Fact Sheet: The SPHYNX CAT

Sphynx Cat

Sphynx Cat - Photo   by      Nickolas Titkov (cc)

Perhaps the world's most bizarre feline, the Sphynx cat has a unique hairless look that sets it apart from other cats. But that's not all. It's a rather rare and unusual breed of cat and has been described to feel like a warm suede hot water bottle. These cats need special care, but all the extra time and effort you dedicate to taking care of this cat will be well worth it. Their loving, playful and inquisitive nature makes them a wonderful cat to have around and call your own.

Breed History

Although it gets its name from the ancient Great Sphinx of Giza, Sphynx cats are a relatively new breed. There have been a number of occurrences of these hairless cats being born throughout history. But the Sphynx cat first came to be well-recognized in the year 1966 in Canada when a domestic cat in Toronto gave birth to a hairless kitten. This was considered to be the result of a natural genetic mutation. From there, cats with the mutation were bred to give rise to the Sphynx breed. In 1970 the line became extinct due to the belief that the mutation caused health issues and breathing difficulties in the cats. But this did not spell the end to this breed. Before long, in 1975, a cat in Minnesota, named Jezebel, gave birth to a hairless kitten. The kitten was sold to a local breeder who revived the Sphynx breed by expanding and strengthening the gene pool. After many years of careful breeding, now Sphynx cats are a varied and genetically sound breed, though still rare. In 2002, the Cat Fancier's Association accepted the cat breed for competition in the Championship Class.

Physical Characteristics

The most obvious feature of the Sphynx cat is its lack of hair. Although they are known as the "hairless" cats, they actually have warm peach fuzz fur on their bodies, especially on their nose, toes, and tail. They may or may not have whiskers and eyebrows. They have long, lean bodies and a rounded abdomen. They possess characteristically large triangular ears, large paw pads and their tail is long and slender. The skin of a Sphynx cat is wrinkled, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns, including Siamese point patterns. An adult Sphynx cat normally weighs around 8 to 15 pounds, and male cats can be up to 25% bigger than their female counterparts.

Personality & Temperament

Sphynx cats are an inquisitive breed that likes to be the center of attention and love being handled and cuddled. They are intelligent cats that are agile, playful and sweet-tempered. They have a sense of adventure and mischief that make them fun to be around. They love human companionship and will follow humans around the house. Sphynx cats are not for people who want a quiet, docile cat. They fit in well in homes with children, dogs or other cats. Oh, and these extroverts like to show off with their acrobatic tricks as well. So it's probably a good thing that these cheeky felines are kept indoors for the most part.

Common Medical Problems

Sphynx cats have few health or genetic problems and have a normal lifespan. They are generally considered to be a very robust breed. But they do still face some problems unique to their physical nature, most of which have to do with their hairlessness. During their 1st few weeks of life, Sphynx kittens are susceptible to respiratory infections. Sphynx cat breeders usually don't allow kittens to move to new homes until they are at least 12 weeks old so they're ready to handle a new environment. These hairless cats are also prone to sunburn and skin cancer, so it's important that their sun exposure is limited. They are also susceptible to the cold, so care needs to be taken to keep this indoor cat nice and warm.

Sphynx cats also have sensitive digestive systems, particularly in that they are small. They can develop severe diarrhea after using medication or being fed diets that contain less than 80% protein. They can also acquire common feline illnesses and are immunized just as other cat breeds are.

Hereditary myopathy (spasticity) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are two genetic conditions that are found in this breed, with the latter being more common. HCM refers to a thickening of the left ventricle of the heart, and may not cause outward symptoms. Sphynx breeders are trying to eliminate this condition from the breed by scanning yearly and removing positive cats from their breeding program.

Special Care & Maintenance

Because they lack the protection of a fur coat, a hairless Sphynx cat requires special care. It's recommended that you give them a weekly bath to remove the buildup of oil and dust on their skin. Their hair follicles give off oil, but unlike other cats, they have no hair to absorb the oil, and so their skin can easily become greasy. Because they have sensitive skin that burns easily, a very hot bath should be avoided. A sphynx cat's eyes and ears should also be cleaned weekly to remove any eye discharge or earwax. As they lack hair around their ears, it's easy for dirt to enter.

Sphynx cats are vulnerable to the sun and cold and are meant to be indoor cats. So exposure to the outdoors should be limited. They may be taken outside on occasion if they are heavily supervised and the weather is right for them. Generally, the temperature inside your house should be kept around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Consider the Sphynx cat to be "naked" - if you would be cold naked, chances are that your cat is going to be too. You may need to clothe them during the winter.

Also, as their bodies are constantly working to keep themselves warm, their metabolism is higher than other cats so they need to be fed more food at meal times. Always place dry food out for your cat and add one or two servings of wet food each day. They need to be fed high-quality food with a good balance of fat and protein.

So if you think the intelligent and companionable Sphynx cat is for you, then you can purchase them from Sphynx cat breeders. Expect to pay more for a hairless Sphynx cat than you would for another cat breed. Sphynx cat adoption is also available, and costs less than buying a newborn kitten.

By Velita Livingston Velita Livingston is the founder of the Cat Lover's Diary blog which provides rich content with great advice on cat care tips and cat training, teaching pet owners how to protect, pamper and live peacefully with their pets. Visit the http://www.catloversdiary.com to watch the Cat Lover's Diary Movie, it contains breathtaking images and heartwarming quotes... It will uplift and inspire you! You can also visit the Cat Lover's Diary on Facebook and Twitter. Article Source: EzineArticles

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KUVASZ - Giant Dogs of the World

KUVASZ - Giant Dogs of the World

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Caring For Your OLDER DOG

Once your dog becomes older it is time to take some preventative steps in order for them remain healthy, happy and active. Have your vet examine your pet annually or more often, if necessary.

As in humans, keep your dogs weight within the proper or optimum range. An overweight dog has far more health problems such as joint problems, arthritis, diabetes and liver or kidney malfunctions. Cut down on the amount of treats given to your pet. 

Old Dog - Photo  by       Siza Padovan  (cc)

It is hard to resist their soulful eyes but always remember that it is for their own good. You do not want to kill your pet by thinking you are being kind to them. Feed your pet once a day or smaller amounts twice a day but remove the food if there is any left. If you have children, explain to them why they should not sneak food to the family pet. 

As with dogs of any age, make sure there is always fresh, cool water available. Some older dogs have problems getting to the water bowl so either take the water to them or place bowls of water in several different places so they do not have to go far for a drink.

If possible take your dog for a short walk daily. This helps the dog's blood circulation and provides some new sights and smells to stimulate them and it gives you quality time to spend with your pet. He may be older but still curious.

You may need to switch from dry food to a moist or canned food as your dog ages.  His teeth may not be able to handle the hardness of dry kibbles. Looking after your older dog and taking him to the vet regularly helps keep your dog healthy and happy longer. 

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Tough Time Finding Good DOG CARE Patterns Use These Ideas

Anybody can go out and get a dog and bring him home. But if you wish to properly care for your dog, you've got to know what you're doing. Concentrate on the following useful information on ringworm canine so that you can confirm your dog has everything it needs so as to live and long and healthy life.

Cookie: "What, I gotta shower too?" Me: "That little red patch looks suspicious.
Might be ringworm." Cookie: "Gunfunnit."Photo   by       effin_peaz  (cc)

If you get a dog that was in a pound or shelter, you must see a vet straight away. Shelter dogs may be sick or exposed to different viruses. Giving your dog shots before taking it home will keep everyone healthy.

To make certain that your dog is healthy, be sure to allow it to get access to clean water at all points during the daytime. Just like with all living beings, water is one of the most important elements. The sole exception would be that you would want to keep water from a puppy dog for three hours before bedtime.

Lift your dog correctly. If you have a little dog or puppy dog, place your one hand under their chest and use your other hand for supporting their rump and hind legs. If you're lifting a huge dog, lift them from their underside supporting their chest using your one arm and using your other arm to support their rear end. Never lift a dog by their back legs, tail, or the nape of their neck.

You have to give careful thought to a decision to bring a dog into your life. Often, it is difficult to resist the delightful face of a puppy or dog, but don't forget how much is concerned in the care of a pet. Take everything into account first to be sure you can supply your little puppy with everything that he needs and to be in a position to manage it successfully.

Consider young dog coaching classes for your young pet. Puppies are eager to learn, and a class is a superb atmosphere to let them do so in. Classes are also regularly less expensive than individual lessons. This could teach your pup necessary behavior abilities and permit both of you bonding time too.

Your dog loves you completely, and you would like to ensure you supply the most for him. it's important that you utilize the information you have been given so you can work towards taking great care of your pet. Your pet merits correct care, and you can now provide that to him.

Author: Scott Araiza

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ENGLISH FOXHOUND - Dogs of the World

Dogs of the World - English Foxhound - Photo: Wikimedia

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The Legendary CHARTREUX (Chartreuse) CATS

The Chartreux cat's history is filled with legend although it only gained CFA status in 1987. One legend of the Chartreux says they lived with and were named for the Carthusian monks of France sharing in their famous Chartreuse liqueur.

Chartreux - Robe Bleue - Yeux Ors (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Recent research indicates their woolly fur gave them the name of well known Spanish wool in the early 18th century. Since naming for the appearance is common, this is probably the true origin. The presence of this natural breed of cat was documented as early as the 16th century, noted for its unique coat color and texture. The Chartreux adopted France, and France, in turn, adopted this intelligent, active breed.

Reputed to be a fine mouser, the well muscled Chartreux fits this description given it in French literature. The Chartreux's blue fur has a woolly appearance medium in length. A dense undercoat gives it the feel of sheep's wool.

This breed is known for its smile, created by a contoured forehead tapering into a narrowed muzzle. The Chartreux's eyes are among its most endearing features, with their outer corners curving upward. Colors within the breed range from gold to copper.

Chartreux kittens are precocious and kittenhood lasts until maturity at about three years old. Almost overnight, they develop into stunning adult cats. Brushing their double coat is not recommended, instead run your fingers through their fur daily and they will look beautiful and it will help socialize your cat at the same time.

Chartreux attach themselves to the family and will follow members from one room to another. They will respond to their name when called and even learn to fetch a ball. These cats are quiet, chirping rather than meowing. They are often fascinated with television and will try to take part in phone conversations inserting themselves into the conversation by distractions, such as cord pawing or chewing.

By Judith O'Connor JOC Freelance provides quality writing, blogging, editing and proofreading at reasonable prices with guaranteed on-time results. With more than 37 years of experience, we have proven skills of use to any organization wanting to improve its image with accurate copy quality in any of its printed or online materials. Article Source: EzineArticles

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At Last! Cat LITTER BOXES Don't Have To Be Evil

There is nothing worse for cat or cat owner than a smelly litter box.

For many people, the litter box is the worst of part of owning a cat.  Not only is it something people dread to clean but it is also dusty and dirty.  And, those who have to clean it can find themselves more susceptible to cat diseases that are present there.  Sure, it’s a bad job but it doesn’t have to be too hard either.

Sleep in a litter box - Photo  by      wolfsavard (cc)

There are many new litter boxes being designed to make the job, well, easier.  One of them is the hooded litter box.  These give the privacy to cats who are more sensitive and they also keep dust down considerably.  They are the idea of a single cat owner as long as they are cleaned regularly.  Those who do not want to handle the litter can use removable liners for these boxes.  They can lift out the whole liner and throw it out.  All you need to do is put in a new liner and add the fresh litter to it.

Self Cleaning Boxes

Another option is the self-cleaning box.  These are ideal for families that have many cats.  Or they can be a good choice for anyone who doesn’t want to have to deal with it.  A rake removes the soiled litter into a removable receptacle which leaves the box clean.  All you need to do is to discard the contents of the receptacle right into the trash.  

To teach your kitten to use the litter box, all you need to do is to position it in the right place and keep it very clean.  The litter box should never be located next to where the cat sleeps or near where his food is.

Once in the right place, you’ll need to tell him what the box is used for.  To do this, place the cat in the box and rake your fingers through the litter.  The cat may decide to start using the box right away. When he does, praise him greatly.  If he just wants out, play with him a few minutes and then put him back in.  Repeat this several times but don’t push it.  You don’t want to make him frustrated.

When to use the Box?

About ten to fifteen minutes after your cat eats, put him back into the litter box.  When he uses it, praise him for doing so.  When he is napping, watch him so that you can take him to the litter box as he wakes up.

Remember that cats respond better to praise than to scolding.  If he becomes angry or frustrated, you will not accomplish anything.  Place the box in the spot where he most frequently has accidents and encourages him to use it.

A cat may stop using his litter box if you don’t keep it clean.  Most cats will continue to use the litter box once he has done so several times, but you need to keep it clean.  Also, a dirty litter box can lead to cat health problems so make sure to keep it clean.  

These are some quick and easy tips to keeping your cat's litter box clean. If you use them your cat will be your best friend.

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Click And Treat TRAINING For Dogs

The first major improvement in dog training since choke chains and spiked collars, click and treat has quickly established itself in becoming a big hit in the world of dog training. Currently, there are over 10,000 trainers who are using this training method every day.

Photo by diveofficer 

One advantage to using this form of training at home is it’s easy to learn for both the dog and his trainer!

Originally used to train marine mammals, click and treat breaks down the process into two separate steps, information and motivation. The click is the information, the treat is the motivation. While other trainers still work on these two steps, they try to teach them all at once, which can confuse the animal and slow down results.

Most trainers will verbally praise a dog for good behavior, while at the same time motivating the dog to repeat his actions. This can be a good method, however it takes longer for the dog to understand which behaviors and actions caused the praise from the trainer.

With the click and treat method, the processes are easily taught. In normal training, a person would say “good boy” when a welcomed action occurs and proceed with giving a treat. The clicker becomes a substitute for verbal praise and can actually catch the “good boy” behavior quicker than saying it, letting the dog know exactly which behavior he is being rewarded for.

Another way to look at click and treat training is viewing it as a secondary reinforcement, while food, water, physical affection and play (things the dog wants) become primary reinforcement. When you take a dog for a walk, the leash works as a secondary reinforcement. It is obvious to the dog that the leash is not taking him for a walk; the owner is, however, it triggers a reaction in the dog, telling him that the leash will let him know where he will go and where he will not. And if he reacts to the leash with good behavior, his reward will be a nice leisurely walk.

Click and treat works the same way. When a dog hears the clicker, he will know that he performed a good behavior and as long as he keeps hearing a click, there is a treat coming his way. So, the clicker works as a secondary reinforcement, teaching him boundaries and appropriate behavior.

A couple advantages of the click and treat method include;

1) Faster response than verbal praise. The clicker can identify the exact behavior at the time it happens.

2) It takes the place of treats. While motivating the dog to hear clicks, it will also teach him to work without the expectations of having treats given to him each time he does something good.

3) If the trainer is working at a distance from the dog, the clicker will still work, without having to be right next him.

Are you ready to try clicker training?

The first thing you’ll need to do is go to your favorite pet supply store and invest in a clicker. The clicker is nothing fancy and should just cost you under five dollars. While you’re there grab some pocket treats, little bits of dried liver work well.

A good method to use when getting started with click and treat is to stand in front of the animal. Click the clicker and give a treat. Continue doing this for 20-30 minutes, or until the dog becomes startled by the sound of the click. This will familiarize him to the clicking sound, while teaching him that every time he hears it, he has done something good. After he gets the hang of it, begin by adding commands, such as “sit” and “stay.”

Click and treat has proven to be a simple, yet consistent training method with quick results. So for the trainers out there who are looking for a new and innovative way to motivate and praise their animals, get out there, buy a clicker and…..click!

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LABRADOR RETRIEVER Puppy - Puppies of the World

Labrador Retriever Puppy

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The KUVASZ

The Hungarian Kuvasz has the Turkish word for "protector" as its name and its country of origin is most likely Tibet, yet this breed was used for many centuries in Hungary as a herding dog and flock protector. Herding dogs generally are used to herd cattle or sheep from one spot to another, while flock protectors are strictly used to guard the flocks and fend off predators. The Kuvasz is unusual in that it performs both of these functions admirably and was also used as a boar hunter.

Kuvasz - Photo   by     Kuvasz Prince of The Dogs Kennel   (cc)

Today the breed is used in both North and South America as a flock guardian. and sometimes more rarely as a family pet. It is a dog that can be quite formidable and is highly prized as a breed that will ward off coyotes and even cougars when it functions as a flock guard. Sometimes the breed is confused with the Great Pyrenees but there are considerable differences. The Great Pyrenees can have some biscuit colouring while the Kuvasz is always white. The Great Pyrenees has double dew claws on the rear feet. The Kuvasz never has dew claws on the rear, let alone double ones. The Great Pyr has a soft deep muzzle almost as deep as it is broad, while the Kuvasz has a longer narrower muzzle. Both dogs perform the function of a flock guardian quite well, but the Great Pyr seems to be a dog that is more able to accept integration into a household as a pet.

The Kuvasz is 28-30 inches tall and can weigh up to 115 pounds. The coat may be slightly wavy and is long and double. The coat is generally flat (does not "stand off" from the body) and is about two to four inches long all over with the exception of the muzzle and the front of the legs. The ears are dropped and slant forwards. The Kuvasz is a handsome dog and has a very strong instinct for protection.

The Kuvasz Club of America advises new owners that the Kuvasz often is "impervious" to pain. This is a typical trait of dogs which are bred for predator attack, especially in the neck and chest, which usually has thicker skin and coat in that area so teeth will not grip easily. The Kuvasz, therefore, will not pay attention to electric fences and needs to be kept in a tight enclosure. Furthermore, this is not a breed that should be allowed to play off leash in dog parks.

As a family member, the Kuvasz must be exposed as a young dog to any children that will be part of its family. As it grows it will begin to think of his human family as part of his flock and will be a great watchdog, however care must be taken to introduce this breed to obedience early on because it must learn that the owner is the dominant pack leader or it will take over the position and can be extremely loyal to the extent of being threatening to visitors.

 If properly trained and socialized, especially with children, the dog will accept the introduction of strangers. It is highly important to socialize any dog to children and strange situations while it is young, taking any dog to obedience classes and exposing it to crowds and urban environments will help the dog to accept new and different situations in any case, but for a Kuvasz that has such strong guardian instincts it is an absolute necessity to provide such early socialization. 

 Kuvasz which is going to be used primarily as country dogs and flock guardians are trained up in a manner which will expose them to the cattle or sheep which become their flock, often they are turned out with the flock and simply grow up with the animals and outdoors on the farm, where they will then function as nature intended them to.

By Michael Russell -  Article Source: EzineArticles

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Feeding the OLDER DOG

Dog Food for the Older Dog

What changes do you need to make to your dog feeding regime as your dog gets older?

The changes you make to your dog feeding regime, and when you make them will vary depending on the age of your dog, and the breed of your dog.

It is considered that the larger and giant breeds of dog age earlier than the smaller and toy breeds of dog.

Your objective in managing the nutrition of the older dog is to enhance his quality of life, delay further ageing changes, and to extend his life whilst maintaining his optimal weight.

You are also trying to slow down the onset of disease and improve immune function.

Photo by OakleyOriginals

Older dogs will generally be less active than younger dogs so as a rule will require a less energy dense dog food, unless of course the dog's appetite is reduced for some reason.

Continuing to feed a dog the same amount of food with less exercise will inevitably result in obesity, a problem all too common in many dogs today.

In the old dog obesity can be a bigger problem than in the young dog as there may also be concurrent arthritis and organ problems which will be made worse.

A keen eye is needed to assess the energy needs of your dog as it ages, so be aware and switch brands if your dog's weight shows marked changes as it ages.

For the older dog a good quality animal protein based on meat, fish eggs, milk or cheese is better than cereal protein.

A balance needs to be struck between providing too much protein which may be a problem for dogs with renal failure (a common problem in older dogs), and providing too little.

As ageing dogs tend to have less muscle and bone they will have less of a tissue protein reserve and need a certain level of protein in their diet to avoid a negative nitrogen balance.

Your veterinarian is the best person to monitor your ageing dog's renal function and advise the appropriate level of protein in his diet.

When your dog's protein intake is low due to inappetance, this can be increased by heating the food to increase palatability and release more aromas, and by feeding smaller more frequent meals and by supplementing with vitamins.

Carbohydrates are mainly provided by cereals and legumes in the diet, and these are a cheap source of energy.

Care should be taken with the sugar content of some of these foods

Fats are essential in the diet to provide a vehicle for fat soluble vitamins, and are essential for the health of old dogs.

However too much may result in obesity, so again moderation is the rule.

Fibre has a role too in the elderly dog as many are predisposed to constipation.

Adding fibre in the form of wheat bran or cooked vegetables two or three times a week will help to keep your elderly dog regular!

Most dog foods will have more than adequate levels of calcium and phosphorus for the older dog.

There may be a case for reduced levels of phosphorus and salt in the diet.

Some supplementation of zinc and vitamins may be helpful in the older dog, particularly the vitamin B complex.

The main food types for the older dog are - dry, semi-moist or canned.

Diet changes should be made slowly to prevent tummy upsets and diarrhoea.

Be sure to have plenty of water available for your dog, particularly if fed a dried food, and also if kidney and liver disease is a problem.

Reduced appetite in older dogs may be helped by feeding them 2 or more times per day with smaller portions so that they get their full daily requirement.

There are many commercial senior dog food diets now available.

It will pay you to thoroughly examine the different types to increase the life span and vitality of your older dog.

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Socializing Your GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Socializing your Golden Retriever is very important.  As you may already know, all dog breeds behave differently in front of strangers, with some dogs choosing to ignore people altogether.  They may choose to glance at someone, then go on to pay no attention to him.  On the other hand, some dogs are the total opposite and love to meet everyone they can.  These types of dogs love attention and will take any attention they can get.

Golden Retriever Puppy - Photo   by     versageek 

Some Golden Retrievers are happy with those they have come to know in their own family, or those they have selected to be friends.  Others, on the other hand, may feel comfortable just around those of the same sex.  Most Golden’s like children, although there are a few rare cases in which certain types of Golden Retrievers like adults but not children.  This is extremely rare and is normally due to the way they were bred or raised.

When your puppy is between the ages of 8 weeks and 8 months, socializing him is extremely important.  During this time, you should always do everything you can to ensure that your Golden Retriever meets other people.  Although he may be shy at first and not have much interaction, he will eventually come around.  You will need to be patient with him during these times, as he will need quite a bit of reassurance from you.

Your dog’s parents also contribute to socialization.  If the parents of your Golden Retriever were good with people and other dogs, the gene could very well be passed on to your dog.  On the other hand, if the parents were shy or aggressive dogs, those genes could be passed on as well.  Pups inherit the traits of their parents, which is why it is very important to make sure that the dogs being bred are compatible with each other - and share a passive temperament.

If your puppy was separated from his mother before he reached the age of seven weeks, he won’t learn many of the social signals taught to him by his mom and his siblings.  Golden Retriever pups that are brought to a new home earlier than seven weeks will normally tend to end up nippy or aggressive around people.  Although they may be aggressive towards people, they may be shy or fearful around other dogs, as they lack the social skills needed to be themselves.

Sometimes, if a puppy was injured or frightened during his early years, he can end up with a state of trauma.  This type of thing leaves a huge scar in the mind of a puppy, making it very hard for him to get past it.  Most Golden Retriever pups that have been injured or frightened by an individual never get past it.  They may end up fearing humans in general, or being very aggressive towards them when they feel frightened.  When you take your puppy home for the first time, you should always make him feel welcomed, and never let anyone or anything harm him.

To better socialize your Golden Retriever, you should always make sure that he gets plenty of interaction with other people and other dogs in his breed.  This way, your Golden will learn how to socialize at any early age.  When he gets older in life, he will carry these skills with him.  Golden Retrievers that are sheltered or not given the proper amount of interaction will turn out shy towards people and other dogs.  With your Golden being your companion for life - you should always ensure that he gets the socialization he needs.

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Guideline For Choosing DOG TREATS

What makes you love your dogs? Is it because of the way he loves you in return and the eagerness that you feel when he attempts to please? This love can be more emphasized through dog training as it creates the firm bond between you and your pal.

Gourmet dog treats produced by dog bakery Natertot Bakery
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

One well-recognized method of dog training is through the use of dog treats. But dog treats are not for positive reinforcement dog training alone. Most dog owners have used them as snack alternatives. This does not proceed pleasurable experiences but may also aid in maintaining your pal's health.

Like with other pet stuff, there are considerations that an owner should first evaluate before allowing his pet to dog treats. Health components concerning with calorie content is on the priority list.

One of the growing concerns about dog health nowadays is obesity. Almost half of American dogs are overweight. Like with the case of human, obesity may lead to a variety of diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.

Overindulgence is thought as one of the contributing reason for obesity. This may be due to the human factor. Most owners tend to give dog treats on an unregulated basis. For most, it doesn't matter how many calories does a single biscuit may contain. To resolve this issue, an owner needs to cut back on the daily calorie intake of his pet until he reduces some weight. Controlling the quantity of dog treats throughout the day may be of great help. You may also choose to lessen his foods gradually until he reaches a normal weight. In line with this, it is ideal to stick with dog treats with low calories. The subject of obesity may further be resolved through consulting the vet and to implement a regular exercise regimen.

It is also an ill practice to give your dog commercially produced human foods. Some of which may contain elements that are not suited for your dog's health. Commercial foods are also often rich in fats and calories and low in nutrients and vitamins. Moreover, this practice is really not healthy for your dog's manners. This only encourages begging. Give him his dog treats in his own place instead but always bearing the thought of how healthy the dog treats you give are.

Tips on Dog Treats Selection

It is always best to buy naturally produced dog treats. These save you from unnecessary additives that may post threats against your dog's health. Fat and sugar-rich dog treats are a complete no-no. look for dog treats that have a high concentration of fibers and protein.

Dog treats that are primarily made from fishes are good sources of unadulterated health components. These are great foods for human as well as dogs. They are low in calories and fats.

Avoid giving dog treats before any major meals. If you are training him using positive reinforcement, cut back portions of his meals to balance his diet with dog treats.

There are dog treats that are specially made to optimize your dog's health. Working in the same principle as that of the vitamin supplements. These are aids to maintain your dog's health and may even relieve symptoms of certain diseases.

Don't allow that dog treats may cover as much as ten percent of your pet's diet.

In choosing the ideal treat, it is helpful to rely on your best judgments. It is you who know your pet well enough but in cases of doubt, you may as well consult a veterinarian.

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The BENGAL Cat

If a cat that appears as though it has walked straight out of the wilderness and into civilization is what you want, then the Bengal cat fills that order. The Bengal cat is a hybrid breed produced by crossing the domestic cat with an Asian Leopard cat. The desire of such cross breeding is to produce a cat that looks wild but has the temperament of a domestic cat.

Bengal Cat - Photo  by     Nacho y Adriana   (cc)

Physical Body

The most distinct feature of the Bengal cat is its extremely soft, thick, and uniquely patterned coat. There are two distinct patterns recognized within the Bengal cat breed. Those are spotted and marbleized. The spotted coat is closest to its leopard ancestor, featuring leopard spots in varying shades of brown, rust, orange, sand, black, and gray. The marbleized coat is produced from the mixing of the Asian Leopard cat with a domestic tabby to produce splotches that look more like marble. In either case, the Bengal cat has a look that is both strikingly beautiful and wild.

Other than the coat, another distinguishing feature that sets it apart from other cats is its muscular body, more prominent in males than females. Bengal cats are very athletic, sleek, and muscular.

Temperament

The Bengal cat loves to be part of the family. They love to interact and play. This is not to say they will not seek out a soft chair or lap in which to lie for a nap, but for the majority of the day they are very active cats. Being a high energy cat, they are not for someone looking for a docile animal to lounge around the house and look pretty.

The exotic heritage of this cat makes it unique both in look and personality. Even though it takes five generations of Bengal-to-Bengal breeding to produce a line recognized as a Bengal cat, these felines have a wild ancestral heritage and some of those instincts can still be seen in late generations through their extreme intelligence, high energy, and innate curiosity. This is a cat that loves to play and will demand interaction with their owners but in a way that is most pleasant. Some Bengals can even be trained to walk on a leash and play fetch. It's also reported by some owners that their Bengals love water and will shower with them.

Due to the wild ancestral line of the Bengal, careful selective breeding practices are implemented by high quality Bengal cat breeders to ensure that the docile temperament of the domesticated ancestors is dominant.

Common Medical Problems

As with any breed of cat or dog, certain medical problems seem to be more commonplace than others. For the Bengal, the most common health problems seen by veterinarians are as follows:

Progressive Retinal Atrophy - This problem eventually causes blindness. There is no way to screen for this problem, so there is no way for a breeder to tell if a kitten will have problems later on.

Cataracts - Thickening and clouding of the eye lens, causing loss of vision over a period of time and eventual blindness. This problem can be reversed since cataract surgery is available for cats.

Cardiomyopathy - This covers both thickening of the heart muscles and thinning of the heart muscles, both causing very poor circulation. Cats stricken with this condition can appear healthy for a very long time and then suddenly appear very ill.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease - This is a condition in which an infection is present within the digestive tract. The symptoms of this condition are typically vomiting and diarrhea. Any Bengal showing symptoms should be taken to the veterinarian immediately to avoid dehydration.

Food Poisoning - Bengals have especially sensitive stomachs. For this reason, their diets should be carefully monitored and table scraps should never be on the menu.

One medical problem you'll never have to worry about with the Bengal cat and possibly their most fascinating feature is they possess an apparent immunity to feline leukemia. This is an inherited trait that the Bengal cat received from its ancestor the Asian Leopard cat.

Bengal cats are one of the most interesting breeds in existence today. From their wild markings to their playful and loving demeanor, Bengal's are an absolute joy to have around the house, especially in a household with children. If a cat who acts more like a family member is desired, the Bengal cat is a great choice.

Velita Livingston  is the founder of the Cat Lover's Diary blob which provides rich content with great advice on cat care tips and cat training, teaching pet owners how to protect, pamper and live peacefully with their pets. Visit the http://www.catloversdiary.com to watch the Cat Lover's Diary Movie, it contains breathtaking images and heartwarming quotes... It will uplift and inspire you! You can also visit the Cat Lover's Diary on Facebook and Twitter. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Vintage Collection - Dogs (8)

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Traits and Characteristics of GERMAN SHEPHERDS

If you are considering German Shepherd puppies for sale, you should know the benefits of having your dog professionally trained. 

Max von Stephanitz stabilized the German Shepherd dog breed, a breed that would become one of the most valued dogs in history. 

German Shepherd - Photo  by      haroldmeerveld  (cc)

The German shepherd dog is very intelligent, easy to train, powerful and elegant. 

The German shepherd dog is medium to large size with erect pointed ears, a long body, and a weather resistant coat. A thick stiff outer coat covered by a softer inner one makes the German shepherd readily able to withstand extreme climates. German Shepherd's range in color from black and tan to black and red, while the white German Shepherd is being seen more often these days. White German Shepherds are known as loyal family dogs and fearless guardians of the home that excel in obedience work. 

Originally trained as a herder, the breed is still used in this capacity in some areas. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including tracking, obedience, agility, fly ball, and ring sport. Through it all, the German Shepherd is also a wonderful family member and a dog of distinction. 

To this day, the German Shepherd Dog is considered one of the most, if not the most, intelligent and versatile breeds in existence. The German Shepherd is exceptionally trainable and works well as a police, guide, search, rescue dog. Though relatively calm and quiet indoors, the German Shepherd needs lots of outdoor exercises to maintain condition. German Shepherds require some active exercise each day and should not really be confined to a small yard. German shepherds do not require any special care.

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CAT BLADDER STONES - A Straightforward Guide to Preventing Cat Bladder Stones

Cat bladder stones could be really painful for your cat. This problem is often accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, inactivity, and inflammation and is really hard on your cat's immune system. As a cat owner, you can take steps make sure you do everything to treat the problem effectively and take good care of your cat.

When cats live outdoors they feed primarily on mice, rabbits, rodents and even insects. What you may not realize is that nearly 90% of a rodent's body is composed of water. So, when cats eat mice and rodents they are naturally keeping themselves properly hydrated.

"BladderStone" by Bludwar  Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons.

As cat owners, we've pretty much taken away our cat's natural food and replaced it with dry cat food. The dry food absorbs the water in your cat's digestive tract and actually contributes to a dehydrated state. When your cat becomes chronically dehydrated this opens the door for the formation of a cat bladder stone.

More and more, cat owners are turning to a natural raw meat diet or at least switching to a high quality canned food diet for their cat. The moisture content in canned food helps keep your cat properly hydrated. Also, don't hide the water bowl, in fact, keep several fresh water spots available for your cat.

Cat bladder stones, like I already mentioned, can be really painful. Especially, if a stone blocks the urethra of your cat. This is extremely painful and life threatening. So, as soon as you notice the symptoms, you should take your cat to your vet.

Bladder stones are usually caused by bacterial infections and dietary reasons. So, in order to treat this problem and to prevent it in future, you should make some changes in your cat's diet as suggested early and add some homeopathic remedies to cure the infection and strengthen your cat as well.

The size of a cat bladder stone can differ a lot - it could be just about the size of a grain of sand or the size of a small pebble. The larger the stone, the more difficult it would be for your cat. Very small bladder stones can be flushed out of the system through the urine. However, if the stone is big in size, you need to give your cat the right kind of medications to treat the problem.

When it comes to treatment, most vets suggest antibiotics. While antibiotics are effective to some extent, they can weaken the immune system of your cat. Moreover, certain types of antibiotics could increase the inflammation and make things worse for your cat. So, it is always better to stay away from antibiotics and opt for some natural remedies instead.

Homeopathic remedies are fast becoming the way to treat bladder infections, feline UTI, and similar cat urinary tract problems. Unlike antibiotics, homeopathic medications for cat bladder stone do not have unwanted side effects.

They can treat bacterial infections extremely well and boost the immune system of your cat. As a result, your cat is not only cured of its problem but also becomes stronger. These medications can also prevent recurring infections. So, it is a good idea to give a regular dose of these medications to your cat.

Homeopathic remedies are effective and safe. Moreover, they do not burn a hole in your pocket. They are very much affordable. Now, why would you look for any other treatment option to treat cat bladder stones? Make the right decision today and take good care of your cat.

Kate Rieger is partnered with the Kentucky SNIP clinic and together they provide affordable spay/neuter services to pet owners.   Article Directory: EzineArticles

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The RAW DOG DIET

Have you ever wondered why dog food comes in this huge bag filled with tiny kibbles of compressed unknown ingredients?  Much of what goes into dog food is not high-quality in nature.  Blood meal, bone meal, and fat frequently come from animal carcasses containing potentially harmful drugs or disease.  Is it time to consider something better for your dog's diet?

Before marketing and advertisers took over the world of big business, what did dog's eat?  We take a look at how dog's in the wild gain adequate nutrition.  A wolf, for example, survives from a kill.  The contents of the animals stomach are eaten first.  Doing this, the wolf takes in grains and vegetables, as well as, enzymes needed for good nutrition.  Next, the wolf devours the meat and some bones.  Protein and calcium have now been added to the diet.  This natural diet in the wilderness has been effective in maintaining quality health over the years.  Unlike the domesticated dogs of today, such animals generally have excellent immune systems.

When your dog's diet consists primarily of unhealthy animals, can you not assume that your dog will become unhealthy, as well?  Today, veterinarians have seen more health problems with dogs than ever before.

The natural raw diet feeds the immune system of your pet.  Your dog's diet will contain natural foods that provide the body what it needs to repair itself and perform at its best.

The raw diet is prepared one time a day.  It is not complicated and well worth the time and effort to ensure the excellent health of your dog.  Always consult your vet before altering your dog's diet.  The raw dog diet has helped many dog's combat health issues such as arthritis, skin problems, and weight trouble.

Ingredients of the raw diet include meat, veggies, and grains.  Approximately half of the diet is meat.  Vegetables, fruit, and grain cover the rest.  

When preparing the dog's diet, feed the dog about the same amount of the raw dog diet as you would kibble.  This is a good starting point.  From here, you can adjust the diet as necessary to meet your dog's specific needs.  

Contact a local butcher to purchase ground turkey, for example.  Each day prepare a bowl of 50% raw ground

Turkey with some wet oats.  Juice some vegetables such as carrots and swiss chard and add the juice to the mix.

Juicing the vegetables helps to digest the enzymes for your pet.  This is similar to the wolf consuming the contents from a stomach.  Your dog's diet will need a variety of different vegetables daily to maximize the potential for best vitamins and nutrients.

Carrots should always be the base and alter other veggies daily.  The carrots will regularly supply potassium, calcium, vitamin A, B, C, D, and E.  Greens offer vitamin A, C, and chlorophyll.  Apples are good for vitamin C.

Certain veggies have healing properties.  Kale, for instance, helps to remedy digestive disorders.  Watercress and mustard greens help to cleanse the intestines.  Parsley helps the metabolism and thyroid.  Celery has numerous advantages.  It helps with chemical imbalances, blood flow,  and is a natural diuretic.  Beets are good for the blood.  They offer copper and manganese.

Some foods to avoid include broccoli, cabbage, and turnips.  These create intestinal gas.  Cucumbers, onions, and potatoes do not digest well in a dog's diet.   

Flaxseed is a fabulous addition to the raw diet to encourage healthy joints and coat.  The omega 6 and 3 fatty acids help with such conditions.  

The raw diet for your dog can combat several health issues.  The natural diet allows your dog to eat what nature intended.  You know what foods are in your dog's diet.  The raw diet is high in quality and healthy for your pet.  

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