Signing Up For DOG OBEDIENCE Classes: Some Things To Remember

Thinking about getting a new puppy or dog? If you are, then you might want to consider signing up for dog obedience classes, especially if you are a first-time dog owner at that. It's fun to have a dog or puppy around, but that is if the one you got has good manners. Because if not, you might regret getting one in the first place.

Croatian Sheepdog Mawlch Gera - on agility (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

So, when you bring home your new pet, make sure that you put enrolling in dog obedience classes on top of your priority to-do list. However, since there are lots of dog obedience schools offering this kind of classes, you must be keen in choosing the one that meets your requirements. So, when signing up for dog obedience classes, here are some things to remember.

First, look into the reputation of the dog obedience school offering dog training classes. Of course, the more popular the school is, the more reliable it could be. Try to ask from your neighbors for suggestions. Also, you can talk to friends, colleagues, and relatives who have already tried dog obedience classes for their pets. But the most reliable recommendation that you can get is from your local veterinarian. He/she knows where dogs can be trained well in your area, so check out the name he/she recommends.

Now, if you don't anyone who can recommend you a reputable dog school, you can always rely on the Internet for information. Some dog obedience schools have already conquered the web to reach more potential clients. So, start doing your research online and check on the school's feedbacks to know whether their services are good or not. 

Next, see whether the trainers comprising the school have sincere love and attachment to dogs. This is a little difficult to determine because anybody can claim that he loves dogs and enjoys training them. So, how to know this? Try to observe the classes first. For example, if you have a friend who has a dog enrolled in one, you can always join them during sessions and note your observations. If the qualities of the trainer meet your requirements, then consider that school on top of your list. 

And lastly, of course, you have to consider the cost of signing up in a dog obedience class. If your dog is a high-breed, the cost of getting one may already be high enough, much more if you start buying dog foods and bringing it to a veterinarian for some check-ups. So, ask yourself, can you still afford the cost that goes with training your dog or puppy? Before signing up, make sure that you inquire about this first because you might end up quitting the course just because you run out of budget.

So there you go. Now that you know all these, you're off to getting the right dog obedience classes for you and your pet. Take note that a dog obedience class can very much help you teach your new dog some basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down. Once your pet learns all these, you will have more control over it during social events.

So, never underestimate the significance of these classes for you and your dog. 

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Is There a Difference in a SENIOR DOG DIET?

You hate to admit it, but your furry pal is getting a little older.  You want to ensure that your pet is happy and healthy for many years to come.  You have heard all of the hype about the new dog diets for older pets.  Is there really a difference between dog food for adult dogs and kibble recommended specifically for seniors?  How do you know when to switch your pet to a different diet?

The best resource for information about dog diets is your pet's veterinarian.  Only you and your vet know the specific needs of your pet the best.  Discuss with your vet your concerns and questions.  He or she will be able to advise you on what changes, if any, need to be made to your dog's diet.

Photo by celine nadeau

If your older dog does not have any health problems and maintains a healthy weight, there is no need to change your dog's diet from adult to senior dog food.  On the other hand, if your dog has trouble keeping the weight off or digestive issues, you may need to switch.  If weight is the only issue, consider slightly lowering the amount of dog food you give to your pet.  This may be all the change your dog's diet requires.

A senior dog is classified as a dog in the last third of their life span.  Larger dogs, for instance a Great Dane, live to be about 9 years old.  Around the sixth year of life, you may want to consider a senior dog's diet.  A poodle, on the other hand wouldn't reach senior status until

About age ten due to the longer life expectancy.  Primarily, the decision to change your dog's diet should be based on health condition rather than actual age in years.  Your vet will help you to determine when the right time is to alter your dog's diet.

Dog food especially prepared for senior dogs typically has less calories.  This helps to combat any weight issues.  The senior dog food also contains more fiber for the different needs in your dog's diet.  As dogs age, they tend to suffer from constipation.  This extra fiber will help remedy this problem.

Renal failure can be another medical problem for senior dogs.  How can your dog's diet help this problem?  Reducing the amount of protein in your dog's diet will decrease the work load for the kidneys.  For this reason, senior dog food frequently has lower protein content than regular adult formulas.

Whenever possible, allow your dog to eat dry dog food to encourage excellent dental health.  The dry kibble helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup.  If your older pet refuses to eat the food dry, you may need to moisten it with water or purchase moist, canned varieties.

If your vet recommends, supplements may be helpful as part of your senior dog's diet.  Some pets are unable to eat properly due to oral issues.  Other older pets are unable to gather all of the nutrients from their food for various health reasons.  Supplements such as daily vitamins and glucosamine can be beneficial to maintaining a healthy diet for your dog.

Glucosamine helps to encourage joint health.  For senior dogs, glucosamine can combat arthritis and hip displasia.

Vitamins C, A, and E may prevent the natural aging process and encourage better health for senior dogs.  Talk to your vet about adding such supplements to your dog's diet.

You want what is best for your pet.  Your senior dog needs to have a diet that meets their special nutritional requirements.  You and your vet can work together to decide what is the best diet for your senior dog.  Your dog's diet directly affects his or her health.  Take care of your pet by monitoring your dog's diet closely with the aid of your veterinarian.

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Why the Use of a Training DOG COLLARS Sometimes Counterproductive

Dog halter-style collar Photo by Elf
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Dog trainers, especially those who are not professionals in the field, usually confuse dog training with control. In any dog-man pair, the human always have the need to gain control. This is not really bad except that sometimes, the man abuses the privileged of control. 

Dog training collars provide that control. While the intention is normally good- to remove unwanted (but instinctual) behaviors of the dogs for example- the process of training is sometimes incorrect and abusive of the dog's weaknesses and the tools used for training are not well-adapted to the needs of the dog.

We, humans, often forget that dogs are individuals too. Some dogs are very aggressive and hard to control, some are funny and gives us much comfort and joy, others are just laid back and refuse to undergo training and some are naturally fast learners while others are slow learners.

Training collars were invented to gain enough control over the canines, however some people fail to adhere to the basic principles of these tools. Choke or chain collars, for example, are one of the very first tools invented to help lessen the tension between man and dog.

But there are people who overuse and misuse the choke collars. Some handlers are so harsh that many dogs experience neck damages and some even choke to death. In short the use of this type of collars is very dangerous, if not counter-productive.

Some handlers, on the other hand, lack sufficient knowledge on the specific collars that would work well with their dogs. For example, the popular choice of collar these days are the electronic dog collar due to its remote access to dogs which provide continuous "training" for even when the owner is not around. While this may be a popular alternative to old fashioned dog training collars, many people just don’t completely understand its disadvantages.

There are some very mundane reasons as to why collars could be, at times, counterproductive. For one, there are people who just don’t take the extra time to check if the collar is fit or not. With improper fitting, the collar could pinch the skin (especially the Martingale collar) and scratch it causing burning spots.

These are very uncomfortable to dogs as much as having skin lesions would make someone feel irritated. The rule of thumb for getting the right fit of collar for your dog is to allow two to three inches gap between the attached collar and the neck.

Another reason why dog collars could be potentially counterproductive is that they work on the principle of pain and fear and not really on discipline. Electronic training collars work by sending electronic shocks to the dog wearing it or unpleasant sound that will discourage the dog from barking.

Even when it proves to be efficient in delivering its purpose- to distract the dog from barking- the results are not as good. Why? Because the dog starts to lose its confidence.

Quick fixes for behavior control are more often than not tempting to use and leads to overdependence to control devices. While doing it the long way usually proves to be more valuable.

Therefore, before one chooses a dog training collar, it is recommended to do your research first so your dog's comfort would not be compromised. 

Do parasites cause “SCOOTING”?

Anus of dog (bitch) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Parasites too cause the scooting. Scooting is a an anal sac disease. First let's understand what scooting is in detail. This is the dragging of anus with the hind limbs in an extended state. Parasites causing irritation in the anus regions lead to such type of actions in animals like dogs.

However, one should not be under the impression that it is the parasite that alone causes such scooting in case of dogs.  There are many occasions in which the dog may have the scooting without any parasite based etiological agent.  For example, the anal gland infections, tumors at the anus and injuries near the anal regions also may lead to such type of dragging of anus region, frequently by the affected dogs. 

Flea bite allergy often causes irritation at the anus region and the animal may try to bite the anus region and the irritations due to these factors lead to the final dragging of anus region on the ground. Cestodiasis in dogs is the condition caused by tapeworms.

In such occasions, if the animal is not treated in time, the animal may be seen exhibiting the scooting activities.  Tapeworm segments passed in the stool create crawling like activities near anus.

Such crawling activities of the tapeworm segments lead to severe itching at these regions. Hence, to make a relief from this type of constant irritation, the animal starts pressing the anus region on the ground first and then tries to drag it on the ground with typical extension of rear limbs. 

Usually there is a packet of eggs when the fecal sample is examined by microscope. However, the flotation technique leads to breakage of these packets to burst and hence, diagnosis is difficult in such occasions. Scooting dogs need to be examined to rule out tapeworm segments, which look like rice like pieces.

These segments are white in color and turn yellow when taken from the body.  Tapeworms themselves may be seen in the motion or near anus below the tail regions.  Consult your veterinarian for specific cures for this.

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Picking out a Pet DOG LEASH

Pink Puppy Designs,

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

When you own a canine, a leash will be a big part of both your lives. The times of permitting your furry friend to wander gladly by your side have for the most part disappeared. In many metropolitan areas it is the law that you have your pet on a leash constantly. Therefore it is essential you that select the correct leash for both you and your companion.

You'll find countless leashes which are available on the market today. Have you any idea how to pick one? Sure, a fancy leash and one with a adorable saying is great but it might not be useful or practical. When you decide to go to get a lead there are many things that you really do need to think about when you make your selection.

The first factor to consider is the weight and size of your dog. Almost all leashes have labels on them that indicate just how much the dog ought to weigh.

You should consider the fabric that the leash is crafted from. Leather or nylon tend to be the very best choices. You do not want a leash that may cause rope burns if it becomes twisted or pulled. You should have something that is resilient and strong. Chain leashes aren't terrific. A puppy can potentially chip or damage a tooth on a lead created from chain.

Washing is another factor many people do not think of although it is very significant. The lead is in many instances going to get dusty, this is unavoidable. Are you able to thoroughly clean it?

Just how long of a leash do you need? In numerous places you will discover constraints on how long the leash can be, you should know these rules if they may have an impact on you and your puppy. You do not need a leash that's more than six feet, for day-to-day walking. Anything longer might be more of a hindrance than anything else.

Another thing that lots of individuals forget to look at is the way the leash works. You want to have a fastener that's relaible. You do not need something which could break if it is abruptly pulled. Additionally you want something that will hook on / off quickly and simply.

It's also advisable to have a look at how the leash is produced. A sewn lead is often the very best. Leashes which are glued, might after a while loose their strength. Anything that is glued onto the lead may look adorable but might end up being a choking threat to the animal if it comes off.

Be careful when choosing the leash for your furry friend, you will be utilizing it a lot and for years. When you have decided on the best lead you may even wish to get two. Having a back-up lead is extremely handy.

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CAT TRAINING for Your Intractable Cat

Cats are almost always depicted as loners, the lords of their realm, snobbish and downright stubborn. This is a type of animal that is quite proud, going their own way and rarely following orders. Think Garfield.

Garfield (character) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

While this could be quite unfair to the cat, they are almost always compared to the loyalty and obedience of a dog, qualities which make them a popular pet all over the world.

That is why it is recommended to all cat owners or those who do plan to get a cat to train them immediately. This establishes the role of each person in the household.  Cat training allows for the cat owner to train his or her cat and eventually leading up to a long lasting loving relationship between owner and pet.

Just like having a child, a pet cat that knows how to follow orders and is a source of pride and joy will be given great attention and love as well as more rewards.

But, before you start training your cat, you must know first its natural instincts and behaviours. As cat owners, we must respect what is but natural to every cat so we don't encroach into those natural instincts.

It is not uncommon for some cats to feel depression and stress, so do not mistake this for stubbornness or hard-headedness. This may cause a rift between you and your cat. The more you scream at it and the more you hurt it, the more the wedge and rift grows, making it harder to do cat training.

Have your cat checked out by a vet first before any cat training. There are many factors to consider first. If the vet gives the thumbs-up sign then your good to go. Cat training will provide for a happier and healthier cat-owner relationship.

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Smart Nutrition Solution For MULTI-CAT HOUSEHOLDS

Cats of all shapes, sizes, breeds and ages often share the same space and the same dinner bowl. But cats have different dietary needs, and those with more than one cat often find that it becomes cumbersome to keep track of the amount and type of food each cat requires.

To make the process easier, The Iams Company recently introduced a food containing ingredients that the company says "work together to meet the individual needs of each cat in a household."

"Feeding different foods to multiple cats living in the same home often is impractical, so Iams Multi-Cat is formulated with those needs and differences in mind," said Dr. Dan Carey, a veterinarian with Iams. "Developing this food was a two-step process. First, cat owners described the ultimate food that would answer the needs of their cats. Iams nutritionists took that information and discovered the ideal combination of ingredients to accomplish the goals and fulfill the needs of these multi-cat households."

Playing little cat (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The key ingredients in new Iams Multi-Cat are L-carnitine, which helps overweight cats burn fat; vitamin A, which is believed to help lower risk of weight gain; and protein for lean muscle mass.

According to industry research, 71 percent of all cats living in the U.S. live in a multi-cat home and 40 percent of those households make the extra effort to sequester each cat at mealtime.

But feeding is just one of many challenges multi-cat owners face. For those considering bringing an additional cat into their household, Iams offers the following tips:

* Give the new cat its own room with a bed, a scratching post, litter pan, food and water dishes and toys.

* Ease into it. Let the new cat explore the house while the other cat explores the new cat's room. Also, let the new cat play with the first cat's toys and then switch the toys. This will help them get used to each other's scent.

* When introducing the cats, open the door just wide enough so that they can see and smell each other and stay close by to supervise. Repeat these short introductions as often as necessary until they are able to stay comfortably in the same room, with supervision.

* Give your first cat lots of extra attention and affection during this period of adjustment.

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Health Care for OLDER CATS

It may be hard for a pet owner to notice a pet cat getting older. Outside, pet cats may show the same things- playing with toys around the home, taking naps sprawled on a favorite spot inside the home, snuggle up with you on the sofa. But inside, it might be a whole different thing.  And health care for cats as they get old may change a little bit.

When caring your an aging cat, there are some things that a concerned pet owner should know about. When a cat approaches somewhere between the ages of eight or twelve years, this is the equivalent of a human being approaching middle age. This will be the time that your pet cat may be needing a bit of extra attention.

Photo by Radarsmum67

Most veterinarian generally estimate that cats start their geriatric years when they reach twelve years. This will be the time that caring for your pet cat would have to change to accommodate the needs that aging brings.

A major part of caring for older pet cats involve feeding them. As cats get older, their digestive systems do not function as efficiently as before. Aging cats may need to eat smaller and easily digestible meals in a day rather than just two square meals. Try also to make sure that you give your cat a variety of food to eat to ensure that it gets a well balanced diet.

There are also a number of cat food now available as food for the different life stages of your pet cat. There is cat food that is specially formulated for older cats as well as for the less active ones. The best advice in feeding your aging pet cat would be to ask your vet about the nutritional needs of your cat.

When cats age, they also start to lead a less active lifestyle. Whereas cats enjoy playing around and hunting during their younger years, older cats seem to prefer spending more time quietly around the home. This would be a benefit for some pet owners since they no longer have to worry about their once playful cat overturning and breaking things around the house. But this sedentary lifestyle would not be good for the cat.

Even though your pet cat would  you may still need to keep them active since the exercise would help keep them healthy. Try to have them active as often as possible to keep them active. As they age, cats may also need to have their vaccinations up to date. Older cats have a less efficient immune system and may need vaccinations to keep them protected from diseases.

Dental problems may also become a concern for old cats when they become prone to having loose teeth, tartar buildup, and sore gums. This can have a big effect on your pet cat's well-being. Dental problems may be the reason why they are not eating well. A regular dental check up might be needed as part of health care for old cats.

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MAINE COON Traits and Temperament

Traits:

Everything about the Maine Coon points to its adaptation into a harsh climate. It is glossy coat, large and water-resistant, is compared to that of not any other breed, and has to be felt to be appreciated. It is longer around the ruff, stomach and britches to defend against wet in addition to snow, and shorter around the back and neck to guard against tangling within the underbrush.

English: Male and female shaded silver Maine Coons have white roots on their guard hairs and undercoats and dark tips
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The coat falls smoothly, and is also almost maintenance-free: a weekly combing is all of that is usually forced to keep it inside top condition. Your long, bushy tail that the cat wraps all-around himself when he curls up to sleep can safeguard him from chilly winters. His ears are more heavily furred (both inside and around the tips) than many breeds for protection from the cold, and have a very large range of movement. Big, round, tufted feet assist as 'snow shoes. ' Their huge eyes and ears will also be survival traits, serving as they do increase perception and hearing.

Although the Yankee delusion of 30-pound cats is that, a delusion (unless the kitty is grossly overweight ), these usually are indeed tall, muscular, big-boned cats; males commonly reach 13 to 18 pounds, having females normally considering about 9 to 12 pounds. Add to that 2 or 3 inches of wintertime coat, and people will swear they are looking at 1 big cat.

Maine Coons develop slowly, and don't achieve their full dimensions until they are 3 to 5 years old. His or her dispositions remain kittenish during their lives; they're big, gentle, good-natured goofs. Even their voices set them as well as other cats; they've a distinctive, chirping trill they will use for sets from courting to cajoling their people into playing with them. (Maine Coons want to play, and many will joyfully get back small items. ) That they rarely meow, then when they do, that will soft, tiny speech doesn't fit their size!

Temperament:

While Maine Coons usually are highly people-oriented kittens and cats, they are not necessarily overly-dependent. They don't constantly pester people for attention, but prefer to "hang out" along their owners, investigating whatever activity you're involved with and "helping" after they can. They will not be, as a normal rule, known as "lap cats" but much like any personality trait there are many Maine Coons that will prefer laps. Most Maine Coons will continue close by, probably occupying the chair beside yours instead. Maines will adhere to you from room to room in addition to wait outside some sort of closed door for you to emerge. A Maine Coon will probably be your companion, your own buddy, your pal, but hardly ever your child.

Maine Coons usually are relaxed and easy-going in almost everything they do. The males are typically the clowns as you move the females retain additional dignity, but both remain playful during their lives. They generally get along properly with kids in addition to dogs, as properly as other kittens and cats. They are quite a bit less vertically-oriented as a few other breeds, preferring to chase objects on a lawn and grasping them of their large paws -- undoubtedly instincts developed as professional mousers. Many Maine Coons may play "fetch" because of their owners.

By James Torres For more information, pictures and videos you can visit us at http://www.catopia.info Article Source: EzineArticles

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What Is The Best Way To FEED YOUR CAT?

Think that your cat needs a fancy set of dishes to eat from?  He doesn’t.  But, what he does need is something that is sturdy and durable and it needs to be easy for you to clean as well.  Cat feeders and bowls should be cat-proof.

English: cat and dry food (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

One type of cat feeder is a type that refills from a reservoir as your cat drinks from the bowl.  These can be used to feed one cat for several days even.  You can use these to feed multiple cats too.  There are some disadvantages to using them though.  For example an aggressive cat can easily prevent the other shyer cats from getting enough food.  It is also harder to know just how much food the cat is eating so you may not realize if he is eating less than he normally does.  This is an important sign that he’s not feeling well and it can be a serious problem then.  Cats that are finicky may waste a lot of food by refusing to eat it if it has been sitting in the feeder for too long.

Another type to consider is the automatic cat feeder.  These have several compartments.  The feeder’s lid has an opening that will allow the cat to eat out of one compartment at a time.  A battery powers it to rotate the lid using a timer so that different compartments are opened at the set time.

Cat owners who are not around for a long period of time should make sure that the feeders that they use are large enough to hold enough food for the entire time the cat is alone.  This way, cats are cared for no matter what you are doing.

Cats who are territorial really do need their own dish.  Then, you can feed the different cats at different areas of the house.  When looking for bowls for your cat, make sure to look for those that can be put into the dishwasher as well as those that are not going to break.

Only have one cat?  Then look at a combination feeder that holds two bowls one for each food and water.  These allow you to keep the feeding organized and they are easy to clean.  The bowls can be removed from the feeder to be cleaned.

Some cats are picky and for these you may need to choose a heated food bowl.  These are a great way to provide local strays with water during the winter months too.

Make sure to clean the food bowls everyday.  Put them in the dishwasher if possible after throwing out the old food and dropping the dish in the dishwasher.  Don’t leave the food sitting out as it can spoil.  And, make sure to clean your cat’s water bowl daily as well.  Keep it full of clean fresh water.

When you do these things, you will provide your cat with a place to get their food that is clean, safe and keeps them happy.  This can help you to have a well taken care of cat.

Following these suggestions will go a long way to keeping you cat happy and well nourished. She'll love you all the more for it, too.

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How to Stop Your FRENCH BULLDOG from Excessively Barking

Dogs bark for many different reasons. Some of these reasons are good while some can just be downright annoying. So if you have had many countless sleepless nights, constant visit from the cops because of complaints from your neighbors or if you have simply had enough of all the barking making your home stressful instead of a relaxing solitude, then it’s high time that you do something that will make the excessive barking stop. And although the French Bulldog is generally known to be a quiet breed that barks only when needed, there will be times that they too will bark excessively. 

A female French Bulldog. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

French bulldogs are known to be great companions; they are very loyal but can be impatient. They will bark only when they demand attention from you, or when they play or if there are intruders in the house. But even then, they won’t really bark excessively, by that I mean that when you have given in to what they want, they will stop barking already. Some French bulldogs will go on to bark though, when this happens, you will surely become, disappointed, frustrated, annoyed, embarrassed, and this will cause an emotional strain and put a dent on your relationship.

The first step in stopping your French bulldog from excessively barking is to fully understand the cause as to why it is doing so. By determining the root cause, you can develop a training that will laser target the root cause of the problem. Remember though, if the dog is barking because it’s hungry, or there is an intruder in the house, don’t reprimand your dog, this will take away their natural instincts of being a good watchdog and companion. A dog should only bark because of the situation they are in, if the situation has changed they should stop. If not, then you have a dilemma, either the situation hasn’t been fully resolved, or they have a psychological or emotional problem, or a physical discomfort. 

For the latter, a visit to a veterinarian will solve the problem. For the first problems, you need to have a good training program not only to instill in your French bulldog the proper traits, but also to create a solid emotional bond between you and your pet. There are numerous techniques one can use to stop excessive barking in French bulldogs. Some will choose to use the reward system where they provide a treat after the dog follows their command; this reinforces the notion that they have done good. Just make sure to use a firm voice and never shout at them. Be sure to also have lots of patience. It takes time to train a dog. Also, remember not to hit your dog. 

Some though would use electronic gadgets to help stop excessive barking, like a laser pointer or a collar specifically designed to stop excessive barking. This though would not help in creating a bond between you and your French bulldog. 

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TEDDY BEAR Breed Information

Teddy Bear (Shih Tzu x Bichon Frise)

The Teddy Bear (Zuchon, Shichon) is a hybrid dog that is a result of a few different designer dog breeds. They can be the result of the Shih Tzu and the Bichon Frise, the Shih Tzu and the Poodle and the Bichon Frise and the Toy Poodle. In many cases the Teddy Bear breed can be a mix of all three of these breeds.
Size

Photo Flickr blsbee blue

The size of Teddy Bears will vary but generally the dog is rather small weighing in between 12 to 14 pounds and measuring no higher than 12 inches.

Coat and Color
All color variations of parent breeds are available in the Teddy Bear. Since they are multiple breeds mixed, sometimes more than just 2, they can come in so many different coat and color options all depending on the parents.

Grooming
This breed is a minimal shedding dog that has a very soft, fluffy coat that is reminiscent of the stuffed animal. This breed of dog needs frequent grooming in order to prevent their coat from becoming tangled. They need to be brushed daily and like all dogs they also need basic grooming such as brushing their teeth and trimming their nails on a regular basis.

Character and Temperament
They are a very people oriented dog that is extremely well mannered and friendly. The temperament of your Teddy Bear will depend on their breeding however they are typically affectionate and very playful. They are also extremely outgoing and very social and the get along with everyone especially children, other pets and dogs. They can grow very attached to their family and if left alone for too long can develop separation anxiety.

Training
Every combination of the parent breeds of the Teddy Bear is extremely intelligent so this means that they are extremely intelligent and eager to learn as well. They are people pleasing dogs so it is easy to train them as they do well on picking up commands and different tricks. However like other small dogs they can often be difficult to house train. A consistent routine can help them along with this.

Activity level
The Teddy Bear is not a very active dog so they need some kind of physical exercise either inside or outside to keep them in shape. They do need regular play on a daily basis but simple games and a daily walk will make a world of difference in behavior and energy level.

By F. Szczepanski Breeders Association of America Inc http://njpup.com/designer-mixes-for-sale Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=F._Szczepanski http://EzineArticles.com/?Teddy-Bear-Breed-Information&id=9118905

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The Popular Pet and Lap Dog: YORKSHIRE TERRIER

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. 

4 year old Yorkie, Leo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

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.

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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.

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An Expert Guide To The ROTTWEILER: The Loving Guardian

The Rottweiler is a member of the Working Group and America's tenth most popular dog breed. They originated from Germany, where their huge build was used to pull butcher's carts and to herd cattle. They are often used as guard dogs due to their fearless and protective nature.

Thor (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

History

The Rottweiler's history could date back to Roman times, where it is believed that their ancestors were used to pull carts and accompany Romans armies to herd their cattle. After marching into Southern Germany around 73 A.D., armies would settle near the bank of the River Neckar in the state of Baden-Württemberg. The Romans built a city in this area and named it Rottweil. It is in this city that the Rottweiler we know today would arise.

In the Middle Ages, the Rottweiler was not only used for cattle, but also for bear hunting. In the 19th century, its popularity in cattle herding would sharply decline when cattle herding was made illegal. The Rottweiler continued to assist butchers, earning it the name 'Rottweiler Butcher's Dog'. This would later be shortened to the Rottweiler. In 1907, breeding groups strived to preserve the breed and it slowly made a comeback in popularity. They were used in both the first and second World Wars for their guarding skills and continue to be used as family protectors and in police work.

The Kennel Club in London recognized the breed in 1966 and the American Kennel Club recognized them in 1935.

Description

The following is derived from the AKC standard:

• Coat: Rottweiler's coats are medium length and are a tan/black color. They have tan markings above each eye, on the side of the snout, and on the cheeks.
• Head: The head is medium-sized, broad, and has a well-defined stop. Its nose is also broad and is always black. The eyes are dark. The lips are black and close fitting. The jaws are powerful and are strong and broad. Their ears are pendant and triangular.
• Body: They are a large-sized breed, weighing 85-130 lbs. The body is large and powerful, with a confident stance. The neck is muscular and medium length. The tail may or may not be docked. It has straight forelegs that are set in a wide stance.

Defects:

• A coat other than black/tan.
• Eye color other than brown.
• Cheek markings that cross over the bridge of the nose.
• Shy or timid behavior.
• Flanks that are tucked up.

Temperament

Rottweilers have received a large amount of bad press for their protective and fearless nature. However, the breed is known to be very mellow with its family and does well with children. This dog does require firm training and early socialization to channel its protective disposition and given a regular job so that it does not become aggressive. This dog is intelligent, courageous, and loving to its family. It does not do well with strange people or other animals, but friends of the family are usually welcomed.

Care

• Grooming: Rottweilers only need occasional brushing and bathed only when necessary.
• Living Situation: They can do well in an apartment if they are given daily exercise.
• Exercise: This breed requires at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, but they are mostly inactive indoors.
• Approximate Lifespan: 10-12 years
• Common Health Problems: Rottweilers can be prone to hip dysplasia, ACL damage, and are sensitive to heat.

The Rundown:

Those looking for a fierce protector and loving companion will find the perfect fit in a Rottweiler. This breed doesn't require much grooming and is relatively healthy, but they need to be trained early so that their protective nature does not turn into unnecessary aggression.

By Beth Fletcher Hi Beth here! I hope you like my article and for more about the Rottweiler breed click HERE. Visit All Dogs Stuff for all your dog supplies. Article Source: EzineArticles

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How To Find The Right CAT SITTING SERVICES

Cats are one of the most lovable and cute pets that you could ever imagine. While you are reading this, you might be patting them at this very moment. Due to their various colors and personality, more and more people love them. But you cant be with them every time. Sometimes you need to leave at work which makes them to be left alone inside your house.

Many people have come up with an idea to help owners have peace of mind. That is when the  cat sitting services Ottawa

have developed and become renowned. Did you know there are many establishments that are offering such kind of service. Companies provide sitters to their respective clients. But some important matters must be considered before anything else.

This is Milo the cat sitting on a desk. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Willingness to do the job. Interviewing a person beforehand is a good idea. Its also helpful on your decision making. When you conduct a question and answer portion to a sitter, you can rate their enthusiasm. If they answer you with ideas which you also agree, why not consider on him. He might be the one you are looking for.

Long years of experience. Professionals have the capacity to handle almost any kinds of situations even if its dangerous. You would only know if the person is the right one if he has been in the industry for a long time. Check his portfolio and know his credentials. Doing this kind of actions would help you identify the expertise of a sitter.

Insurance policy. Numerous services are also offering insurance policies to their customers. This is a sign that they take serious attention in doing their jobs. If you really wanted to ensure the condition of your pets, it would be better to hire a service which such kind of policy. With that, you could presume that there is nothing to feel anxious about.

Reliable. A trustworthy person should act professionally. If ever a sitter arrives late, do you think that he is still reliable enough. Make an agreement with him and create a schedule of the things that should be done. If he correctly follows it every time you leave, then you are surely relying in the right person. And you must be happy about it.

Composed. Sitters are professionals. Therefore, it should be expected from them that they will showcase a character that is calm. If unusual situations occur, they would know how to act. They wont have a problem in dealing with a situation. Which means they are quick and nimble in handling the things that should be work out.

Capable to evaluate the need of your cats. Sitters are expert individuals. However, not all of them are able to handle serious matters. For example, if your pets act in an unusual manner, they know what to do and how to solve the problem.

Since there are many sitters who are offering the same service to you, pick the right one. In order to do that, you should ask for some suggestions. It would be better if your friends would refer you a service they tried before. In that case, there is nothing to worry.

About the Author: Sharon Weeks "http://www.petminders.ca";Read more about How To Find The Right Cat Sitting Services.

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