Sooner or later, every parent is likely to hear: "Please, can I have a puppy?"
Rather than dodge the question, parents should consider whether their family is ready for a pet, says Sharon Bergen, senior vice president of education and training for Knowledge Learning Corporation, the nation's leading provider of early childhood care and education.
Bergen suggests that parents weigh the pros and cons of adding a pet to the household before agreeing to a child's request. "A pet can teach children responsibility and become a wonderful addition to a family or it can be a burden," she says. Bergen recommends families consider the following before deciding.
Who will care for the pet? Families should agree beforehand who will be responsible for feeding, walking, bathing and cleaning up after the pet.
Do you have space for a pet? Families living in apartments or townhouses may prefer a cat, a bird or fish, rather than a Labrador retriever. Check the library or Internet to learn more about different types and breeds of pets to determine the one most suitable for your family.
Owning a pet is time-consuming and may be expensive. Family members should realize that they may have to give up other activities to properly care for a pet. If the prospect seems too daunting, parents may suggest waiting until the child is old enough to help care for an animal.
Bergen recommends the whole family meet the animal before deciding to take it home. Owning a pet is a long-term commitment, so think carefully before adopting a furry new family member.
The Boston terrier, one of the few breeds that can claim to be truly American, is a lively, curious and smart companion that’s always ready to play. At one time, Boston Terriers were actually the most popular breed in the US. Today, they’re still a clear favorite among the thousands of dog lovers who want a medium-sized, intelligent pet.
Because of its Bull terrier or Bulldog background, the Boston (classed with the non-sporting breeds by the AKC) is alert and keen to learn new tricks and jobs. Bostons like children and will play games with them for hours on end. A well-bred Boston isn’t vicious, but pretty able to take care of himself. Boston fanciers like to call this breed the “American Gentleman,” obviously because of his formal, tux-like markings, but also because his personality is gentlemanly and even as well. The Boston’s friendliness, alertness and courage make him an ideal pet and companion dog. Always alert, he’ll also let you know of any strange sounds in the night.
For many families, the Boston terrier is a terrific choice not only because of his compact size and pleasant temperament but because of his low-maintenance coat. Smooth and short-coated, the Boston goes easy on your carpets and furniture and does well in smaller spaces. It’s good to remember, though, that Bostons don’t take well to extremes in temperature. They’re inside dogs, as their coat affords little protection. On cold days, you may want to get out some warm booties or a coat for your Boston.
A well-bred Boston terrier will look like the active, intelligent, short-headed and short-tailed dog that he is. The ones that conform to type will have symmetrical white markings, ideally against a brindle color. Black with white markings is also conforming, although brindle is preferred.
Bostons come in a variety of sizes. Naturally, some owners prefer the small ones, while others like a more romping, substantial-sized dog. Either one will make a great pet with very little grooming required, all of which can be done at home.
We basically want to find companions who would give us most of the benefits we think we need. Well, if you are looking for a dog that is somewhat a one-in-package pal, you might find Jack Russell Terriers interesting enough.
This dog has a history that is somehow loomed to give rise to the species.
It was said that the breeder of this dog, a young Theologian student of Oxford University named John Russell once met a milkman with a white terrier that has spots on his eyes and ears. This dog became his interest which later proved to be his foundation for breeding a new dog breed that many has learned to love as pets. The dog he first saw was named "Trump" from which another 60 types of terriers were later bred from.
With a terrier's basic nature to go on and over the ground (terrier, by the way, came from the Latin term "terra" which means earth), Jack Russell terriers also have the disposition to hunt and scour for hunting. Thus, they should be given enough grooming so as to set off the dirt they gather from digging soil to either bury a treasure or to recover a hidden treasure kept long ago.
An excellent ratter, Jack Russell Terriers proves to be good "housekeepers" since they keep most rats away from home. Any unlucky rat that happens to be inside the quarters of this terrier is sure to meet its instant doom. Thus, owners find themselves with both a dog and cat in one pal.
One basic character of this dog is its disposition towards strangers. They can easily figure out who must be kept away from their homes and who can be accepted inside the house. This very attitude also makes them good watchdogs. They were designed specifically to be aggressive on preys. And while they can be very vocal, many of them only bark when they find a good reason to.
They do not appear vicious though. But once they smell threat, they can show off aggressiveness that could serve as a warning towards the strangers. However, once the stranger is let into the house by the owner, a Jack Russell can already tolerate his or her presence.
This terrier is also a family dog and desires for human companionship. And their love for children is significantly interesting. However, once they are abused or had been shown improper treatments, may it be intentional or accidental, they can react through aggressive behaviors. Their aggressiveness is further manifested with their lack of fear towards larger dogs which can, unfortunately, lead to injuries, some can even be fatal.
They are also marked for their intelligence and good spirit. These characteristics can be highly observable through their curiosity in things. Thus, they require supplementation on formal training unless you can tolerate difficult behaviors. The good thing though with Jack Russell is that it can acknowledge training and do well in most of them. In fact, they are known to champion various ring shows and other similar competitions.
Hollywood has recognized the disposition of these dogs too. Coupled with feisty and good physical characteristics, this pal has already made names on the screens. If Wishbone, Milo (from The Mask) and Eddie (from the Frasier) ring the bell on you then there is no doubt that you can recognize this dog.
Jack Russell fair well with grooming. A dog of relatively small size, this breed will not tax you with grooming needs.
Poncho the Pit bull mix kissing his owner (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Many Pit Bull owners are choosing to feed their pets a raw food diet rather than use the commercially formulated mass produced feeds. Others have never heard of the raw diet, also known as the bones and raw food diet, but are seeking more information about what this type of diet can offer their pet.
The raw diet entails feeding your Pit Bull or other pet mainly raw meat and meaty bones. The raw meat diet also includes some vegetables be added in as well. Leafy greens mixed in with the raw meat helps give your Pit Bull a nutritional meal. As an added bonus, finely chopped garlic can be added as a natural way to give added protection against fleas.
In the wild dogs are omnivores, which means they eat both meat and plant material. If you choose to try the raw diet, you’ll need to be sure and balance his diet by adding some vegetable material into each meal. Some owners who are fans of the raw diet like to add additional proteins like cottage cheese or eggs into the meat and veggie mixture.
It has been reported that dogs on the raw diet tend to lead healthier lives. Proponents of the raw diet say that canine allergies, as well as dysplasia and a wide range of other canine ailments, are mainly due to the commercial dog foods with their non-meat proteins and additives. The commercial market has also been accused of using the grain content in their feed simply because they are cheap fillers, and aren’t there for the true benefit of the pet.
Those who choose the raw diet also say that they feel they are giving their dog the diet that nature intended, and that commercial dog food kills any real benefits of the proteins in the cooking process. This, in turn, they say, can cause problems to the animal’s immune system and cause other health-related problems.
Raw diet advocates also state that the commercial dog food makers put special additives into the food which makes the food more appealing to the dogs so they get addicted to the commercial foods.
Of course, the commercial feed makers state that there’s no difference in cooking a dog’s food as there is to cooking a human’s food and that the nutritional value is still there. Commercial feed makers claim that dogs have very sensitive digestive systems and that the raw food diet can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
As a responsible pet owner, it’s up to you to decide on how your Pit Bull gets his nutritional needs met. If you have concerns about your Pit Bull’s nutrition, or before you change your Pit Bull’s diet, talk to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can give you more information on the raw diet, as well as recommend any changes which may need to be made.
I remember dreading the day I found the perfect couch to go in our apartment. Binx was never particular with what he liked scratching on and I realised that if I bought this couch, that it would end up looking like a shredded pincushion in a matter of hours not days!
Just moving into a new apartment (or having been there a long time) introducing your kitty to his new surroundings can be quite tough and you want to keep him inside for about a week to three weeks until you are satisfied that he is happy to know where home is and he is settled himself before deciding to let him outside. While he is inside for those ones to three weeks, if you are unfortunate enough not to be able to stay home and watch your kitty 24/7, you will likely to come home and find the couch has been attacked or worse, I used to come home and find the base of my bed had been attacked!
Now declawing is definitely out of the option, the only other choice left was to look at is Cat Furniture for your kitty. For starters a cat scratcher especially if you have an indoor kitty! Now I was very wary how Binx would take to this new carpeted object sitting in the lounge, and it was quite lucky I had bought him a Cat Nip plant!
Your kitty will probably go nutty over Cat Nip, but not all cats react the same way to it. If your kitty is not taking any notice of his new scratching pole and is still using your couch, break a couple of leaves off the Cat Nip plant and proceed to rub it all over the carpeted pole. It took a few days of sniffing for Binx to actually get any interest in the pole, but once your kitty gets the idea or if need be, show kitty how it should be used first, and praise him each time he uses it properly!
Make sure the pole is secured down properly because it might topple onto kitty while he's using it, and it will just scare him off using the pole for good! I had ours wedged underneath the TV Cabinet and now the Coffee table and removed the bell attached to the top of the pole as it seemed to scare Binx everytime it jingled behind him! And guess what - He has not touched our new couch, ONCE!
Two Wirehaired Fox Terriers. Listed on Flickr as "Daisy and Gatsby". (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Whatever your dog preference is, you are sure to find terrier dogs among the candidates for a pal. You'll get the energy you want with little grooming and added wit.
Basically bred for hunting and killing vermin, Terrier dogs are now known to offer a wide spectrum of features and characters that you might find lovable. They are not as cuddly as toy dogs (while there are some terrier dogs in the toy and companion dog brackets) and they may not be as intelligent like other breeds but they set off these lacks with various things that only they can offer.
Let us discuss in brief some of the terrier dog types that you may find interesting:
Less aggressive but definitely not timid. This best describes Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers. They are definitely alert and very spirited, but when the call for steadiness arrives, they are sure to show you some air of confidence and steady disposition.
This dog type is gifted with intelligence which makes them very responsive with obedience training.
Parson Russell Terrier is a dog type that exhibits boldness, cleverness, affection and exuberant disposition. While many may find this a playful pal, it is still not advisable for everyone to take Parson Russell home. In fact, formal obedience training is a must for owners since this dog type is more likely to display mischievousness and too much playfulness that make this a very independent pet. For people with active lifestyles and those who can tolerate explorative disposition, this scamp is the best for you.
The Norwich Terrier, on the other hand, is a type of dog that resulted from breeding small Terriers with other smaller breeds, possibly Yorkshire Terriers. Maintenance of Norwich Terrier is minimal and they are content with modest living quarters. They have active disposition though and can be affectionate and fearless. Additionally, they are also known to display stocky and happy personalities which make them ideal pals.
Much like the Norwich Terriers, Norfolk Terriers are also well-spirited, fearless, charming and always ready for the game. While both may have some similar physical characteristics, Norfolks can still be distinguished through their folds in the ears.
Basically workman-like dogs, Kerry Blue Terriers are excellent watchdogs and work well in farm settings. This dog got its name from its blue-shade coat color which was originally black during puppyhood.
Wire Fox Terriers are of great interest since they display power through its excellent endurance capabilities and speed. Alertness and quick movements are the dominant expressions of this dog type. It is advisable though that the owner trains this dog and should be given enough doses of daily exercises.
Meanwhile, Smooth Fox Terriers are the frolic and lively types of dogs that are ideal in both country and city living. Displaying intelligence and cleverness, this dog makes good trainees and must be well credited by that. They are also likely to show great affection towards their owners.
These are just some of the many terrier dog types that can be considered as your next pets. In general, this dog type has good dispositions and makes ideal home pets. While some may display obscure aggressiveness, this still does not negate the fact that most types have the capacity to develop affection and keen expression of their attachment to their owners. Be warned though that some dog types in this breed can be very playful and should be given enough amount of attention and time during obedience training and exercises.
Introducing a puppy to your home can cause a lot of upheavals. You might need to move furniture and make your home dog-friendly, or just change your lifestyle to make sure you are available to exercise or feed your new pet when she needs it.
A puppy is very much like a baby.
They are cute and cuddly. They tug at your heart and you just have to give in to them. But, doing so will likely spoil that puppy into an annoying pet rather than a trusted friend. While the world of puppy can be a rewarding one, it can also be quite a nerve-wracking as well.
Just like children, puppies need you to watch over them virtually all the time. They like to explore and they are likely to get into things that they shouldn’t. This can prove to be something that injures them or even poisons them, though. Puppies use their mouths to explore the world around them. If it has an interesting taste or texture, the dog is likely to keep at it. Now, if this is such a thing as an electrical cord, it can prove to be fatal to them.
So, what do you do if you can’t be there all the time to watch your puppy? You can use baby gates as well as barriers of other types to block off dangerous areas to your pet. Put your pet in a welcoming area where you spend time in. Provide them with toys, water and a soft place to lie and they are set to go.
Training for a pet begins from the time you allow them to enter your home.
Experts agree that the first thing a puppy needs to learn is that you are the leader of the pack. You need the dog to understand that you are the boss. They instinctively look for a leader because dogs are pack animals. If you don’t take on this role, the animal will think that he is the leader instead. You don’t have to be aggressive at it though. Subtle things tell your puppy that you are in the leadership role. If you are harsh with the puppy, you will make them afraid of you and they will not be able to bond with you at that point.
At a young age, you can teach your puppy to sit. To do this, simply put your hand on his chest and the other on his rump. Say the command ‘sit’ and push down on their rump and upon the chest. When she does it, praise her verbally and give her a treat. Keep practicing this with her. Whenever you give the dog its food, make her sit before you give it to her. This is a “nothing in life is free” technique. The dog learns that you are in charge and that to get his food he must obey you.
Lastly, it is important to note that the best techniques for raising your animal are those that surround compassion, patience and love.
Unstripped Border Terrier with a puppy. This is the "natural" form of the Border Terrier coat. The coats of Border Terriers must be stripped. Here an unstripped adult Border Terrier (left) is shown with a puppy.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The Border terrier got its name from the area called Cheviot Hills, which is actually near the border of England and Scotland. This is where these dogs were made to attack and terminate predatory foxes.
They have a wiry coat that is why they normally appear as scruffy. However, this scruffiness is an attention-grabber that is why owners do not forget to hug their little ball of energy.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Borders:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)
Coat: wiry and short; double coated
Colors: tan, red, grizzle and tan, and/or blue and tan
Height: between 11 and 16 inches
Weight: between 11 and 16 pounds
Temperament:
Naturally,
•they are scruffy, hard and bold hunters
•they are active as puppies but mellow down as they mature
•they are not friendly with rabbits, rats, hamsters, and even birds
•they are economical to feed
•their activity die down when left alone all day as they really love to please people especially their owners
When properly trained,
•they can get along with the household cats but not with cats in the neighborhood
•they may even catch a burglar
•they may lose timidity when accustomed to active environments
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome or CES, also called as "Spike's disease", which is a hereditary, neurological, metabolic and muscle disorder that is sometimes confused with canine epilepsy
• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes
• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
• Deafness
• Skin problems and a few skin allergies
Care and Exercise:
•Their coat needs weekly brushing.
•They should be professionally groomed at least twice a year.
•They should bathe only when necessary since they shed little to no hair. Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on a leash.
•They should be on a leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts.
Origin/History:
The exact origins of Border terriers are obscure but many breeders accepted the story that the variety was developed in the Cheviot Hills area, which is near the border of Scotland and England. The Borders have been used as hunters of rabbits and hares. They can even keep up with running horses with their short yet sturdy legs. They were also used by farmers to lure predatory foxes into their dens before killing them.
They were also trained to hunt otters, marten, and even fierce badgers. Like most terriers that were once molded as hunters, they also evolved as pets and became lovely, friendly, and loyal companion dogs. They also take part in dog shows and they can easily grab their audience attention with their agility, appearance, and bright disposition.
The breed was registered by the British Kennel Club in 1920 and by the American Club ten years after.
At present, Borders are highly favored as companion dogs and pets due to their adaptability, friendliness, and winning personality. Nonetheless, they can be reliable when it comes to tracking down vermin. In fact, some of their esteemed talents include hunting, guarding the family, and performing tricks and sports that require competitive obedience.
Like most terriers, you can be rest assured to have a loyal and bright companion dogs if you give your attention and affection to a Border. You can be sure that they can definitely drive away your bore!
Entertaining your American Pit Bull Terrier with dog agility training is an excellent activity that can be fun for both you and your Pit. It is something that both of you can do together that will strengthen the dog-owner bond.
Pit Bull agility training is one of the more advanced types of dog training, but it is certainly quite enjoyable. Dog agility is an activity that has become very popular in England, Australia, and the United States. It consists of the main event with multiple dog courses set up to compete in. All of the courses contain roughly 26 obstacles. In order for your dog to win, he must finish the course without any faults in the fastest time. This is an activity that certainly takes patience and a lot of practice.
Many of the obstacles that are included agility courses need extensive training in order to master. There are two basic types of courses, jumping courses and agility courses. Jumping courses are full of obstacles which your dog must clear, such as jumps which your dog has to make it over without knocking down, and weaves which your dog must stay in until the very end. In dog agility courses there are contact points on the obstacles which your dog must touch with his paws.
Dog clubs do not allow puppies under the age of one year to participate in agility exercises. A great many agility enthusiasts actually own their own equipment so that they can begin training with their dog at a much earlier time. Jax is a company which makes training obstacles in case you are interested in doing this.
Much of your dog's agility training must be done before you enter the very first show and your dog should have no trouble running the entire course. It is an extremely exciting and challenging activity and can certainly improve the bond between you and your best friend.
It was recently reported that over 700,000 pets in the United States have had birthday parties thrown for them by their owners. This “pet party” trend has also taken off in other nations such as China, Japan, and England. If you were thinking of throwing a party for your pet (specifically your dog), here is a list of party safety guidelines to ensure that all of the party animals in attendance have a fun and safe time. This list is by no means fully comprehensive, but it gives you a good starting point for your pet party safety. You should always use your best judgment to determine if something is appropriate for your pet and the other pets in attendance at the party.
Without further adieu, here are the dog party safety tips:
- All dogs attending the party should have at least one person who the dog feels comfortable around present at the party. If a guardian for the dog is not able to attend your party, the dog should not attend either. Unless you feel comfortable enough with watching the dog yourself, you do not one to be held liable if something happens to the dog.
- In case any of the dogs’ guardians do not bring waste bags for their dogs, make sure to have plenty on hand. This is especially true if the party is at a dog park or other public facility. Be sure to leave the location in the same condition that it was in prior to the party.
- To avoid any potential scuffles between the party animals, only invite dogs that your dog already knows and feels comfortable with. If your best friend’s dog is sweet, but just doesn’t get along with your dog for some reason, it may be best to leave them off of the guest list. If you want to invite a dog who your dog has never met, set up a meeting between your dog and the other dog so that they can become acquainted before the party. Definitely, leave canine bullies off of the guest list.
- If you plan to have an outdoor party at a dog park or in your backyard, make sure that you have a contingency plan in the event of bad weather.
- In regards to the length of the party, you can plan the party for as long as you see fit, just keep in mind that dogs can become restless very easy. If you notice that many of the guests are getting cranky, don’t be afraid to end the party early.
- Wherever you choose to have the party, make sure that it is safely enclosed and that there are no “cracks” that any of the party guests may be able to slip through. This is especially true for the smaller guests at the party. If your Rottweiler has started digging a hole under your fence in the backyard, make sure that the hole isn’t big enough for your friend’s Shih Tzu to crawl through. If you think that the whole may become problematic, fill the hole before you host your party.
- At treat time, make sure that every puppy has his or her own treat. Also, allow each dog’s guardian to give the threat to their respective dog.
- If you invite dogs that have not yet been spayed or neutered, make sure that you alert the parents of the other dogs at the party. Also, if you think that it is necessary, make sure that the parents of these dogs keep an especially close eye on their pet.
- Make sure to only provide treats that are deemed safe for dogs. If you are unsure about the dog toxicity of any of the treats that you want to give out at your party, consult your veterinarian. Also, it is a good idea to talk with the owners of the dog party guests beforehand to check if their dog is allergic to a particular food or ingredient.
Chocolate Himalayan/Colorpoint Persian (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Chocolate or lilac Persians?
Can it be possible? I, as an owner, breeding Persians and exotics, pose myself such a problem quite recently. Of, course they exist, if to see from the genetic point of view. These colors are included into standard, there is their description, but... Where are they? By all accounts from abroad, they have such animals but for some reason, they are more often met in pedigrees of British cats as experimental partners for leading new color into the breed, but not like exhibition stars. It had to spend lots of time to answer the question: "What is the real situation with Lilac and Chocolate in the Persian group?"
The paradox came to light at once: there is enough big number of Points with Chocolate and Lilac masques and practically full absence of equally colored individuals. Probably, the fashion played its role in it. After all, from the genetic point of view Lilac-Point color is more difficult in receiving than, for example, Chocolate Solid (solid-monochromatic, "firm" color). Now, thanks to fashion's jokes, selections are forced to a word for word takeout Chocolate and Lilac either from Solid-carriers CRC (carriers of Color-Point gene) or to work simpliciter with color lines, making copulations Solids (moreover it is desirable of stronger type) with Colors and further interbreeding on the Color parents. Such copulations are made for a long time, but a purposeful selection is begun recently in this direction.
Only several breeding nurseries work today in this direction:
This is JUKI in Poland. It is world-famous nursery. But again they have Chocolate and Lilac not like purpose of selection, but like a side effect of Color-Points' breeding of modern type.
This is Smaragd in Estonia, which specializes in Persian and Exotic cats of Lilac color and uses in the work cats from JUKI and Finnish nurseries.
Lilac cat of strong type, reached high victories by FIFE system. Pedigree program of the nursery is various and includes copulations with Chocolate sires.
This is Tair Polling in Ukraine, using also bloods of JUKI, but specializing, vice versa, only in Chocolates and Tabbys. You can see first kittens from this oldest Kharkov nursery in Moscow.
This is club Irbis (FIFE) in Krasnodar, working at the Colors' bloods and carriers of Chocolate. Today the nursery Rarity of one sire, cat of Lilac color. Now you can see the first Lilac prosterity of show-quality.
The nursery Kelisa in Sochi is the nursery of Chocolate Persians. Prosterity of the same type, thought-out pedigree program. The nursery plans the receiving of Lilac Exots and the perfection of the type.
Several animals of Chocolate color appeared in Russia and Ukraine, but you can't see the result of breeding yet. Or these cats still too young, or the pedigree program is not thought out, giving a soon result. Chocolate Exot of Kharkov bloods lives in Saint Petersburg (owner is Orlova S.), also the city on Neva can boast of Chocolate Color-Point, imported from Poland, one more Exot from Kharkov is purchased by the nursery Dimarsh (Moscow).
There are animals of modern type in Perm and Voronezh, but because of their remoteness from the capital or passivity of the owners we have a few information about them.
The nursery Alexander-Fred (Moscow) has three Chocolate Persian cats ( of different blood lines), one Chocolate Exot, Chocolate Cream cat, and also several cats-carriers of chocolate gene. The nursery plans the receiving of Chocolate and Lilac Bicolor cats. The nursery leads common pedigree program with Kelisa (Sochi).
Several enthusiasts in Moscow started the breeding of Chocolate and Lilac Persians, but probably they either didn't have enough means to purchase interesting sires or purposefully decided to go all the way of coming-into-being of animals' type, who originally received chocolate color by the way of interbreeding.
It is necessary to understand genetic appropriateness of these colors to know the rules of breeding and receiving of Lilacs and Chocolates.
The black color of the hair equally with red is considered to be the basic color. Pigment melanin in black color - eumelanin, in red - pheomelanin. All the rest various colors (except white) are only derivatives of these two. The black
color of the hair is formed under the influence of gene B - black, which is defined as full chromogenesis. The pigment equally assigned to the axis of hair from the root till the tip. Gene B - black of black color is prepotent, and behind it, the row of recessive genes can be hidden:
Gene brightener D (delutor - i.e. diluent), that gives an opportunity to receive from the given sire kittens of blue color. This gene is charged with distribution of pigments, their more thin location along the axis of hair, making the tone of the hair more light;
Gene b of chocolate color ( special location of pigments along the axis of the hair) , giving an opportunity to receive from the giving animal kittens of chocolate color and, in combination with gene-brightener D, lilac color. Consideration must be given to the fact that gene b is recessive. I.e. to receive kittens of chocolate color, both of parents must be carrier of this gene, and to receive the posterity of lilac color, both of parents must have at the same time genes D and b;
Gene of siamese color is interesting by opportunity to receive the posterity with siamese marks, including blue, chocolate and lilac colors (in the presence of genes of clarification and chocolate color at the same time).
Presence of given genes can define, studied the pedigree of sire or in practice, choosing partners with known genetics. But to receive the color, close to ideal, it is necessary to keep to the rule - to pair similar with similar. The main requirement for the quality of lilac and chocolate color is their tender, warm tone. These colors go well together, but as possible partners, it is allowed to choose cats of Red, Cream colors, who give their Lilac and Chocolate progeny pinkish tint of hair and bright eye color. To Lilac and Chocolate Tabbys can be recommended Golden Tabbys as possible partners or improvers of type.
A peculiarity of today's situation in Chocolate breeding of Persian is that the task to get rid of the Siamese gene became the purpose of the selections. At the first stage of the work, it comes to the leading this gene into the recessive state. In the future, numerous copulations of Chocolates and Lilacs 'inside them' will allow to clear up the color gene of the population.
It would seem that there is nothing simpler to pair Lilac-Point with Red cat, and then interbreed littermates between each other. But the question of the type stands the most sharply in Persians than in other breeds. That's why such way is inconvenient - doing the step forward, it has to do two steps back. What we have to do? Very often animals of black color, especially in extreme breeds are the carriers of the strongest, modern type, that's why they are used as improvers in the breeding of animals of different colors such as Points, Smokes, Bicolors and even Chinchillas. That's why it is appropriate to attract exactly them (or Tortoiseshell cats, received from black, high-class sires) to the chocolate program.
Extract from the standard of Persian colors WCF (edition by 1995)
PER b CHOCOLATE
Color: All colors of brown are accepted, without rust, white hairs or picture. Without grey undercoat, the color must be equal.
Lobe of the nose: Color of milky chocolate
Pads: Color of cinnamon or chocolate
Eye color: Copper or deep-orange
PER c LILAC
Color: Color of hair is pale lilac with light pink shimmer, without white hairs or picture. Without grey undercoat, the color must be equal.
Lobe of the nose: Lilac
Pads: Lilac-pink
Eye color: Copper or deep-orange
Today the interest to the rare Persian colors increases. That's why I hope that very soon we can often see the rarest and the most mysterious Chocolates and Lilacs on the shows!
The Schnoodle, which is considered by some to be hypoallergenic, is the result of breeding Giant Schnauzers and Standard Poodles. Depending on how they are bred, the Schnoodle may or may not be hypoallergenic. This is because if two dogs that are different breeds are not of similar age or height, their offspring may not be hypoallergenic. This is because the dog may take longer to mature; their hair may be a mix of different textures and lengths, or because their skin may shed more often than other breeds.
Even though the Schnoodle is not considered a hypoallergenic dog by all, you can judge for yourself by visiting a breeder to see if the dogs cause you to have an allergic reaction. Visiting a breeder is a great way to see which dogs are the right ones for you. While some hypoallergenic dogs will not cause an allergic reaction in some people, it might in others. The best way to tell if you will be able to have a dog in your home is to be around the dog before you take it home.
The Schnoodle can vary in size and color. The dogs are considered friendly and intelligent. If you decide to visit a breeder, you should ask about the dogs that are bred together to see if they are using the right mix. While the Schnoodle is considered to be a mongrel dog in some circles, in others it is considered a successful hybrid. Depending on which breeders you talk to, they may tell you that the Schnoodle is safe from health risks that purebred dogs suffer from because of hybrid vigor. While this condition has not been proven, many breeders claim that hybrid dogs will not suffer from the health ailments that their parents will suffer from.
Since a Schnoodle can be an expensive dog to purchase, visiting a breeder is recommended. If you do not like the way the dogs are treated or if you feel the kennels are not safe or clean, then you should not buy a dog. Many dogs produced in ‘puppy mills’ are sickly are will not survive long. The demand for the Schnoodle has risen in the past few years, so more ‘puppy mills’ have opened. Make sure the breeder you buy the dog from is licensed.
As your Schnoodle gets older, it may suffer some health problems. Many hypoallergenic dogs suffer from muscle ailments, allergies, tumors, and other problems. There is no way to know what a dog may develop over time. It is important to treat the dog with respect at all times and also to learn as much as you can about the breed so that you can have the possible relationship possible. The Schnoodle enjoys exercise, playing, and socializing. While it may be difficult to train at first, the dog will usually develop a routine. The Schnoodle does not like to be left alone for long periods of time, but with a little training, you will be able to leave the dog alone during the day when you are at work.
Golden Retrievers are a medium to medium/large dog breed. They reach a height between 20” to 24”. If a Golden Retriever could speak, they might say, “What can I do for you?” They are born people pleasers from hunting to tricks to a family pet.
The Golden Retriever is AKC recognized with coat color in varying shades of golden or cream with gold throughout the coat. They get their name, of course, from the color of their coat. They have a medium length, water-repellent outer coat and a dense undercoat. Their coat is feathered. They require daily brushing to prevent knots and they only need occasional dry shampoo. You should only give them a wet bath if necessary.
Exercise and playful outside and calm indoors, the Golden Retriever is considered to be one of the best large dog breeds to have as a family pet. They are great with children and other dogs. Early socialization is recommended for birds and small non-canine pets because of their hunting history but they tend to get along with other animals as well. They are extremely easy to train, even for the dog novice. They love to learn and they are fast learners. They are best for active families as they need daily time to run and roam outdoors. If you are looking for an excellent hunting companion, the Golden Retriever is an awesome hunting dog.
Originating in the mid-1800s, some sources state England as their country of origin and others state Scotland as their county of origin. Lord Tweedmouth at Inverness-Shire, Scotland is said to have extensive records that show he developed the breed. Their ancestry includes the Water Spaniel, Retrievers, Setters and a Bloodhound. They were mainly used for hunting and retrieving and have an excellent sense of smell. They also make excellent therapy and guide dogs.
If you are in search of a large dog that is sweet, calm and affectionate and will be good with families that include other dogs or small children, it is hard to find a more pleasing, gentle large family dog. Exercise and play are important in their daily activities, but they will be just as happy relaxing inside with you at night.
Military dogs are no ordinary dogs; they are not the regular dog breeds that one is used to at any given moment. They usually are highly trained dogs that are used in combat. Their functions vary from carrying equipment to the first-line attack; some are even used as spies as they can detect the enemy from afar without causing any suspicion. These traits make the military dog adoption a very suitable companion for military personnel nut when their time comes to be laid off service what next for them?
As initially mentioned the military that we know is some protocol and order and in this case, once the dogs are done with their service, there is some protocol to be followed in the case of adoption of these dogs. They are put up for these programs within the force and if none is interested in these dogs then they usually are put up for these services to other government institutes and if by any chance there are still some dogs left then they are set up for adoption to the ex-servicemen as they have the skill of handling them and finally the general public may take up the last dogs.
Before a military dog is put up for this, a number of factors are considered before its released to the public. One of the main factors in place is the level of aggression on the dog. Highly aggressive dogs are rarely placed for these services because in many cases they cause more harm than good to the general public. In many instances, they are waylaid as they usually are not suitable for the general public.
The level of dependency also determines the release of a dog for adoption. The highly dependent dogs are more likely to be killed or remain in service as they may be trouble for the handlers. The very skilled dogs are also highly dependent as they need constant commands from the owners and the other injured dogs also need constant supervision.
The breed of the dog also highly determines at what age and level they will be put up for adoption, in some cases some dogs are put up for earlier in this program than others due to their expected lifespan. The breed and species dictate how the dog fairs on with life as after a certain period of living it becomes more of a burden than an advantage.
Some combat dogs are adopted at a very early in their life. Not because they do not suite the job but because of their intelligence. They portrayed a high level of intelligence and in most cases, they are put aside for adoption solely for breeding purposes as this line of genes should be passed on to the future generations.
Many of the dogs that are ex-military still have not fully lived their expected lifespan as they were intended to thus putting them up for adoption gives them a second chance to life and by nature the loyal nature of these dogs makes them very suitable partners as they are used to following commands as one should only know what triggers their reactions.
An adoption is an option that almost all dogs in the forces should be given since they all get that new start away from their norms of life. As a result, they also help in saving the lives of many.
About the Author: Daphne Bowen
Learn more about the retired military dog adoption process and get more information about the Mine & Explosive Detection Angel Paws organization at http://www.mddeddangelsrescue.com now.
Buck - A Fine Example Of A German Shepherd (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Dogs called German Shepherds were first exhibited at shows in Germany towards the end of the nineteenth century but they were hardly Shepherds as we know them today is rough coated, short-tailed and rather resembling mongrels. The German Shepherd Dog as we now know it didn't really appear until after the Second World War.
The breed has grown enormously in popularity and is now one of the most popular pedigree breeds in the UK as a pet, it is still the favourite working breed for many forces especially the police and they are widely used for security purposes.
It is a fine sight to see a well-trained GSD with his handler, working well to serve and protect. Unfortunately one of the saddest sites is the poor GSD used to guard premises often chained up alone in some dismal filthy yard with a lifetime of incarceration and little stimulation to look forward to.
The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent beast who will show undying devotion to his master but he is a dog that needs company and stimulation to be at his best.
If you are thinking of buying a German Shepherd as a pet and you have not previously owned one, it is important to research the breed and talk to experienced owners so that you fully understand what you are taking on.
GSD's do indeed make wonderful family pets but it is important to remember that this is a working breed and that they do have certain characteristics that can make them more difficult than your average Retriever, Labrador or Collie.
The characteristics of a good working GSD should be firmness of nerve, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability, and incorruptibility together with courage tenacity and hardness.
A German Shepherd is naturally protective and territorial which is something to bear in mind if you have lots of visitors to your house when careful introduction may be required to assure your pet that the visitor is not a threat to his family.
This is also a breed that requires a lot of time, stimulation, training and exercise - you will never wear them out, they will always be ready for more. A bored, lonely GSD can be very destructive and can cause an awful lot of damage to property in a short space of time.
Perhaps some of the less endearing traits of this breed are the tendency to be very vocal which can be a big nuisance and may be a problem with neighbours. They also shed hair in copious amounts all year round so your vacuum cleaner will work overtime and it's unlikely that your clothes and furnishings will ever be free of dogs hairs again as well as what you are eating invariably being contaminated with that stray hairs.
The biggest problem with the German Shepherd Dog is the fact that to a large extent the breed is being spoilt by irresponsible breeding by inexperienced back street breeders who care nothing about preserving the breed but only about making money from the selling of puppies, Health and temperament problems are all too common, so it is important to take expert advice and try and find a reputable source if you are contemplating buying a puppy.
Consider first taking on a rescue German Shepherd Dog from a reputable rescue that should be able to give you a good assessment of a particular dog. Remember too that an older GSD will be a very rewarding addition to the family and will be housetrained, won't chew, well behaved, probably require less exercise than a young dog and will be very loyal and grateful.
