Fact Sheet: FINNISH SPITZ

Finnish Spitz

Finnish Spitz - Photo   by      Llima

Group: Non-sporting

Weight: 25 lbs

Height: 18 inches

Overview

The Finnish Spitz was originally brought from the area of the Volga River Area to Central Russia about 2000 years ago. This breed is the national dog of Finland, and the Finnish Spitz is referred to in quite a few Finnish patriotic songs. These dogs are now extensively acknowledged throughout the Scandinavian countries. The Finnish Spitz is fine at hunting birds, and they also make good family pets.

Temperament

You will find this breed to be lively and sociable, energetic and enthusiastic, devoted and courageous - but at the same time careful. The Finnish Spitz is tolerant of children and other animals in the household. They have a good hunting instinct so they may chase after smaller animals. This breed is very intelligent and likes to be a part of the family. On the other hand, this breed is not ideal for all families - especially in households with lots of tension or loud bickering.

Care

The Finnish Spitz has a coat that cleans itself seeing that these dogs are viewed as arctic dogs. This breed does not need a lot of overall maintenance, but if dead hair can be removed with a brush or a comb. The coats of the Finnish Spitz don't have a typical doggy odor. The Finnish Spitz sheds heavily on a seasonal basis. The coats of these dogs are very rich, and they can remain shiny and thick all year round if these dogs are maintained throughout the year.

Training

The Finnish Spitz is a very smart, self-assured and intelligent breed. They will learn new skills very quickly and are easy to train when the right training methods are used. This breed can, however, be stubborn when overly anxious or full of fear. It is imperative to work with the Finnish Spitz in a calm manner whenever possible. These dogs are willful and brave and will perform at a high level once they are comfy and have admiration for their owners. The Finnish Spitz has time and again been used in competitions as show dogs seeing that they have so many good qualities and virtues. This is an impressive hunting breed, and they can also be trained to be racers and rescuers from an early age onwards.

Health problems

The Finnish Spitz is a relatively healthy and has one of the lowest occurrences for health issues. There are however a few conditions that potential owners should be aware of and these include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and deafness.

By John M Williams - Article Source: EzineArticles

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I Love BASSET HOUNDS

The Basset Hound, a sad-eyed, slow-moving dog, has maintained through the years a popular high level, due to its keenness to the hunt and its docility in the home. Whether the Basset Hound you buy is intended for a household pet or a trailer, this is a breed not to be ignored. Indeed, it is not ignored as the Basset Hound's popularity is ever growing.

Basset hound (Photo credit: Wikipedia) 

Serious huntsmen have long been aware of the merits of this most deliberate scent hound, who tracks his quarry with sureness, in his own way and in his own time. Whether he is tracking rabbits, foxes, or pheasants, the Basset Hound can be depended upon to make his way easily through heavy ground cover and give plenty of alerts to the hunter.

If one member of the household is to hunt or train with the Basset, spending a lot of time with him, an unstoppable bond will develop between the two, only the master will receive the same enthusiastic response from the dog. The Basset Hound is an exceptionally loyal dog, and while some may view his ways as being sluggish and stubborn, it may well be that he only reacts with a special intensity for his beloved master. They always bark with that rich vocal tone and sling themselves around when the master returns after being away. As the excitement mounts higher, the Basset will grab a toy and sling it around wanting to get all of the attention.

The Basset Hound has a European origin. The St. Hubert hound was the forerunner of our Basset Hound and many other kinds of scent hounds which appear all over the world. The St. Hubert hound is reported to have been developed bearing that name and located in the French forest region of Ardennes. St. Hubert founded his order during the early years of the sixth century. Legend has it that before he became an abbot, St. Hubert was a happy go lucky, carefree young nobleman, who loved to hunt, and who was miraculously converted one Sunday by seeing a vision of a deer with a cross between its horns.

With a deep love of the hunt, he set out to develop a new strain of hound dog in his kennel at the France-Belgium border and indeed the hounds of St. Hubert was of a very distinct type. All early accounts describe them as being tan and black with long ears, long bodies, heavy heads, and comparatively heavy and short legs. There was also a longer legged, a white variety developed. Both types had wonderfully keen noses and deep voices. The long ears of the breed assisted them, then as now, in their hunting, capturing the scent and forcing it up from the ground toward the dogs' noses. Of course, the original purpose of these hounds was somewhat different than it is today- the superior of a monastery for men who worked to create this breed used the longer-legged strains to hunt wolves and boars, and required a dog of incredible stamina and fearlessness. While these traits are still retained in the conscientiously bred Basset Hounds, the game that is now pursued by the breed is of a less ferocious type-small woods animals such as raccoons.

When St. Hubert bred small-legged one's of the breed, to each other, it was because when they hunted small game, the thick ground cover of the Ardennes required a hunting dog to keep his nose steadily to the ground. In longer-legged dogs, this was a physical impossibility; as the dog's back and neck would no doubt begin to ache if he were stopped for long periods. Thus, as the legs of the Bassets got shorter, so too did they get more crooked until they arrived at the seemingly gnarled, stumpy type we see today.

The temperament of the hounds was described as being gentle, obedient, and mild and that they were not useful for killing the game but only for trailing it. It is now believed that the Basset Hound as we know it today was developed over the years by careful selection and breeding of the short-legged variety, and by the inclusion in the breeding program of "sports" or dogs with very short legs. Many early accounts refer to the Bloodhound and give rise to the idea that somewhere there was a cross between it and the Basset Hound.

The St. Hubert hounds became scattered over various parts of France and were crossed with local types until all the different colors were developed. The name "Basset," was derived from the French and bas, means low set.

The American Kennel Club registered its first Basset Hound in 1885. In 1935, a group of Michigan breeders met at the Detroit dog show and formed the Basset Hound Club of America. In addition to those present, 12 breeders from throughout the country were invited to become charter members. By 1950, a Basset Hound had become a world-famous television star, and "Mr. Morgan," is what he was called, caused the breed to become very popular. Since this time, the adoration of Basset Hounds has grown and the registrations listings put out by the American Kennel Club is proof of this.

Will this breed continue its upward surge and move into say, the top ten? If the past is any indication, we can be assured that our beloved Basset Hound will become ever more prominent on the show circuit, tracking fields, and a spot he readily and lovingly occupies in the family home. I can attest to this because I have two Basset Hounds in my home, a female, black, brown and white named Sally Mae and a male, black, brown and white named Cletus. If I can tell you anything from experience about these dogs, they are the sweetest natured and very loyal dogs! When they get excited or when lazily stretching, they become very vocal, I think sometimes our female can say "Mama". They know how to get their way and they have kept us laughing as they do the craziest things. Our male, Cletus drinks water from the water bowl with his nose propped up on the side. Sally Mae is our professional rester, she loves to eat and sleep, but when awake she demands your attention. We love our Basset Hounds, that is why I have my website and want to learn all about them.

By Linda McRae - Article Source: EzineArticles

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The German POINTERS Dog Breed History

The Origins of the German Pointer breed

As the name suggests the German Pointer dog, also known as the German Shorthaired Pointer comes from Germany. Even though researchers do not have many details about the origin of this breed, they all concluded that the German Pointer breed is a mixed breed that developed in time from mixing breeds like the Spanish Pointer, the Foxhound, the Bloodhound and other hunting dogs and later the English Pointer.

German Pointer - Photo   by     Rexness

The German Pointer breed belongs to the European pointer dogs. There are records about the pointer dogs as well as the hunting dogs from Europe ever since the 13 the century. Todays German Pointer is an elegant and versatile hunter both in the water and on land. He is a specialist in bird hunting and is admired for his great personality.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is related to the German Wirehaired Pointer, a breed of dog mostly common in Germany and less in The Great Britain or The United States. Though they are both mixed breeds and have related predecessors, the German Wirehaired does not have any Bloodhound or Foxhound predecessors. The Wirehaired Pointer, however, originates from the Pudel pointer, another mixed breed between the German Pudel and the English Pointer amongst others.

Past records of the German Pointers breed

Even if there aren't many records that talk about the German breed but mention the hunting dogs for their proficiency in finding and tracking large and small animals as well as their dexterity in both water and on land, the breed got some recognition after it was crossed with the English Pointer in the late 1800s. The German breed was recognized as a breed and recorded by the German Kennel Club in 1872.

In the 1920's the German Shorthaired breed was taken to the United States where it became a popular breed. Not too long ago the American Kennel Club, that formally recognized the breed in 1930, stated that the German Pointer reached the 20th place in a list of most popular breeds in the US. In 2005 a German Shorthaired Pointer dog won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and the first show where a German Shorthaired Pointer participated was held in 1941 in Chicago

By John Hinkley. - Article Source: EzineArticles

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WHIPPET - Fastest Dog For the Size of It

A Whippet is a mid-sized dog that belongs to the sighthound group of dogs. They have short hair and look similar to the greyhounds. It is the fastest of all domesticated creatures of the same weight often traveling as fast as 35 miles per hour.

"Fireworks Whippets" at NAWRA 2008 Nationals and WWD.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

History of the Whippet Breed

The Whippet breed was originally bred to use its sight to hunt and chase game at fast speeds. During the 19th century, the Whippet first appeared in the Northern section of England. These dogs came from two different types of greyhounds being mixed with small terriers to produce a hound fast enough to go after a small game like rabbits.

The Whippets were owned by the common laborers. These Whippets became the poor man's racehorse in fact because they would race them. They would have them race down the roads or across the fields for about 200 yards.

The AKC recognized the breed in 1888 and it is in the Hound Group. The English Kennel Club did not recognize the breed until 1891. Today, the Whippet is extremely popular in the dog shows and has won many championships in various sections.

Temperament for the Breed

Whippets are gentle dogs that are very loving and enjoy getting and giving affection. The breed is calm and sweet and very rarely even barks. They will bark when they need to, but they do not make good watchdogs though. They can get snappish at times so they are not recommended for your kids. They are friendly enough though to be used around the elderly in nursing homes.

If they are not raised around cats they will chase them. Both male and female Whippets are equally easy to housebreak. They are very loyal to their owners and love to be with them. They will stay close when they can. Whippets are quiet enough for even apartments.

Health Issues for the Breed

This breed is an extremely healthy one compared to other breeds. With correct care and nutrition, the dogs can live to as old as 15 years with very little health issues. The second leading reason for death is heart disease with the Whippets. Sometimes a genetic eye problem can show up in this breed, but this does not happen that often. Undescended testicles are one problem the Whippets can commonly have.

Grooming Requirements for the Breed

The Whippets are fairly low-maintenance with their coat of short, smooth hair. They shed two times a year the fall and the spring. Brushing one to two times a week will alleviate the shedding. This will be good for the dog year round though. To add a bit more shine to the coat use a chamois cloth and rub the dog down. Only bathe the Whippets when necessary of course followed by brushing and maybe some conditioner.

Their nails need clipping to prevent overgrowth. The ears need to be checked to see if they need cleaning on the outside. Brush their teeth periodically. Also, examine the skin to make sure there are no skin problems.

Article By Kelly Marshall  of Oh My Dog Supplies, your top source for large dog clothes and designer dog collars online. Article Source: EzineArticles

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BOXER Dog - Dogs of the World

Dogs of the World: BOXER Dog - Photo: Wikimedia

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Training Tips for DACHSHUND Pups - Easy Tips for Training Happy Dachshund Pups

Dachshund Pups are known by many nicknames, including "Wiener Dogs", "Sausage Dogs", "Doxies", or "Worshonds". Dachshund pups are known for their long backs and short legs, which many people relate to a wiener sausage or hot dog. It is very important for you to understand how to train Dachshund pups, which requires that you become aware of some of the temperamental and behavioral traits of this fun breed.

"Kurzhaardackel" by Toschka at de.wikipedia - Own work. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons.

Dachshund pups have an enhanced sense of smell because they are considered 'sense hounds.' This makes them naturally very curious about any new smells that they come into contact with. They are a lovable and playful breed and are often inclined to chase small animals that they see outdoors. On the other hand, Dachshunds are also well-known for being a fairly stubborn breed, which can make training Dachshund puppies challenging. Here is some very helpful and beneficial information that will be sure to help you understand the best way to go about training your Dachshund pups.

How to Train Dachshund Puppies:

Dachshunds, especially miniature dachshunds are a fairly small breed, especially when they're pups. Dachshund pups are quite the rambunctious breed and are usually always eager to play with other members of their household "pack". Dachshund pups love to chew! They have been known to destroy shoes, socks, household objects and furniture if not watched closely. That is why it is important and best to start training Dachshund pups at a very early age. Successful training of your Dachshund puppies may take a little time, but don't give up!

Allowing your Dachshund puppies to become comfortable in your home is very important and should be done first. They will want to 'check out' all of the new sights, smells, and sounds in the new environment. Dachshunds are very curious and love to investigate. Dachshund pups tend to get themselves into trouble at first, so although you should allow them to roam their new environment, make sure to keep a close eye on them. It may be smart to try to puppy-proof your home as best as you can before you bring your Dachshund pups home.

As with all breeds, it is very important to reward the Dachshund puppies for good behavior. Dachshund pups love receiving rewards! Including positive reinforcement in all Dachshund pups training will go a long way. Remember that Dachshund puppies, in general, are naturally playful, so try not to get frustrated with the training. Be patient and before you know it, the puppy will find it easier to focus on their training.

How to Crate Train Dachshund Puppies:

Crate training is important and Dachshund puppies respond well to crate training, as long as you introduce it early on. Dachshund pups have a need for constant companionship, and they can become lonely if left alone for too long. You should be careful and aware that puppies can feel "abandoned" while left in a crate if left too long. Keeping a puppy confined to a crate can lead to the pups developing behavioral problems and destructiveness, so crate training should be taken with care and caution.

For best crate training results, be sure to buy a crate that is large enough for your Dachshund, but be sure it is not 'too' big to where they could go to the bathroom in it. A puppy will be more likely to have a successful crate training experience by making their crate very comfortable and cozy. 

Dachshund puppies tend to like bedding material in the crate, making sure to cover any uncomfortable corners. A very important aspect is to have puppies lie on and use the bedding before you put it in the crate so that their scent is already on the bedding. This helps them feel more comfortable inside the new environment of a crate. It is very important to NEVER use a crate to punish dog! This can definitely be extremely detrimental to crate training.

How to House Train Dachshund Puppies:

House training Dachshunds as soon as possible is very important because even when house trained, not all Dachshund pups can be 100% reliable to not have an 'accident' indoors. So, the sooner the house training, the better! To greatly improve your chances of house training success, combine house training with a crate. Most Dachshund puppies will do very well with this combination. To ensure that Dachshund puppies do not become lonely while in their crate, put the crate in an area with constant activity.

Feeding Dachshund puppies their meals while they are in their crate is a good method. After Dachshund pups are done with their meal, you should close the door and allow you're the pup to stay in the crate for an hour or less. You should then put a leash on the puppy and take it outside to a designated 'potty' area. Most puppies will go to the bathroom at this time. This is especially true when they are still in their puppy stage since they tend to need to potty more often and more quickly after meals. Remember that your puppy loves rewards, so it is very important to reward them with praise and treats when they potty outside.

Dachshund Puppy Training Tips:

Make sure to not allow Dachshund pups to gain a sense of 'dominance' in a household. This will only make training Dachshund pups more difficult. Make sure to establish your role as the pack leader and teacher with a calm and assertive, but firm attitude, especially when it comes to training Dachshund pups. It is important and very beneficial to you and your pup to remain patient and understanding about the behavioral traits of Dachshund pups. As long as you follow that, training Dachshund pups will not be difficult.

By Elijah Martin - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Fact Sheet: SIAMESE CAT

(Original Title: All About Siamese Cats)

Photo by Trish Hamme

Siamese cats are one of the most beloved breeds amongst cat lovers, and understandably so. There are many reasons to love a Siamese cat from their blue eyes peering through the dark patch on their face to their high level of intelligence and energy. From their history to their personality, Siamese cats are a very unique breed.

Breed History

Siamese cats originated in Thailand in the 14th century. At that time, they were reserved for the royal families who would then bestow them on visiting dignitaries. They first showed up in the United States sometime in the late 1800's. The first documented Siamese feline to show up in the United States was a gift to First Lady Lucy Hayes. In present-day, Siamese cats rank fifth in popularity in the United States according to the Cat Fancier's Association.

Basic Breed Information

Female Siamese cats usually end up weighing between six to ten pounds with a height of twenty-one inches, while males usually weigh between nine and fourteen pounds and grow to a height of twenty-three inches. Their trademark look includes a wedge-shaped head with deep blue eyes, sleek body, and large pointed ears. Their coat is also a trademark feature with a cream-colored torso and dark areas on the face, ears, and feet. This is caused by a mutated enzyme in the pigment. There are four official colors of the Siamese breed of cat as recognized by the Cat Fancier's Association. These colors include seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac. Blue and lilac are simply diluted versions of the seal and chocolate colors.

Siamese Cat Personality and Temperament

Although very social cats, they are not necessarily the best choice for a household with children. They are generally very dedicated and loyal to their owners and love to talk. Many cat owners say their Siamese will always tell them what is on their minds and are not shy about making their demands known.

Always playful and loving, the Siamese breed does not entail the normal aloof feline attitude. They are known as the eternal kitten; the cat that never grows up. They display a more social personality than other breeds, even in the presence of other domestic animals.

They are a joy to own and even more fun to watch as they play amongst themselves or with the other cat and dog residents with whom they live. Their high level of intelligence is one of their signature characteristics. Many Siamese cat owners report their cats are able to be trained to perform tricks and learn their names very quickly.

Common Medical Problems

Unfortunately, just like with all breeds of cats and dogs, the Siamese cat also has certain medical conditions to which it is genetically predisposed. Many people know about the cross-eyed and kink-tailed abnormalities inherent in the Siamese breed, but these problems have been all but completely eliminated through careful breeding. There are two problems, however, that are still present in the genetic code of this breed. These two problems are gingivitis and a liver-destroying disease called amyloidosis.

While gingivitis can be prevented through proper dental care, amyloidosis is a much more serious illness caused by abnormally high levels of amyloid deposited in the liver. Amyloid is a fibrous protein and when high levels are present in the liver, it can cause hemorrhaging and renal failure. Symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes, vomiting, lack of energy, enlarged abdomen, anorexia, and excessive thirst in the presence of excessive urination.

Siamese Cat Rescue

After hearing about all the wonderful characteristics inherent in the Siamese breed of cat, chances are you are wondering where you can get one of your own. There are rescue coalitions that specialize in the rescue, care, and adoption of Siamese cats. One such organization is called Texas Siamese Rescue and is based out of Dallas, Texas.

To adopt a Siamese cat through this organization a fee of between $100 and $175 will be charged to partially cover the plethora of veterinarian services and tests this particular adoption center requires for each feline that moves through their facility. 

The Siamese is by far one of the most intelligent and fun-loving cat breeds around. It is no wonder they are favorites among cat lovers.

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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Nursing a SICK DOG

Nursing a sick dog is one of the vital measures that a dog owner needs to understand.  Similarly, when a dog becomes sick, the dog is in need of more care and affection based activities by the dog owners. Nursing a sick animal is often considered as an art and this should not be taken as a causal measure.

Yes. You need to take extra care to the dog when it becomes sick. For example, the sick dog with a high fever needs to be given only some bread pieces and bulky non-vegetarian items may be avoided.  Such dogs should be kept in some calm place after medications are taken and should not be disturbed.  During the nursing of the dog who has taken the drug, the animal needs coaxing and stroking by the owner.  Don’t raise the dog’s head too much to avoid the passing of drugs given by the mouth directly into the respiratory organs like lungs.  During the nursing measures, take care by giving warm fluids.

Safety is to be given more priority during the nursing activity in any dog. When the dog has severe diarrhea, the animal may start showing signs of dehydration. Hence, the nursing care for dehydration includes an addition of small doses of salt and glucose to water in a careful manner.

Similarly, the vomiting dog also needs proper nursing care.  Ice cubes may be given in such cases along with egg whites to smooth the esophageal passage. 

Nowadays, a non-contact based infrared thermometer has come up in the market to obtain the temperature of the animal without much stress.  Place the dog in a shaded place if the temperature is so high and provide good ventilation to the suffering animal.   If the animal is suffering from hypothermia, provide warm blankets to given comfort to the animal.

   

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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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