A breed with a very curly, soft coat Devon Rex resembles the Cornish Rex in many ways. In fact it was discovered just ten years after the latter, in the same British Isles. Devon Rex was first seen in a litter of kittens in Devonshire. The cute baby was thought to be a Cornish Rex and initially bred with Cornish females to supplement their limited population at that time.
However, it soon became apparent that the gene responsible for Devon's hair was different. Plus Devon had guard hair that the Cornish lacked, even as they were often sparse and easily breakable. Devon Rex cats moved to United States in late nineteen sixties, after their discovery early in that decade. By the mid eighties they had gained general acceptance amongst cat fanciers. As part of their development they were outcrossed with Burmese and American and British Shorthairs. Today they still remain one of the less common feline breeds.
Devon Rex cats have a deceptively slight body. They are well muscled and strong, weighing between six to ten pounds on average. Head is triangular and flat on top. Ears are big, low set on the skull and rounded at the tips. The big bright oval eyes are widely spaced and slope towards ears. Nose is slightly upturned. Fur is soft and curly and is seen in a number of colors and patterns including tabby, tortie, calico, smoke and solid. Hair break off easily and there are often bald patches seen on the body. Even the whiskers are curly and sometimes completely absent. Overall they are slender cats with an ethereal appearance, leading to them being called 'pixie' or 'alien' cats.
Devons often accumulate oil on their skin owing to their stunted hair that fail to absorb it. This alongside the accumulation of dust can lead to skin problems, and therefore requires periodic grooming and bathing of the cat. Also their large ears trap dirt readily and should be swabbed regularly. The short hair are beneficial in the sense that they don't lead to a lot of shedding and are suited for people allergic to cats. However they do mean that the cats catch cold easily and look for warmth in the winter by snoozing on electronic equipments and cuddling under blankets. Owing to past inbreeding, some Devon lines carry occasional hereditary illnesses including cardiac myopathy.
Devon Rex's personality is often considered to be a combination of a cat, dog and monkey's attributes. They are more curious and inquisitive in their nature than most cats, are affectionate and easily trainable like dogs, and are athletic and possessive of an unusual fondness for high places like monkeys.
It’s easy to see why many people, even celebrities today, have embraced the French bulldog breed as their companion or pet. They have the same character as bulldogs provide but they are smaller and more lovable. While some may find the American Bulldog’s frame and look to be scary, its miniaturized version, the French bulldog doesn’t give off the same vibe. And another difference that this Frenchie has over its American counterpart is that it is more at home inside the house.
In fact, the average size of a Frenchie in its adulthood would be only about 2 feet up to its highest point. There are even types of French bulldog that are somewhat smaller. They are even lightweight as compared to other dogs, even with their stocky body, they can weigh only about 19 to 22 pounds, the bigger class weight can weigh about 22 to 28 pounds.
And like in any other purchases, you should weigh first the Pros and Cons of a product, or in this case, the dog’s breed, and see if the advantages would be much better in your situation than the disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons that have been noted by most French bulldog owners about their beloved pet. But remember, dogs, like humans, are individuals too and may tend to be different than the others. So what may be a a pro to one French bulldog, may not be present in another, and vice versa.
The PROS
French bulldogs are generally very intelligent and can be taught easily. They can be very good watchdogs when trained properly. They are also not excessive barker. They bark only when they have something to tell you and that includes having an intruder in your home. French bulldogs also have a good temper and are well behaved. They also like to hunt mice so that means you won’t need a cat. Most of all, French bulldogs are great companion dogs. They are very lovable and cuddly and loves to play. Because of their small stature, they don’t require too much space or a big back or front yard to play or exercise.
The CONS
The French bulldog can be hard headed and stubborn at times. When not trained well, a French bulldog cannot be relied on as a guard dog. Also, French bulldogs can become gassy, easily get tired and overheated, snores when asleep, and has the tendency to drool.
Plus, because of their body structure and bloodline, French bulldogs are known to be poor in swimming, get problems with breathing, and have trouble producing. They are also known for having a number of health concerns. That’s why they can be quite costly and would tend to require more than normal visitations to a vet.
Thos are just a number of examples that one would find as advantages and disadvantages with a French bulldog. It’s now up to you if you are able to cope with the cons and enjoy the pros of owning a French bulldog.
If you're in the market for the addition of a fury little canine buddy into your life, consider your quest fulfilled. The Coton de Tulear is what you're after.
Brief History
Coined as the Royal Dog of Madagascar by Dr. Robert Jay Russell, the Coton de Tulear is a relatively new and somewhat unknown breed, the first ones being brought to America in 1973. These social little critters developed on the island of Madagascar and still are today the island's national dog. The Coton de Tulear was the canine companion of choice for the Merina, or ruling tribe, in Madagascar, and they were the only ones with the privilege of having a Coton.
Picture a miniature sheep dog - that's your Coton de Tulear if you let their fur grow out. But it's hardly accurate to call it fur, fluff is a better description. A cotton ball on short puffy legs! It is a hypoallergenic dog which simply means you won't be forever sweeping and vacuuming and picking up tuffs and clumps of hair around the house all day long - that's right, the fluff-ball doesn't shed. That fact alone brings a smile to my face. You also don't get that "doggie smell" with a Coton, which is a big plus for an inside dog, especially one who is allowed to sleep on the bed! My smile just faded to a disconsolate frown as the "sleeping on the bed" issue is a touchy topic between my wife and I... but you know what they say, "happy wife, happy life". So guess who will continue sleeping on the bed?
As far as colour is concerned, the Coton de Tulear come in only a few colour variations: white, white with light spots of brown, black and white, and black; although black is not an acceptable colour.
Temperament
The Coton is an affectionate little clown, both happy and inquisitive. They have an amiable personality, much like a lab, and become attached very quickly to their extended family. They are charmers and pleasers, love people, enjoy playing and are great with kids. These little fluff-al-uffal-gusses (I just coined that term!) love to rip around the yard in boisterous play and in the next instant curl up on your lap for a snooze. The Coton is an attention seeker and very sociable and does not fare so well if left on their own for long periods of time. They are very trainable, but have a fragile personality so you must be sure to incentivize the training with praise instead of punishment.
Health
The Coton de Tulear is, overall, a very healthy breed and has far less disorders than many other breeds, due in large to very little inbreeding. It has only been in recent years that the AKC (American Kennel Club) has recognized the Coton, thus allowing for the breed to remain relatively rare and, in turn, not enduring inbreeding on a large scale - inbreeding being the source of many health issues. The average life span of a Coton de Tulear is 16-21 years.
Size - As governed by the international Federation Cynologique Internationale.
Weight: The male Coton de Tulear should weigh between 4-6 kg (9-13 lbs) and the female 3.5-5 kg (8-11 lbs).
Height: The male should be 25-30 cm (10-12 inches), and the female 22-27 cm (8.5-10.5 inches).
By contrast, the Coton de Tulear Club of America standard specifies the weight as no more than 18 lb (8 kg) with the average being between 11-15 pounds. The standard height is 9 to 13 inches (33 cm), except for the rare Tall Coton, which is 14 to 16 inches (43 cm) high.
The Pros of Coton de Tulears:
Small but tough and sturdy. Doesn't have the feel of "breakable" like a toy breed.
Hypoallergenic - great breed for allergy sufferers.
Doesn't need lots of exercse.
Is social with people and other animals.
The Cons of Coton de Tulears:
Can be prone to "separation anxiety" if left alone for long periods... but hey, so am I!
May show shyness or be suspicious if not socialized enough.
Can sometimes be a challenge to housebreak.
Has a potential for excessive barking.
So, if you secretly consider yourself of noble decent and a fantasized heir to the throne, you would do well to introduce a Coton de Tulear - Canine of Royalty into your kingdom!
By Dan B. Morgan
I love to write... about anything and everything. Being the privileged owner of a Coton de Tulear, I thought I might write a brief history and description of this intriguing breed. I hope you have found this article both interesting and informative. Thanks for taking the time to read it.
Article Source: EzineArticles
The guard dog or watch dog has one of the most ancient types of canine relationships with humans. It's been conjectured that guard duty was the dog's first job with humans - it may be that the dog was originally domesticated because humans needed an animal to keep away other predators. Perhaps they noticed that many wild creatures feared the wolf, so they domesticated wolves in order to use this to their advantage.
Breeds like this Doberman were specifically bred for guard duty. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Nowadays, guard dogs are actually put up for hire in some areas of the world. You can hire a guard dog to protect your business or home overnight, and then the company picks up the dog in the morning right before your business opens.
Guard Dog versus Watch Dog
There is a difference between the two job descriptions, so to speak. The watch dog's job is to alert its owner by barking. The barking might scare away the intruder as well. Watch dogs do not have to be large or aggressive. The guard dog, on the other hand, takes the watch dog's duty's another step. Guard dogs will attack the intruder or restrain him or her. The intruder does not have to be human; guard dogs that guard sheep and other livestock will attack animal predators such as wildcats, bears and wolves.
Breeds
Farmers and herdsmen through the centuries have valued dogs' guarding abilities to keep their flocks safe. This is why many of today's guard breeds have their roots in herding and livestock guarding. Here are some breeds of dogs commonly used as guard dogs:
* German Shepherds - The name denotes the origins of this noble breed. With wolf-like characteristics, the German Shepherd worked (and still does work) as a shepherd for livestock. It is not only good at herding; German Shepherds make excellent guard dogs that will fearlessly defend their owner's property.
* Rottweilers - This German breed was once a farm and herding dog, and you can still see them in that capacity. They are usually associated with guard duty nowadays, however, and they do have a significant intimidation factor. They also tend to make good family pets if they are raised in a loving environment.
* Weimaraner - Popular in photos, the Weimaraner started out as a hunting breed. They were found to have a territorial instinct, though, which, combined with their large size, means they also make good guard dogs.
* Doberman Pinschers - Unlike the breeds above, Dobermans were specifically bred to be guard dogs. They are born for guard duty and are staunch protectors and defenders of their families and property.
The Scottish terriers, also known as Scotties, are short-legged British terriers. They are one among other go-to-ground and wire-coated terriers developed in the highlands of Scotland. The Scotties are said to have jaunty attitude so they are often used to represent advertisements of the country to where they originated.
However, Scotties' nature is not in coherence with their public image or trademark. In fact, Scotties are like the citizens of his native land who are independent, stoic, and fiercely loyal to their masters. They also adhere much to their own privacy.
Scotties, Westies, and Cairns are very similar regarding their appearance. The Westies and the Cairns are, in fact, closely-related. The Westie can be considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western Scotland. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the other two.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Scotties:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor (mostly preferred by breeders)
Coat: wiry, short (about 2 inches) and thick
Colors: iron gray or steel, black, wheaten, or sandy; the coat may also be brindled or grizzled
Height: about 10 inches
Weight: between 18 and 20 pounds
Temperament: they need to be praised frequently and they adapt with the moods of the household
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Von Willibrand's disease (VWD), an inherited disorder
• Flea allergies and other skin problems
• Epilepsy
• Jawbone disorders
• Scottie cramp, a minor condition that causes walking difficulties
• Cerebellar abiotrophy, a slow-to-progress and rare neurological disease that causes loss of coordination
Care and Exercise:
•Their coats need special care to maintain its appearance and texture. It is suggested that they should be subjected to professional grooming once or twice each year for their coats to stay wiry and firm.
•The fur needs to be combed a couple of times in each week and even needs occasional trimming.
•Scotties' dead hairs should be plucked out through stripping. Using electric clippers will only make their coats dull and soft.
•Play with them. Hunting and squeaky balls and toys are their favorites.
•They should be on leash while walking in public places.
Origin/History:
The origins of the breed are obscure. It was noted that forerunners of Scotties were sent to France's Royal Highness by King James I of England during the 16th century. Later on, three different terriers were revealed as Scotch Terriers, which included the Westies, the Cairns, and the Scotties. The Dandie Dinmont variety had also been noted as closely-related to the abovementioned terriers but its apparent physical differences categorized itself as a separate breed.
Terrier dogs that were bred in Britain were developed to hunt vermin that ate grains, and pestered eggs and poultry farms. Most breeds grew as scrappy and courageous dogs and were trained to follow badgers or foxes into their dens. Their wiry coats and soft undercoats protected them against rugged terrains and harsh climates.
f you want to have a Scottie in your life, you should not be impulsive about the matter for animosity nd lack of proper training will only harm and traumatize the dog. If properly taken cared of, this breed can even appoint itself as a guardian of the family. It can also be fiercely loyal, that is it can protect you even if it means endangering its own life.
To this effect, I guess you must agree that a Scottie is a dog that is second to none.
The Anatolian Shepherd is a large dog, standing between 26 inches and 30 inches. There is a height difference between the sexes. This is a powerful dog. The Anatolian Shepherd head is in balance with the body, it has a rounded head, with a rectangular shape to the muzzle. The muzzle is normally black. Their lips are black and the top lip should not over hang the bottom jaw. They can have a scissor or level bite. Naturally, they have pendent ears that hang down. These are mostly black, these should be set no higher than the head plane. Some country's, like their native home Turkey, crop the ears short. Their eyes are almond in shape and have black eye rims, except for the liver colour who's eye rims are brown. Their head is set on a thick neck that is in proportion to their body. It is slightly arched and powerful. They have a chest that is deep and reaches to their elbow. Legs are smooth and straight, set well apart, but in proportion to the dog's body.
Photo: By Franck Balzar (uploaded by Tibilou) CC Wikimedia
The Anatolian Shepherd tail is high, it is long, and it curls upwards, and when alert their tail curls up and over their back. For showing it is desirable to have a tail that is "wheel" carriage, this means that the tail will not un-curl totally. They have a short coat that is double, the colours can range mostly in the fawn, with a black mask, but you can have brindle, white and pinto. We see two coat lengths medium and medium long, which can vary with the seasons. The Anatolian Shepherd dog has really good hearing and sight. It can be very fast. They tend to be barkers at night.
History: The Anatolian Shepherd dog comes from Turkey which is in the area known as Anatolia, which used to be known as Asia Minor. This dog has been, for centuries, a shepherd dog protecting the flock. Before that they were used in battle and for hunting. They were seen as a great prize in victory. This dog can fight wolves and the Turkish people who owned this dog would put on spiked dog collars to help the dog in a fight with a wolf, this gave the dog some neck protection from the wolf or even sometimes a bear, which may attack their flock. They live outside all year with vast changes of temperature and weather. This dog comes from the region of Sivas- Kangal. There is some debate around what is a true Kangal but due to the isolation of the area this is felt to be the pure Kangal. In Turkey the Kangal is the National Dog and is seen as a great treasure. The Anatolian Shepherd dog is very hard or impossible to get from Turkey. These dogs are still a working dog and good companions for the Sheppard.
Temperament: While these dogs are shepherding dogs, they are not herding dogs. Their role is of night watching and guarding. The Anatolian Shepherd tend to be noisy at night as they patrol, to ward of predators. They have good hearing and good eye sight, are bright and intelligent. They have a built in protective instinct that cannot be stopped. They need great leadership from their humans and not a dog for the first time ownership. Human leadership is a must for this dog. This dog, if not getting good leadership, will get to think his own way, and will choose to answer a command or not as the case may be. While saying this he is sensitive to being told off and loves to have affection heaped on. The Anatolian Shepherd dog is wonderful with children; they seem to know that a child is safe. In Turkey these dogs live in villages and in the day when they are not working play and sleep around the village seeking affection from the children, they can be very protective of their young wards. While being big this is a gentle dog around the family. The only thing to note is that due to the size of the dog, they may knock the young child over. The Anatolian Shepherd get on well with other animals if introduced. They can be dominant to other dogs so it is best to socialize them while they are very young. Due to their nature, this dog will patrol his territory at night, keeping close watch of their flock or family.
If they see or feel that their flock is in danger the fist thing they do is stand in front of the flock to guard them and bark a loud deep bark. If the foreseen danger is not scared away this dog then attacks, this is the last thing the dog chooses to do. This breed needs a lot of socializing while young to allow them to understand what you want and to help with their natural guarding instincts.
Health issues: The Anatolian Shepherd breed has a slower immune system than many other breeds, talk to the veterinarian about extra injections it may need. They are sensitive to anaesthesia. Hip dysplasia can occur in this breed. They are prone to hypothyroidism or eyelid entropion.
Grooming: You do not need to do much in the way of grooming with the Anatolian Shepherd, but you will need to do vigorous grooming, twice a year when they are shedding. Shedding is very heavy.
Living conditions: The Anatolian Shepherd is not an apartment dog. They need a large garden that is well fenced as they are very suspicious of any strangers. Some thought has to go into how a stranger or visitor new to the house can enter without the dog scaring them too much. This dog likes and needs to run free so a large garden is needed along with long daily walks.
By Scott Allan Lipe
For more information on different Dog Breeds, Dog Training and Teacup Puppies for sale including Yorkies, Chihuahuas and Morkies please visit our websites below. Anatolian-Shepherd
When you get a new dog, you are going to want to do some dog training to teach the dog how to behave in your home. If you are having a tough time, or are not sure what you should do, you can hire someone to help you with your dog training. You may find getting an in-home trainer is a good option for both, you and the dog due to experience and knowledge.
Having an in home trainer can be beneficial for many reasons:
Anxiety - Your dog would not be anxious as you do not have to leave the house. He is comfortable in the surroundings, and is more likely to behave for you and the trainer.
Relaxing - Due to being in your own home, your dog will be relaxed and more likely to listen and behave as this is his territory. You want your dog to feel relaxed, as he is more to pay attention and learn what you want him to learn in a smaller time field.
Distractions - Your dog would not be distracted by other dogs and will listen better. As a result, it should not take too long to learn the behaviours and the training you want done. Another benefit to being in his own territory is that he can be trained with the items that will be a part of his world most of the time.
Customized - The training that you and your dog receive will be customized for you and adapted for how things are going. If he catches on quickly to behaviour, you can move onto the next one without having to wait for the rest of the class.
Multiple People - If there are several people in your home who may be involved with the dog and the dog training, they can all attend the session as you can schedule it for a time that works best for everyone.
One of the best things about bringing in a professional trainer is that they know the tricks and will be able to focus fully on the dog training of both you and the dog for the best results.
Bringing a new puppy into the household is always an exciting and fun time. Everyone wants to play with, cuddle and hold the little ball of fur. The last thing on the minds of most new puppy owners is training the new addition, but it is important that puppy training and socialization begin as early as possible.
White German Shepherd puppy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Socializing a new puppy is a vital part of any training program, and it is important for socialization to begin early. The window for socialization is very short, and a puppy that is not properly socialized to people, dogs and other animals by the time he or she is four months old often never develops the socialization he or she needs to become a good canine citizen.
One great way to socialize your puppy both to new people and new dogs is to take it on a trip to your local pet store. Many major pet store chains, and some independent ones as well, allow pet parents to bring their furry children, and these stores can be great places for puppies to get used to new sights, sounds and smells. Of course you will want to make sure the store allows pets before heading over.
Learning how to interact with other dogs is something that normally would occur between littermates. However, since most dogs are removed from their mothers so soon, this littermate socialization often does not finish properly.
One vital lesson puppies learn from their littermates and from the mother dog is how to bite, and how not to bite. Puppies naturally roughhouse with each other, and their thick skin protects them from most bites. However, when one puppy bites to hard, the other puppies, or the mother dog, quickly reprimand him, often by holding him by the scruff of his neck until he submits.
The best way to socialize your puppy is to have it play with lots of other puppies. It is also fine for the puppy to play with a few adult dogs, as long as they are friendly and well socialized. Many communities have puppy playschool and puppy kindergarten classes. These classes can be a great way to socialize any puppy, and for handler and puppy alike to learn some basic obedience skills.
When socializing puppies, it is best to let them play on their own and work out their own issues when it comes to appropriate roughness of play. The only time the owners should step in is if one puppy is hurting another, or if a serious fight breaks out. Other than that the owners should simply stand back and watch their puppies interact.
While this socialization is taking place, the pack hierarchy should quickly become apparent. There will be some puppies who are ultra submissive, rolling on their backs and baring their throats at the slightest provocation. Other puppies in the class will be dominant, ordering the other puppies around and telling them what to do. Watching the puppies play, and determining what type of personality traits your puppy has, will be very valuable in determining the best way to proceed with more advanced training.
As the socialization process proceeds, of course, it will be necessary to introduce the puppy to all sorts of humans as well as all sorts of puppies. Fortunately, the puppy kindergarten class makes this process quite easy, since every puppy gets to interact with every human. It is important that the puppy be exposed to men, and women, old people and children, black people and white people. Dogs do not see every human as the same. To a dog, a man and a woman are completely different animals.
It is also important to introduce the puppy to a variety of other animals, especially in a multi pet household. Introducing the puppy to friendly cats is important, as are introductions to other animals the puppy may encounter, such as rabbits, guinea pigs and the like. If your household contains a more exotic creature, it is important to introduce the puppy to it as early as possible, but to do it in a way that is safe for both animals.
It is often best to start by introducing the puppy to the smell of the other animal. This can be easily accomplished by placing a piece of the animals bedding, like a towel or bed liner, near where the puppy sleeps. Once the puppy is accustomed to the smell of the other creature, he or she is much more likely to accept the animal as just another member of the family.
Just the same as our own eyes, your Cockapoo's eyes are extremely sensitive and require good care and attention. In this article I'll be sharing a few points and suggestions to ensure that your Cockapoo's eyes stay in a healthy condition and infection free.
Cockapoo Cooper (White, 1 year old) and Maggie (Black, 6 months old) Cockapoos (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Here are a few tips to help maintain your Cockapoo's eyes
Examine the sides of your Cockapoo's eyes and make sure they're totally free of mucus. Unwelcome bacteria will rapidly grow in the mucus and this could potentially be transferred to the eyes. If your dog suffers from a mucus build up, then ask for the local veterinarian's help and advice. They will typically suggest a sterile eyewash that will allow you to eliminate the mucus.
In your Cockapoo is a little 'intense' in the presence of other dogs, it is important to maintain good control of your dog, since eye traumas sustained from fights can be extremely unpleasant - regrettably many a dog has lost an eye via some sort of 'scrap'.
Does your dog constantly ride with his or her head out of the car window? If this is the case then its very easy for small particles to enter his eyes, which could cause infection or injury. Likewise, larger objects such as the branch of a tree or a rock thrown up by another vehicle, could cause a more severe injury to your dog.
Take care not to expose your dog to substances which are potential irritants, so consider where it is that you walk with him, what is on the ground, or what fumes may be in the air.
Take a set of blunt scissors and then clip the hair from about your pet's eyes. Doing this will help to ensure that any long hairs will not prick against your dog's eyes and may also help to prevent unhealthy present on the hairs microbes from coming into contact with his eyes.
Tear stains are a problem in Cockapoos simply because this breed of dog does not possess good tear duct drainage. Any tears that cannot drain away merely roll down and off the eye and may lead to staining around the eye, because the damp hairs attract and accumulate debris and dust. You can easily help alleviate problems with this discoloration by simply making certain that the hair surrounding the eyes is frequently cut. If the discoloring is high then there are several commercially obtainable solutions and products which can help. You should always check with one's veterinarian for help and advice before of applying any sort of treatment solution on your dog.
By routinely checking your dogs eyes you'll be able to spot any issues before they get serious. Should you see anything amiss then I suggest you contact your vet's as soon as possible. Eye problems in dogs are actually commonplace, with the most typical being conjunctivitis. Eye infections are usually bacterial and will be easily cured with antibiotics. The antibiotics will either be in liquid or in a lotion.
Eye bacterial infections will certainly clear up a lot quicker if your dog is not able to scratch or paw at their eyes. You should get a cone collar because they will put a stop to the dog itching at their face. It will also help in preventing the problem from moving from one eye to the other.
The above facts are presented as a general guide. For anybody who is unsure on precisely how to care for your Cockapoos eyes then make sure that you talk with your veterinarian. They can describe for you all of the symptoms of the commonplace eye ailments, along with the symptoms that you need to be looking out for. They'll also be able to demonstrate the ideal way to cleanse and maintain your dogs eyes, so that they remain healthy and problem free.
Poodles are a very popular breed to have as a pet and also very popular to breed with other dog breeds. To learn more about the popularity of the poodle see the article on this site at Poodle Popularity.
Although there are not Breeds of Poodles, there are plenty of Poodle mixes. One of the most popular poodle mix is the Cockapoo described in this article.
COCKAPOOS
By mixing the breed of poodle with the breed of Cocker Spaniel, a Cockapoo is created. The Cockapoo is not a dog breed, rather it is a mixed breed and in theory takes all the desirable qualities of their parents. In reality one hopes the mixed breed dog will take the desirable traits of the purebred dog.
From the Cocker Spaniel, the mixed puppy will hopefully take Cocker’s characteristics of being mellow, friendly, having a pleasant personality and a sturdy build. The Poodle bred traits wanted are intelligence, cleverness, and a non-shedding hypoallergenic coat.
THE COAT OF THE POODLE
The poodle’s coat is a major reason the poodle is mixed with other breeds. The poodle’s coat does not shed and is hypoallergenic, meaning the poodle is (in my opinion) the best dog breed to have if you suffer from allergies. Most people will not have an allergic reaction to a poodle.
HEALTH AND GENETIC DISORDERS
By mixing two breeds Cockapoo Puppies become less prone to genetic disorders. Poor breeding, like mating a brother and sister, is a cause of genetic disorders. Breeding with a completely different bloodline from a different breed strengthens the gene pool of the puppies.
When Poodles became a popular dog, this caused a very high demand for poodle puppies. Poodles were generated for money not health. Inbreeding and unhealthy breeding occurred rampantly causing genetic health problems for future generations of these poodles. The same poor breeding was done with Cocker Spaniels as their popularity grew. Known health ailments are associated with each breed due to breeding to meet demand versus breeding to advance the quality of the breed.
It is possible to obtain a healthy purebred. Proper breeding was also done at the time of the breed’s popularity. By researching the bloodline of the parents, and/or having both sire and dam registered with the AKC can insure healthy genetic bloodlines for the purebred puppy.
NO GUARANTEE OF TRAITS
Remember, by mixing the breeds, the traits you like about a breed will not necessarily be passed on to the litter. Combining the best traits of both breeds is the goal. Some of the mixed bred puppies will have the desirable traits, or may have one or two of the desired traits.
It is hoped that by mixing a poodle with a Cocker Spaniel, the cockapoo will have a coat that is non-shedding and hypoallergenic, be very intelligent, be friendly and have a sturdy build. Some cockapoos will have a less shedding coat and will be less likely to cause allergic reactions. Some cockapoos will have a shedding coat and will cause allergenic reactions. The same is true of all the traits.
Cockapoos are not a recognized dog breed. At least not yet. If cockapoos with the desired traits are bred with other cockapoos with the desired traits from a different bloodline, then over time the cockapoo will have predictable traits. For example, all pure bred poodles have a non shedding coat and is hypoallergenic. The pure breed Cocker Spaniel has a shedding coat and will cause allergic reactions. As of now, cockapoos may or may not have a non shedding coat, or a coat that sheds less than the Cocker Spaniel. Researching the breeder of the cockapoo and seeing the parents is the best indication of the traits of a specific cockapoo puppy.
The mix of traits will be in each litter and puppies in the same litter could have different characteristics. One may have a shedding coat and one may have the non-shedding coat. One puppy may be very active and another calmer.
PERSONALITY
Well bred cockapoos are calm, fun, mellow and loving. They are pleasant, have patience and very sweet. Their intelligence helps them be trained and entertaining.
A personality of a dog is mainly dependent on the parents. To predict personality meet the parents and take time to get to know them. There are Cocker Spaniels and Poodles that are skittish, nervous and not friendly, who will pass on these undesirable traits. There are known health issues for each breed who will pass on the genetic tendency for that health problem.
By spending time with the puppy before committing a great deal of heartache can be avoided.
TAKING CARE OF A COCKAPOO
Cockapoo puppies can be taken care of with weekly bathing, brushing and clipping of nails. They can live a healthy and a long life with proper nutrition, medical care and good living conditions.
Cockapoo puppies have a very good immune system so they are less prone to diseases. They remain healthy with regular physical exercises. The cockapoo needs physical activities and loves to play. At a minimum take them for a daily walk, and have space for them to run and play or take them to a dog park.
COCKAPOOS AND KIDS
The nature of Cockapoo make them ideal for kids. They love to be with children and will be an excellent companion. The personality traits of calmness and patience can make the cockapoo an excellent choice for a child with emotional challenges, such as being withdrawn or autism. The cockapoo can make an excellent therapy dog.
FINDING COCKAPOOS
Cockapoo breeders can become state licensed or register with the American Cockapoo Club as a way to show they are knowledgeable breeders. Cockapoo breeders breed healthy well socialized puppies in a variety of colors and coats. Research the breeder and ask lots of questions until you feel confident about the puppy you are about to buy. Saying a dog is a Cockapoo does not exactly imply purebred Poodles and Cocker Spaniel parents. Many cross breeds of poodles have more than one breed in the bloodline. See if the breeder has a hereditary chart of the parents, called the sire and dam.
It is worth taking the time to examine breeders. Be sure the cockapoo is healthy and pleasant mannered. A well breed cockapoo will be a loving wonderful addition to your home. Take Care.
Mastiffs in one form or another have been around since before written history began. Carvings from the Babylonian palace of Ashurbanipal (these carvings are on display in the British Museum) show large Mastiff-type dogs hunting lions in the desert near the Tigris River.
Mastiffs as war dogs
Phoenician merchants introduced the Mastiff to ancient Britain in the 6th century BC. The ancient Celts began using them as combat dogs who accompanied their owners into battle. This was the beginning of a long history of Mastiffs as fighters, soldiers, protectors, and watchdogs. A popular story tells that when Sir Peers Legh was injured in the Battle of Agincourt, his Mastiff stood over him and protected him for many hours while the battle raged on.
When the Romans invaded Britain around AD43, they took Mastiffs back to Italy and used them to protect property and guard prisoners, in addition to fighting in the arena. The Mastiff is said to have been Julius Caesar's favorite dog. Kubla Khan had a kennel of 5,000 Mastiffs for hunting and war use. When Hannibal crossed the Alps, he took several battalions of war Mastiffs.
Back in Britain in the 11th century, the Mastiff was one of the few breeds listed by name in The Forest Laws of King Canute, the first written laws of England. Mastiffs were recorded as being kept for protection, and the middle toes of their front feet had to be amputated so the dogs could not run swiftly enough to catch deer (which traditionally belonged to royalty).
British royals kept Mastiffs to protect their castles and estates, releasing them at night to ward off intruders. Henry VIII is said to have presented Charles V of Spain with 400 Mastiffs to be used in battle.
From the 12th through 19th centuries, Mastiffs were used for bear-baiting. This "sport," in which dogs attacked chained-up bears, bulls, and even tigers, was especially popular during Queen Elizabeth's time. Such fights were often staged for the queen's entertainment.
The size of the Mastiff and its need to eat about as much food per day as an adult man made a Mastiff too costly for most common folk, except butchers, who had enough meat scraps to feed a Mastiff well. Therefore, the Mastiff was often called the "Butchers Dog."
Mastiffs in the United States
The first Mastiff in North America was brought from Britain on the Mayflower by the Pilgrims. The breed didn't become prominent in America until the 1800s, when Mastiffs were often found on plantations in the South as property guards.
During the World Wars, Mastiffs were commissioned to pull munitions carts at the front lines. However, their popularity was declining at the same time, partly because of their size: It was considered unpatriotic to keep a dog that ate as much in one day as a soldier. By the 1920s, Mastiffs were almost extinct in Britain, and by the end of World War II, Canada and the United States were sending Mastiffs to Britain to save the breed. Now, the breed is well-established in both continents.
From war dogs to family pets
How did Mastiffs go from hunting and fierce war dogs to the gentle pets we know today? Part of the reason is that breeders have bred the Mastiff for gentleness and have thus created an excellent companion. In addition Mastiffs are simply treated differently today. No longer are they used for barbaric practices like bear bating or lion fighting. As for being war dogs, modern warfare has made them obsolete as war dogs. Instead, Mastiffs are either kept as pets or put to use as watchdogs, guards, police or military dogs, search and rescue dogs, or as weight pullers.
By Autumn Louther
Autumn C. Louther is a Mastiff owner who adores the Mastiff breed
There are various reasons as to why a person would buy a leash for their pet. Cat leashes are just simply wonderful to have although some people don't seem to need them. You can find so many different cat leashes according to what you will use it for or how often you will be using it.
What is the use for a cat leash?
Some owners could find it strange for some to use a cat leash mostly because you rarely ever see a cat with one on, but you do see people that have dogs with them. A cat leash serves different purposes for the owner and the petalone.
Cat in harness with leash (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Like dogs, cats have their own special personality and some cats could be a little more mild mannered and conservative while other cats are territorial and don't like other cats. If you have a territorial cat then it might be a good idea for you to put him on a leash if you want to take him out for a walk. some owners might have their cats with them and if your pet tries to threaten them or they do the same you can contain your pet with the leash.
Another reason why you might want to have a cat leash for your cat is so that he will not wonder away when you take him outside. Cats are independent animals and the majority of them won't stay right next to you when going on walks; especially if they are an outdoor cat. Overall leashes are used for convenience and protection reasons when taking your cat out.
What kind of cat leashes can I buy?
You'd be pleased with the huge options of cat leashes you can find; especially if you browse online. If you go to a store then there are smaller options of cat leashes, however if you are looking for a certain cat leash then you will surely be able to find it online with no problem at all. A popular type of cat leash that most owners have for their pets is one with a retractable cord.
A retractable cord leash allows the owner to adjust the leash to various lengths that is suitable for the size of your cat and it allows you cat to wander longer distances without feeling contained when you take him out on walks. Another reason that the retractable cord is one of the preferred types of leashes to us is because when you are finished using it for your cat you can retract the cord and put it away. No more worrying about loose cords getting tangled!
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Your cat needs a harness
Make sure that you purchase a harness for the leash that you will be using for your pet. Many leashes already have a harness, but some don't and you can buy them separately. A harness is needed so that your pet can be safe when you take him on walks. It causes the pressure of the leash to be evened out so that he won't choke from the leash tugging on his collar.
It's the safest thing to do so purchase a harness for him. Harnesses come in various sizes according to the weight and how big your pet's neck is. Make sure to purchase one that is not too tight but fits your cat comfortably.
The price you can expect to pay for one
According to what the leash is made of, the brand it is, and the length of the leash will determine the price of it. Pay attention to the details of a leash and make certain that you buy one that will last for a long time; especially since some pets bite, chew, and ruin leashes over time.
A cat whisper is somewhat similar to a dog or horse whisperer, although cat whisperers relate quite well with cats. These types of people are unusually lucky and very successfully with cats. In most cases, a cat will be abandoned or just show up at someone’s door. In this event, the cat will adopt this individual as the cat whisperer.
Cats - Hugs and love. They do have two beds... they just prefer the same one. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Often times, alley cats and black cats will show up at someone’s door and decide to move into their homes. This can be a result of abandonment, or the cat’s family moving away and simply leaving the cat behind. Sometimes, the cat may decide that he likes someone else’s home better and decide to move there instead of staying with his owner.
A lot of people will tell you that a cat whisperer can be thought of as a therapist for cats. Almost all cat whisperers haven’t have any type of training, what they know just seems to come to them naturally. These types of people understand the way a cat thinks and knows how to work with the cat to achieve the results they want. Even though many think of a cat whisperer as a therapist, it actually couldn’t be further from the truth.
Cats who have been abused or mistreated, often times won’t respond to anyone but a cat whisperer. Although others may have tried to help the cat, it will only make matters worse by making the cat feel scared and afraid. In most cases, these cats will end up in a pound. This is very tragic, as the cats have already endured more than they ever should have. A majority of the cats who have been abused were once loved pets. Along the way, they were abandoned, mistreated, attacked by dogs, and in some cases tortured.
Cats who have been treated unfairly often times won’t trust anyone. They are often times confused, in a lot of pain, and not sure what they should do. Like humans, cats feel pain. Those that have been physically abused are a sad sight indeed. Emotionally damaged cats may appear to be in perfect health on the outside, although their emotions are a wreck. Emotionally abused cats are much harder to get through to, especially if they were stray cats to begin with.
Cat whisperers on the other hand, can communicate with physically and emotionally abused cats. Cats know who they will choose to be their cat whisperer, which is normally an individual they sense trust with. Cat whisperers are common with cats, although most people have never heard of them before. Even though a cat whisperer may be able to communicate better with cats, it will still take time to heal a cat that has been abused.
Chain Martingale Dog Collar (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
What purpose does the leash serve?
Leashes have been used throughout history to control our dogs and to keep them safe. In purchasing a dog leash, you must determine how you intend to use it and then purchase a size and material that suits the size of your dog and your purpose.
Types of Leashes: Nylon, leather, adjustable dog leash, multiple dog leashes, etc.
Nylon Dog Leash: Nylon Dog Leashes are light weight and durable. They come in many widths, colors and patterns. Often they are sold in sets that are coordinated with matching dog collars. Typically, a leash being used for a walk will be 6 feet or so in length. Nylon can burn your hands if you end up in a struggle with your dog. If you think that is a possibility, you might want to consider a leather dog leash. Round rope leashes made of nylon are lightweight and useful for training in your home.
Leather Dog Leash:Leather is more expensive and may need some maintenance to keep the leather soft and pliable. However, they are durable. They are available in 4-6 ft lengths like the nylon. Leather dog collars or leashes need to be cleaned and maintained. If you come back covered in mud from your trip to the park, be sure to wipe the dirt away with a damp towel and mild soap. Then the leather will need to be oiled or have a protective saddle soap applied and polished. If you get your leash really wet, let it dry naturally and then clean as above. Dont put it in front of a heat source to dry as you will dry the leather out too quickly and it may crack on you. Trapped dirt in the stitching can be cleaned with a soft bristle brush. If you take care of your leather leash and collar, it should last you a long, long time.
Retractable Dog Leash: Retractable dog leashes work much like a measuring tape. They are made of either a nylon web or cord which retracts into a case with a handle. With lengths up to 26 feet, they are perfect for walking your leash trained dog. He can stop a moment to smell and you can keep on trucking. They are also useful for playing or training your dog when you need some distance but still want the control a leash gives you. Since these leashes are so long, please be careful not to leave your pet unattended when he on this type of leash. Retractable dog leashes come in a heavy duty retractable version for our bigger pals. These leashes can encourage a dog to pull, so be sure your dog knows proper etiquette for leash walking before snapping on a retractable leash.
Adjustable Dog Leash: Adjustable dog leashes are great for when you need to tie your pooch while hitting a coffee shop or stepping away for a moment. They have loops along the leash with a clasp that allows you to either shorten or lengthen or tie as you have need for. They are available in nylon and other materials.
Martingale Leads: Typically seen the in the show ring, Martingale leads combine the collar and leash into one. The collar slips over the head and is tightened by a plastic tube when the leash is pulled.
Bicycle or Multiple Dog Walking Leashes: Leashes also come with Leash extenders for walking multiple dogs. If one dog is small and the other larger, you can add a leash extender for balancing the two heights. Dog leashes for walking two dogs or multiple dog walking are also sold. There are also leashes available for bringing your dog along on bicycle ride. They are basically a short bar that attaches to the back wheel of your bike and has a short leash attached.
