Archive for the ‘Dog Breeds’ Category

Australian Shepherds

February 4, 2012 4:34 pm - Posted by Susan in Dog Breeds

Dog Information

Australian Shepherds – also known as Aussies, are a medium sized, robust, well-balanced, rustic dog. Australian Shepherds are easy-going, and believe-it- or- not they remain puppy-like even in their adult years! Aussies are courageous so they make good watchdog for the home. They also love to play that’s why they are excellent even for active children. Australian Shepherds are highly intelligent and easy to train.

Did you know that Australian Shepherds or Aussies are not really Australians at all! They were most likely developed in the Pyrenees Mountains somewhere between Spain and France, and refined in the United States of America. Australian Shepherds can be generally found in Texas, Colorado, Oregon, Oklahoma and California. They work as herding dogs in ranches. Experts think that Australian Shepherds are a cross between the Spanish dogs and Collie Stocks.

Australian Shepherds usually stands about 20 to 23 inches in height and weighs about 50 to 65 pounds for the males and 18 to 21 inches in height and 40 to 55 pounds in weight for the females or bitches. Australian Shepherds have weather resistant coats of medium texture, straight to slightly wavy with undercoats of moderate length. The hairs on the head, outside of the ears, front of the forelegs s and below the hocks of Aussies are short and smooth. The ears are set high at the side of the head, triangular and slightly rounded at the tip. The tail of an Australian Shepherds are straight, some are natural bobtail while those born with longer tails are docked so as not to exceed four inches. Male dogs have a more pronounced mane and frills than the females.

The color of the coats of this dog include black, blue or red merle, solid red with or without white markings and/or tan(copper) points. They are of medium texture, straight to wavy, weather resistant and of medium length. There should be feathering on the back of the legs, also on the mane and frill around the neck. The Aussie’s coats are easy to groom and requires little attention. Grooming can be done by brushing occasionally with a firm bristle brush and you can bathe them only when it is necessary. Eye colors include brown, blue, amber or any variation including flecks or marbling,

These energetic working dogs need plenty of vigorous exercise to stay mentally and physically fit. If under exercised, this breed can become restless and destructive. They are very intelligent and crave a good challenge. That is why this type of dog is not recommended for apartment life. They are at their best in large yards, and better yet, to let them do some real work.

This dogs usually live for 12 to 15 years. Cataract is a major health concern for the Aussies, while occasionally some develops epilepsy. Some puppies born from merle/merle crosses are prone blind/deaf factor, while crosses of natural bobtail-to-natural bobtail can produce offspring with serious spinal defects. So hip and eye tests are suggested to those interested in owning an Aussie.

Warren Domingo Coquilla

Are Staffordshire Bull Terrier Dangerous?

January 30, 2012 6:37 pm - Posted by Susan in Dog Breeds

Dog Information

For those considering a new dog, if you are seeking a terrier pure bred, choosing the right breed will make for a great house pet for any home. If considering the Staffordshire bull terrier, due to their past history and negative press, many individuals ask: are Staffordshire bull terrier dangerous pets? Although they were originally bred as fighting dogs early on in the United Kingdom, over time they have become domesticated animals, and if properly raised and trained, especially if purchased when they are puppies, then they are not at all dangerous pets to keep in the home, and in fact make for a terrific house pet.

Many who ask are Staffordshire bull terrier dangerous pets, have likely read about their history, and assume that due to their breed and mix (pit bull and terrier mix), that they are dangerous animals. Of course they have a propensity for danger, if put in the scenarios where they are used as fighting dogs, or trained as attack dogs, but when they are properly house raised, and trained, they are extremely friendly and loveable pets to raise in any home setting. In fact, today they are one of the most common house pets in the United Kingdom and in the US, due to the fact that they are trained prior to being sold to the purchasers.

The terrier mix is also an extremely popular choice of pet amongst purchasers, due to their cute appearance. They are small to medium sized breeds, with short smooth fur, and tend to have stout arms and legs. They are also fairly small in stature and weight, with males getting no heavier than about 20 kg, once they are fully grown, and even when fully grown they still have the smaller and shorter limbs, making them a dog which owners like to keep in an indoor setting.

For the individuals who ask are Staffordshire bull terrier dangerous, depending on the scenarios they are placed in, and the environment they are in, they can be dangerous. Due to their natural breed of being mixed with a pit bull, they do have a natural tendency to want to be a protection or fighter dog. Additionally, if they are being trained for a particular position, such as a K9 protection dog in the police force, or as a guard dog for individual homes, the answer to the question are Staffordshire bull terrier dangerous will be yes. But, due to the fact that most are not trained in this manner, and if they are they are quarantined in a separate kennel until needed on a task force, they are generally not seen in these situations as “guard or fight” dogs.

The Staffordshire bull terrier dogs are extremely intelligent, which makes for yet one more reason they are popular house pets. They are extremely capable in situations to figure things out, and have an ease of learning new tricks, commands, and the general commands which are taught (sit, roll over, etc), by their owners. Therefore, they are extremely easy to break in to the home setting, and can easily be taught to follow commands and requests by their owners. The breed is also extremely friendly, makes for a great dog to cuddle with, and are naturally friendly dogs, as long as they are trained from a young age by the owners, or by a professional dog trainer.

For those with children who ask: are Staffordshire bull terrier dangerous pets, the individuals considering these pets can be rest assured that they are not going to harm the child in the home setting, as they are very friendly and loyal, and have the intelligence to decipher whether they are in danger or not. If they are properly treated in the home, if the owners show compassion and love towards them, and if they are trained by the right individuals, they can make for a great house pet for adults and children alike. In fact, many children like these dogs, due to the fact that they are smaller in stature, can easily be taken around on a leash, or can be held and cuddled once the child is strong enough to pick them up. In fact, the Staffordshire bull terrier breed is no more inclined to attack a child as a poodle or other small friendly dog. But, it is essential that they are properly introduced to a home with children, and taught that the children are going to act a certain manner, because the dog is extremely powerful and they have a very strong bite. Therefore, if they feel threatened in any manner, or feel as if they are being put in a fight situation, they can be inclined to attack, and once they lock their jaws, the do not let go.

There are a few things one who wonders, are Staffordshire bull terrier dangerous dogs, can do in order to ensure they do not lash out. Those considering the dogs must be able to go out and exercise with the dogs a couple times a day (walk around the block, or play in the yard). The owner must also take them to training classes from a young age, preferably when they are puppies. And, the dog needs attention, so there should be someone around them, at least a few hours a day. If, as a purchaser, you are able to do these things, and treat the dog with love and compassion, they are by no means a dangerous house pet, and in fact, make for a loving and caring dog to keep in the home.

Just like any other breed of dogs, although the Staffordshire bull terrier breed can be dangerous, if trained to be a fight dog or attack dog, they also have the propensity to make a great house pet, if they are cared for, and properly trained from a young age. So, for those debating whether or not to purchase them, they can make for a perfect house dog, if properly trained, loved, and cared for in the home.

Are Staffordshire bull terrier dangerous or is it owners Leave a comment then go to my website to claim your FREE eBook on this lovely dog. http://www.staffordshirebullterrier.co

Kevin Redman

Top 5 Cutest Dog Breeds

July 14, 2011 4:02 pm - Posted by Susan in Dog Breeds

Dog Breed Information

1. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a small toy sized dog. The Pomeranian is a proud, energetic little dog. They are intelligent and very loyal to its owner. Pomeranians are good at learning tricks. They grow to be approximately 7-12 inches and weigh about 3-7 pounds. They need exercise daily. Taking them out for a walk is a great way to reduce their energy level. They tend to be good watchdogs. Feeding your Pomeranian pup can be difficult being that they are often picky eaters. It is recommended that they are fed dry dog food or crunchy milk bones daily to help keep the teeth and gums in good condition. They will live an average of 15 years. Take caution that they do not overheat in hot weather.

2. Yorkie

They are a toy breed, and a full-grown Yorkie will not weigh more than seven pounds. This makes them a great pet for those who want a dog, but don’t have space to take care of a larger breed. Don’t let the small size of a Yorkie mislead you; they are a great watchdog and have the attitude of a full sized dog. They are very protective of their territory.

3. Maltese
The Maltese is a small, hardy dog with silky hair. The dog has a silky, single layer coat that is white or light ivory. It hangs long over the sides of the body almost to the ground (about 8½ inches) and is not wavy, curly or kinky. The Maltese is lively and playful. They are gentle, loving, and devoted to their owner. They are very intelligent and good at learning tricks. The Maltese breed may be difficult to housebreak. They grow to be about 8-10 inches tall and weigh about 6½-9 pounds.

4. Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is a very intelligent dog. They are one of the easiest breeds to train and are very responsive to their owner. Toy poodles are a sweet natured, cheerful, perky and lively breed of dog. They enjoy being with people. Toy poodles are small in size but are a good watchdog. They are good with children and adults. These dogs seem to have a lot of energy. It is a good idea to take them out for a daily walk or play indoor activities with them daily to prevent behavior problems. The life expectancy of a toy poodle is approximately 12- 15 years. Toy poodles should be bathed regularly. Check their ears and teeth regularly. Also, their hair should be clipped and claws trimmed every 6-8 weeks.

5. Pug

The pug is a very small breed of dog with a wrinkly, short-muzzled face, and curled tail. They have a fine, glossy coat which comes in a variety of colors, and a square body with good muscle tone. Their legs are very strong, straight. The lower teeth normally protrude further than the upper teeth, which causes an under-bite. Strong willed but rarely aggressive, the pug is suitable for families with children. Most Pugs are very good with children. They are good watchdogs. The average height of a pug is about 12-14 inches tall and weighs about 13-20 pounds. Pugs catch colds easily and do not tolerate extreme hot and cold weather. They need to be kept indoors regularly. A Pug can live about 12 to 15 years. This breed of dog needs to be groomed brushed and combed regularly, shampoo only when necessary.

Stacey L Duncan

What Are The Different Puppy Personalities?

June 7, 2011 3:03 pm - Posted by Susan in Dog Breeds

Dog Information

Even though it is untrue that certain dog breeds are bred to be ferocious, mean-spirited or overly protective, it’s true that different dog breeds naturally have varying personality traits, just as each human has a different personality than the next. When thinking about which breed of puppy to purchase or adopt, it’s important to think about their personality beforehand. Yes, it sounds silly that a pup’s personality might be so essential, but the truth is it can make a world of difference.

Questions to Ask
Asking a couple of questions of your self and also the puppy breed you’re considering may be effective in determining whether or not you are a match. Some of the more essential questions include:

Do you have children?
Do you live in an apartment?
Do you’ve the energy/time for a puppy who needs plenty of physical exercise?
Do you prefer a lap dog or play dog?
Can you deal with a high energy pet?

These questions and more may be massive elements in selecting a puppy you are able to live with his whole life. Keep in mind, puppies are a time and love investment, so choosing wisely is important. Think about whether or not a breed is naturally high energy, lap dogs, child-friendly or exercise-reliant before deciding. If you like a lap dog but purchase a high-energy terrier, you may end up feeling frustrated rather than close to your pup.

Considering Other Pets
Some puppy breeds are biologically adverse to getting along with other pets. A Pekinese puppy, for instance, may get along nicely with a house cat, whilst a Chihuahua is not likely to. If you have other pets, it may be a good idea to give them a test run together with your new puppy prior to deciding if that is the breed you want to buy. Some puppy breeds are better off as loners, whilst others need companionship with other dogs (think Labradors).

Maintenance
Aside from the general match between the owner and puppy personalities, some breed personalities naturally lend themselves to be more high maintenance in the long run when it comes to time and attention. Labs are great companions, but often require a lot of exercise and outdoor time with their owners to remain pleased and healthy. Dachshunds are naturally hyper when puppies and young adults, but need maintenance on their diet and physical exercise to avoid obesity and staying hyper. These along with other personality traits related to the breed can be deal-breakers for a long-term owner/pet relationship, and therefore are important to think about thoughtfully.

Wendon Lee

Pet Places offers resources on puppies personalities and the way to take care of puppies.

The Chinese Crested Powderpuff

May 13, 2011 3:51 pm - Posted by Susan in Dog Breeds

Dog Information

Appearance

This breed of dog is becoming more and more popular in the world of celebrity. This breed comes in two varieties including the very strange looking hairless variety and the Powderpuff. The hairless variety is the type that people tend to remember, mainly due the fact that they have hair on the head, tail, ears and feet but not on their body (although this is actually a misconception as they are actually covered with a thin downy hair that is difficult to see).

The Chinese Crested Powderpuff is covered with a thick long coat that is the same length all over the body. Both varieties are very small and graceful with a domed shaped head and with ears that are triangular and stick up on either side of the head. The tail should run parallel to the ground when the dog is on the move and curl up over the back when stationary.

Temperament

This breed are very intelligent which makes them easier to train. They are great with children and love to be part of a family. Due to their size and stature you do need to be careful when introducing them to small children and other dogs as they are easily injured. This breed tend to bond with one or two members of the family and will often pine for the family member when they have gone out. Due to the fact that they do need allot of attention and need to be around people all the time they can be difficult to re-home. If you are a career minded person and work long hours then we don’t recommend that you get a Chinese Crested Powderpuff as they may suffer from anxiety related problems when left for long periods on their own.

Health Problems

All dogs can suffer from health problems at some point in their life but some breeds are more susceptible to certain ailments. This breed are more prone to…

  • Skin problems – especially allergies to clothes and garments including wool and lanolin.
  • Teeth problems due to their teeth not developing properly
  • Legg Calve Perthes is another problem that this breed are more susceptible to. This is when the femur has started to degenerate causing mobility issues and pain.
  • The Chinese Crested Powderpuff can also suffer from Patellar Luxation which is when the kneecaps start to dislocate.
Tobias Charles writes on all aspects of dog obedience training, puppy training and health care information. For more information visit his website on dog obedience training for more information.