Water Dogs and the Portuguese Water Dog
The breeds known as water dogs include the:
- Labrador/Retriever
- Spaniel
- Portuguese Water dog
- French Water Dog (Barbet)
- Spanish Water Dog
Water dogs are in the News because the Obama family has chosen one for their pet.
The water dogs which are best known in the US, and the United Kingdom are Labrador retrievers, and spaniels. There is no UK breed called a specifically an American, UK or English water dog but the spaniels probably come closest. On the Barbet breed web site it is recorded that, from ‘The Pictorial Museum of Animated Nature’ by Charles Knight (London: 1844), “The water-spaniel is extremely useful to persons engaged in the pursuit of water-fowl; it swims well, is very hardy, and is an excellent retriever”.
The Water Dogs would also in some countries, we are told, act as couriers, carrying messages between ships and from ship to shore, and would dive into the sea to retrieve broken fishing nets and equipment that had gone overboard. Often they would have to dive under water to retrieve submerged articles.
The Portuguese Water dogs are typical of the water dog breed family. They are generally happy dogs, and sometimes in the case of the Barbet called laid-back, but the PWD needs to stay busy or it will get bored. You should have plenty of toys for it to play with and you may want to consider crate training when you are not at home. Generally healthy, some can develop hip dysplasia and eye problems such as cataracts. However, in spite of their thick, wavy coats, Portuguese Water Dogs are fairly easy to groom, needing only regular brushing and clipping.
Portuguese Water Dogs are very playful, obedient, and easy to train, plus they really enjoy retrieving games of any sort. They are medium-sized, usually described a “spirited but obedient.” They make a good dog for modern day boat owners. PWDs have a body that is slightly longer than tall, the top line is straight and level and the brisket reaches the elbows. Sometimes called ‘Porties’, they have a broad chest and large head with a rounded skull, and heart-shaped ears that shouldn’t hang past their lower jaw.
They were, in times gone by, used for various duties while on board. The most used was their ability to retrieve nets and lost articles at sea, but some say that they were also good at herding fish to the nets. Another use was to get them barking in the fog to alert other boats of their location.
Portuguese Water Dogs are intelligent, rugged, robust, and love to work in and out of the water. They are exceptional swimmers and divers with great stamina.
As energetic, lively canines the Portuguese Water Dog adjusts well to almost any lifestyle. They need physical exercise and they love to swim.
If intending to show them please note that they are a very tightly controlled breed in the US, but for the whole breed that is good as we doubt there are very many, if any, puppy farms involving the breed.
Portuguese water dogs are medium sized, strong swimmers and active energetic family pets. in fact they can make very good family pets with their cheerful attitude.
PWD’s can have either a wavy or curly coat. Some people call this a tousled coat, and it requires regular brushing, and also clipping and trimming. But don’t expect your pet PWD to look like the show dogs you’ve seen in books or on TV, unless you are trained to do this or the trimmer you employ knows the technique.
They are a hypoallergenic breed making this a perfect choice for the Obama family.
They can come in black, black and white, brown, or brown and white. PWDs are very intelligent and obedient with those who work with them; but they are also self-willed, and not a breed for everyone!
Those who are considering a Portuguese Water Dog should talk with the breeder about their plans for training and being active with the dog, to make sure the breed is a good fit with your lifestyle.
So to summarize, Portuguese Water Dogs are a good indication of the dogs which represent this category of breed. They are very loving, independent and intelligent dogs. They love attention while being glued to their master’s side. Portuguese water dogs are known to be great family pets.
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Steve Evans is constantly amused and delighted by what he reads and hears about the joy so many Water Dog Breeds like Poodles bring to people, which also moves him to write great articles for his web site the Dog Breeds Blog. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_D_Evans |
The Portuguese Water Dog - Is it the Right Breed For You?
So, the Obamas have finally added that new puppy to their family, and his cute little face is staring at you from every newspaper/magazine/website you come across and suddenly you find yourself thinking “Aawww… he’s so sweet. I want one of those”
But wait…. just because the ‘First Family’ has one, it doesn’t mean YOU should! Every dog breed is different, with different needs, behavior, and requirements - and every home is different too.
Portuguese Water Dog puppies are adorable teddy bear ‘look-alikes’, and their lively and affectionate personalities makes them very endearing. But before all those cute photos in the media have you searching for a breeder with a puppy to sell, it’s a good idea to take a few minutes to learn more about the breed, and figure out whether it’s the right ‘fit’ for you.
The Portuguese Water Dog is an old breed, know in it’s native land as Cao de Agua (literally meaning ‘dog of the water’). The ancestors of todays’ PWDs played an important role in their country’s’ fishing industry, and were used to herd fish, retrieve lines/tackle, carry messages from boat to boat or to shore, and act as guardians when protection was needed.
A medium to large sized dog, an adult will measure anywhere between 17 and 23 inches in height, and weigh between 35 and 60lbs. A female will usually be smaller/lighter than a male, but both sexes should be solidly built and muscular.
This courageous, hardy and spirited dog still carries the attributes of a working breed, and in spite of it’s cuddly looks, it is most definitely not a lap-dog. Portuguese Water Dogs need lots of vigorous exercise and an active lifestyle, but can be happy in an average-sized home/yard if given plenty of opportunity to run and play on a daily basis.
They bond closely with their owners and always want to be by your side. This isn’t an independent breed who can be happy left alone for long periods inside or out, and your Portuguese Water Dog pup will want (and need) to be an integral part of your family’s’ life.
Outgoing, intelligent and eager to learn, Portuguese Water Dogs make great obedience or agility dogs, and although often considered too small to fill the ’service dog’ role, they can be great therapy dogs. Regular socialization and obedience training are very important if you want your PWD to grow up to be all that it can be.
Portuguese Water Dogs can make excellent family pets, and their exuberance and energy levels make them a lot of fun but they can sometimes ‘play rough’. They’re also known to be a ‘mouthy’ breed, and may nip/bite more than usual.
Although consistent correction will eliminate the mouthing and rough-housing, if you have very young children you may want to take this into account. Generally this breed is fine with other dogs, and can live alongside cats if introduced to them early on.
Their tendency towards ‘mouthiness’ can also show up as excessive chewing, and you’ll need to make sure you have a lot of very sturdy chew toys handy for your Portuguese Water Dog puppy (or your home and belongings will suffer!).
The long wavy or curly hair that makes them so adorably ’shaggy’, needs regular grooming and a daily brush or comb is the best way to keep matts and tangles at bay. Regular clipping or trimming is also recommended.
Portuguese Water Dogs have a single layer coat which is very low-shedding and this means they are considered to be a hypoallergenic breed. If you or your children have dog hair allergies, this breed is less likely to trigger symptoms. However, it’s important to remember that allergies vary greatly from person to person, and there’s no such thing as an ‘allergy-free’ dog breed.
It’s best to spend some time around any breed you are considering BEFORE buying a puppy, that way you can find out exactly how you’re affected by them.
If this breed sees a sudden growth in popularity, finding a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder may become a bit more difficult. Poor breeding practices fueled by the prospect of a quick financial profit, have been responsible for a decrease in the overall health and looks of many breeds in the past.
If you decide that a Portuguese Water Dog is the one for you, take the time to find a responsible breeder with dogs who have been screened for potential genetic/hereditary conditions, and who offers a health contract.
Some conditions that may be found in this breed, and for which screening is available for breeding stock, include Hip Dysplasia, GM1 Storage Disease, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and Juvenile Dilated Cardiomyopathy. If the breeder you’re talking to asks you a lot of questions, that’s a good sign… it means that she really cares about the homes her puppies go to.
When it comes to the adoption v purchase issue, there are some very strong feelings on both sides! There are thousands of dogs in shelters and pounds all around the country who are in desperate need of loving homes, and they’re almost always there through no fault of their own.
Adoption should always be considered when you’re adding a new puppy/dog to the family, even if you have your heart set on a purebreed, because there are many purebred rescue organizations.
However, Portuguese Water Dogs are not in the same position as, say, Labrador Retrievers. There simply isn’t the same number (or even close to it!) of puppies or dogs looking for new homes as there is with the more popular and well known breeds. Finding a Portuguese Water Dog breeder in your area is going to be a challenge, and the chances of finding a purebred PWD being in a local rescue center or pound are very slim.
There may be mixed-breed pups who have Portuguese Water Dog ancestry, and these will make just as wonderful a pet as any purebred puppy - but, if you want a purebred pup who can be registered, buying from a reputable breeder is probably going to be your best option.
So, IS the Portuguese Water Dog right for your family and lifestyle?
…. If you’ve read this whole article and can honestly say that you can provide a Portuguese Water Dog with a home environment where it can thrive, the time and attention it needs, AND you’re still in love with that adorable teddy-bear look, I wish you and your new best friend a long and happy life together.
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Learn more about the Portuguese Water Dog at http://www.the-puppy-dog-place.com/portuguese-water-dogs.html Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Susan_Koranki |
The First Family Choose a Dog!
News spreads quickly that the oh so promised dog had arrived at the White House this week. Alas the family choose a dog. The First Family gave their 6 month old Portuguese WaterDog the name Bo. The dog is known for being a good pet for children that have allergies.
Small Dog Breeds
As humans we’re not created equal, so are the creatures that keep us company. Man’s best friend, for instance is of many kinds: there are small dogs and there are big dogs. Those under the small dog category are similar in sizes, but they also vary in characteristics, physical appearance, life expectancy, and the like. The same goes with the big dogs.
Advantages to owning small dogs
Choosing one over the other may be difficult because both small and big dogs are adorable and are truly loyal to their owners. However, there are certain advantages to having small dogs. If you are living in a condominium or an apartment, then a small dog will fit easily in your abode. Moreover, if you prefer a dog who will keep you company most of the time and you intend you intend to bring it to your various trips, a small dog will definitely be most convenient. If you are having second thoughts about getting a small dog because you are thinking more along the lines of guard dogs, then you might be interested to know that despite their size, there are small dogs that are good watch dogs.
Small but terrible
It might be hard to imagine that these cute adorable creatures can actually watch over and protect you. As has been previously mentioned, small dogs vary in their characteristics. While some may be good watch dogs, some are not. The breeds that are considered good watch dogs are the following: toy poodle; Yorkshire terrier; chihuahua; and shih tzu.
These may be toy dogs but their alertness makes them good watchdogs. Meanwhile, there are small dogs that are simply toy dogs and despite being a toy dog, most of them are actually not suitable pets for young children. Since they are small, these dogs are more fragile and may not respond well to rough handling or playing with children.
Despite this, small dogs are certifiably good company. You can easily carry them around, put them in your lap and they’ll be more than happy to just stay around and keep you company.
Picking out a small dog
When picking out a small dog, it is important to keep in mind the qualities that you are looking for in a dog. You would want to find a perfect match; after all, your dog will be with you and you wouldn’t want to be disappointed just because it doesn’t measure up to your expectations. If this happens, you are most likely at fault because you probably didn’t do your research well. So before you end up being frustrated on these cuddly bundles of joy, find out if the dog you are interested in is a compatible match to you. After all, you will be taking care of your dog and this is a living creature worthy of love and respect from its owner.
If you find yourself being able to relate to the situations discussed here, then small dogs will definitely be a good choice for you. All you have to do is be ready to make room for it in your life.
Mark Clayson is a professional, home business entrepreneur, mentor and speaker. Visit Start Work at Home for more information on starting or developing a home business or his official site to find out more
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Mark_Clayson
Top Family Dog Breeds
Many families across the country make the decision to get a dog for the family every year. Many of them do their homework and pick an appropriate breed for the family based on the breed temperament and the ages of the children in the family. Unfortunately, many other families make unfortunate choices and end up re-homing, giving away, or abandoning their pets. Before any discussion concerning getting a dog takes place, the parents in the house need to set down some ground rules and know acceptable breeds to consider.
1. Golden Retriever
A perennial favorite on the “most common breeds” list, this type of dog is excellent for families that enjoy lots of time being active and doing outdoor activities. The breed was originally developed to retrieve birds on hunting expeditions but soon proved its worth as a loyal family companion. One downside of the breed is its mountains of fur. While beautiful when maintained, the dog will require daily brushing and might shed a lot.
2. West Highland Terrier
The West Highland Terrier, or Westie, is a small white terrier that is playful and loveable. Like all terriers, and really all dogs, this breed requires some exercise to keep him happy. Westies are good watch dogs and loyal friends. These little guys are great for older children but have been known not to tolerate accidental mistreatment from younger children. For this reason, they are not generally recommended for houses with children under the age of ten. Like the golden retriever, the Westie needs some grooming to keep his coat mat and tangle free.
3. Cairn Terrier
A cousin of the West Highland Terrier, these are tough little dogs. This dog is very fond of people and will do well in any living environment as long as there are people around. Just like its cousin the West Highland Terrier, this breed needs exercise to stay happy. The Cairn Terrier is available in a variety of colors including cream, wheaten, red, sandy, grey, or brindled in a combination of these colors.
4. Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is another dog that was originally bred to hunt birds. Being a bird dog, they can be excitable. Their beautiful red coat makes them popular and loved by many families. The dog breed, on the whole, is always eager to please. The red coat that makes the dog so popular need to be brushed and trimmed or it will look less than its best.
5. Schnauzer
Another terrier, Schnauzers are full of personality and are available in three sizes. The largest Schnauzer size might not be appropriate for a family with small children as the dog is quite large. The two smaller available sizes are better for families. The Schnauzer is a wonderful family pet that is both eager to please and loves to keep the family safe. Like all dogs, the Schnauzer does require daily exercise. In addition, Schnauzers need to be groomed or their coat will get matted. There is a breed standard cut that many people choose for their pets.
6. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Weighing in at around 25 pounds, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a popular family pet. These dogs are stocky with short tails and require daily exercise. Fortunately, they love romps with kids. These dogs are best for people with children over the age of five. Some of them have a tendency to be bossy or possessive as they were originally bred for herding animals. Apparently, the breed sometimes thinks that children need to be herded.
7. Labrador Retriever
Another popular choice, the Labrador Retriever is great for families that do a lot, particularly activities that involve water. These dogs frequently have endless energy that is great for keeping up with numerous kids. While originally developed to retrieve birds on hunting trips, the lab is a loyal and devoted family member. Their shorter hair frequently makes them a better choice for families with little time to do their own hair, let alone that of the dog. Labs are available in three standard colors.
8. Poodle
Another water dog, the poodle is an intelligent and friendly dog that craves human companionship. These dogs are happiest when they are allowed to run and play. A plus on poodles is that they are very low shed. Unfortunately, they have to be clipped because their hair so infrequently falls out. These dogs come in a variety of sizes to suit any need.
9. Bichon Frise
Frequently resembling a cotton ball as a puppy, these happy-go-lucky dogs are faithful and obedient. They are a fantastic addition to any home. They love to participate in anything as well as investigate. These dogs are also known for being exceptionally bright and able to escape from a variety of situations. To keep their fur looking its best, the Bichon Frise needs to be groomed regularly.
10. Airedale
Yet another terrier, the Airedale is a sturdy dog that understands the importance of his or her job of protecting the family. While a diligent defender, the Airedale is also a great family friend. These dogs are generally willing to play at any time.
11. Basset Hound
These low to the ground dogs may look sad all the time with their droopy eyes, but they’re really more than willing to join in any fun and games that may be around at the time. As a hound, they may be known to howl.
12. Beagle
The beagle fits in really well with active families. The dog only requires a nice bed in which to sleep and plenty of play time to be happy. The breed can fit in with pretty much any family.
13. Shih Tzu
These little guys were originally bred as companion animals for royalty. Despite this, the dog is just fine with getting dirty while playing with the kids and yet will still hold still for a tea party in the afternoon. These dogs love people.
14. Boxer
Despite their intimidating face, Boxers are usually sweet, friendly dogs. They get their name from their tendency to stand on their rear legs while play fighting and use their front paws for boxing. These dogs are natural guardians that are extremely loyal. It is important to note that Boxers generally prefer the company of people to other dogs. The breed will do well in a quiet home or with an active family.
15. Collie
The Collie originally became a family pet with the debut of “Lassie”. To this day, the dog is considered to be one of the best family pets available. The breed has a lot of fur that needs maintenance so it might not be the best dog for a family with no time to brush the dog. The dogs are generally intelligent and patient.
16. Boston Terrier
Yet another terrier, these small black and white dogs love to make their families laugh. These dogs prefer brief periods of activity and then love nothing more than to curl up on the sofa to help you read a book or watch TV. These dogs are obedient and loyal while being a good watch dog and loyal family pet. These dogs may be ideal for less active families.
17. Newfoundland
These gentle giants may drool a bit too much for some people but they have made a fantastic living teddy bear for numerous families. Because of their size, families with very small children might want to wait for the kids to get a bit bigger. These dogs are excellent swimmers and have been known to jump in after family members in trouble. Families that live with water may be able to rest a little easier with one of these guys standing guard.
18. Pomeranian
These fluffy fur balls look just like small foxes. They typically weigh in around five pounds and are an adorable breed. These dogs thrive on human companionship and require very little space. Pomeranians are ideal for families with older children.
19. Pug
Not at all standoffish, the pug is a loving, affectionate, even-tempered breed. Pugs love being part of the family and will gladly romp with children or curl up on your lap for a nap.
20. Whippet
Whippets are quiet, small dogs that resemble a very small version of a greyhound. They tend to greet strangers with a kiss and love children. These dogs are very fast and love to chase things so they should be kept on a leash when out on a walk and the yard needs to be secure as well.
While many guides exist, contact a vet with any questions. For more information on dog breeeds and healthcare, please visit http://austinveterinarianclinics.com/articles.aspx
Joseph Devine
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About the Smartest Dog Breeds
The measurement of intelligence, whether in dogs or in humans is not an easy task to accomplish, no less, to achieve with pin point accuracy. Often times personal experience suggest that we’re no smarter than our last decision. Many times it’s the choices we make in life that credit us with being intelligent or not.
The goal at Smartest Dog Breeds is not to try to present a scientific profile around dog intelligence or “dog smarts” but to hopefully teach you a few things about dogs and dog ownership that will help make you a smarter more compassionate owner and lover of your dog and dogs in general.
One thing is for certain as human being we need to show compassion for the one’s we love. Often times our pets wind up being part of the family and sometimes our only family. So, lets give them the love and attention they deserve.
After all dogs are man’s best friend in the truest sense of the word, are they not?. But, if your interested in whether or not your dog has made it to the list of top ten smartest dogs or if, its just in your curious nature to see what dogs rank where, as it was mine, you can find that out. You’ll find their photos and some of their quick stats such as their descriptions and temperament, these stats in conjunction with the other quick stats will help you in choosing a dog breed that’s right for you, one that suits your personality. At Smartest Dog Breeds you’ll find a wealth of quality content and information. Maybe you’ll find a little enlightenment and encouragement for giving your dog the quality care it deserves.
Before purchasing a dog whether from a local breeder, a newspaper ad, or from a friend you need to take a good look at your situation and ask yourself, am I really in a position to take on the responsibility of owning a dog? Can you provide a suitable home for your dog? Do you have quality time to spend with your dog, time for grooming your dog? There are a lot of responsibilities that go along with owning a dog. Here are just a few of the responsibilities, providing water for your dog, multiple feedings, walking your dog, and cleaning not only your dogs ears and teeth, but it’s messes too! Your dog will need obedience training. Do you think you can handle training your dog or will you need a trainer. Are you in a position financially to meet the needs of your dog. Do you know a good veterinarian just in case your dog gets ill. There are a lot of things to consider before you run out and buy a dog.
Remember, that dog care builds on the pride of ownership and the relationship between you and your dog. Never neglect your dog , your dog is your friend, your dog is part of the family, maybe your only family, a true companion. So, be sure to give your dog a happy home you won’t regret it.
A. Licata, freelance artist/writer of quality content and information for all who have an enthusiasm and love for dogs
http://smartestdogbreeds.com
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Five Dog Breeds For the Inexperienced Dog Owner
Even if you’ve never owned a dog before, or are unsure if you are capable of handling a dog, there are some dog breeds that are easier to control than others. If you have never owned your own dog, easing into the process with a breed that is not as stubborn or dominant than other breeds will help you have a good relationship with your dog from the start.
One of the sweetest dogs to own is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (English Toy Spaniel). They are very friendly and obedient dogs. They will get along fine with older, considerate children, and they are very devoted and loving companions. They are just a treat! Please be sure and consider that they need to be brushed at least three times a week and may need more during periods of shedding.
If you are looking for a bigger dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog might be the one for you. They love to frolic in the snow and play with the family. They are even tempered and easy to train. They love children and my Chihuahua is actually friends with one. Males can be more dominant than the females and re-homing an older Berner may be difficult as they may bond closely with one person.
If you’re an active person and want a dog that will love the outdoors as much as you do, then the Bearded Collie is a good choice. They love to run and hike and play outdoors. They are good with children and other animals, although they sometimes can try and herd them. They can be independent and stubborn sometimes, but they still have a very sweet nature. These dogs will love to lead a very active lifestyle and make great companions for an active family, but make sure you are up for the grooming; especially after a day in the woods!
For a good all around dog, the Poodle cannot be beat. This is one of my favorite breeds because they are so loving and fun. They are good with children and are easy to train. They are happy to pay outside and then come in a lay on the couch with you. They are good swimmers and are happy to hike the trails with you. The only downside to a Poodle is the grooming. They do need to be clipped every 6-8 weeks which should be done professionally.
The Whippet is a very sweet and loving dog who is eager to please. They love to run around outside, but when inside, they will snuggle up on the couch with you. They love attention and love when you play with them. They are very sensitive and must be properly socialized to avoid timidness. They are not right for those with small or boisterous children, and should be watched carefully around small animals.
Written by Jennifer Andrade from A Dog for Life, LLC , which is dedicated to helping you choose and find the best dog for your family.
My website features many other resources that can help you have a more positive and closer relationship with your canine companion
http://www.adogforlife.com/dog-blog
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Andrade
What breed dog should I purchase
What breed dog should I purchase
By: Sara Murphy
Before families start searching for a canine, they usually have a distinct idea about the breed of canine they want. Every type of dog needs the same care, there are distinctions between each of the different sizes that will affect you, your home and your family.
Sometimes, large dogs get a bad rap. Even though most of the time we think of large dogs as destructive and full of energy, this is not always the case. In fact, a lot of the large breeds, especially the giant ones, are some of the laziest dogs. Very large breeds like the Newfoundlands, mastiffs, and Saint Bernards can be a handful while they’re puppies—like any canine, but once they hit adulthood, they tend to settle down. As for their level of energy, some of these giant dogs are more appropriate for small homes than small and spunky terriers. They are usually satisfied with a walk once a day and maybe a couple of games of fetch. Most of them love to cuddle and are content to hang out by your chair while you are watching TV. In fact, they are want-to-be lap dogs because they love to lay their head on your lap all day.
Still, giant breeds are not always the easiest. Think about Great Danes —they always slobber, and they have many needs because they are big. This gets expensive fast because large dogs eat a lot of meals. Also, as they grow, you will need larger accessories, crates, treats, grooming and kenneling, so the price will increase too. These big dogs are also more likely to have health problems. Among common problems are hip dysplasia and joint and arthritic disorders. If a giant breed is not bred carefully, it can be a liability because they carry a great deal of weight.
Medium to large dogs have characteristics of their own, as well as some of the disadvantages and advantages of giant dogs. Golden retrievers, German shepherds, Border collies, and Labrador retrievers all share similar qualities. They are mostly active, they like running and jumping, fetching, and lots of other canine activities. These are the perfect dogs for someone who enjoys canine sports and a vigorous recreational life. While these dogs vary in energy level and individual temperament, they make good hiking and sporting companions. When they are a little older, they tend to mellow out and become great house dogs.
Small breeds are believed to be the ultimate companions. They can fit into any truck and boat, and they can even ride with their owners on most planes, if the crate is small enough to fit under the seat. That is why many frequent fliers prefer small dogs. Generally, small dogs are the most convenient of all dogs—they can be picked up and moved any time. At the same time, their small size makes them more vulnerable to people and other animals. A simple step would have little to no effect on a German shepherd, at all, while it could kill a small 4-pound Chihuahua.
Small dogs are usually believed to be ideal for apartment living and ideal companions for the elderly. Usually this is true, but in reality, many of the smaller breeds are just large dogs in small bodies. Usually, terriers are small, but they’re intelligent and active, and they’re headstrong, and they have strong predatory drives. If you want an easy to raise dog and a lazy dog, this is not the right dog for you.
Many small breeds do well in apartments and with seniors. their exercise needs are minimal. A sedentary lifestyle is perfect for the small companion dogs. That’s the environment that they’ve been bred for centuries for. Since they are smaller, they will need less room and food bowls will take up less space; and it’s easier to clean up after them. Also, it’s less expensive to maintain them—cheaper accessories, and less kenneling costs. However, small dogs do have some veterinary problems that the large dogs don’t—for example, dental. Treatment can also be a larger risk, because they are more sensitive to anesthesia.
For more information please visit www.animalshelter.org
Author Resource:-> Sara is the lead writer for the Animal Shelter The Animal Shelter is a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of pets everywhere. We offer a variety of services which include a pet search and a pet med directory at no charge for both the private citizen and dog shelters
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How small of a dog should i get
How small of a dog should i get
By: Sara Murphy
Before you start searching for a dog, they usually have a distinct idea about the type of dog they want. Every type of dog needs the same care, there are distinctions between each of the different sizes that will affect you, your home and your family.
Sometimes, large canines get a bad rap. Even though most of the time we think of large canines as destructive and high energy, this is not always the case. In fact, a lot of the large breeds, especially the giant ones, are some of the most mild mannered dogs. Very large breeds such as the Newfoundlands, mastiffs, and Saint Bernards can be a handful while they’re puppies—like any dog, but once they hit adulthood, they tend to settle down. As for their level of energy, some of these giant dogs are more appropriate for smaller houses than small and spunky terriers. They are usually satisfied with a walk once a day and maybe a couple of games of fetch. Most of them love to cuddle and are content to hang out by your feet while you are watching TV. In fact, they are want-to-be lap dogs because they love to lay their head on your lap all day.
Still, giant breeds are not always the easiest. Think about bloodhounds—they always slobber, and they have many needs because they are big. This gets expensive fast because large canines eat a lot of dog food. Also, as they grow, you will need bigger accessories, crates, treats, grooming and kenneling, so the price will increase too. These big dogs are also more likely to have health problems. Among common problems are hip dysplasia and joint and arthritic disorders. If a large breed is not bred carefully, it can be a liability because they carry a great deal of weight.
Medium to large dogs have characteristics of their own, as well as some of the disadvantages and advantages of large dogs. Golden retrievers, German shepherds, Australian cattle dogs, and Labrador retrievers all share similar qualities. They are mostly active, they like running and jumping, fetching, and lots of other dog games. These are the perfect canines for someone who enjoys dog sports and a vigorous recreational life. While these canines vary in energy level and individual temperament, they make good hiking and sporting companions. When they are a little older, they tend to mellow out and become great house canines.
Small breeds are believed to be the ultimate companions. They can fit into any van and boat, and they can even ride with their owners on most airplanes, if the crate is small enough to fit under the seat. That is why many frequent fliers prefer toy dogs. Generally, small dogs are the most convenient of all canines—they can be put into a portable dog carrier. At the same time, their small size makes them more vulnerable to people and other animals. A simple step would have little to no effect on a Australian cattle dog, at all, while it could kill a small 4-pound Chihuahua.
Small dogs are usually believed to be ideal for apartment living and ideal companions for the elderly. This is usually true, but in reality, many of the smaller breeds are just big dogs in small bodies. Usually, terriers are small, but they’re intelligent and active, and they’re headstrong, and they have strong predatory drives. If you want an easy to raise dog and a lazy dog, this is not the right dog for you.
Many small breeds do well in apartments and with seniors. A walk or two per day is good enough for them. A sedentary lifestyle is perfect for the small companion dogs. That’s the environment that they’ve been bred for centuries for. Since they are smaller, their beds and food bowls will take up less space; and it’s easier to clean up after them. Also, it’s less expensive to maintain them—less food, and less kenneling costs. However, small dogs do have some veterinary problems that the large dogs don’t—for example, dental. Treatment can also be a bigger risk, because they are more sensitive to anesthesia.
For more pet information please visit www.animalshelter.org
Author Resource:-> Sara is the content developer for the Animal Shelter The Animal Shelter is a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of dogs everywhere. We offer a variety of services which include a pet search and a shelter directory at no charge for both the private citizen and dog rescues
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Kids, what type of K-9 should I get
Kids, what type of K-9 should I get
By: Sara Murphy
Consider your kid’s personalities, number of children in the house, and ages before choosing a {puppy|K9|K-9|canine|dog}}}. Everyone will lose out if you don’t make a good choice, so take some time to be introspective about this. Are all your four kids under 6? If they are, you might not want to get the high-energy breed that coulf require the same amount of as your children do. Also, take into consideration how mature your children are. There are some thirteen year-olds that are not ready for pet-ownership responsibilities, while there are some 6 year-olds that are mature enough to have a pet. You have to be honest with yourself. There are many obnoxious children and there are some who have a hard time with impulse control or anger management. If your kids are always bothering you with things such as endless questions, kidding, and other disruptive behavior, most likely they will act the same way with the pets. Every dog has their boiling point, and some are higher than others. You must ask yourself this very important question before getting a dog—Is your child ready to have a dog in the house?
There are many breeders who will not place a dog if there are very young children in the home. They are worried that the infants is too young to understand the restraints when playing, or that the dog could not be getting right attention. Puppies can learn to be shy with humans if they are treated too roughly, and a small dog can be injured accidentally by a infant. If you have a little one, you should seriously consider these things.
After you have consented that your child is ready for a K9 and that you are going to be able to devote enough time to watchtheir interactions and the dog will receive enough exercise, it’s time to figure out what {qualities|does}}} your child need in a pet. A little is not likely to be the ideal choice for your kid if he is rambunctious and full of fun. For example, a 4-pound Chijuajua is prone to accidental injuries and isn’t going to be up to running around the neighborhood. You want to encourage a good relationship, in addition to safety concerns. The best bet for a child like this would be an adolescent or an adult Golden retriever. These dogs love endless ball tosses and playing with friends.
A young kid may have lots of children that visit. That is why you want to be sure that the pet you get is not an escape artist. There are some dogs that just want to run, as anyone who has owned a Siberian husky would confirm. And no matter how hard our efforts are, a child and an escape artist are just a poor combo. Kids leave doors ajar and gates open. Their friends do this even more. While some guardian breeds make great companions for your own kids, some may be inappropriate, because they can be overly protective. What if the dog misinterprets a friendly wrestling match between your children? What if one of your kid’s friends let himself into your home without knocking on the door?
For more information or articles like this please visit the Animal Shelter on line at http://www.animalshelter.org
Author Resource:-> Sara is the lead writer for the Animal Shelter The Animal Shelter is a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of pets everywhere. We offer a variety of services which include a pet search and a pet med directory at no charge for both the private citizen and humane societies
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