Wire-haired Dachshund in a dog show in Racibórz (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
A dachshund, literally meaning a badger dog -- a breed developed by German foresters to scent, hunt and kill hole-dwelling animals. In the United States, it is sometimes referred to as a wiener dog or sausage dog. The dachshund is 5 to 9 inches tall and has an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years.
Explain the physical characteristics of dachshunds?
Dachshunds are characterized by a long body and short legs. Loose skin, long drooping ear, and a barrel-like chest are the other features of dachshunds. They are red, chocolate brown, fawn or black in color. Dachshunds exist in standard, miniature and tweenie sizes. They have short haired, smooth haired, long-haired or wire-haired coats.
What is the difference between standard and miniature dachshunds?
A miniature dachshund weighs less than 11 lbs, and a standard size dachshund weighs between 16 and 35 lbs.
How to train dachshunds?
Considerable time, patience, and firmness are required on the part of the owners, as well as dog trainers to train dachshunds. It is always advisable to train dachshunds when they are puppies. Dachshunds training should be game oriented and food-based. These small dogs love it when you praise them.
Do dachshunds require exercise?
Dachshunds require a modest amount of exercise. Dachshund exercises are generally a moderate walk and games in the yard.
How to groom dachshunds?
Shorthaired coats require minimal grooming. But, wire-haired and long-haired coats need regular brushing, trimming and clipping.
Can dachshunds be housebroken?
Due to its stubborn nature, it is quite difficult to housebreak a dachshund. But properly devised training programs coupled with consistency and persistence can transform a stubborn dachshund into a sociable breed. Housebreaking methods include a direct method, paper method and crate training.
How are dachshunds with children?
Dachshunds are generally good with children if they are properly trained and socialized at an early age, especially when they are puppies.
How are dachshunds with other pets?
Dachshunds easily get along with pets like cats, provided they are given proper training and instruction when they are puppies.
I've always been a pet lover. Ever since I was a little girl and my parents brought me home my first hamster I have loved animals more than almost anything else. It didn't take rocket science for me to decide that I wanted to eventually be a veterinarian, so it was no surprise to anyone that I did indeed pursue my dream of working with animals as a profession. I did surprise people, however, when I coupled that dream with a smaller dream of raising and breeding dalmatians.
I think my love for Dalmatians began when I saw the infamous movie about them during my childhood. I think I was most intrigued with how unique and beautiful they were. So when it came time for me to purchase my first pet, there was little question of what I would choose: a dalmatian. I quickly found, however, that I couldn't stop with just one. I purchased three dalmatians within six months and was absolutely loving my life.
My dream of breeding and training dalmatians in my free time began shortly after I owned these first three dalmatians. They were such beautiful dogs and they were so easy to train and to take care of. I thought about how magical it would breed this great dog so that many other people could experience the pleasure of owning what I believe is the world's best dog.
If you are looking into getting a dog for your family's pet, then seriously consider getting a Dalmatian. Do a little research to learn about the breed and see if it would fit the needs and desires you have for a pet. Talk with owners of dalmatians and see what kind of experience they have had and what kind of advice they would give to other Dalmatian owners. And talk with your veterinarian for their perspective on what kinds of dogs and other pets might be wise for you to choose.
Having an animal is one of the greatest joys and privileges in life. I fell in love with owning dalmatians. See if you might not fall in love with owning them too. They are fun to play with and run with, yet they are not so needy that they take up all of your free time. They love to be both indoors and outdoors and they usually house train relatively easily. There are many benefits to having dalmatians the way I see it. But then again, the way I see it might just be a little biased.
A male ragdoll cat birdwatching (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Your ragdoll cat is probably a very important and ever-present figure in your life, every time you turn around you probably see the ragdoll following you around of flopped out on the floor, ready to be stepped on if you happen to step back without looking.
The ragdoll is truly a breed that loves people, or at least loves attention and affection, dares to ignore it for any length of time and the ragdoll will surely let you know. Most ragdoll cats are likely to be easy to train, at least easier than most other cats.
It is important that you leash train the ragdoll, as I'm sure you're aware, ragdolls are intended to be indoor cats not outdoor. How many times have you panicked when you thought your ragdoll had escaped and run away, only to find him half an hour later curled up somewhere unexpected?
Yes, ragdolls do not belong outdoors, they may be intelligent creatures, but they also completely lack any common sense half the time. With a ragdoll cat, there is no such thing as street smarts, they will happily run into the road, approach any dog, cat or another animal they can find, or worse - jump into any pools of water. They do seem to love water, it is not unheard of for ragdolls to try and get into the bath or shower with their owners.
Your ragdoll cat may be the cutest cat in the world and are obviously very sweet, but they can be very annoying too. If they wouldn't follow you around all day, then you wouldn't have to accidentally step on a fluffy tail or a paw without realizing it. And if they wouldn't insist on lying on your laptop, every time you want to work or surf the net, you would be much happier.
Ragdolls do love spending as much time you as is felinely possible, they would never leave your side if they had the opportunity, and they absolutely hate it when you leave them alone, all that meowing isn't for nothing, they really do not want to be left alone, and will insist on causing chaos if they are left for any length of time.
Your ragdoll cat can get very lonely and very depressed if you go out to work every day for any length of time, this needy behavior is often the reason the ragdoll cat can end up in rescue centers so often. People are just not aware of the care needed for such a people orientated cat.
Ragdolls are huge cats, especially the males, but the females are big enough too; they just eat and eat and eat, every time you go into the kitchen the ragdoll is right behind you, like a tail, assuming that since you are in the kitchen you must be making him food.
Of course, all your food is their food too, and you won't hear the last of it if you are trying to eat a nice piece of fish, without giving any to your ragdoll cat. The ragdoll just does not give up, he offers your lots of cuddles, you offer him food.
The ragdoll cat is a charmer, a sweet laid-back and loyal pet, buy one who will get on your nerves one day and charm you the next. Purrfect.
Bathing a dog needs to be given more emphasis. This is because of the fact that if you are careless in bathing, the animal may end up having some infections. For example, if you don’t close the ears with a large cotton ball, the water may enter into ear canals and may cause some ear infections with signs like constant discharge from the ears and shaking of the head.
A frequency of bathing actually depends on the breed of the dog. If the dog is of a hairy type like the cocker spaniel, then the bathing is to be carried out once in six to eight weeks. If these breeds are bathed too frequently, then the skin and coat lose the protective characters. However, when the dog has defecated on the skin due to the frequent digestive upsets leading to diarrhea, to avoid the bad smell, the dog may be subjected to frequent bathing sometimes by the owners. Take more care in avoiding some irritant soaps or human soaps. The soap materials used for human beings are not suitable for dogs. Similarly, many human shampoo products are having some ingredients that are not suitable in the proportions that are to be used in the case of dogs. Hence, always try to use the shampoo products that are mentioned mainly for use in dogs. Take more care in using any new product.
Always have good time and patience for products required for bathing in one place with availability f water source. Dogs love the sprinkling of water, river, and oceans. Even when you are using a bathtub, have everything in one place and then start bathing of the dog. Try to have a leash, conditioner, towel, and shampoo in the bath place.
A conditioner is of help to make the combing activity easier later. Bathing should be a convenient activity for both the dog and the owner. This should not be a burden.
Everyone seems on edge about the latest outbreak of avian flu. People in China are told to kill their poultry in order to keep the virus from spreading. Meanwhile, people in the United States watch on in fear that the avian flu will come to their shores. So what exactly is all the hubbub about? After all, every winter millions of people come down with bird flu.
Origin of Influenza
Influenza, the term, came into use around 1504, though it had little to do with the virus. It came from the word: influence. At the time, influence meant: “the ethereal power of the stars acting on men.” It was basically a supernatural way of explaining the effects of disease on people at the time. During a particularly nasty outbreak of the flu in Europe during 1743, the term was officially attached to the name of the disease. 96 years later, the term was shortened to just: flu.
The flu, itself, is a whole family of viruses called Orthomyxovirids. They are a diverse family that is commonly found in the guts of birds. The specific type of viruses that infect birds are called type A flu. It was one of these type A’s that was believed to have infected people a long time ago. Thus giving us, the flu for the first time. Though the virus that initially infected man, has long since evolved into a variety of human-specific strains, the initial origin appears to lay squarely among birds. As such, all human flu bugs could, technically, be called: avian flu.
Pathogens and specificity
Pathogens are viewed as being any living organism that is capable of causing a disease. It is a term that is generally reserved for bacteria, fungi and viruses. Pathogens are usually very specific in who, or what, they infect. This has a lot to do with the way in which they are constructed.
Both bacterial and viral outer structure, consist of a receptor binding proteins. These proteins give the pathogen a certain geometry. This geometry allows the pathogen to attach to complementary receptor sites on the cells of the critter that they are trying to infect. Because of the wide variety of life forms on the planet, each cell type has a different arrangement of receptors. Most of the time, the pathogen’s geometry will not fit these receptors, and the critter remains immune. Only those unlucky few species, whose cell receptors do fit, are the ones that have to suffer the infection.
Occasionally, though, a new pathogen comes along that has a geometry that is general enough to allow it to latch onto many different species. These are the pathogens that are often the more deadly.
Influenza is one of these general viruses. It is capable of infecting most bird species. It’s also very good at doing what all life forms do. It evolves. This has allowed it to cross multiple species barriers, and jump from birds to people, to pigs, cows, and horses. Thus making influenza a very cosmopolitan virus family. This still doesn’t explain all the worry about this recent outbreak of avian flu though. For that, one must go back in time to 1918, and the Spanish flu.
It was the close of World War I, and the world appeared to be returning back to a more peaceful state. Then, in various parts of the globe, people started coming down with a particularly virulent form of the flu. This was a unique case though. Instead of the very young, and elderly dying, it was affecting young men and women instead. Usually, these are the most immune to the effects of the flu. By the end of 1918, this form of the flu had killed ~50 million people. It was the largest pandemic (worldwide epidemic) in recorded history. So what happened?
Normally when one gets the flu, it is more of a hassle than anything else. This has a lot to do with the fact that the flu types we normally catch, are viruses that have infected us before. They have changed just enough so that they can infect us again, but they still remain recognizable to our immune system. As such, our bodies can keep the virus in check, and then eventually eliminate it. The 1918 flu, though, was different. It is now largely believed to have been a case where a new flu virus had hopped species. It went from birds to humans, possibly after circulating and hybridizing inside pigs (which can catch both bird and human versions of the flu). This new bug was completely alien to our immune systems and thus, took many completely by surprise.
This is what has many scared about this newest avian flu virus (dubbed: H5N1, for the specific proteins found on it). It has proven to be particularly virulent among birds, and the few cases of it infecting people have many worried that another pandemic is on the rise.
Zoonoses.
Influenza is a type of disease referred to a zoonosis. It means that it can be transmitted from one animal group to another. Zoonotic diseases used to be further broken up into those that humans catch from other animals (anthropozoonoses) and ones that other animals catch from humans (zooanthroponoses). Unfortunately, both terms have been misused and confused so much, that neither is particularly favored anymore. Now they are all viewed as zoonotic diseases. In the end, this makes the most sense, as human beings are animals anyway. To break things up any further just seems excessive.
The flu is not the only zoonotic disease that humans get from other animals. Our primate cousins have given us quite a few different diseases including malaria, hepatitis B, Dengue fever and lymphoma. Of course the most infamous of these zoonotic diseases would probably be HIV.
Though there are those that would like to believe that the Human Immunodeficiency Virus was a genetically engineered weapon that was released among the African populace (they give far too much credit to genetic engineers, who are proud enough to make yeast that can fluoresce), the simian origin of HIV is pretty well established. HIV has close ties to the simian version: SIV (Simian Immunodeficiency Virus). The big difference between the two, besides their first letters, is that SIV rarely kills the apes it infects. In fact, many apes are capable of carrying viral loads equivalent to those seen in humans with advanced AIDS, yet rarely show any signs of trouble. This suggests that the host and the pathogen have been doing this for a very long time, and the host’s body has found a way to handle the virus. Humans only recently acquired HIV. As such, our bodies have yet to “learn” how to deal with the threat that this virus poses. Which is one reason why HIV is so very virulent at the moment?
These are just some of the diseases that other animals have given to humans. But what of the reverse? What have we given our animal brethren?
Many of the “classic” diseases that most humans catch are ones that we are capable of giving to our primate cousins. This includes the flu, measles, chicken pox and tuberculosis.
One particularly nasty disease that we are capable of transmitting is the infamous Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). FMD rarely affects humans, but it does use us as a carrier for it. The disease can hang out in our nasal passages, throat, and on our clothing. It usually infects various forms of livestock (cattle, pigs, sheep, goats). Symptoms usually include fever and prominent sores on the feet and mouth (hence the name). Most infected animals to survive. Only ~5% die from the disease.
The second disease is far more pernicious, and the victims have us to blame. It is the coral disease referred to as: white pox. This disease can kill up to 10 square centimeters of coral a day (~120ft a year). Over the past decade over 90% of Caribbean reef coral (Acropora palmata), has died. The culprit behind it is the little human gut bacterium: Serratia marcescens. While humans can occasionally fall victim to this bacterium, it usually doesn’t infect us. Instead, it lives in our guts and gets expelled in our feces. Improper sewage treatment has resulted in human excrement flowing out into the Caribbean, where the newly released bacterium has infected the local coral.
So remember; the next time you start to feel under the weather, don’t worry about coughing on your dog. Chances are, your canine pal probably won’t get it. Unless, of course, it is the flu.
If you are in the market for a canine companion you know there are many different breeds that you can choose from. If you have been doing your research, you may have seen Norwich Terriers for Sale. These can be fantastic companions but you do need to make sure it is the right breed for you. Here is what you need to know.
If you want a dog that stands out in a crowd as being uncommon, there are some breeds that are better known than others. Labs, for example, are very common and easily recognizable. Other breeds of a similar size are less common. You may find that if you are walking one, people will stop and ask you questions about your canine companion.
If you are looking for a quiet and easygoing dog, you may want to look at a different breed. If you want a dog that has a lot of energy and will keep you entertained and on your feet, this can be a fantastic companion. It can be worthwhile to speak to other owners of this breed. Then you will be able to tell if the energy level is right for you.
If you want a small, compact canine, this can be a fantastic choice. They only tend to weigh ten to twelve pounds when fully grown. This can be fantastic for someone who lives in a small apartment or house. It is also great for individuals who want to travel on a plane or other type of transport and bring their dog along.
Some breeds are also more apt to develop some serious medical conditions. Schnauzers, for example, can end up with tumors of the spleen and other diseases. Some are prone to hip issues. Other breeds are at increased risk for epilepsy. A dog like a Norwich terrier, for example, may only be prone to cataracts. The cost of vet bills may be something you need to consider.
Once you have done your research and have decided that this is the kind of canine you want you can begin to look for a breeder. Keep in mind that it can be somewhat hard to find pups from time to time. It may mean that you need to look for a bit before you find a breeder with available pups.
Any time you are considering a specific breeder, it can be a good idea to ask to view the puppies. There are a number of reasons for this. You want to make sure that the parents are in good health, that the living environment is clean, and that the puppies are being introduced to as many new situations as possible. This can mean you end up with a more well-rounded and healthier dog when you do choose one.
Once you have decided on a breeder, it can be a good idea to view the pups in person. You can see their individual personalities and choose one that will mesh well with your family. Then, you can feel confident that your bundle of fur will bring you joy for years to come.
About the Author: by Beryl Dalton
Read more about How To Tell If Norwich Terriers For Sale Are The Right Dogs For You.
(Original Title: Boston Terrier: The Standard and Does it Matter?)
Female Boston Terrier with mouth open. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
To compete with your Boston Terrier you will need to understand the requirements and procedures used for judging. The American Kennel Club releases breed standards for each breed of dog and the Boston Terriers specifications can be found here. You can also check more specialized clubs for the information about required standards for your Boston Terrier. The American Kennel Club is currently revising these standards.
If you want your Boston Terrier to take part in dog shows then you will need to understand the standards and how they relate to your dog. If you already own or are thinking about owning a Boston Terrier and would like to compete (or show off your dog) here's a guide to understanding breed specifications.
It's important to note that these are descriptions of ideal Boston Terriers.
Competition ranking systems: Dogs are judged out of a total 100 score. When judging Boston Terriers this score comprises the following elements:
- General Appearance
- Size, Proportion, Substance
- Head - skull shape, characteristics of eyes, ears, muzzle, jaw shape.
- Neck, Topline and Body
- Forequarters
- Gait
- Coat
- Temperament
- Faults in the breed: can lead to instant disqualification
General Appearance
Boston Terriers are intelligent dogs. General appearance needs to be well-balanced; this means all limbs are in proportion. Boston Terriers have a smooth coat which is generally brindle, seal or black. The dog must have even white markings. The body is short and the limbs are strong. The tail is short.
Size, Proportion, Substance
This refers to your dog’s weight. There are several official weight categories but the dog’s weight cannot exceed 25 pounds.
The Boston Terriers legs should be proportioned to give it its characteristic square appearance. The dog looks sturdy and muscular.
In general, the only difference between the male and female is that the bitch generally has more refined features.
Head
The skull is short and flat on top. There should be no wrinkles. The cheeks are flat and the stop is well defined. Boston Terriers should have an alert _expression; reflecting their high intelligence. The eyes should be wide set and large. Boston Terriers with blue eyes - or any hint of blue in their eyes will be disqualified immediately. The ears should be small and stand upright.
The jaw is square and wide with short teeth. The bite is even.
Neck, Towline and Body
The neck should be slightly arched and carry the head gracefully. The neck of the ideal Boston terrier should display an image of balance.
Topline refers to the shape of the dogs back. The back should be shaped in such a way that it completes the square shape of the body.
The chest should be deep with a good width, ribs etc.
Forequarters
The shoulders should be laid back and should slope. IT is this shape which gives Boston Terriers their stylish movement. The elbows should be straight and not protrude in any way. The dewclaws may be removed.
Gait
This refers to the way in which your dog carries himself. The ideal Boston Terrier is sure-footed and straight gaited. The forelegs and hind legs should move in a straight line with perfect rhythm. Each step should be that of grace and power.
Coat
The coat should be short, smooth and fine in texture. Color must be brindle, seal or black with bright markings. The Boston Terrier must have a white muzzle band, white between the eyes and a white chest.
Temperament
The ideal Boston Terrier is friendly and lively. The dog is known for its high intelligence.
Faults in the breed (grounds for disqualification)
Any traces of blue or blue eyes - eyes must be dark
Dudley nose - This means a loss of pigmentation in the nose and it is pink or flesh-colored, however when Boston’s are first born and up to 6 months their nose will be pink. It will change to the color black so don’t let this hinder you from buying a Boston with a pink nose.
Docked tail - This refers to the practice of cutting tails. It is an outdated practice and your dog will be disqualified.
Lack of required markings
Other serious faults
Wry mouth - one side of the mouth is longer than the other.
Any showing of the tongue/teeth when the mouth is closed
Other faults
Blocky or chunky appearance
Overshot bite/undershot bite - much like human 'faults' this just means an over or under bite.
The Boston Terriers make a great family pet. They are highly intelligent, loyal, great with children and very easy going. They are not considered fighters but definitely can hold their own. If you don’t plan to show your Boston then these qualifications don’t mean a thing. Boston Terriers are the perfect all around companion just the way they are.
Early research indicated that higher levels of protein in your dog's diet would lead to kidney failure. Do you know if your dog's diet is safe? Are you killing your furry friend by providing too much protein in your dog's diet?
The studies that showed a relationship to high protein levels and kidney failure that sparked concerns about protein levels in dog's diets were not sound. The research was performed on rats, not dogs. Rats primarily eat plants as their natural diet. Naturally, rats biological makeup would indicate trouble digesting diets containing high levels of protein. The rats have difficulty excreting protein due to their specific dietary needs, not because the high protein diet causes kidney failure.
Still, where do we stand on protein and your dog's diet? Dogs are naturally omnivorous. In the wild, dog's would hunt or scavenge. The dog's diet would consist of both plants and animals. Naturally speaking, dogs are meat eaters, too. For this reason, a dog can easily tolerate a diet consisting of 30% protein or more.
When protein intake is reduced in a dog's diet, the renal function does not improve. Renal lesions are not less likely to form when a dog is fed with a low-protein diet. It is not until a blood urea nitrogen, or BUN, the test indicates a level of 75, that a reduction in protein intake is considered for your dog's diet.
If you have concerns about the amount of protein in your dog's diet, schedule an appointment to speak with a professional on the subject. Your trusted vet can advise you on the specifics in regards to your dog's diet.
It is a myth that dogs cannot properly digest high levels of protein in their diet. Kidney troubles do not result from high levels of protein in your dog's diet. Large amounts of protein can be safely digested in your dog's diet, especially when they come primarily from animal origins.
Ten amino acids must be provided in your dog's diet through the protein. Only twelve of 22 amino acids can be manufactured in your dog's liver. For this reason, meat such as heart, spleen, and meat by-products all have a place in your dog's diet.
A high-quality dog food should contain meat as the first ingredient. This will provide the proper amount of protein for your dog's diet. You know you are on the right track when you turn to nature for advice. Do you ever recall seeing a wild or stray dog happily grazing through the cornfield at mealtime?
Senior dogs should not be automatically placed on lower protein diets exclusively based on age. In fact, some older pets require a dog's diet higher in protein than during their younger adult stage. Unless medically indicated, provide your pet the benefit of quality protein in your dog's diet.
Feeding your dog protein should not cause you concern. You want what is best for your dog and nature tells you that protein will help your dog to thrive. If you have questions about the myth of protein and kidney failure in your pet, speak to your vet about your dog's diet.
Feeding an orphan kitten (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Kittens will need kitten food to ensure that they are receiving all of the nutrients they need to grow. When it comes to feeding your cat there are many options. There's dry and there's canned. There are kitten and cat. In general, cats need only four main nutrients. They require a meat-based protein, taurine, water, and various vitamins and minerals. Kitten food includes all of these just more to give the kitty the necessary energy to grow and be healthy and this is the main difference between a cat and kitten food.
For the first five weeks, the kitten will be nursing from its mother. At week five the kittens can start to be weaned. They may continue to nurse until they are eight to ten weeks old. Pet owners should feed the mother a kitten food to ensure that she is receiving all the necessary nutrients that she needs for herself and her kittens. All animals have a higher nutrient requirement when they are pregnant. At week five, the kitten can begin to eat canned kitten food with its mother. The first ingredient on the package should be either chicken, beef or lamb.
Kittens will need kitten food for their first year. At six weeks of age, the kittens should be receiving four small meals per day. At twelve weeks, they can have more food divided into three meals. At one, the kittens may be switched to adult food and fed twice daily. Cats are capable of knowing when they are full so you can leave a bowl out of dry food throughout the day.
The biggest debate amongst cat owners is whether or not they should use wet, canned or dry food. The answer is both. Kittens and cats need wet food because it contains water. They may not drink enough on a regular basis and the wet food ensures they stay hydrated. The dry food ensures they have something to eat whenever they are hungry. It also helps to scrape the teeth and keep them clean, which prevents dental diseases.
The kitten's diet should consist mostly of canned food, as it is more nutritious. Keep track of whether the kitten is on track by weighing the cat on a regular basis. You also do not want to allow them to get into the habit of overeating or eating table scraps. Table scraps are high in fat and it also throws off their balanced diet that they receive through their regular food.
Like most terriers, the Wheaten terriers, or simply called as Wheatens, were originally bred as hunters. Therefore, their physique naturally evolved as strong and healthy. Their hunting instincts have made them agile and alert as most terriers are. However, this breed is more stable and steady as compared to most terriers as they were used as by Irish farmers as all-purpose dogs.
Among the activities that molded their instincts and physical features were herding cattle and sheep, vermin terminators, hunting both in water and on land, and serving as watchdogs that deterred trespassers.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Wheatens:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)
Coat: single coat, medium length, silky and soft, wavy Colors: born to have black coats but at the age of two, their coats lighten to achieve the color of wheat grains
Height: between 17 and 20 inches
Weight: between 30 and 45 pounds
Temperament:
Naturally,
•they rarely bark especially when it is unnecessary to do so
•they immediately reflect the moods of their household or those around them.
•their type requires a great deal of commitment and effort in training them so they should not be given to novice breeders and/or owners
If trained properly, they
•are generally happy and friendly
•are easy-going, confident, and deeply dedicated to their family's security
•can get along well with older children and other animals that have been raised with them or are living within the same household
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Flea allergies
• Addison's disease
• Heat stroke
• PLN and PLE Care and Exercise:
•They require daily combing to prevent their wavy and thick coat from tangling.
•They should undergo trimming by professionals at least four times each year.
•Dry shampooing or even bathing should be done only when it is necessary.
•Eyes and ears should be checked and cleaned on a regular basis.
•They should be brought along with family activities such as play sessions, hiking, picnic, and even walking.
Origin/History:
The softly coated breed of terriers shortly called as Wheatens, originated from Ireland. The date of their existence was obscure but many assumed that their breeds were one of the oldest among other Irish varieties. They were molded as herders, farm dogs, and hunters and terminators of vermin, like the Cairns of Scotland.
From Ireland, they were brought to the US in the year 1946. Slowly they gained popularity as pets and as entertainers. However, the extraordinary appeal of this breed to the Americans at present would not be possible if Patrick Blake did not save its lineage from extinction in 1932. They were registered by the American Kennel Club in the year 1973. Though their types have hunter instincts, they can get along well with older children and other animals within the household through proper training and attention. Like most terriers, they easily develop a close affinity with family members so they normally appoint themselves as watch or guard dogs.
For professional breeders, why not appoint them as well as your pet especially when you are looking for a playful yet reliable companion and guard dog? To this effect, you can say that what you own is one heck of a dog-a dog that can work and play as well!
An undocked Rottweiler in profile (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Rottweiler dog, often referred to as a “Rottie,” is an amazing creature that has been given a bad name over the years due to it getting into the wrong hands. This large dog is indeed powerful and robust but also sweet and eager to please. The Rottweiler originated from Germany although it has also been linked to Roman Empire days as well. With people traveling long distances with cattle, this breed of dog was helpful with herding duties, along with protection from prey or robbers.
Sometime around the end of the 19th century, the Rottweiler’s popularity had dramatically declined. However, with the start of WWII, this breed’s popularity level again began to climb, as the need for a strong, obedient, and intelligent dog was needed for police work. The Rottweiler fit the need perfectly. But something else happened. People also discovered that this breed of dog had an extremely loving and loyal side, which now made them a popular choice for families. By 1935, the American Kennel Club had officially recognized the breed for show.
Sadly, we still see bad publicity associated with this breed of dog – not because the breed is ferocious or evil but because irresponsible owners get their hands on the breed, sometimes teaching them to fight. All of this has caused a serious misunderstanding about the Rottweiler, which is a real shame. The truth is that while this breed does tend to be protective if the dog is socialized young, handled with a firm hand, and introduced to various situations it will make a wonderful, devoted pet that is great with children and other animals.
Physical Appearance
This breed of dog looks strong, proud, and almost like royalty. The Rottweiler is black with beautiful tan markings on the muzzle, cheeks, chest, eyebrows, and legs. When you look closely at the chest markings, you would notice upside-down triangles. Sometimes, a Rottweiler will also have a small patch of white in between these triangles. For a family pet, this marking is fine but for showing, it is not. Then, the breed’s muzzle would be tan, with the color going down the throat. Over each eye, there would be a brown dot, which serves as the eyebrows. Other markings include any color on the leg not going up more than one-third, each toe should have a small black mark, and the area under the tail would be tan.
The Rottweiler also has black nails and there are even black splotches on the inside of the mouth. The one most prominent feature of this breed is the head, which appears to be a little over-sized. Giving the dog its look of being alert, the forehead is wrinkly. This dog also has teddy bear eyes, often with a calm but alert expression. In comparison to the head, the Rottweiler has small ears, laid close to the head. Even the coat of this breed is special, being of medium length with an undercoat that is waterproof.
Although a Rottweiler is born with a tail, these are generally docked extremely short. The reason is that Rottweilers used for working can have problems with the tail breaking and then getting infected from being in the field. In most cases, a reputable veterinarian will perform the minor surgery while the dog is still in the puppy stage, which allows less pain and a quicker healing.
Finally, this particular breed has a broad, strong chest. Because of the extra room, the lungs have much more capacity than that of other dog breeds. According to the American Kennel Club, the dog’s back needs to be straight (no sloping) and for males, a height of 24 to 27 inches with the female hitting about 22 to 25 inches. Weight also varies, males averaging around 110 pounds with females around 95.
Temperament and Personality
If a Rottweiler is socialized when young, introduced to various situations, loved, played with, fed properly, exercised, and trained, it would make an outstanding addition to just about any home. However, because there are strong personality traits, people have taken an innocent dog, teaching them to guard drug houses, and even attack people.
Yes, the Rottweiler can be a little stubborn sometimes, even those carefully raised but overall, this dog is calm and they live off the attention of owners. The size and strength of the breed make them a great watchdog. Even though this dog does not bark often, when feeling threatened or afraid, the powerful voice is heard. Keep in mind that this is a strong breed so you want the Rottweiler to be handled by an experienced dog owner.
Health
Fortunately, the Rottweiler does not have too many health problems. The things you want to keep your eyes open for or even have the puppy of interest tested for would include Hip and/or Elbow Dysplasia, Bloat, various forms of cancer, Inflammatory Bowel Disorder, Von Willebrand’s Disease, thyroid problems such as Hypothyroidism, and eye problems. Also, keep an eye on their weight.
The Bichon Frise is a white powder puff of a dog with black eyes, eye rims and halos, lips, nose, and footpads. Known for less barking problems than other small dogs, the Bichon Frise is a charming dog as a pet but you need to adjust to certain life routines as this particular breed do need attention. Today the Bichon Frise is primarily a companion and show dog. An independent, affectionate, charming breed, the Bichon Frise is very social and is competitive and obedient.
Breed Characteristics
A cheerful attitude is the hallmark of the breed and one should settle for nothing less. Structural faults common to all breeds are as undesirable in the Bichon Frise as in any other breed, even though such faults may not be specifically mentioned in the standard. Any color in excess of 10% of the entire coat of a mature specimen is a fault and should be penalized, but the color of the accepted shadings should not be faulted in puppies. On March 5, 1933, the official standard of the breed, as written by Madam Abadie of Steren Vor Kennels, was adopted by the Societe Central Canine de France. The International Canine Federation recognizes the Bichon Frise "as a French-Belgian breed having the right to registration in the Book of Origins from all countries". When seeking a Bichon be sure to find a reputable breeder to get the best personality traits this breed has to offer. Another way to locate a quality breeder is to contact your local Bichon Frise club.
Puppies
Puppies are very fragile creatures and can easily break bones if they are dropped, kicked, or fallen on. Puppies commonly have the buff, apricot or cream color on their ears or head that will almost always fade to complete white. Puppies learn valuable lessons in the first eight weeks of life from their mothers that cannot be learned from anyone else or at any other time in life. As puppies, some Bichons have beige to apricot markings on the head or body, but this color usually fades during maturity. Talk to different breeders and ask them about their puppies and temperament of the dogs what care and needs are needed for their specific breed. Then check out dog rescue agencies, adoption dogs for sale and puppies for adoption as they would all make great pets. Pride and integrity are an integral part of raising great Bichons and placing beautiful puppies in qualified homes.
Because dysplastic dogs often produce dysplastic puppies, buyers should ask if both the sire and the dam of the puppy in which they are interested to have been rated clear of hip dysplasia by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or by Penn HIP. Because of the Bichon Frise Puppies lively personality, they usually get along well with most other animals in the household. These puppies are best house-trained in a suitably sized dog crate; one that is big enough for an adult Bichon to stand and turn around freely.
Training
The Bichon Frise is an intelligent breed, but they typically are difficult to housetrain. Housetraining is not difficult provided you follow instructions and set aside some time to do it right. Crate training makes it much easier to house train the dog. The Bichon Frise dog can become spiteful and stubborn if he isn't treated with positive training methods and lots of love. Without having to spend a small fortune and without having to spend hours grooming and training. This personality-filled and intelligent companion will definitely require guidance and loving training to become an exceptional performer (no doubt, it's his/her nature) that also doubles as your best friend. Plus training your dog is not only for your benefit, but also for your Bichon Frise's happiness, health, safety, and overall well-being. Consistent, firm, caring and positive love is important in training your Bichon Frise. Basic obedience training should be commenced as early as possible to ensure that the Bichon develops into an enjoyable friend and is acceptable to society in general.
The right dog for you?
Though not much of a guard dog, the Bichon Frise is a more than respectable watchdog. The Bichon Frise is a companion that has been compared to a cloud, but not because he is a lightweight. The Bichon Frise is similar in size to many toys at 9-11" and finely built he is a merry little dog who is lively enough to enjoy playing with children but perhaps not one too well-suited for country rambles. The average lifespan of the Bichon Frise is about 14 years. The Bichon Frise is known as a friendly and playful dog that is rarely aggressive. The Bichon Frise is suited to anyone who wants a companion dog.
While it is often hard to tell your Pit Bull no when he begs for your food, you should be strong and do so. Feeding your Pit Bull table scraps is a bad idea for several reasons. The obvious reason is that you will be encouraging him to beg at the dinner table, you will be feeding him an unhealthy diet which can lead to health problems, and also teaching him that it is okay to eat whatever he may want.
If you give in when your Pit Bull begs for your food, especially if you are at the table, he will think that behavior is okay, and will associate it with getting what he wants, table food. Giving in will help reinforce bad behavior. It may be okay with you that he begs while you eat, but can be very annoying if you ever have dinner guests over.
Feeding your Pit Bull table food also can contribute to many serious health problems. The food we eat is often considerably higher in calories than what he needs to meet his nutritional requirements, therefore leading him to be overweight. Studies show that over half of today’s pets are considered obese. Obesity often causes the same health problems in animals as in humans. Table scraps are usually low in vitamins and nutrients and can overload your Pit Bull’s system with fat causing stomach and digestion problems. Many foods that we eat contain toxins that are safe for us but can be detrimental to your Pit Bull’s cardiovascular system. If you still intend to feed your Pit Bull table scraps, consult your veterinarian so he can let you know what foods to stay away from. You will always be safer only feeding him dog food and treats, as these are formulated specifically for him with all of the nutritional requirements in mind.
By allowing your Pit Bull to eat food other than dog food, you are encouraging him that it is okay to eat whatever he wants. This can be deadly if he were to come into contact with antifreeze, deadly household chemicals and poisons, or many toxic plants. He doesn’t know these things are bad for him, just that he wants to eat them. As you let him explore other foods, he will want to taste everything he comes into contact with.
To ensure your Pit Bull’s health, you should really only feed him food that is intended for dogs. Again, you talk to your veterinarian, but to me, it is too risky. Your Pit Bull’s health should be the number one priority, and just like children, he doesn’t know what is best for him, you have to make those decisions.
Clickers used for clicker training Taken by Elf (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Clicker training is a reinforcement or reward for a cat when training them. Clickers are used most often for support when training a cat for a reward. Cats associate the clicker with a good behavior they will use for a long time. Clicker training is associated with a classical condition (they associate the sound with food.) and operant conditioning (cat performs movement to receive food).
Why use a clicker and not tell a cat or make a sound to get your cat to do a trick? A clicker has a sound a cat can hear and associate good behavior. With words, our tones in our voice can change from time to time, which a cat can become confused with the training. With talking for the commands, a cat could mistake the commands. With using a clicker, it is more of a training tool to get the behavior started with the cat. Then you can put the clicker away for that behavior or trick once a cat has learned the behavior.
When taking the cat out for a walk or on a trip, the clicker is a good item to carry along with you. Cats can get distracted by other people or animals in the area. With using the clicker, it will reinforce the behavior that you have taught them. In addition, a clicker can help you with having your cat walking with you instead of wandering around.
With the clicker, a cat can be trained using three easy steps: Get a behavior, mark a behavior, and reinforce the behavior. Get a behavior is the first step. A good example would be for the cat to jump a hoop. The cat will have to know that when you click that they get a treat. Start with very small treats in your pocket. Clicks, Treat, Click Treat do this for a few times until you see the cat coming for the treat on the click. Next marking the behavior: You will have to show the cat the hoop. Once the cat touches the hoop, click, treat. Then show the cat to go through the hoop once it does click, treat. Continue to do this until the cat goes through the hoop on its own or your command. Reinforce the behavior Remember to have snacks handy so when you do see your cat go through the hoop a snack is available.
Training a cat with a clicker can be fun for both you and the cat. Taking steps in training will be rewarding to you and the cat. Try not to rush a cat in training, as they can become confused especially if they did not get the step before down. The training will take time and steps to achieve this behavior. Patience, love, and rewards will be the key factor in training your cat.
The clicker is a good exercises tool for a cat. 10 to 15 mins a day you should get your cat to exercises. For exercising, you can have the cat use a hoop, play with a toy, and climb on the scratching post or something that focuses on the cat getting exercise. Exercises will help the cat to stay healthy and help to keep it out of mischief.
Clickers can come with books to help you train, treats, and a clicker. Clickers come in many different size shapes, and color. You will want to research the clickers out. Check out a pet store, Internet sites give lots of information on training and using a clicker. Check out companies that make the clicker by using the Internet to see what kind they offer and any additional information that you might need to get the process of training done. Check out articles about the clicker. Talk to someone that has used one. Talk to your area veterinary about training with a Clicker
Once you have used a clicker, the cat will get good exercise and be a healthy cat. The cat will be happier and you will be happier with the new behaviors that you have taught your cat.
To sum up, training your cat, important things to remember is to have patience, love and the clicker.
