love with it.

This breed is an Arctic breed from Finland originally and because of wars, later a breed of Russia. Like many far Northern Breeds the dog is hardy and has a thick coat that keeps it warm in severely cold weather. Different from many Northern Breeds like Malamutes or Siberian Huskies, the Karelian Bear Dogs' coat is short (in comparison) but dense. This breed can be strong-willed and yet very willing to please and they are extremely quick to learn anything. They pick up obedience training very fast, much faster than many other breeds, and do well in competitions. They are not seen very often in Obedience Competition because they are a rare breed.

This breeds' fame lies in that it is a natural protector of property and has the courage to move bear or large animals out of its area. The KBD is a natural hunter and is very devoted to its owner. The Karelian Bear Dogs are rare worldwide, and there are not many even in the United States.

The Karelian Bear Dogs are a rare, and unique animal, originating in the areas of Russia, Finland, and Siberia. They are considered a National Treasure in Russia and Finland and were not exported to other countries until just a few years ago.

The KBD was bred for hunting both large and small game. As their name indicates they were used for hunting bear, and also elk. In our nation, they are used in our National Parks to move the bears away from campgrounds and other people populated areas. The dogs are serving people by protecting them in such a manner.

The Karelian Bear Dogs protect their humans from any predators. For people who like to hike in the woods or mountains, these dogs are especially excellent. They are brave, courageous, obedient, and protective to their death, yet the Karelian Bear Dog is gentle and loving to their family.

The dog is friendly to anyone approaching them unless they mean harm to the master. And they seem to know the difference. Karelian Bear Dogs are extremely intelligent and excel in obedience training and tracking.

They are deeply devoted, especially to one person, who they give their heart, but they are still loving to the whole family. The Karelian Bear Dog craves human attention and they do not stray from the house, but stay faithfully close to home.

They are a dog that takes a gentle hand in training because they are such an intelligent and sensitive breed.

Our young daughter hooks her Karelian to her sled and the dog pulls her endlessly. She stops when commanded, but runs back to cover her young friend with doggy kisses. Such is the Karelian Bear Dog, brave and courageous, but sweet and loving.

By Nancy Reishus I am a Montana author and specialize in e-books. I have raised purebred dogs for many years and write dog books for fun. Check my fun website on Karelian Bear Dogs... http://karelianbeardogs.blogspot.com Article Source: EzineArticles

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BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG - Dogs of the World

Bernese Mountain Dog - Dogs of the World

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Dog Training Harness – A Great Training Aid

Dog Harness -  Photo: Wikimedia

As they say, dogs are man's best friend. Unfortunately, not all dogs are sweet and friendly. We often forget that dogs are still beasts which, when untrained, may cause harm to others. This explains the importance of training them. And one great tool to use is the dog training harness.

The harness is most useful if you want to take the dog for a walk. This is one perfect bonding activity that you and your dog can do. It provides you and your dog an opportunity to exercise and get some fresh air. For quite some time, the more common equipment used is the collar. Unfortunately, this material may pose a danger to your pet.

Collars, while placed around the neck, may cause your dog to choke or get hurt as you tug the leash or as the dog tries to break away. Also, your dog may find it difficult to bark because of irritation in the neck area. The same cannot be said of harnesses since the pressure lies on the upper body such as the shoulders and ribcage. There is also a lesser chance for the dog to experience irritation since the harness does not rub against the neck.

But just the same, a harness may hurt your dog if you do not know how to handle it. That is why it is important for you to learn how to train using this tool. Upon purchase, check the packaging for instructions on how to handle and take care of the product. Read training guides and manuals on dog training. And get to know your dog well. Dogs, like people, have different behaviors and attitudes, so you must be able to know that.

If you plan on buying a harness, take into consideration the comfort of both you and your dog. As a trainer, you must be able to control the dog's movements by a slight tug. The dog, too, must be able to move well without hurting himself when doing so.

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The size of the dog is also another major factor to consider in your choice of a harness. Bigger dogs require a thicker, more durable harness. Otherwise, it may easily break or tear with the slightest pull. For smaller dogs, an average-sized harness would be sufficient, since it cannot pull that hard. 

The most common type of harness is the one used for walking or tracking. Here you will find a wide variety of designs and materials, all making the harness more durable and fashionable at the same time. You now see harnesses made of softer leather. But for those of the large breeds, harnesses must be made of tough-wearing leather. Most of them are also padded, making it more comfortable for your pup to use.

There is also the no-jump harness, designed to restrict the dog's movements. This will teach the dog not to jump at you or other people when provoked.

In choosing the right harness, there are several things to consider. The good thing is, there are limitless choices available. Whatever dog training harness you prefer, there is one to fit that need.

The key is to know where and how to find them. Check the internet or your local pet shop and see the many designs and styles that you can choose from.

What About a NEWFOUNDLAND DOG

Newfoundland (Black) from 1915 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ok, so everyone who stays on top of the show dog world knows that a Newfoundland won Best in Show at the Westminster Dog Show in 2004. That was a shock to many of the traditionalists who think that the smaller and more assertive dogs are the ideal and drool does not belong on the show floor. The win also caused an inflation in the price of Newfoundland puppies, which was bad for the average income household, but good for some dog breeding operations. 

Despite the Westminster win, the Newfoundland breed was not elevated to the "Most Popular Breed" spot with the AKC. Which was a relief to many Newfoundland lovers who take to heart a deep responsibility for the well-being and protection of the breed?

So what is a Newfoundland dog all about? There are 3 main recognized color types of Newfoundland dog, also affectionately known as "newfs", or "Newfies". They are Bronze, Black and Black/White (Landseer). Which color to choose from?

Unless you are going to dive into the serious side of breeding and showing, it doesn't matter! Enjoy whatever color comes with your new, big, floppy bundle of happiness.

There is no base personality difference between the three color variations of Newfoundland dogs, however, some breeders will maintain that the Landseer is a breed unto itself and should be classified as such.

Newfoundland dogs are big, getting up to 150 pounds and more. They are not for everybody as they require a different level of care, more space and more companionship than the average sized dog. Contrary to what many may think, a newf will not eat you out of house and home. Their metabolism is slower and feeding them too much will compromise their health. A fat newfy is a very unhealthy newfy!

Their double layer coats require a regular grooming routine, and supplementing their chow with certain vitamins and minerals is recommended to help ward off some joint problems common to newfs.

Overall, anybody who is contemplating the addition of a Newfoundland dog into their home should keep in mind some of the following important points:

• Thier coat is double layered and requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and clean. If you live in a part of the country where it gets just plain hot, make sure you are prepared to provide a comfortable environment for your well-coated friend.
• Newfs love water. They love water so much that even their feet are webbed! This is a fact and should give a prospective owner an idea of which activity their new friend is best suited for - swimming. An active swimming session can be loads of fun for all and it's well suited for their heavy body mass.
• All dog breeds crave the attention of their human partners, however, the Newfoundland goes beyond this a little in that they need to be around humans to stay healthy and happy. Newfoundland dogs were bred to be a constant companion and assistant to humans, particularly in the areas of water rescue and fishing along the coastal communities. It is in their genetic makeup to be partnered with humans. To kennel or chain, a newf away from regular human contact would have the same emotional impact as if keeping a child confined in his room day after day.
• A newf is a better house dog than even some of the toy dog varieties available today. Sure, when they bump into something it goes flying, but for the most part, a newf will adapt to house rules rather quickly and they learn to navigate gracefully around the home in short order.
• Newfs drool, but it's a happy drool! And besides, that's what they make drool rags for. It's really not that bad once you get into the swing of it.

Newfoundlands are the gentle giants of the canine world with courageous hearts of gold. Careful consideration should be taken when deciding to bring one into your family. They are family dogs and have a noble bearing along with a seeming awareness of their heritage and responsibilities. They deserve to be treated as a full member of the household and not relegated to the backyard, or worse, a chain and kennel run.

If you decide that a Newfoundland dog is for you and your family, and have the proper environment to accommodate a larger dog, then the next step is to look for a reputable breeder. Using the Internet to find a purebred Newfoundland can be risky. Keep in mind that a dedicated newf lover and breeder will be able to spout off a long list of ancestral information, medical history and will require an in-depth interview with you. Some breeders will refuse to airship a Newfoundland puppy, stipulating that you or a designee will need to personally pick the little fluffball up. If an online breeder is willing to just take your money and put the puppy on a plane, then you will be setting yourself up for the heartbreak of receiving a puppy bred for profit and not for soundness, health, or a long, happy life.

The first place to start looking for a Newfoundland is through your local Newfoundland dog club. If that is not available, then go online and visit the AKC or UKC. They will have a list of approved breeders in your state.

If you don't care about papers, showing or breeding, then you may want to find out about adopting a Newfoundland from a rescue organization. The best site I've found to date which deals with just Newfoundland dog rescue can be found at http://www.newfrescue.com/RescueClubs.htm

Yes, it might be cool to own a newf, but, like all animals, they should not be considered a fad and disposable when out of favor. They are beautiful beings with an intelligent mind and kind soul who only ask for love, a few tasty morsels and lots of human companionships. In return, you will have a trusted family member, a dedicated worker, a protector and a warm friend to cuddle up to on cold winter nights. That is what a Newfoundland dog is all about.

By Cris Mandelin-Wood - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Fact Sheet: BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG

(Original Title: Bernese Mountain dog - What you must know )

Photo  by StooMathiesen 

Bernese Mountain Dogs - Breed Introduction

The Bernese Mountain Dog is an affectionate, gentle, intelligent, and loyal animal that bonds to his family at a very younger age. This dog loves folks and kids and likes to be in physical contact with them by leaning against them or sitting on their feet.

Through the years this canine has been used for driving livestock, as a farm guardian, and for draft work. He excels in monitoring, herding watchdogging, guarding, search and rescue, and aggressive obedience.

A large, heavy dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog matures to 23 to twenty-eight inches in the top (58 to71 centimeters) and weighs between eighty and 110 kilos (36 to 50 kilograms).

History of Breed

Named after the Berne canton of Switzerland, the precise origins of this breed are uncertain. It more than likely started as a farm canine within the Swiss mountains.

There is work showing dogs of the Bernese type relationship back to the end of the 18th century, although it was not till the late nineteenth century that Professor Albert Heim, Franz Schertenleib, and others worked to protect the native dogs of Switzerland. It was then that the Bernese Mountain Dog (Berner Sennenhund) became a definite breed.

Color and Coat

The Bernese Mountain Dog has a heavy double coat that is moderately lengthy and could be either straight or barely wavy. The coat is climate resistant and thick and may make the canine uncomfortable in warm weather. He is sometimes better suited to cooler climates.

This tricolored dog ought to have a black coat with a white blaze on the head and chest, and white on the toes. There must be rust colored markings over each eye, on the cheeks, on the perimeters of the chest, on each leg, and underneath the tail. The markings ought to be symmetrical. A superbly marked canine gives the phantasm of a white "Swiss Cross" on the chest when the dog is considered from the entrance in a sitting position.

Personality and Temperament

The Bernese Mountain Dog prefers the outdoors, although he's usually effectively-behaved and relatively inactive while indoors. Although this canine can move with nice speed and agility, it has little endurance. In addition to enjoying activities reminiscent of mountain climbing, these canines will be skilled to tug small wagons or carts.

Often known as extremely devoted animals that crave attention, the Bernese Mountain Dog is greatest suited to a family that may spend an excessive amount of time with him. Due to his intense loyalty, this canine has an extremely onerous time adjusting to a new owner as soon as he has bonded along with his family.

This dog is a really friendly breed and gets along effectively with people and animals alike. He's simply trainable but needs time to assume things through. Endurance and consistency are key, as he does not reply effectively to rough therapy and harshness. The Bernese Mountain dog loves to please and enjoys working with praise and treats.

Show Characteristics

The coloring described above is strictly adhered to, and any foundation shade other than jet black leads to disqualification. Eyes must be dark brown and oval formed, with tight-becoming lids. The ears ought to be set high, triangular and medium-sized, hanging close to the head. The nostril is always black and the enamel ought to meet with a scissors bite.

Regardless of the square appearance of the Bernese Mountain Dog, his physique needs to be barely longer than it is tall with sturdy, dense bone structure. His legs should be straight with a compact, round feet. The tail should be bushy and straight.

This dog ought to have an intelligent yet mild expression. He should be alert and self-confident yet remain good-natured.

The Bernese Mountain Dog should have efficient gaits, whether or not working for speed and agility or at a slower working trot that's typical of his use as a draft animal. His hindquarters ought to generate power and he should have good reach with his front limbs.

Typical Health Concerns

Bernese Mountain Dogs have a much larger occurrence of fatal most cancers than different breeds. Most cancers are the main reason behind the Bernese Mountain Dogs brief life expectancy, with some canines dying as young as three or 4 years of age. The Bernese Mountain Dog Club of America is aggressively researching this problem in an effort to improve the dog's life expectancy and quality of life.

These canine are also vulnerable to musculoskeletal points resembling arthritis, hip dysplasia, and cruciate ligament rupture.

Many instances the signs of arthritis set in at a very young age - as early as 4 to 5 years. This massive canine may have mobility issues and might have particular consideration reminiscent of ramps for home and vehicle access. Comfortable, snug bedding helps alleviate joint pain for these dogs.

Grooming

This dog sheds heavily and regularly and requires brushing a minimum of every week or two. When the thick undercoat is shedding, the dog needs to be brushed daily. The coat is naturally resistant to dust, and ought to be washed or dry shampooed solely when necessary.

Country of Origin

The Bernese Mountain Dog originated in Switzerland.

Average Life Span

Compared to different dog breeds of similar dimension, the Bernese Mountain canine could be very quick lived. This canine may be anticipated to dwell 6 to eight years, with a mean life expectancy of 7.2 years.

In previous years the life expectancy of this dog was 10 to 12 years. The longest-lived Bernese Mountain Dog died in the UK at 15.2 years of age.

Author: Boykins Bender

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HUNTING DOGS - Working Dogs

Gordon Setter (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For certain types of hunting, a well-trained dog is considered indispensable. For centuries, dogs have hunted alongside humans, often helping humans survive. While hunting with dogs is often just for sport, many hunters provide for their families through their hunting, making the dog an important companion in the field. 

There are several types of hunting that involve dogs. 

* Stalking is done when the prey is out of shooting range, and the hunter sneaks up into range while remaining undetected. Dogs can help catch the scent of prey that is out of sight or range. 

* Driving means the prey is driven out of hiding and into shooting range. 

There is an extensive number of hunting breeds, all fine-tuned to meet specific hunting needs. Here are a few of the more common hunting breeds, and what they are used for. 

Retrievers 

Golden, Labrador, Chesapeake Bay, and Flat-Coated are the main retrievers used in hunting. Like a lot of hunting dogs, retrievers do well as family pets, too. Retrievers are bred for work in the water, and have webbing between their toes to help them swim. They tend to have good personalities and are quite trainable, and tend to stick with a task. Retrievers retrieve fallen game like waterfowl, carrying it back to the hunter without damaging it. 

Spaniels

Cocker, Irish Water, and English Springer spaniels are some of the spaniels used in hunting. Their role is to flush out game like birds and rabbits, and thanks to their thick coats, they can get into the underbrush to do so. They do not kill game; their job is to get the prey out of hiding so the hunter can shoot it. They also have a "soft mouth," meaning they can carry fallen game without doing damage. Spaniels make good family pets, too. 

Pointers

The dedicated pointer identifies prey for the hunter, seeking out prey and freezing into the pointing position that earned them their name. They track down prey efficiently, and are a very intelligent breed. They are an enthusiastic and dedicated type of dog, and can track and identify a variety of game. Pointing breeds include the American Brittany, Weimaraners, Griffons, and the German Shorthair.  

Setters

This group of breeds combines the best of the spaniel and the pointer, and they have been around since the 14th century. They flush out game such as quail, and they "set" or crouch down when they find prey, freezing into position. Setter breeds include the English, Irish, and Gordon Setter. 

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FELINE LEUKEMIA Virus Disease: A Major Threat to your Cat

Just like in humans, cats can develop very deadly medical conditions. One of the most common and fatal kinds of disease a cat can contract is feline leukemia virus disease, known as FeLV. Leukemia, which is also found in humans, is a disease of the white blood cells. There are three major types of this leukemia. Today, we can protect our cats for FeLV with a vaccine, so it is important to have your pet up-to-date with medical care at all times.

With FeLV, there are three disease categories. The first are the leukemias, which are similar to what leukemia is like in humans. This is cancer of the white blood cells. However, not all FeLV diseases are cancer. Lymphosarcoma is the second category. Also cancerous, this disease begins in the lymphoid tissue around the lymph nodes. It affects the intestinal tract, kidneys, liver, spine, brain, blood, and bone marrow. The third category is the non-cancerous diseases that fall under the umbrella of FeLV and include immune suppression, anemia, and arthritis. Some of these medical conditions may also be fatal.

Cats are most commonly exposed to FeLV when they get into fights. FeLV is a virus that is spread mainly through saliva, and the wounds a cat receives from bites during a fight provide an entry point into the body. Cats can also get FeLV from sharing food or water bowls, grooming one another, and transmission from mother to kittens. If your cat contracts FeLV, there may be many possible outcomes. Some forms of the disease cannot be treated, however, so prevention is important. Remember, though, that a cat can live with the disease for many years and so your vet can help you choose the best course of action. Cats infected with FeLV are dangerous to other cats, and so they must live in confined single-cat homes, or you can choose euthanasia.

So far, there have been no studies that have found any correlation between this disease in cats and diseases in humans, so your family should be safe. That said, high-risk individuals should avoid contact with a sick animal. This includes newborns, senior citizens, AIDS patients, and chemotherapy patients. Because the virus cannot live for more than a few hours outside of the cat, you are safe in having cats return to your home as soon as two days after the infected cat is gone. Talk to your vet for more details.

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