The Havanese puppy is a loveable dog that unknown to many is a member of the Bichon breed family. What does Bichon mean? “Bichon” is a French word that means “fleecy dog”. The Bichon breed is often related to the Barbet. The Barbet is the French name for a poodle like water spaniel that is thought to be an ancient ancestor of the current day Bichon breed varieties.
Of course there are several different types of Bichon dogs that include: the Maltese, Bichon Frise, Bichon Bolognese, Lowchen, Coton de Tulear, and the Havanese. These Bichon breed varieties have various geographic origins.
Most of these breeds were around in ancient Greece. When the Spanish Empire swept across the world in the 1500’s, so did the Bichon breeds as well. The Bichon breeds were known to be perfect companions for long voyages on maritime ships.
Originally the Bichon breeds were developed in the Canary Islands, France, and as well as Cuba. Now of these breeds can you guess which Bichon breed came from Cuba? That’s right, it was the Havanese!
Like so many dog breeds the Havanese breed was named after the world famous seaport in Havana, Cuba. It’s not surprising then that the Havanese is the national dog of Cuba. In Cuba, the Havanese dogs descended from a dog breed called “Blanquito de la Habana”!.
So what is the best way to describe the Havanese? The Havanese breed is a small, white fluffy dog that has a well defined face. The Havanese breed is very affectionate, loyal and a special companion that just loves to sit on your lap. They not only want your love and attention but they will give their admiration in return. Their attentiveness paired with their beautiful coat and features made the Havanese a well sought after breed.
Although the aristocratic society of Cuba embraced the Havanese breed.by the turn of the century into the 1900’s brought a change in the interests of the social elite. The upper crust of society no longer favored the Havanese breed!
Why did this happen? Especially after 200 years how could such a high demand for the Havanese breed diminish? We part of the reason is due to the influence of North America. Prior to 1900, Cuba was dominated by European, and in particular Spanish, influences. The Cubans as a result conducted the majority of their business with Spain. Therefore this European influence created the prevalence of the European Bichon Frise lapdogs.
Around 1900 North America then began to conduct more business with Cuba. As a result of this new business partnership it also introduced different types of dog breeds to the wealthy Cubans. The wealthy Cubans soon wanted to be on par with North Americans regarding the latest trends and this included the current “it” dog breeds.
So this desire to keep up with the North American “Jones’” lead to the Havanese breed to be overlooked in the wealthy Cuban households as they searched for a new breed to adore. This transition left the Havanese to become a house pet in common households. In effect, the Havanese garnered a wider audience of admirers and owners.
The care that you give your cat, the quality of the food that your cat eats, the kind of lifestyle that your cat lives. All these things play their part in the chances of your cat enjoying a long life.
Veterinary medicine has made some great advances in recent years, and this is one of the reasons the average age of domestic cats is increasing. A well cared for cat that is kept indoors and is fed a good nutritional diet, would be expected to live for about 15 years.
Some cats do live to 20 plus years and there are records of a few cats reaching over 30 years. These sort of ages for a cat are very much the exception however.
The genetic make up of a cat can be a factor in determining its life span. Some breeds of cat appear to be more resilient than others. Selective breeding can have the effect that some breeds are genetically prone to ailments which shorten their life expectancy. Mixed breeds, the typical moggie or mouser, is usually more vigorous in its genetic make up and may expect to live slightly longer than a pure breed cat.
Cats that are kept strictly as indoor only cats stand a better chance of living to a ripe old age than cats that are allowed outside. The reasons for this are many. Outdoor cats face danger from traffic, from being attacked by other cats or by other animals. They run increased risk of being accidentally poisoned by pesticides or deliberately poisoned by malicious humans. Outdoor cats are also at risk from catching feline diseases particularly from the feral cat population.
The are many things to consider in deciding to keep your cat as an indoor only cat or an outdoor-indoor cat, life expectancy is only one of them.
Overfeeding your cat is a good way to shorten its life. An overfed cat stands more chance of health problems than a cat that is weight controlled. Diabetes, arthritis, breathing difficulties, heart and liver disease can all result as a consequence of overfeeding. All of these conditions may mean your little pet not living a long and healthy feline life. Your veterinarian can advise on the best diet for your cat.
Exercise too, is important for your cat's health and in maintaining its weight. Healthy cats mostly exercise themselves of course, but the playtime you enjoy with your cat can contribute to keeping kitty healthy. Elderly cats particularly benefit from gentle play-exercise.
Regular visits to the vets for routine checks will give your cat the best chance to live a long life, and to live that life healthily. Many life shortening problems can be tackled successfully if detected early.
Neutered or spayed cats often enjoy a slightly longer life than unaltered felines. This is particularly so for male cats as an unaltered male will often receive injuries defending his territory. There are many other good reasons for spaying and neutering of course, aside from extending the life of your cat.
Toby entered my life aged 14 weeks and he proved to be an extremely strong character. I have owned cats of different breeds for many years but never one quite like Toby. He is very demanding and as a kitten would regularly grab hold of the legs of anyone from whom he wanted attention. If he was feeling ignored he would lie in wait and literally ambush anyone who passed by, grabbing them and hauling himself up their legs. Fortunately he usually did this to males who were normally wearing trousers!
He was always fascinated by water and liked nothing more than to sit on the side of our bath dipping his paws into the water and flicking it over himself. He fell into the bath on more than one occasion and there was much splashing and scrabbling of claws against the side of the bath. Of course he then had to be thoroughly dried which took some time. This meant end of bathtime for the poor person whose bath he had infiltrated.
He never quite understood the shower though. Perhaps it was because we always ensured that the cubicle was firmly closed. He would sit outside and stare longingly at the cascading water and the instant the door was opened he dived in and managed to get his paws as wet as possible.
Toby’s love of water meant that he enjoyed the hosepipe immensely. He would watch the water shoot out of the end and keeping just out of the reach of the spray, pat at the few droplets that landed by him On one occasion he stopped looking at the water coming our of the hose and walked the length of it to where it was attached to the outside tap. He sat and stared at the tap mewing very loudly.
One day when he was ten months old he was hit by a car and badly injured. We were sure he would not survive but our wonderful vet pinned his shattered pelvis together and after a couple of months, while not quite as good as new, and with a slightly odd gait, he was back to his mischievous ways.
When we moved to a property that had been empty for some while we found that the lavatory was blocked. I lifted the inspection plate to see what was there. What I thought I would see apart from the obvious I cannot imagine. But lift the lid I did and who should join me but Toby. He stood beside me as I looked gloomily at the mess. He peered into the unpleasant gaping maw of the drain hole and slipped straight in.
I has to haul him out and as I lifted him from the stinking vile brown mess of God knows how many bowel evacuations. I put him in the back and hosed him off trying at the same time to remove my clothing which Toby had managed to cover with a layer of vile brown slime. I admit to being helpless with laughter as I attempted to clean us both up and I have never attempted to lift a sewer inspection plate again.
Nowadays Toby is a little more sedate and his main interest in life is the loft and the ladder which leads to it. He sits and mews longingly at the loft hatch until someone takes pity on him and hauls down the ladder and takes into the roof for a good wander round.
About the Author: Susan James
I have owned, bred and shown cats and dogs. I have a keen interest in the welfare of all animals http://www.prettyposhpets.co.uk
The Ragamuffin is a relatively recent cat breed that originated through periodic breeding of Ragdolls with Himalayans and Persians. A large cat, the Ragamuffin weighs in the range of ten to twenty pounds, with males typically being heavier than females. It is a somewhat rare and expensive breed at the moment. This is largely owing to its relatively recent recognition and development, not to mention the sublime beauty and appeal of this felid. Like the Ragdoll, Ragamuffin is one of the most sought after domestic cats.
"A picture of Amarillo of First Europe, an European Ragamuffin." (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Like other large cats, Ragamuffins take time to develop, reaching full size by around four years of age. Thy have a rectangular profile with strong chest and shoulders. Heavily boned and well muscled, they often have a fatty pad on abdomen though they are not obese. Fur is long and silky with a prominent neck ruff and plush tapering tail. A broad variety of coat colors and patterns exists. Eyes are large and expressive. There is a nose dip and whisker pad is puffy, adding to the cat's sweet facial expression.
Despite similarities, certain differences do exist between Ragamuffins and Ragdolls. The former have a rounder skull with a slightly fuller face and tilted ears. Eyes are walnut shaped in contrast to the oval eyes of Ragdolls. Also Ragamuffins are allowed to breed outside their stock every fifth generation to prevent continuous inbreeding and maintain genetic variety.
Ragamuffins are docile and gentle cats. They are non-aggressive and should not be allowed outdoors unsupervised. Still they are active and quite fond of playing with their toys and fetching them and climbing scratch posts. They show a very affectionate attitude towards people and lovingly follow them around the house. Ragamuffins are not demanding and do not require daily grooming. Their rabbit like fur does not matte easily and they have no particular health problems in their lines.
How do you stop a nuisance barker? Easy: Teach them how to "speak" and "sing". This might be more interesting for bothersome humans, but just way cuter for canines. All types of dogs, may it be size or breed, can be easily taught to speak. The way for it to go is to call your dog, show him a treat (which never disappoints), and say "Speak".
The dog might probably not understand what you are trying to make him do, and probably would dart on the treat, jumps, and will eye it intently at first. Finally, he will sit down, gets impatient, and then utters a sharp bark which is what you have been waiting for, and for that instant when he does so, reward him with a treat.
Not all dogs love to bark. Just like humans, some are aggressive, and some are just plainly shy. For these types of dogs, they can be encouraged to do so by imitating a bark. Chances are, he will reply to it. Reward him, a never-disappointing deed of all time, then he will learn to bark as soon as he hears the word "speak". Now, after the dogs have been taught to bark once, you can teach him a series of barks. This way, you can make him expect to be rewarded, which encourages him to bark more until you give him a stop signal, which can lead to a full phrase, or whichever you want him to do.
Other than being social beings, dogs are very observant. By the time you signal your pet to stop at the slightest point, your friends won't detect the magic trick, such as subtle movements of hands and feet; a wink or a shift of your gaze, and if you keep up with these tricks, you might be firing up an interesting series of barks that can sound as if your pet is having a conversation. You can address him as if he was a human being to keep his performance appealing, impressive, and very perplexing.
Demonstrating the latter, if you are exhibiting your dog to an audience, and might want him to "speak", you would like to be a bit more creative like asking him a question. That way, you can probably be in a very good business as to have a "talking dog". Either way, that is much better than pestering barks in the neighborhood.
Now that your dog can now "speak", you can now teach him how to "sing". Try making him imitate a series of whines and howls to a certain degree, reaching the pitch, and the style of noise you desire. As your pet learns how to follow you, say "sing" automatically to associate the desired action. With constant practice, a dog can and will learn to follow your turn quite accurately. Do not forget to praise and treat him plentifully for encouragement. Exercise the activity on a regular basis.
By this type of training, not only have you got rid of a nuisance dog, you have disciplined your pet vigorously, making him understand that barking and whining is only allowed in command. And now, for the humans.
CBP officer with his explosive detection dog clears vehicles entering the Super Bowl area. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Detection dogs are trained to detect even minute amounts of key substances. These substances range from drugs to cadavers to peanuts (yes, peanuts!). Bomb dogs and explosives dogs are trained to sniff out dangerous items in airplane luggage, cars, buildings, and anywhere a threat is suspected. Because the number and types of detection dogs are so numerous, this article will focus on a few of the main types of detection dogs.
1. Bomb Dogs
What good is sniffing out a bomb? Plenty! If there are reports that a bomb has been planted somewhere on public or private property - in a school, under a car, in a mall, just to name a few examples - and no one knows just where the bomb is, it can take precious time for people to find it. And in the meantime, the bomb might be poised to explode.
A dog's nose can detect parts per trillion, which is far more sensitive than any human nose; this means that a dog can seek out and find a bomb in record time - even if it's well-hidden. This saves precious hours and potentially saves many human lives.
Training
The exact procedures for training bomb detection dogs are rigorous, and handlers practice with their dogs daily regardless of actual threats. Dogs are taught to sniff out various bombs in a wide range of situations, so the training takes time. Dogs are rewarded when they discover the bombs, reinforcing their desire to keep detecting these dangerous explosives.
Breeds
Bomb detection dogs are often German Shepherds or dogs that are related to German Shepherds, such as the Belgian Malinois (most people can't tell the difference). Labs, Bloodhounds, and even Beagles have been used in this capacity, as have mixed breeds. The key is a keen sense of smell, trainability, and a courageous, non-timid temperament.
Spc. Matthew Hoffman, works with his military working dog, Roxy, to sniff out narcotics (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
2. Drug Dogs
Like bomb dogs, drug dogs are trained to sniff out small amounts of substances even if they are hidden or masked by other scents. This is where drug dogs can truly amaze - they can detect illegal drugs even if the drugs have been packaged in multiple layers and the package smeared with strong scents like coffee and vapor rub!
Training
Dogs are trained on a reward system, getting praise rewards or a favorite toy (usually not food treats) if they sniff out the substance. Drug dogs are used at airports, by police on the street, at borders between countries, and anywhere that drugs may be trafficked or suspected.
Breeds
Drug dogs can also be any breed that exhibits favorable traits. Once again, the German Shepherd shines as the most likely breed to serve in this capacity, but Bloodhounds and other hounds are also excellent sniffers.
Rottweiler rescue organizations provide a valuable service by serving as an alternative to the dog pound for owners of purebred Rottweiler dogs that, for a variety of reasons, must give up their dog. The owner may have gotten the Rottweilers with good intentions, planning to keep the dog for its entire life. Then something happens. Many purebred Rottweiler dogs end up homeless because of death, marriage, eviction or new children.
The Rottweiler is an excellent watchdog, and some owners get their Rottweilers for the purpose of guarding property. When the property changes hands, the watchdog may not be needed any longer needed. Instead of easing the Rottweiler into retirement as a house pet, some owners prefer to give their dogs away.
An undocked Rottweiler in profile (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
A Rottweiler dog owner who can no longer keep his or her Rottweiler can surrender the dog to a Rottweiler rescue organization. However, owners should be absolutely certain they are being forced to give up their dog before they turn the Rottweiler over to a Rottweiler rescue organization. Luckily for the dogs, Rottweiler rescue organizations are eventually able to find homes for most Rottweilers. Remember, no one should get any dog thinking that they can turn it over to a rescue group if things don't work out.
Anyone who wants to adopt a Rottweiler rescue dog should carefully consider the decision and be absolutely sure before they make a move to adopt a dog. A commitment to a dog should last the dog's entire lifetime.
Rottweilers are big dogs, weighing eighty to one hundred thirty-five pounds, and they have great strength. It is essential that such a strong, confident dog be properly trained, for the safety of the dog and the people around it. Obedience training for Rottweiler puppies should begin at an early age, preferably eight to ten weeks. With a rescue Rottweiler, though, you can't be sure what kind of training the dog has already had. Owners of rescue dogs should be prepared to go through obedience training with their dogs, to correct any problems with the dog's behavior and to introduce the dog to the structure and authority Rottweilers crave.
Confidence is a trait of most Rottweilers' personalities, but the Rottweiler longs for a pack leader. A rescue dog owner should provide the Rottweiler with enough exercise to fulfill the dog's need for vigorous recreation and with enough discipline to establish the owner as the leader of the pack.
Rottweiler rescue groups will only accept Rottweiler dogs that are in good health, with current vaccinations. Each dog that is accepted as a rescue dog undergoes a health and temperament evaluation by a veterinarian, and the owner who turns the dog over is required to pay a nominal fee to cover intake expenses. The fee is also meant to discourage owners from dumping dogs on the rescue groups, and encourages owners to think long and hard before surrendering their dog.
If you are interested in adopting a rescue dog, contact a Rottweiler rescue organization near you. Most organizations will require that you be at least 21 years old and that you have the permission and consent of all adults in your household. If you don't own your own home, you will be required to provide written permission from the owner for you to adopt a Rottweiler. If you are discouraged by these requirements, please remember that they are designed to reduce the possibility of an irresponsible owner having to return a rescue dog and to make sure prospective owners understand the commitment required to adopt a Rottweiler.
If your application is approved, you will be paired up with a rescue dog and asked to foster the dog for a temporary trial period. The result is worth the wait because your Rottweiler rescue dog will be a faithful companion for the rest of its life.
By Sharon Davies
Sharon Davies hopes that by explaining some of the history behind the Rottweiler that more and more people will come to feel connected to the dog instead of fearing it. When thinking of getting a Rottweiler as a guard dog, remember that there is much more to them then just a scary looking dog. A lot of Rottweiler information can be found in different books or just by talking with your vet.
Article Source: EzineArticles
A Brittany Spaniel Puppy. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The importance of socializing a puppy can never be over-emphasised, but what exactly does it mean? And how does one go about it? This article will explain to you what socialization is and how to put it into practice to ensure your dog has few, if any behavioural problems later in life and is able to interact well with dogs and other species.
Socialization is the process whereby a puppy learns to recognise and interact with other individuals of its own species, with people of different ages, races and genders, and with other animals that she is likely to come into contact with, such as cats and horses. The dog will learn the skills necessary to communicate with and interpret the other animals' intentions, thus avoiding unnecessary hostilities. The dog will also learn to cope with stress and will suffer less as an adult in stressful situations. When talking of socialization, we often include habituation, that is, getting a puppy used to different places, sights and sounds so that she becomes confident in new situations and gets used to as many different stimuli as possible.
There are certain periods in a puppy's development that are more important than others. The most sensitive socialization period begins at around 3 weeks of age and begins to reduce by 12 weeks. Peak sensitivity is between 6 and 8 weeks of age. It is important to remember that many young dogs need continual social interaction to maintain their socialization and failure to do so will mean that they regress or become fearful again. The 6-8 month period is another sensitive time for socialization and owners and trainers can use this window to further habituate and socialize their puppy to different surroundings, people and animals.
So, now we know why and when socialization should be carried out, we must look at how to undertake this. It is recommended that your puppy be introduced to new stimuli and other people and pets in a systematic and controlled way. Remember that these formative experiences will shape the behaviour of your pet for the rest of her life, so the idea is that they should be pleasurable and fun. They may well also be challenging, but if done in the right way, the puppy will learn that there is no threat and that she is safe to explore and meet new friends and situations without being fearful. This ensures the best chance of her developing a sound temperament and capacity to cope in all circumstances.
Early socialization is, of course, in the hands of the breeder and if they are conscientious and responsible they will ensure that the puppies are handled frequently, as well being exposed to normal household stimuli such as the television, vacuum cleaner, washing machine, doorbell etc. Puppies who are raised in a quiet kennel or room will have trouble adapting to a normal family environment.
So once the puppy is at home with you, it is your job to continue carefully introducing her to different people, animals and stimuli. It is however important to introduce the puppy to new people, places, objects and situations only when you can completely control the experience. A frightening experience will be detrimental – avoid unfriendly dogs and adults and children who do not understand how to be kind and gentle with animals. Invite friends to your house soon after you bring your puppy home to teach her that guests are friendly and welcome in her new home. Give your friends treats to give to the puppy so she is rewarded. Introduce her to one or two other friendly, healthy, fully-vaccinated dogs – she can join in with bigger groups once she has all her shots and has learned some dog social skills and has over-come any fear. Always be ready to intervene if your puppy is scared, threatened or being bullied by another dog.
When socializing your puppy, you must evaluate your lifestyle and environment and assess what situations are lacking. For instance, if you live in the country, take your puppy to town and gradually and carefully let her become accustomed to crowds of people, noise and traffic. If, however, you live in a town and these things are no problem, take your puppy to the countryside so she can see and smell farm animals and become accustomed to them too. Make sure your dog meets some cats who are dog-friendly. Don't let her chase them as this will start a life-long habit that will be difficult to change. If your household has no children, introduce your puppy to some children who can regularly play gently with her. Always supervise them to ensure the children are gentle and that your dog is responding well and not becoming nervous or aggressive.
Remember always to protect your puppy's health, before she is fully vaccinated. Don't put her down on the ground where there may be dog urine or faeces, and don't let her interact with other dogs that may carry disease. You can still socialize your puppy by carrying her into different situations and taking her in the car, allowing her to see many different things in a safe environment and she will get used to trips in the car at the same time. Use treats and praise to reinforce good behaviour. Do not comfort your puppy if she is fearful as this can be interpreted as praise for the wrong behaviour. Simply change the situation (i.e. ask an approaching person to step back or pick up your puppy to get her out of a difficult situation) until she feels safe and secure once more.
All interaction with your puppy at this age involves consistently rewarding desirable behaviour which will increase the likelihood the dog will repeat this behaviour. It will also help to prevent the development of undesirable behaviour.
Another helpful step would be to enroll in puppy socialization and training class. This provides a great opportunity for puppies to socialize with other dogs, for puppies to learn obedience training in a playful environment with plenty of distractions and also for owners to learn training and communication techniques.
The Dachshund is an extremely popular dog breed which has ranked in the top ten most popular dog breeds for many years. Dachshunds were ranked 6th out of 154 dog breeds registered by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in both 2004 and 2005. When most people think of a Dachshund, they think of a small dog with a smooth and shiny coat, long body, floppy ears and short crooked legs. However when you consider buying a Dachshund and start to research the dog breed, you find there are a diverse and wide range of sizes, coat varieties, colors and patterns.
The original Standard Dachshund was developed to hunt badgers. The breed had to be: built low to the ground, agile and muscular enough to pursue the badger through a maze of underground tunnels, and brave enough to tackle its formidable adversary. Many people poke fun at this “sausage dog”, but they don’t know how he was bred to be low, long, muscular and athletic. Dachshunds are scent hounds and track their prey by scent and not by sight. This breed is courageous and single minded in its work. Once the Dachshund had cornered its prey in a tunnel, he barked to let the hunter know where he was located under ground. Today the Dachshund still retains its hunting instinct and, if off leash, will follow a scent ignoring any previously learned commands.
Dachshunds come in two sizes – the Standard and the Miniature. Miniature Dachshunds were bred down in size by German hunters to hunt rabbits. The AKC standard says that Miniatures should weigh 11 pounds or less. Standard Dachshunds have no weight limits but usually range from 15 to 30 pounds. Apart from the size difference, both types have the same appearance.
The Dachshund breed comes in three different varieties of coat – Short-haired or Smooth, Long-haired and Wire-haired. The Shorthair is the most prevalent and has a short, dense and shiny coat that most people associate with the Dachshund. The Long-haired Dachshund has a soft and sleek coat that is well fringed on the ears, chest, under side of the body, legs and tail. The Longhair looks something like a small Irish Setter. The Wirehair has a short, dense and wiry outer coat with a dense undercoat and also has a beard, bushy eyebrows and prominent ridges over its eyes. The three coat-type varieties, while all Dachshunds, seem to have minor differences in temperament. The Longhair’s temperament seems more laid back, kinder and gentler reflecting the softer coat. This gentler demeanor doesn’t seem to impair its field trial competitiveness at all. The Wirehair’s temperament seems to be bolder and brasher than the other varieties and a little more like a terrier in demeanor. The Shorthair seems to be the most independent and stubborn of the three varieties.
Another area of diversification is the color of the Dachshund’s coat. The most common colors are red (ranging from reddish blond to deep rusty red) and a black and tan combination. The black and tan dogs are all black with tan markings on the head, chest and paws. Other two-color combinations are chocolate, blue or fawn with tan markings. Wirehairs have coats that are commonly a black and light hair mix called wild boar. The final area of diversification is the pattern of the Dachshund’s coat. There is a dapple pattern that consists of a dark base color with contrasting light areas. A double dapple pattern is varying amounts of white occurring over the body in addition to the dapple pattern. Finally there is a brindle pattern characterized by dark stripes all over the body.
Given that you can decide between the size, coat type, color and pattern - why would you want to choose a Dachshund? Dachshunds are wonderful fun loving dogs that adore their owners and want to be involved in everything that is going on. The Dachshund has a whole host of virtues such as: amiable, intelligent, brave, alert, loyal, playful, inquisitive and dignified. They also make good watchdogs. On the less positive side, the Dachshund is somewhat independent and mischievous and will follow an interesting scent to the exclusion of everything else. Both Miniature and Standard Dachshunds make good apartment dogs that are small enough to travel everywhere with their owners. It really is no surprise to see why the Dachshund is one of the most popular small dog breeds registered by the AKC.
Come with me as I take a look at the Wonderful World of Poodles.
History
Although the national breed of France, the Poodle actually originated in Germany where it was used as a water retriever. Many believe the name "Pudel" comes from the German word "pudel" which means "one who plays in water."
In fact, the famous "Poodle Clip" was created by hunters to help the breed swim faster and more efficiently. The clip was not created as a decorative element. It was created to protect certain vital organs and joints of the breed in cold water.
A black Standard Poodle (Caniche). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The term "French Poodle" comes from France's capitalization of the breed's intelligence, trainability and eagerness to perform. The French turned poodles into popular circus performers where they gained notoriety and became Louis XVI and Queen Anne's court favorites. They have long since been associated with royalty. Even America's President, Grover Cleveland, owned a poodle.
The Standard Poodle, the largest of the three recognized varieties, is the oldest of the breed. All of the poodle's ancestors were water dogs known for their swimming abilities.
Characteristics
The poodle is the only breed that comes in three AKC registered varieties. The three recognized types are the Standard Poodle, the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle. The Standard is the tallest, measuring over 15 inches. The Miniature is 15 inches or under, but a minimum of 10 inches. The Toy is under 10 inches.
The breed comes in a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray.
The Poodle is an exceptionally intelligent dog that excels in obedience training. Its intelligence and ability to learn makes it one of the most popular breeds in the world. It is considered one of the easiest breeds to train. Also, its hypoallergenic coat makes it a favorite amongst owners. It does not shed, but does require grooming on a regular basis. The breed adapts well to any living conditions, making it an ideal pet for apartments. However, it is an active dog and does require daily exercise.
The Poodle carries itself proudly and has a very distinct air of dignity. The word "elegant" is most often used to describe the breed. The Poodle is known to be shy, but sharp at the same time. Poodles are reserved with strangers and unless trained at an early age, can bark excessively.
The Standard Poodle (Caniche, Barbone, Chien Canne)
The Standard Poodle is considered to be a large dog of high intelligence and trainability. Elegant, strong and good natured, it makes an excellent family dog. It has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are wide and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has an effortless and delightful gait (like walking on air.)
The Standard Poodle is pleasant, happy and generally easy to maintain. It is a loyal companion but unlike the Miniature and Toy varieties of the breed, can be less sensitive to its surroundings and does not bond to one owner or one household as much. It is considered the calmer of the Poodle varieties. Standard Poodles are friendly and excellent with children and other dogs.
Height: 15 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The Standard Poodle is inactive indoors and even a small yard is acceptable. However they do require daily walks. They are not overly demanding but their temperament is based on their living conditions.
This is a long lived breed but it is subject to certain genetic diseases like most dogs. Cataracts, skin conditions (from allergies to certain shampoos,) hip dysplasia, runny nose and ear infections are common. Also, the breed is subject to bloating, so only feed it two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals.
The Miniature Poodle (Caniche)
The Miniature Poodle is considered to be a medium dog of high intelligence and trainability. More cheerful and playful than the Standard variety of poodle, it has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are wide and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has a spunky gait.
The Miniature Poodle is an amusing, often curious dog. It is a loyal companion that insists on being included in all of its owner's activities. It can learn tricks effortlessly. It is considered less calm than the Standard Poodle, but not as feisty as the Toy Poodle. Most Miniature Poodles love children and other dogs but they will exhibit jealous tendencies and can display sharp reactions. They can be over playful and must be trained early on that there is a limit to play time. Overall, they are friendly and make excellent pets.
Height: 11-15 inches
Weight: 15-17 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The Miniature Poodle is a good dog for apartment life. They are active indoors but do fine without a yard. However they do require daily walks. They are not overly demanding but their temperament is based on their living conditions.
This is a long lived breed but it is subject to certain genetic diseases like most dogs. Cataracts, skin conditions (from allergies to certain shampoos,) hip dysplasia, runny nose and ear infections are common. Also, the breed is subject to bloating, so only feed it two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals.
The Toy Poodle (Caniche, Chien Canne, Tea Cup)
The Toy Poodle is considered to be a small dog of high intelligence and trainability. More sensitive than the Standard and Toy varieties, it is also considered the smartest of the three. It has a thick, soft, curly coat that does not shed but requires daily grooming. The ears are small and long and hang close to the head. The eyes are very dark and alert. The feet are compact and the breed has a perfect gait.
The Toy Poodle is sensitive but extremely intelligent. They are very responsive and alert. They can be a delight, but also demanding. They do not like strangers and are reserved around children and other dogs. They are known to snap if they are teased, surprised or mishandled.
They generally bond with one owner for life and they are extremely loyal to that individual and will defend them at all cost, despite their size. However, a true "lap dog," the Toy Poodle expects an equal amount of loyalty and love in return. They adapt better to one dog households and do not do well with small children. The Toy Poodle is considered the least calm of the three poodle varieties.
Height: up to 10 inches
Weight: 3-8 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years
The Toy Poodle is a good dog for apartment life. They adapt very well to "city life." They require little indoor or outdoor activities but nonetheless, should be socialized with a daily walk. They are demanding dogs and can bark excessively if left alone for long periods of time.
This is a long lived breed but it is subject to certain genetic diseases like most dogs. Cataracts, skin conditions (from allergies to certain shampoos,) hip dysplasia, runny nose and ear infections are common. Also, the breed is subject to bloating, so only feed it two to three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals.
Choosing Your Poodle
Never is it more essential to choose a responsible and well-respected breeder than when choosing a Poodle Puppy.
As you've already learned from reading this article, dogs come in many different colors, sizes and TEMPERAMENTS!
Poodles especially fall into this category. You can end up with a great pet or a nightmare. Fortunately, with a little bit of research and homework ahead of time, you'll minimize the risk of a difficult pet and maximize your chances of a truly wonderful new companion.
I recommend everyone get the definitive guide to choosing a dog breed. This book will help you make the right choice. It was written by Marcel Cobs, very well respected in the industry. A dog is a companion for life. Making sure you choose the right breed should be step one. When you buy a car, you do not buy the very first car, on the very first lot, on the nearest street, do you? You do a little research. Choosing a dog is no different and this is the ONLY guide I have ever recommended.
How to Choose the Right Dog for You! By Marcel Cobs
A practical guide to guarantee you and your new best friend enjoy a great life together. If you have any interest at all in getting a dog... if you want to find out what type of dog you should get to fit you and your family... or you just want to figure out whether you should get a dog or not... then this book was written just for you. Comes with eBook and professional mp3 audio recordings included!
You can email me and I'll provide you the link to get the book.
Once you've decided on the type of dog you are getting, I suggest you check your local shelter. There are thousands and thousands of dogs in need of good homes and yes, some are pure breed dogs. It's a misconception that only "mutts" can be found in shelters (by the way....some of the best dogs I've owned or simply known, were mutts!)
The name of your local shelter can always be found in your Yellow Pages or online. Or you can simply go to The Humane Society of the United States website. Call your local shelter and ask them to notify you if a specific type or breed of dog comes in. Many are more than happy to keep you on a notify list, but some are not.
Second, I recommend you contact breed rescue organizations. You can Google breed rescue organizations by simply typing in the name of the breed and then the words "rescue organizations." These organizations have dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to find homes for purebred dogs and yes, many times THEY DO have puppies.
Finally, if you have not found what you are looking for at a shelter or through a rescue organization, I recommend you find a reputable breeder in your area. How will you know if they are reputable? Do some research and do a little homework. Also, try to visit more than one. Don't just buy the first puppy you see. Here are some helpful hints:
General
Check the Better Business Bureau. It's amazing to me how many people forget to do this! It's free and it takes about two seconds. Do it!
Health
1. Do the puppies look clean and do they appear healthy? - Puppies should be bright eyed, active, playful and have an outward appearance of good health (good skin and coat, no unusual odor, clean ears, etc.)
2. Have the puppies been checked for worms? - The puppy should have been examined for worms and the breeder should present you with proof that it has received at least one vaccination before it goes home with you.
3. Have the parents been x-rayed for hip dysplasia? - This is a genetic disorder that many dogs are prone to. The breeder should know all about hereditary diseases and should breed healthy dogs with good temperaments.
Early Socialization
1. Are the puppies friendly? Do they seem happy to be around you? - Puppies should be outgoing, begging to be picked up, competing for attention, and love being held and played with. A very timid puppy might tug at your heartstrings but chances are it's not in good health.
2. Insist on seeing the mother. Is she friendly and attractive? - At 6 weeks old, the mother should no longer be overprotective of her puppies. Insist on seeing the father. How is he with visitors? DO NOT buy puppies whose parents do not have good temperaments.
3. How old are the puppies? - Puppies should not be removed from their litters before 6 weeks. They need to be around their littermates for at least 6 weeks. Seven or eight weeks are even better. However, there is a limit. A puppy that is kept with its littermates past the age of 10 weeks may have become too dependent on its mother.
4. Has the breeder begun to socialize the puppies? - You can tell if a breeder has given each puppy some individual attention, care, and training. Don't be shy. Ask the breeder about this! Ask him, "what have you done to begin socializing this puppy?"
The Breeder
1. Is the breeder experienced with the breed? - The breeder should be able to answer any questions about the breed and agree to help you with any problems. After all, this is why you are buying from a breeder and not a pet shop.
2. Has the breeder gone over both the good and bad characteristics of the breed? - Every breed has good points and bad. No breed can be considered "perfect." The breeder should be honest with you. Some of the best breeders I know refuse to sell certain breeds to families with small children or owners who live in apartments, etc. It seems harsh and unfair, but actually they are doing you and their puppies a favor. Don't fall for the hard sell. There is no reason you should be pressured in any way. If you feel like you are going through a hard sell, walk away.
3. Has the breeder suggested further obedience training? - Many responsible breeders make this a requirement for the sale. All dogs need training. Don't be put off by this. This means they have the best interest of the dog in mind.
4. Does the breeder offer any kind of "starter kit"? - The breeder should give you some materials to take home. The "kit" will probably include some dog food, instructions on the care and feeding of your pup, a list of necessary supplies to have at home, dog care books, and some information on Veterinarians and dog training schools.
5. How about the paperwork? Is it all in order? - You should receive a contract (signed by both you and the seller), and a pedigree. You should not have to pay extra for the pedigree.
Your Part In All This
1. Are you willing to make a long term commitment to this puppy? - When you purchase a puppy, you are making a very serious, long term commitment to the care, training and love of this dog. This animal will live for a dozen years or more and it is your responsibility to do everything possible to keep it well and happy for its entire life.
Hope you've enjoyed "Poodles: A Look At The World's Smartest Dog Breed."
Ms. Weber is the author of over 1,000 articles on dog breeds and she is the author of three fictional novels. She lives in Arizona with her husband, two daughters, a teacup poodle named Holden and two hamsters named Zoe and Emma. She loves horseback riding, reading mysteries and very scary movies.
10% of all proceeds from the sale of any merchandise in this article, on Ms. Weber's website or blog goes to the Humane Society of the United States and other animal rescue organizations. Please buy or donate directly to your local shelter!
The pit bull is probably the most misrepresented breed of dog there ever is. People generally think of pit bulls as overaggressive mutts that attack people without even the slightest provocation and have the capacity to maul them to death, dogs that are good only for engaging in dog fights. This image of the pit bull is nowhere near to being accurate; they are very much maligned by the public in general.
Pit bulls are actually very different from the way they are often portrayed. Sure, they look strong and scary, being well muscled and stocky for their size, with their barrel chests and brick-shaped heads, their thick necks and their powerful jaws. Pit bulls, however, are very sociable and affectionate dogs, especially if they are properly trained. Pit bull lovers value these dogs not just for their strength and courage, but also for their caring and protective nature.
With proper training and socialization, even pit bulls can be the gentlest of dogs. Their affectionate and caring nature makes them perfect companions and housemates. And because they have a high tolerance for pain and rough play, pit bulls can be great playmates to small children.
If pit bulls are so great, how come there are stories of them attacking other dogs and people? While there are stories of pit bulls being aggressive enough to hurt animals and people, those incidences are in truth few and far between. More often than not, the media just blew the story out of proportion or did not get the facts right. There are times when the dog involved is not a pit bull at all and only looks like one.
A pit bull that shows aggressiveness towards other dogs and other animals is a dog that has not been socialized properly. A pit bull that attacks people is a dog that has been abused to the point that he has become mentally unstable. When a pit bull, or any other dog for that matter, goes berserk, it is the fault of the human owner, and not the dog himself.
It is true, however, that not all people can own a pit bull for a pet. To be the master of a pit bull, one has to be prepared to meet the demanding responsibilities of owning such a pet. To be the master of a pit bull, you have to be a person who really is capable of loving one. If you are looking into owning a pit bull just because you want to impress people, forget it. You will only end up doing the dog a huge disservice.
A pit bull is an athletic dog that requires a lot of exercise. It would be great if you have a big yard where he can run around to his heart’s content. However, if you live in an apartment, it is still okay to own a pit bull if you really want one, as long as you take him out for long walks every day. Long walks with your pit bull would be good for your health too.
You need to have your house or your property secured and fenced if you decide to own a pit bull. Pit bulls can be willful and mischievous; he will try to jump the fence or slip through the door if he can. Also, if you have a malicious neighbor who has an irrational fear towards pit bulls, having your house or property secured will keep your dog from being hurt by your neighbors or from being stolen.
Caring for a pit bull can be pretty expensive. Before you get a pit bull, be sure you can afford his upkeep. You will need to give him proper dog food, fit him with a good leash and collar, take him to the vet for regular checkups, feed him with heartworm medicine every once in a while, build a dog house for him, and other such things. Dog food alone can amount to around $800 a year. If you do not have that much money to set aside for caring for a pit bull, shelve your plan for a while until you can afford having one around.
Pit bulls also need to be trained. Training a dog takes the entirety of his lifetime, not just in the early years. A pit bull also needs to be controlled all the time, simply because other people are afraid of such dogs. If you do not exert the proper control on your pit bull, you might end up with him being taken away from you. It is a heartbreaking experience that you would not want to have.
Lastly, but most importantly, you must love your pit bull. Pit bulls are very caring and loving dogs that are very loyal to their masters. If you love your pit bull, he will love you too.
Many people want to make sure their family pet has just the right bed, but might not be willing to pay the (often quite hefty) price. It’s actually more difficult to find designer and luxury dog beds especially for oversized pets than it is to find discount dog beds for average sized animals. If you’re not too fussy about the design of the fabrics being used in the bed; if your dog is of average size and weight; and if her sleeping habits are not too extreme in the curling up or stretching out situations; you can probably save a lot of money when you purchase a dog bed that’s right for her.
To begin with, a lot of the more expensive bed-makers change their designs just like clothing designers do for people, if not quite as often. The changes do result in closeouts and discontinued items being drastically marked down at pet shops across the country and on the Internet. Then there are the many pet supermarkets and discount retailers who carry a variety of comfortable beds, in a variety of colors at prices much reduced from the luxury beds available at upscale pet shops.
Then there is always the option to go ahead and make your own dog bed. If you’ve got any sewing ability at all, (and for the most part, a dog bed is more about being comfortable and durable than about looking great) you can produce an average-sized, comfortable, washable dog bed for just a few dollars worth of fabric and filler material. Cut a couple of pieces of fabric – it can be from an old sheet, a shower curtain, or a nice comfy old bathrobe – and sew them together to make a pillow of the right size. Stuff it with filler material and you have a comfy, simple dog bed. You may also create a fancier dog bed with an upper ring by cutting a long rectangle of fabric and creating a tubular pillow to go around the edge. Then fasten the upper ring to the original base with hand stitching.
You have just created a comfortable, washable bed for your dog made with love by your own two hands using a piece of fabric you’d probably throw away, some kind of filler material and a little bit of your precious time. What better way to save money and take care of your loving pet at the same time? You’ll enjoy the process of making the bed just as much as your pet will enjoy sleeping in it.
is an excellent watchdog, and some owners get their Rottweilers for the purpose of guarding property. When the property changes hands, the watchdog may not be needed any longer needed. Instead of easing the Rottweiler into retirement as a house pet, some owners prefer to give their dogs away.
are big dogs, weighing eighty to one hundred thirty-five pounds, and they have great strength. It is essential that such a strong, confident dog be properly trained, for the safety of the dog and the people around it. Obedience training for Rottweiler puppies should begin at an early age, preferably eight to ten weeks. With a rescue Rottweiler, though, you can't be sure what kind of training the dog has already had. Owners of rescue dogs should be prepared to go through obedience training with their dogs, to correct any problems with the dog's behavior and to introduce the dog to the structure and authority Rottweilers crave.
