Mastiff Dogs - The Brazilian Way

A very unusual combination, the Brazilian Mastiff is in fact a mastiff/bloodhound mix. They have traits of both breeds; including the famed sense of smell bloodhounds are so well known for. They also have the protectiveness and gentleness with children so common in mastiffs. Hailing from Brazil, they are known (in Portuguese) as Fila Brasileiro. Formerly employed as guards for plantations, they found their way to North America with conquistadors.

This is a large breed, adults weigh in at sometimes over 100 pounds, and standing as tall as 2 feet. They have a face and neck reminiscent of a bloodhound, and fur in colors from tan to black, even yellow, with brindled Dogs being most highly prized.

Gentle like most mastiffs, they are capable of aggression when called for. Excellent guard Dogs, they are nonetheless very good with children. They are also famed for their loyalty.

They are often used as hunting dogs, having inherited the good hunting instincts from the bloodhound part of their lineage. They are especially good at locating, then immobilizing prey; the word "Fila" in their name is the Portuguese for "hold".

More athletic than most mastiffs (another bloodhound trait) and less prone to the obesity which can plague the mastiff breed, they are healthy dogs. They get their protectiveness from the mastiff in their lineage.

More than most other varieties, Brazilian Mastiffs are not at all fond of strangers. The only sure way to get on a Brazilian Mastiffs good side, it seems, is to spend a lot of time with them as puppies if you want them to remember and show that famed protectiveness towards you.

They will attack without permission so it is wise to hide him if strangers plan on staying as guests. Even the best of the best Brazilian mastiffs, the show quality, can become aggressive towards the judges. That is a scary thought. Imagine being attacked as a show dog judge? I think that I would keep the working dog category out of my choice of judging. That is to say the least.

When you're picking out a Brazilian Mastiff puppy, be picky about where you buy it. Make very sure that your dealer is honest and reputable. You would do well to gather references ahead of time. This way, you can make sure the new member of your family comes from a good place.

FREE email course, make sure you check out Eric Salson's mastiff dog website, all breeds explained including the MIGHTY Brazilian Mastiff breed and the huge English Mastiff dog breed, these are the GIANTS.

Choosing A Dog Breed - 3 Steps You Must Know

So your ready to add a four legged friend into the family, but which of the over 143 breeds go you pick? Some people will look for size, shape, color, and long for short hair. Others will look for temperament of the breed. But before those there are a few other thing you should think about before you choose the right Dog breed.

Here are a few things that you should think of first:

1) House or Apartment.

This is something that some people tend to forget about when choosing a Dog. Make sure that your dog will have enough room to roam. If you have a small house or apartment then a large dog may not be best for your. They will need to be able to move around the home and also need a place to run. A better breed for you may be the smaller size dogs. They will not need as much room to raise them.

2) Do you have Kids.

If you have children then choosing a dog breed that is delicate like a Chihuahua may not be a good choice. They can be very frail and a child may be too rough on them. Choosing a dog breed that is large can have the opposite effect. The dog does not know it's own size and can knock over your child. It really depends on how old your children are, as to what size dog breed you chose.

3) How much do you work.

You should know how much time your will be able to devote to your dog. Larger dogs will need a lot of exercise and some may need more grooming than others. Your dog will also need time to be around you and your family. So if you have a family on the run, make sure you chose a dog breed that can travel with you.

Choosing a dog breed that is correct for you be sure to think of all the things listed above and you will be able to make a informative decision.

You can find even more information at Dog Breeders Directory [http://www.dogbreedersdirectory.info] and also receive a free Dog Health Book [http://www.dogbreedersdirectory.info]. Much more information all for free.

Shih Tzu Puppies

Shitzu puppies are members of what we could probably call the most famous Dog breed ever to walk the planet. These beautiful puppies are from a breed which was supposedly originated in Tibet, they are encountered in a wide variety of colors which include: gray, gold, black or white. Shitzu puppies are also easy to distinguish because of the different characteristics that they possess; they have large eyes and a tail that has all of its movement above their torso. There are one of the most popular breed for contests and for grooming.

Shitzu puppies are also great for kids since they are very calm and gentle with anyone who comes near them, they are extremely playful and enjoy being patted it a lot. Shitzu puppies are considered to be the children's best friend and pet. They do not like being punished, and they do not answer well to this kind of education, however they are extremely intelligent and will learn a lot of commands in a very short amount of time. You will find these puppies to the extremely fond to love and care and they will return all of those commodities to the person who looks after them.

It is very important to clean the area between the eyes of shitzu puppies every day, since it tends to get very messy and could eventually cause them to have difficulties or problems with their sight and their beautiful eyes. It is also very important that you acknowledge the fact that shitzu puppies need to be exercised and they enjoy being taken outdoors, they are very fond of running and jumping and will prove to be excellent companions in those long walks that you take in the morning.

Another wonderful fact about shitzu puppies is that you will quickly notice their high stamina, they can take long walks as well as spend hours playing with kids, and you will have them running around your house every day since they need a lot of exercise and movement in their lives. Try keeping shitzu puppies away from cold weather since they are quite intolerant to the cold winter and low temperatures, during this time you should let their hair grow longer so that it can protect them from the cold.

If you are deciding whether or not to acquire shitzu puppies it is important that you consider about the needs of your house for a pet; shitzu puppies will make excellent companions to your kids and they will prove to be very loyal and a very fun new member of your family which everyone will enjoy incredibly.

Check out Dean's puggle puppy website and my teacup puppies blog

Short Haired Dog Breeds - Oh the Advantages!

Short-haired Dog breeds have many advantages over long-haired breeds. One of these is that short-haired Dog breeds do not shed as much hair. While a shaggier coat makes a dog look fluffier and aesthetically more pleasing, it should be remembered that more hair means more time spent on bathing and grooming. Short-hairs are also good because pests can not hide on them very well, so they are better from a hygienic point of view.

Here are some grooming tips for short-haired dog breeds.

- Brush your dog regularly, preferably at least once a day. Make sure to brush against the hair growth direction to monitor for pests.

- Stainless steel combs are best for short-haired dogs. Slicker brushes are better for medium to long-haired dogs. Use a flea comb during the summer days to make certain your dog has not attracted those parasites. A bristle brush can be a final touch for adding gloss to the dog's coat.

- In case you dog has a tendency to avoid being brushed because of dislike for the process, it might be a good idea to try brushing immediately after play time. Start gently by brushing in the hair growth direction. Remember that successful training means frequent rewards. Give your dog a treat after the first brushing is complete. Increase the length of the brushing sessions little by little to allow the dog to get used to it.

- Brushing is also important before giving your dog a bath. Wet matted hair is only going to create problems later on, so make sure there is no matted hair before proceeding with the bath. Water and good shampoo in a sink works great for small dogs. Note that shampoos used by humans are not good for dogs and can cause irritation that might require medication. Start with the tail and wash the head the last. No one likes soap in his or her eyes.

- Rinse as many times as required to make sure that all residual shampoo has been rinsed out of the dog's coat.

- Short-haired dog breeds will naturally dry of faster. Usually a gentle towel rub is all that they need. Longer haired dogs need more attention and you should consider brushing the hair while it is drying to avoid tangles.

- If your dog tends to dislike baths then remember to reward it with a treat after each bathing session.

Get all of your dog information at [http://yougodog.com]

Copyright 2006 @ Ann Born [http://yougodog.com] No part of this article may be reproduced in any manner without including the author’s bio.

Choosing A Miniature Dog Breed For Your New Pet

Miniature Dog breeds are very popular because their small size means they are better suited to apartments or houses with small backyards. Additionally, they are easier to control than very large Dogs, and are generally cheaper to keep. They need less food and medication, though vet consultations are a standard price. Even with longer haired miniature dogs, it is easier to keep them brushed and groomed compared to their larger cousins.

Just because a dog is small, however, does not mean that they all share the same temperament or activity levels. Some of these dogs come from a background where they were used for hunting, like the miniature dachshund, and others, like the Tibetan spaniel, bark a lot. The latter would thus not be ideal for apartment living, unless you have very accommodating neighbors, or a sound proof apartment.

Small breeds that need a lot of exercise include the dachshund, the Italian greyhound, and the Australian Terrier. Breeds like the maltese, pugs, and chihuahuas will all do well exercising in a small backyard. If you do have a dog in an apartment, it is suggested that he be taken for a walk once or twice a day outside. This basically goes for all miniature dog breeds.

As far as which miniature dog breed to buy, there are many to choose from. As an owner you need to decide which will best suit your needs. Look into things such as temperament, size, and any features that will make your buying decision easier, such as coat length and care, and barking tendencies.

Here are four miniature dog breeds that you may want to check out before you make a purchasing decision.

1. The miniature bull terrier is a very playful dog that loves its' family. It does like strangers as well though, so is not a good choice for a guard dog. They like plenty of activity, and love toys, although they have pretty strong jaws and teeth so they tend to destroy them quite quickly. Miniature bull terriers tend to want to please their masters more than their larger brothers.

2. Another dog to consider is the Lhasa apso. Lhasa's have a distinctively beautiful long coat, and although they are lap dog size, they don't have the need to be cuddled all the time like some other lap dogs. Like cats, they are independent and will come for attention when they want it, though they are very affectionate by nature. Lhasa's are very loyal dogs, with a capacity for stubbornness which means they are better suited to those more experienced with handling dogs.

3. The miniature poodle is always popular. It is one of the most well behaved miniature dog breeds, and one that every dog lover should look into. Miniature poodles can grow up to 20 pounds, and stand about 15 inches in height. This breed is very intelligent and great with small children.

4. The miniature schnauzer weighs in at around 15 pounds. This miniature dog breed is affectionate, and is always up for a bit of fun. In addition, they are great for both country and city environments.

Miniature dog breeds have had quite a surge in popularity the last few years, no doubt influenced by the celebrity trend to carry them around in large handbags everywhere. Like all dogs, these too need their exercise, so a diamante studded collar and leash would no doubt be preferred than the gilded cage of a Louis vitton.

Bichon frise [http://www.thedogsbone.com/articles/10/1/Bichon-Frise-Dogs---The-Allergy-Solution/Bichon-Frise-Dogs---The-Allergy-Solution.html] and miniature pinschers [http://www.thedogsbone.com/articles/13/1/Miniature-Pinschers---Sleek-and-Loyal-But-Are-They-A-Family-Pet/Miniature-Pinschers---Sleek-and-Loyal-But-Are-They-A-Family-Pet.html] are two more miniature dog breeds worth considering. Learn more here.

Is There Morality in War? What Does the Bible Really Say?

The question of whether or not a believer in Jesus Christ can serve his or her country; kill the enemies of our country and at the same time fulfill the biblical mandate of loving your fellow man has troubled the conscience of many Christians.

Does any nation have the DIVINE RIGHT to exercise the sword or even to maintain a war department?

Is it biblical to be a conscientious objector?

Is there a direct contradiction between the direct commands of God in Exodus 20:13 "Thou shalt NOT kill"
Deuteronomy 7:2 ". . . Thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them. . . "?

What is up here? Have we found a contradiction in the Bible?

The first thing we must understand and recognize is the clear biblical distinction between the spiritual kingdom on earth today; made up of believers in Jesus Christ and the earthly kingdom; composed of citizens of the national entity.

The biblical principles concerning the spiritual kingdom apply to the believer ONLY, while the biblical principles concerning the physical earthly kingdom are for BOTH us and the unbeliever alike.

The forefathers of this country understood this when they forged the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.

Jesus himself understood this when he stated: "... render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesars; and unto God the things which are God's. "

The Christians responsibility is first to the body of Christ; then to the state, but they must not be confused as to the proper place and function of each one. They are BOTH ordained of God; but are NOT the same thing!

In Matthew 22 Jesus demonstrated the compatibility between Bible doctrine and our national heritage. In verses 1-14; he established the existence of a spiritual kingdom on earth. There are four divine institutions or principles set up by God under the divine laws of establishment for the perpetuation of the human race:

1.)Volition or free will; which is the basis of true freedom and which we as a people lost at the fall of man in the garden. But we must choose to be free even in the state of bondage.
2.) Marriage between a man and a women-Which is the stabilizer within the human race; without biblical Marriage relationships freedom is simply an illusion.
3.) Family- which is the basis for orderly societal stability.
4.) Nationalism- which exists to KEEP THE WORLD from turning into chaos and prevent Satan from completely taking over the world according to:

Isaiah 14:12 "How are you fallen from heaven, O Lucifer; son of the morning! How you are cut down to the ground you who weakened the nations!"

As you can see without strong national pride and heritage rooted in biblical doctrine we could not begin to protect our freedom or guarantee effective evangelism. The Bible nowhere advocates INTER-nationalism... period!

Amos 3:3 says:"Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"

Human government was established in Genesis 9. God himself divided the land masses and the people into separate nations to prevent them from being destroyed.

Why? Because in Genesis 11:1-9 Internationalism was becoming the breeding ground for a concentration of wickedness and a total rejection of God.

God's indictment against internationalism at the Tower of Babel was the dispersion of the human race. He would give them different languages as a barrier to prevent future international schemes succeeding. God himself ordained geographical boundaries so that they would begin to seek the lord according to Acts 17:26-27. Nationalism provides law and order to protect individual volition so that people may have freedom of privacy within the law. It provides freedom to own property; to make decisions and conduct a legitimate business apart from the governments interference. A national entity must provide a system of free enterprise where there is the opportunity for advancement compatible with their individual ability.

Authority within the National Entity

The divine establishment of authority is spoken of in Romans 13:1-7. We as believers have a "Mode of operation" to function as citizens of both the spiritual kingdom and the national kingdom.
Two kingdoms co-exist and both have functions within the national entity:they are to be coordinated; but NEVER combined!

Both the spiritual and the national should never be in conflict with each other, but when the Bible is ignored and the principle of the separation of Church and state which is supposed to protect the Church entity from government establishment of a particular denomination getting supremacy over the others. Thomas Jefferson suggested and believed in this principle in his letters to a Baptist minister who was afraid of one denomination or religion gaining preeminence within our governments structure. That a WALL of separation between the actions of one man-made institution and the state DOES EXIST and should exist; but at the same time a WALL does NOT exist to separate the principles of God's laws from our governments laws- the two are and must be one.

1.)There exists two kingdoms:Church and State.
2.)There is a clear distention between Church and State.
3.)The Christian has the responsibility to the state as well as to God.
4.)Whenever the State does not follow Biblical concepts of nationalism; then the believer is to declare his or her allegiance to God by making the issues of salvation and other doctrines clear. This helps the state define and maintain it's freedoms and if the state refuses to repent it seals it's judgment to come!
5.)The Church is to support GOOD government; but NEVER to become that government! We do not "condone practice" but we "condone principles". These rules restrain and block unbelievers from practicing evil acts in overflow as in Babel. The Believer is restrained by their conscience ruled over by the Holy Spirit!

The Divine View of the Military

I believe NO ONE has the right to avoid Military service or to be a so-called conscientious objector on the basis of morality; and certainly not on the basis of religion or Christian belief. From the standpoint of the Bible; there are no such creatures as conscientious objectors. There are COWARDS and and people who are totally ignorant of bible doctrine; but there are no biblical reasons for any one to be a conscientious objector.

Allow me to demonstrate to you from the scripture and our own government doctrines that the Supreme courts ruling; permitting exemption from military service or the draft on moral grounds is contrary to biblical doctrine.

This principle is strongly expressed in:

"The American Creed" by William Tyler Page; adopted by an act of Congress in April the 6Th 1918:which states

"I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy IN A REPUBLIC; a sovereign nation of many sovereign states; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon these principles of freedom, equality, justice and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, support it's constitution; to obey it's laws, to respect it's flag, and to DEFEND IT against ALL enemies. "

The Bible has a great deal to say concerning War. The real confusion comes in regard to the ignorance of God's viewpoint on the subject! Whether or not you like war; the bible teaches that warfare which is necessary to protect:
1.) Your Country and
2.)To defend your freedoms under God is BOTH a moral right and justified END in itself! Now I am not referring to the immoral acts that take place on both sides of a war but to the moral principle of war when necessary!

What about fighting and KILLING the enemies of America? Is this a moral or Immoral stand?

"Thou shalt not kill" Does this happen in war? Yes, sometimes in war as in life people do "Murder" without cause in war; BUT the term to KILL here is "Murder without cause" not the same thing as killing of the enemies of a nation under moral defense. This commandment is referring to "Homicide Murder" under normal social conditions not wartime conditions!If it were not for National Wars to protect nations from conquers all the world would have been in Chaos century's ago!

Eccl. 3:3 says that there is "a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down and a time to build up. "

Eccl. 3:8 says there is "a time to love and a time to hate, a time OF WAR; and a time of peace. "

There will always be in the framework of this present world system in spite of man's best efforts for peace. Jesus said clearly that:". . ye shall hear of wars and rumors of war; be ye not troubled:for such things MUST be. . . " (Mark 13:7; Matt 24:6; Luke 21:9 )You can alleviate poverty but not eradicate it completely ( Deut 15:11; John 12:8)

War cannot be completely abolished because of the old sin nature which resides in every person and because of Satan's personal ruler ship over this "world system" (John 12:31).
Only Christ can and will abolish both poverty and War when he returns to earth. During his Millennial reign; the swords will be turned into plow sheers; the spears into pruning hooks and man shall be taught war no more. (Isaiah 2:4; Mic. 4:3)

Until then, war will continue to be a doctrine from the word of God we must deal with. (Eccl. 3:8)
According to biblical standards WAR is not for Children but only Adults although at times in our own history as with other nations teens were drafted but the bible says in Numbers 1:2-3 and 26:4 and sets the standard at 20 years and above! There was an exception stated for the Jews in Deuteronomy 24:5 that certain adults were not to go to war.

The man with a new wife shall not go to war nor be charged with any business; simply because God knew that he would not have his mind on the war or his business so he was free from war and business for one year.

JUST warfare is from God

NOT all warfare is from God or justified in any way, War for personal gain or political aggrandizement such as what the Nazi movement or Japanese governments of "National Worship" over the world. As a mad Dog must be destroyed, so that it's oppression and evil be stopped forever never to rise again! God uses War to Judge all depraved , sin-filled nations whose viewpoint is incompatible with Divine Nationalism. Many times in the Old Testament God allowed War to destroy a Nation completely to keep it's corruption from spreading or to preserve his people from destruction.

(Read Genesis 15:14, 16. Leviticus 18:25; Amos 2:9; I Kings 21:26)

In I Chronicles 5:19-22 The Jews were fighting the Hagarites-a branch of the Arabs descended from Hagar. This War was a part of the Conquest of Canaan ordered by God as Judgment for the Canaanites' Apostasy of vile sin. Verse 22 reads ". . . for there fell down many slain; because the WAR WAS OF GOD. . . . "This war was God's WILL, and an enemy was KILLED!

In God's will there MUST be a Decisive defeat of his Enemies

Total annihilation and decisive defeat of the enemies of God or a Nation are the ONLY way to assure complete PEACE not listening to talking heads at the U. N. or "False political strongholds" held by Cowards who fear men!

Annihilation means the total eradication of all the enemies strongholds NOT the capturing of small towns and villages or geographic areas back and forth. Enemies MUST be decimated down to the last man and this alone involves effective strategy, tactics and logistics in order to accomplish real lasting peace.

(Read Deuteronomy 20:17, 20; Joshua 11:21-23; 14:11-15; Psalm 46:8-9)

We must realize that the Bible is "PRO-JUST WAR" But the problem in a lot of the wars the U. S. has fought in is that we have not fought a Just war because we have not gone far enough to win decisively, we've fought politically instead of God's way! The Vietnam and Korean conflicts are the perfect examples of a political wars for personal agendas in Washington. We tied our soldiers hands behind their backs with little support; this is NOT a biblical War but should have been! It is not that we went to war that was wrong but the simple fact that we went for person gain and not with the blessings of God!If peace is not the result then the war was useless and accomplished nothing.

Psalm 18:34 says "God teaches my hands TO WAR. . . " and the believers faith protects us in time of War. Job 5:20 says "In famine he shall redeem you from death: and IN WAR from the power of the sword. "

Remember this; NO people have ever been FREE without having that freedom challenged by those who hate freedom; cowards who hide behind women and children and attack at the backs never looking us in the eyes, these must be DECIMATED UTTERLY or we give them our freedom to be human beings blessed by God! In both the struggle and the perpetuation of Jewish freedom after the Exodus; God was the Commander in Chief of their armies (Joshua 5:13-6:2).

Jesus in War is NOT the "meek and mild" painted figure in religion; his garment is dipped in the blood of his enemies for whenever you see the title. . . "Lord of Hosts" you are seeing "Lord of heavens Armies" this is our banner of Victory in War. When America fights she must fight in submission to her true Commander in Chief!

I am a LICENSED MINISTER of the Gospel and a FORMER WICCAN / BLACK WITCH and Substance Abuser who was brought to Faith in Jesus Christ in Aug of 1979. My Ministry is to reach those in the Occult/Cults and SKEPTICISM with the TRUTH of God's Eternal Word! I am unremarkable but my God is most remarkable in his scope and has worked in me a miracle beyond compare. My ministry site is at http://ministerofblog.wordpress.com/ for Open Your Eyes ministries.

Dog Breeds A-Z

Finding the perfect pet is difficult when there are so many different breeds to choose from. Use this guide to learn more about a few of the different breed available.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is the oldest Arctic Dog breed in the world and was bred as a working Dog. They were used to pull sleds as well as hunt. This is a friendly Dog that makes a great family pet. They love children, but aren't fond of the company of other Dogs. They are a smart breed that can learn quickly but tend to get bored easily.

To groom this breed you will need to brush their fur out weekly. Some of the health concerns associated with this breed include growth problems, eye problems, and hip dysplasia.

Bloodhound

The Bloodhound, also referred to as the St. Hubert's Hound or the Chien St. Hubert, is a Belgium breed that was bred tracking and hunting. This is one of the oldest hound breeds in the world. They typically grow to be between 23 and 27 inches tall and they usually weigh between 80 and 90 pounds. They have a short smooth coat that is waterproof. Their coat colors vary between black and tan and red and tan. Red Bloodhounds can also be found. They have folds of skin around their face and neck which help to gather scent and direct it towards their nose.

To care for this breed you will need to rub down their coats with a wet towel a few times a week. Their toenails will also need to be clipped on a weekly basis. Their ears also need to be tended to on a regular basis. For exercise this breed needs daily runs and lots of play time. To keep their minds stimulated you may want to introduce tracking games. This breed has a few health concerns that you should be aware of: hip dysplasia, inverted eyelids, and bloating.

Boxer

The Boxer is a German breed that was created by crossing a Bullenbeisser, an unknown breed, and an English Bulldog. This breed was originally very aggressive and used for fighting and baiting bulls. However, over the years this breed lost their aggressiveness and it has become better suited for family life.

The boxer is a mid-sized dog breed that typically stands between 21 and 25 inches tall. They usually weigh between 66 and 70 pounds. Their coat is short, smooth and shiny. Their coat can come in a variety of colors and have several different marking patterns. Some of the most common colors Boxers have include white, brindle, and fawn.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon, also referred to as the Griffon Belge, the Griffon Bruxellois, and the Belgian Griffon, is a small Belgium dog breed that was used to kill vermin in horse stables. This interesting looking little fellow stands between 7 and 8 inches tall and weighs in at a whopping 6 to 12 pounds. They come in two varieties, rough hair and smooth hair. Both versions can be found with black, black and tan, or red colored coats.

To care for this little dog you will want to brush their coat several times a week to prevent matting and to remove debris and dirt. They can usually get enough exercise to stay healthy by playing indoors, however, they also enjoy spending time frolicking outside and going for short walks. This dog will need to be trained and you will need to be consistent with your praise and corrections. If you plan on breeding this dog you should understand that they have a very difficult time whelping and only about 60 percent of puppies make it. In addition to reproductive problems, this breed also has respiratory issues and eye problems.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a Mexican breed that was discovered about 100 years ago. They are a toy dog that stands between 6 and 9 inches tall and they typically weigh less than 6 pounds. Their coats come in two variations, short and long. The long coat is soft and can be either straight or wavy. The short coat is soft and dense. Both coat variations can come in just about any color or color combination.

To care for this breed you will need to groom their hair daily for the long haired version, and as needed for the short hair version. This is an indoor pet that is not suited for extended periods of time outside. However, they do enjoy playing outside and going for short walks. To manage this breed's temperament you need to socialize it and train it early. Some of the health concerns that are associated with this breed include kneecap problems, eye problems, and tracheal problems.

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel, also referred to as the Norfolk Spaniel, is a British breed that is known for being the oldest spaniel breed in the world. They were originally developed as a hunting dog. Their name derives from the springy steps that they take when on the hunt. Today this breed is still used as a hunting dog, however, they also make a great family pet if trained and socialized properly.

The English Springer Spaniel requires regular grooming to keep its coat shiny and clean. The best type of brush to use on their soft coat is a stiff bristle brush. Bathing should only be done when they need it. This breed also needs a lot of exercise. Long walks and plenty of play time in the yard or in a fenced in park each day will keep them healthy, happy, and out of trouble.

Fox Terrier (Smooth)

The Fox Terrier (Smooth) is a cute little dog that originated in England as a vermin hunter. This breed was grouped with the Wired Fox Terrier until 1984 when it was established as its own unique breed. Today this breed is still used to hunt vermin, however, it is also used as a family pet.

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a playful, energetic breed that loves playing with kids. If you have other pets in your family this breed may chase them, especially if they are small like cats. And they may try to take the dominate role if you have other dogs. To keep them happy and healthy they will need lots of exercise, lots of mental stimulation, and a lot of attention. They are intelligent and respond well to obedience training, however, they have a stubborn streak that may keep them from coming to you when you call them, especially if they are having fun.

Fox Terrier (Wire)

The Fox Terrier (Wire), also called the Wire Fox Terrier, is a British breed that was developed back in the 19th century as a vermin hunter. This breed most likely descends from the Beagle, Shropshire and Cheshire. Today, this very active dog breed is used as both a family pet and a vermin hunter.

This little dog stands about 15.5 inches tall and weighs between 16 and 18 pounds. Their have short wiry hair that gives them a plush look. Their coats should be predominantly white with tan and/or black markings. This dog makes a great playmate for kids. However, you will want to be careful what other pets you pair this dog with as it has a tendency to chase anything that is small than it is.

Greyhound

The Greyhounds is an Egyptian breed that was originally used to hunt wolves, wild boars and deer. This breed was originally associated with aristocracy and high class citizenship. Today this breed is used for racing, hunting and for pets.

The Greyhound is a tall athletic dog that stands between 27 and 30 inches tall and weighs between 60 and 70 pounds. They usually have a short, close coat that comes in a variety of colors including: multi-color, white, blue, fallow brindle, black, and red. This dog is truly a gentle giant that are great with kids. Since they were bred as hunting dogs they have a natural instinct to chase anything smaller then they are so they may not be the best house mates for small pets.

Puli

The Puli, also called the Pulik, the Hungarian Puli and the Hungarian Water Dog, is a herding dog that originated in Hungary. It is a medium sized dog that stands between 14 and 19 inches tall and weighs between 20 and 40 pounds. They have a shaggy and weatherproof outercoat and a soft wooly undercoat. Their coloring is usually pretty dark. The most common colors found in this breed include black, dark rust, gray, and apricot.

Sealyham Terrier

The Sealyham Terrier, is a terrier breed that originated in Wales. This breed most likely developed from crossing the Cheshire Terrier, the Welsh Corgi, the Dandi Dinmont Terrie, the West Highland Terrier and the Fox Terrier. It is a small dog that only stands about 12 inches high and it weigh between 18 and 20 pounds. They have a coat similar to the Scottish Terrier, however, their coat colors are slightly different. The Sealyham Terrier comes in shades of white, lemon, blue, badger pied, black, and brown.

Vizsla

The Vizsla, also called the Hungarian Vizsla, the Magyar Vizsla, the Drotszoru Magyar Vizsla, and the Hungarian Pointer, is a Hungarian sporting dog breed. They are a medium sized dog that stands between 22.5 and 25 inches tall and that weighs between 48.5 and 66 pounds. They have a short straight coat that comes in a brownish red color. White traces on their chest and feet are common. The Vizsla is a sweet nature dog that is gentle and tolerant. They make a great family dog and companion, as well as a great hunting dog.

Whippet

The Whippet is a British breed that was created by crossing the Greyhound with a variety of terrier breeds. This dog was originally used as a mouser and vermin hunter, however, they also made a living at the dog races. Today this dog is used for both hunting and as a companion.

The Whippet is hound dog that stands between 17 and 20 inches tall and weighs about 28 pounds. They have a short, fine coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. When you look at this dog they look just like a miniature Greyhound.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, is a toy dog breed that originated in Great Britain. They were originally used as a lap dog and fashion accessory by Victorian aristocracy. Many dog experts believe that this breed was created by crossing the Skye Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, the Manchester Terrier, the Paisley and the Maltese.

The Yorkshire Terrier is petite and it only stands between 6 and 9 inches tall and it weighs between 3 and 7 pounds. They have a silk long coat that is variegated. Steel blue and tan are common shades found in their coat.

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Best Small Dogs Good With Kids?

For a family with young children the question will come up when choosing a small pet Dog. You want to know if the Dog will get along with the all of the family. So, before you make any decisions you need to know where to find small Dogs that are good with kids and perhaps other pets you already have.

It is not a good idea to adopt a new Dog when you have a new born or young toddler. You will be very busy training one small human to locate the bathroom and eat on their own that a puppy or even a full grown dog can be a little too much all at once. Puppies keep their new families up while they are growing and getting settled just as babies and young children do. Waiting until all the excitement of a new person's arrival has died down to get a new pet is usually recommended.

Pugs

Pugs are a good mix with younger passed the toddler stage. These little dogs with a big personality seem to consider children as siblings. They like to play games that involve a lot of actions, but fetching the ball might not be this little fellow's thing. He will also loyally follow the family around everywhere really getting his feelings hurt if he is left out. Children will need to be firmly taught to leave this guy alone when he is at his water or food bowl. He is easily leashed trained and housebroken.

Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher might not be the best choice for most children. He will do well with a studious student who likes visits to the library and some playtime in the park, but while this little guy has comic side most children enjoy, he's just fragile for roughhousing and can be hard to train. An active or hot tempered child might lose their temper with this guy despite his cute monkey like furry face. The little balls of fur are also difficult to house train.

Toy Fox Terrier

Some small dogs good with kids can be hurt by them. If your child can be taught to be gentle and careful than a great playmate might be the Toy Fox Terrier. This little guy is a light weight with soulful eyes and quick energetic movements. His coat is soft and smooth and easy to care for, and he will become very protective of those he loves. He likes to play ball, and he can play the clown seeming to know when he's attracted an audience for his antics.

The downside is he can be hurt, even killed easily due to the same fragility you find in most small breeds. When you have this type of dog child must be made to understand that have to keep an eye out for him. A backpack full of books slammed down in frustration, or a slammed door can cause a serious if not fatal accident for this little sweetheart. Otherwise their health is unusually good for a small breed and a Toy Fox terrier living to 14 years or more is not that uncommon.

Conclusion

Finding a new family member is a serious commitment that needs to be taken seriously by the oldest and youngest members of the family. If a parent teaches a child how to care for a pet successfully this is a lesson that will serve this young person all their life.

Megan loves cute and small dogs, considers a pet as more than a friend but a part of the family. She shares her love for these toy dogs at Complete-Small-Dogs-Guide.com.

Dog Information - Dog Breeds Most Suitable For Children

Dog breeds that are most suitable for children are breeds that have a mild temperament and playful attributes. It is important to note that every animal including the canine has its own personality. Therefore any of our suggested breeds may or may not be the right choice for your children. All Dog owners must take the time to educate the entire family about the canine. Then do the necessary Dog training and child training as well.

It is paramount that parents while making the choice of what dog they wish to include in the family get as much dog information from the breeder as possible.  What the bitch and the male's history are as it relates to kids and aggression. The breeder should assist you in picking a puppy with a mild temperament, one that does not become aggressive with noise and roughhousing. Also it is very important to know and match what environment is best suited for the dog breed itself.

Another important piece of advice is that no young toddler should ever be left unsupervised with your family dog or any other dog. When the child matures and grows to understand the relationship, then is able to utilize the dog training techniques your family is providing, you may then start weaning the supervision. We highly recommend monitoring the results.

Below are our top ten choices we think you should consider and why:

1.    The Labrador Retriever ranks at the top of our list. Their reputation as a fun loving family oriented canine is unsurpassed. They are most often good around children of all ages.

2.    The Golden Retriever is also an excellent choice for children of all ages. They are often easy going, playful and eager to please.

3.    Flat Coat Retriever's love children and are a great family choice. They are also eager to please and train reasonably well.  These dogs adjust well in many environments, so keep this in mind.

4.    Newfoundland's are extremely well suited for children. They have a sweet temperament and love children. They can handle more roughhousing than most dogs and simply go lay down when they have had enough. They always keep a watchful eye over the family and are very trustworthy dog. Environment plays a key role whether one should own a Newfoundland or not.

5.    The Saint Bernard is another good choice for children. Saints normally have a very mild temperament and love children. With a little training they become devoted, fun loving companions. Again your environment is an important consideration because of their size.

6.    Irish Setters are great family dogs and very good around children. They can be sensitive to a lot of boisterous activity, so keep that in mind. When they have had enough they normally retreat to the comfort of a quiet place.

7.    An English Setter is a very good choice for children. They have a mellow temperament and a loving nature.  With a little dog training these dogs make excellent companions.

8.    Beagles are normally a good choice for children as are many in the hound family. They are usually good around children, love to play. Beagles do have a stubborn streak about them however. They can be a bit of a challenge to train at times but patience will be rewarded.

9.    Pugs are normally a good dog for children. Pugs are very patient and fun loving canines that fit well in an urban environment. They do not tolerate interruptions when eating, like many canines. So keep this in mind around small toddlers.

10.    The Collie is another great choice for children. They have an even temperament, very docile and gentle. These make great family dogs and are a perfect fit in many environments.

These suggestions are by no means the only dog breeds you should consider. But they are a good start in your attempt to find what breed is best suited for your children and family environment. Please take the time to make informed decisions.  Remember that having a canine part of your family will require some consistent dog training. We at dog information blog are dedicated to the canine and dog lovers alike. We hope this information is useful and your feedback is welcome.

To learn more about your dog, visit our dog information site.
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Learn About Hunting Dog Breeds

There are three main kinds of hunting hounds: Sighthounds, scent hounds and lurchers.

Sighthounds, like the Whippet, have amazing eyesight and are extremely fast runners. Their way of hunting is called 'coursing'. They see their prey - often from a huge distance - then they stalk, chase and kill it. These Dogs are athletic, fast, very quiet and extremely independent. They are very affectionate and loyal to their owners and are good with small children. They make hopeless guard Dogs as they're so trusting!

Scent hounds, as you would imagine, use their sense of smell for hunting. Beagles, Basset Hounds and the American Coonhound all use their noses to track the prey. They very often hunt in packs and can chase game for a very long way before cornering it or killing it. These Dogs have characteristic booming barks and soulful expressions.

Lurchers are primarily some kind of sighthound bred with a working dog.

Gun Dogs

Hunters take a gun dog along with them to bring back whatever has been shot. Retrievers are very good at remembering where prey has fallen and love to retrieve ducks or geese that have been shot and landed in water. A typical gun dog is very well trained and can follow commands from a long distance away. They are renowned for their 'soft mouths' which means that they don't leave a mark on the game that they have retrieved.

Spaniels are excellent for finding game and flushing it out of any hiding place. They are also greats swimmers, good family dogs and fiercely loyal.

Pointers are also loyal. They're happy and affectionate dogs. Although they are bred to hunt, they make great pets as long as they get sufficient exercise. When they are hunting, they literally point! They find the game and then stop dead, letting the hunter know where it is. Once they are commanded, they flush the prey out for the hunter to shoot. Setters are good pointers.

One of the most famous pointers was Judy, a ship's dog during the Second World War. Her special skill was to point where Japanese planes were coming from - long before any of the humans on board could even hear their engines! Judy was awarded the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross (the Dickin Medal) in 1946.

Terriers

Most of the animals that terriers help to hunt for are pests. For example, Jack Russells go after ground hogs and foxes in America and Terriers hunt badgers in the UK (legally and illegally!). Hunters who work with these dogs are called terriermen.

Curs

These are used in a similar way to terriers but the game that they hunt is usually larger, such as boars, raccoons and even cougars. Staffordshire Terriers and any other kind of hunting dog are often bred together to produce hunting curs.

For more Beagle information [http://www.thedogsbone.com/articles/12/1/Beagle-Information---Who-Would-Have-Thought-They-Were-Hunting-Dogs/Beagle-Information---Who-Would-Have-Thought-They-Were-Hunting-Dogs.html], click here. For information on your canine friends, click here.

Dog Resource Guarding

Resource guarding can be described as the propensity of some Dogs to maintain possession of or guard particular things. These can include, but are not limited to food bowls, toys, territory, and people. Dogs displaying guarding issues will often freeze, growl or snap when approached, when you attempt to take an item away, or while being touched. In the worst case scenario a Dog may go beyond these warning signals and actually bite.

Guarding things they consider valuable is a very normal, natural and necessary part of dog behavior. After all, survival is often based on being able to successfully get and hold onto things such as food. People guard resources as well, including houses, cars, and jewelry. However, for a dog to live safely and happily in a home he or she needs to clearly understand that guarding from people is not only unnecessary but also inappropriate.

Some dogs seem to have a stronger genetically based propensity towards resource guarding than others. But, as with most behavior issues, it is usually a bit of nature and nurture that plays a part. Some dogs guarding issues also seem to stem from the simple fact that they have been allowed by their people (albeit inadvertently) to guard things. For example, a young pup who is allowed to consistently grab things and run off to the corner to chew on them may well come to think that doing so is his or her right and if someone tries to take something back a battle of teeth on hands may ensue.

We all love our dogs so much that we usually give them just about everything they want in life for free. They can jump on us or the couch for attention, they have a basket of toys at their disposal, we serve them meals and water even if they jump madly about barking at us. In some of these cases a dog who is temperamentally inclined and is allowed to be pushy may make for a dog who basically takes control of what he or she wants in the home.

So, it is important to be careful not to 'kill with kindness.' That is, not to indulge your dog to point where you allow a potentially serious behavior issue to develop. Any dog will be even that much more loveable when they have a clear understanding not to guard resources from people.

As with any behavior problem, it is always easier and safer to focus on prevention rather than cure. If your dog is already presenting signs of having a resource guarding issue it is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced, reward based trainer to help you in person.

In order to prevent resource guarding issues we need to condition our dogs to not only tolerate, but actually like something that doesn't necessarily come naturally to a dog. In this case, to respond promptly when we request them to give up objects.

Management - Management is a way of preventing problems from being practiced but also a way to help your dog understand that you control a valuable resource, i.e. his access to you and your home. Management is something we practice everyday in many ways with our dogs, including in the form of walking them on leash to keep them safe. When working on preventing behavior issues, management should be used intensely at first and then may gradually decrease depending on your dog's progress. For example, once you feel confident your dog is happily releasing things when you ask him or her to, you may choose not to use on leash supervision anymore (assuming your dog is housetrained and doesn't have other behavior issues you are also trying to prevent or resolve).

1. On Leash Supervision: When you are home and can supervise your dog keep him or her on a leash tethered nearby or while you hold it or step on it. This way you have a gentle and effective means of maintaining control. For example, if your dog is off leash and grabs something inappropriate to chew on you would have to chase after him or her to get it back. This scenario is likely to reinforce many inappropriate behaviors including playing keep away from you and guarding.

2. Short Term Confinement: When you can't your dog let him or her rest quietly in a crate, exercise pen or pet safe room.

3. Controlling Resources- Perhaps the most important part of any training protocol, controlling the things your dog wants in life is the first step in getting him or her to understand why paying attention to you and figuring out what you want is important. A dog that gets everything he or she wants in life for free is likely to have a hard time understanding why you (and listening to you) are valuable. Doggie resources are:
-Food
-Toys
-Attention
-Life Rewards (anything else you can think of your dog wants such as walking out the front door, being allowed to play with other dogs, sitting on the couch, etc.).

Get control of all of these things by not allowing your dog free, unlimited access to them and use training skills such as sit, down, come, etc. as a way to show your dog how to earn what he or she wants. That is, ask him or her to sit before getting a tummy rub, to hand target before getting dinner, to shake before going out for a walk, etc.

Training - Once you have focused on developing good management skills as outlined above you are ready to move on to working on specific anti-resource guarding exercises as a preventative.

1. Chew Toy and Bone Sharing - With your dog on a leash present a chew toy. Offer the chew toy to your dog to investigate and chew on for a moment while you hold one end. After a few moments, take it away and offer your dog a tiny, tasty treat from your other hand. As you progress with this game you can let go of20the chew toy and gradually allow your dog to chew on it for longer before you take it away and give a treat. This is a simple, but wonderful interactive game for you and your dog. By continually taking objects away and replacing with an object/toy/treat of equal if not greater value your dog is sure to look forward to you doing so.

2. Food Bowl Bonuses - When you have time, hand feed your dog at least part of his or meals. This way you can put a bowl on the ground with a few pieces in it, reach to take it away and offer a piece or two from your other hand. You can also reach towards the bowl as after you place it down and toss in some food. You should also work with bonus, high value treats that you can offer occasionally when you reach towards the bowl.

3. Practice in Many Places, with Many Things - Playing these trading games as many times as you can in as many different environments and with as many different things as possible is a great way to help your dog learn to want to share everything!

Andrea is a Certified Pet Dog Trainer through the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers and a Certified Pet Partners Team evaluator for the Delta Society and the AKC's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) test. She is the Director of Andrea Arden Dog Training in New York, and was named the best dog trainer in New York by New York, W, Time Out, Quest and the Daily News. Her website is located at http://www.andreaarden.com and she can be reached at 212-414-9597. You can follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/andreaardendogtraining.

Are You One of Those Thinking an Insulated Dog House May Not Be That Necessary?

Many Dog owners prefer to have their pet inside their home while some others prefer to have them outdoor. If you are one of those who prefer to have your Dog outdoor then you have probably decided to provide him with a dog Kennel. The question is: what type of doghouse have you chosen for your dog? There are many types of dog houses out there and not all of them can provide the protection that your pet needs when sleeping outside.

The best is to go for an insulated doghouse. You may then ask: why an insulated dog house? I have listed below 5 reasons why you should go for an insulated doghouse and not any other type.

1. What kind of weather do you experience in your region? If you live in a temperate region, it is very important to provide your pet with a doghouse that is insulated, the reason been that, in times of cold, if your best friend is left outside, he will struggle with the weather if his kennel is not properly insulated.

2. Where do you position the doghouse in your house? The location of the dog house also has a direct influence on the temperature inside the doghouse. If you place the doghouse in a location that is too sunny, your dog may end up struggling with heat. The sun itself moving from East to West, you are never sure of the position of the sun at a particular time of the day. An insulated dog house will provide the added protection your dog needs against the sun.

3. Do you leave your pet outside the house 100% of the time? The fact is your dog may be stressed out during inclement weather and also because of all the noise outside. The good thing about an insulated dog house is that is also provides some amount of noise reduction for your dog to sleep peacefully.

4. May be you are considering using a dog heater or heated dog bed. Heating the dog house with some electrical appliances is an excellent idea. But you should also have in mind that the heat produced by the heating device may be easily lost to the atmosphere. Having an insulated dog house help retain the heat that is produced by the electric appliance. Combining an electrical heating device with an insulated dog house is even better.

5. Does your pet have short or long hair? Short hair dogs will tend to lose heat much faster than long hair dogs. On the other side, long hair dogs will also tend to be overheated much faster and more often than short hair dogs. Insulation will retain more body heat when used in conjunction with a closing door during cold spells and keep the interior cooler during warm spells with the door opened.

So I hope with all this information at hand you are now able to make the right decision. I think it is obvious that an insulated dog kennel is an invaluable investment to make sure your pet leaves a happy and comfortable life on earth.

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Choosing Your Dog Breed - Jack Russell's

When you buy a Dog or puppy you should always give consideration to yours, your families and your Dogs needs. As a busy mum of four when I choose family pets I have to take into account the needs of myself, my family and the Dog itself.

The Jack Russell being a small independent intelligent protective breed fits my lifestyle perfectly. These Dogs were originally bred as hunting dogs, their role was to flush out foxes during the hunt that had taken to hiding underground in the burrows and holes as they are small enough to tunnel into the fox's dens and retrieve the animals or scare them out so the hunt could continue. But they are not aggressive dogs and would not maul the foxes but instead bark loudly informing the hunt of their whereabouts.

The original Jack Russell's had much longer legs and long coats,you can still find the original breed which is recognised through their physical characteristics. Their personality characteristics have carried through their genes to make a breed that is very protective and confident , they will face up to any dog in a battle of whit's no matter what their size.

Modern day Jack 's as a breeder friend of mine refers to them, have often had other breeds introduced into their ancestry one of the most common being Corgis which results in a dog of a much calmer nature but still very protective.

I have three Jack Russell's and have found all three to be very good with children and very protective of them, they are very active dogs and need a fair amount of exercise but are also small enough to be lap dogs and like nothing better than to cuddle up to their owners, i find them very protective of the house and bark at the slightest hint of danger

So think carefully about the sort of dog breed that suits your individual circumstances and lifestyle. If you want a small intelligent dog that is very protective and will warn you of danger yet still be very loving and loves to cuddle up, then a Jack Russell may be the breed for you.

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Which is the Right Leash for Your Puppy or Dog?

Which is the right leash for your puppy or Dog? With so many to choose from, picking a leash for your new puppy or Dog can be confusing. There are really only a few things you need to know, and when you know them, selecting a leash for your puppy or Dog is really quite simple!

The best general purpose leash is about 4' (120cm) long, and well made. Look for quality stitching, and a material that will not burn or chafe your hands. Leather is excellent quality and very long lasting if cared for properly. I prefer a cotton/synthetic webbing, the softer the better.

A 4' leash will not encourage bad habits. If you follow a pulling Dog, that dog will learn to pull. There is no need for a 'training' collar or reprimands. Any flat collar or harness is fine so long as you are consistent and do not follow a pulling dog. Your dog should ideally walk by your side and not stray too far from that position, a longer leash allows your dog too much freedom.

That is not to say that we cannot give our dogs free time to explore on leash, and when we do give the signal, a longer leash is appropriate. A 'flexi' style retractable leash is great in this situation, although a very strong dog may damage a retractable leash. An aggressive dog is probably not safe on a retractable leash unless the leash is very good quality.

If you plan to do any tracking with your dog, then a good quality 30' (10m) leash is a good investment. Again, I prefer a soft cotton webbing although there are lightweight climbing ropes which do not get heavy when wet and will not chafe or burn. Two knots should be tied, one at the end to stop the line from running out and one about 6' from the end let you know when you are about to run out of line.

I also use my 30' tracking line when I am just ambling through the forest and have signalled to my dog that it is ok to explore within that length of line. Just putting that leash on is signal enough.

A 30' tracking line is also excellent for teaching recalls and stays when you are not in a safe off-leash training area.

The fittings on the end of the leash need to be very good quality. A strong snap-style fitting is best, as it is easy to use and generally trouble free. If you and your dog spend a lot of time at the beach, they will rust out and get jammed with sand unfortunately. I had a leash made with a brass diver's snap. Sand does not get caught in the spring and it does not rust, however it does not have a very strong spring and has come undone by accident. I think it's probably better to just wash out a good quality snap with fresh water and apply a little water dispersant (CRC or WD40) after a visit to the beach.

Cotton or synthetic leashes will need to be washed occassionally, which will greatly enhance their life. By the same token, don't store them in direct sunlight. The same is true of leather leashes. An occassional rub down with leather preservative is all that a leather leash requires.

If you have a dog who enjoys biting at the leash then training can be employed to bring this behavior under control. I favour deliberately teaching a dog to play tug with the leash and putting the behavior on cue, that way I develop control over the behavior and can use it as a reward for other behavior.

A quicker solution to biting the leash is to get a 4' metal chain leash, which is not nearly so enjoyable to bite on. Get one with a snap which attaches to a normal flat collar, some come as choker chains. If you are competent with a choker chain (check chain), then go right ahead and use it as such, but most people are not nearly so competent as they might imagine and would be better served learning positive reinforcement training methods. Positive reinforcement traning methods are far less likely to damage your relationship with your dog, your dog's spine and trachea, and your dog's enjoyment of working and walking.

Aidan Bindoff is Editor of http://www.PositivePetzine.com, a free resource for people training their own dog. Each edition features easy-to-use information on a particular behavior or problem behavior. Training methods are based on positive reinforcement techniques.

Choosing the Right Puppy Dog - Use the Puppy Test to Help You Decide

Choosing a puppy from a litter is no easy task. You did your research and know which breed you like. You went to a breeder, hopefully a reputable one, and find yourself looking at six different puppies. But which puppy to choose?

One thing you have to keep in mind is just like every human is different, Dogs are different too. Two puppies from the same litter can have completely different personalities.

If you're not an experienced Dog trainer, there are a few considerations to help you choose the right puppy.

At first, just observe the puppies with each other. You should be able to isolate the good puppies with outgoing personalities during puppy play. They shouldn't be too dominant nor overly submissive with the rest of the litter. A dominant puppy may be too difficult for a novice owner to handle and will need consistent training to keep them at bay. A puppy that is extra submissive may be too fearful as an adult and can show their fear with aggression later on.

After the observation, use the following test to determine if a puppy is right for you. The responses vary from overly dominant to extra fearful. The appropriate responses are in bold.

1. Put the puppy on the floor and when he walks away from you kneel down and call him in a friendly happy voice. Does the puppy

• Walk away


• Walk over to you and wag his tail


• Run over to you and jump up and playfully nip or bite


• Ignore you and explore his surroundings

2. Pet the puppy dog from head to tail. Does she

• Cringe


• Roll over on her back


• Nuzzle your hand / Wag her tail


• Nip your hand


• Walk away

3. Make a sudden noise (for example, drop your keys on the floor). The puppy

• Cringes, yelps or cowers


• Startles, then looks towards the noise curiously


• Ignore the noise as if it didn't happen


• Bark at the keys and even attack them

4. Gently squeeze one of the puppy's toes. Does the puppy

• Jerk his paw away wildly while yelping


• Pull his foot back calmly


• Growl and try to nip your hand

5. Put some tasty dog food in a dish. When the puppy starts to eat, push the dish away with a stick. Does the puppy

• Cower


• Follow the dish and continue eating the food


• Growl, bark or attack the stick angrily

Just remember that which ever puppy you choose, they have the potential of becoming excellent adult dogs. Some of the greatest trainers who work with dogs for field and obedience championships can pick any puppy from a litter and turn them into excellent dogs.

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choosing a good breeder [http://www.puppy-portal.com/ChoosingaBreeder.html] (first car with your pup, puppy-proofing your home) and much more. The best part about it is that all information is FREE.

Dogs And Children That Go Together

Are you considering getting a Dog, but have concerns because you have children? There are several breeds of Dogs that make better pets than other breeds. Some breeds to consider include Retrievers, Schnauzers/Beagles, Collies, Spaniels, and Poodles.

The most popular breed is the Labrador Retriever. If you have young children or toddlers, you might consider getting a puppy of this breed. Raising them together develops positive interaction between your children and your pets early.

Retrievers are a good size for kids, not too small or too big. They're affectionate, patient, and intelligent. They're known to take a toddler's rough play with a wag and a smile. They like to play as well and they're a breed that is easy to train. You can always count on a Retriever, but it's important to make them feel as if they're a member of your family. Other retrievers who have a good reputation around children include Golden Retrievers and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

Schnauzers and Beagles fall into the hound family. These Dogs are usually a little smaller in stature compared to Retrievers. They have good, positive temperaments, but can be a little stubborn. The Basset Hound also falls into this family of dogs. They may have a false reputation for being lazy because they've been known to play with children all day long.

One of the most famous Collies is "Lassie." They are known for being friendly and patient. Because of this, they're very docile with children. Collies are also known to have a lot engery, which is good for being around young children.

There's a lot of dogs that fall into the Spaniel family, including the American Cocker Spaniel, and English Cocker Spaniel. These dogs are known to be kind, trusting, cheerful, and smart. They are very even-tempered. Their ears are very sensitive to pulling though, so it's important to watch your toddler to ensure they aren't too rough on the dog's ears. It's very important to buy your Spaniel from a reputable breeder since there were problems with inbreeding Spaniels in the late 1970's and early 1980's.

Poodles are known to be naturally kind, mild mannered, and sensitive. Poodles are smart and this is another breed that's easy to train. They're usually smaller in stature compared to retrievers. Poodles are fearless, faithful, and ready to play, however Toy Poodles, a sub-breed of Poodles, don't have the temperament for children and aren't recommended if you have kids.

Dogs are wonderful family pets. If you match the right breed to your family, you'll have a friend for life.

This article has been submitted in affiliation with http://www.PetLovers.Com/ which is a site for Pets.

Which Breed Of Dog Matches Your Temperament? How To Choose That Right Dog For Your Family

The Right Breed Just For You

If you choose the right Dog that is there just for you it will be an amazing journey for both of you.

The Canadian Kennel Club has actually separated the many breeds into seven different groups. These groups basically tell you what the Dog was originally developed and bred for.

There are also sub groups you can delve into, that would be more specific in defining the general temperament of that particular Dog breed. Don't forget that often the temperament of a breed will actually follow the function of that breed. Obviously you want to match temperament and energy of the Dog with the family.

Also, you need to match the "age" of the family with the energetic needs of the dog. An elderly lady or gentleman will not be able to go for long brisk walks; on the other hand, they may very well enjoy the slow ambling walks.

Also to take into consideration; do you socialize a lot? Will you be gone often, the dog left alone? There are so many different questions and answers. Make yourself a list, and then, take that list to the breeder.

-How much time is spent away from home?

-Do you live in a house, apartment or condominium?

-Do you walk often? Are they brisk walks, or ambling walks?

-Do you have kids, what age are they?

-Can you afford a dog and its upkeep?

-Are you willing to train your dog? This is very important!

-What attributes do you need your dog to have? Such as calmness; gentleness; energetic; protective, loving, sociable, there are many others. List the ones you want in your dog.

Here are the seven groups. Next article I will go into the sub groups.

The Sporting Group

These are high energy dogs. They are also bright dogs and have the need to do something for you, such as retrieve. So, if you want to run, play ball for hours in a day, this dog is great. They need mental and physical exercise.

The Hound Group

These are the runners. If you are a runner then a hound is great for you. If you love to go on long walks, daily, then these are also the dogs for you. There are two types of hounds, those that want to run top speed, and those that are "trail" hounds, they just go ambling along. Hounds do a lot of howling, so you need to consider this also.

The Working Group

The working breed is an active dog. They are active in various different activities. Some are "pullers, some are "herders" well, actually, there is also a herding group; some are "protectors" and some are "rescuers". So, make sure you know what you are going to do with your dog, and then choose the right one.

The Terrier Group

Terriers are high active dog. They were bred to get rid of vermin originally. They are long legged, short legged and one time also fighting dogs.

The Toy Group

These are the little dogs with attitude. The dogs that rock! There are so many different types in this group that you really need to analyze exactly what you want, and what they will give. You have lots of choice in this group.

The Non-Sporting Group

Such as the Dalmatian. If you haven't found what you want, it's probably in here.

The Herding Group

These are highly intelligent dogs such as Australian Cattle Dog, Shetland Sheepdog, and Belgian Sheepdogs. These make excellent pets.

Ruth is actively involved with the internet and she finds it very exciting. Her passions are people and pet health. She is a wife, a stepmom a dog owner and a business person. She is married for almost 30 years to Chris who has been, and still is, battling the monster MS. Two of her dogs are Certified Therapy Dogs.

Her passions are dog care and dog training. She is currently working from her home. Her Home Page - Her Dog Adoption Page And Her Pet Blog - HappyPetStop

Out of Control Dog? Cesar Millan and National Geographic Channel Can Help

Cesar Millan came to America wading up to his neck across the Rio Grande. After living on the street he found a job at a Dog groomers, handling the tough cases. After marrying Illusion he became a US citizen. From this beginning there is now a wealth of jobs created from THE Dog WHISPERER.

Cesar, with the help of Illusion, their two sons and other workers, are responsible for the rescue of dogs who would have been put down, or returned to a shelter. Many more owners have learned how to be the "pack leader" so they can keep, and have a rewarding relationship with their dogs.

Some people think that Cesar is too harsh with some dogs. There is even one woman who thinks she can do everything Cesar can by using treats. But I've never seen her calm a "red dog." That's Cesar's name for the dogs that are a danger to other dogs and people, and are the cases he says have put him on the map. I've also never seen the treat lady (who I'm not criticizing because she also has helped some dogs) work with the number Cesar rehabilitates, many at the same time.

There is a dog rehabilitation center where forty to fifty dogs live happily together under Cesar and his workers' care. It's not extravagant, but the dogs have activities and facilities that allow problem dogs to have group therapy, learning from the well-adjusted pack. These dogs sometimes take weeks or more to learn to become calm and submissive. But more often Cesar and crew achieve this in a day or two, or even within an hour. The biggest problem is getting the owners to carry through. Usually when they see the results, they are more than happy to do so. Now if we could just get more parents to be the pack leader with their kids!

Archie Harris delivers consumers the latest cable TV reviews from a regular users perspective. Harris navigates through the world of entertainment and discovers the great cable deals from companies like Comcast, Charter, and Timewarner Cable. If you're thinking about purchasing digital cable television make sure you read Archie's articles.

Comparing Dog Breeds - How to Choose Your Next Dog

Comparing Dog breeds is highly important when deciding to adopt a Dog. No two Dogs are ever the same, despite the breed and its standards. Every Dog develops his own "personality" and temperament as he grows. Even puppies from the same litter can be as different as night and day. Breed standards are general guidelines that are presented to potential owners, but many times an individual dogs' traits will vary drastically from that of its standards. Knowing this, you should evaluate each dog you are considering adopting, regardless of the breed, and pay attention to any traits you may find troubling.

While comparing dog breeds, you'll find that some are known for their hyperactive, sometimes destructive personalities and need to have a training program introduced to them early on. Some of these include:

1. Terriers
2. Labrador Retrievers
3. Collies
4. Huskies
5. Dachshunds

Not that these dogs aren't good. But before you adopt one be sure you know that you will need to spend a great deal of time on exercising and training.

In the process of comparing dog breeds, another issue you may be concerned about is barking. Barking becomes especially troublesome if you happen to live in an apartment. Neighbors won't appreciate hearing your dog bark all the time. All dogs bark occasionally, but adopting a breed that is known for chronic barking may become problematic later. Be sure to do extensive research when you are comparing dog breeds if barking will be an issue for you.

Breeds that are identified as "barkers" include:

1. Border Collies
2. Beagles
3. Hounds
4. Chihuahuas
5. Poodles

Some potential owners may be seeking a breed that is known to be a good watchdog. While comparing dog breeds, be sure to eliminate the "overly friendly" dogs. Adopting a dog that "looks" protective may not always be the best choice. While the appearance of a watchdog is important, adopting a dog breed with proven guarding traits is of the utmost importance.

In the process of comparing dog breeds, some dogs you may come across that demonstrate good watchdog traits include:

1. Chow Chow
2. Bull Terrier
3. Doberman Pinscher
4. German Shepherd
5. Rottweiler

For those with children, comparing dog breeds is vital. You may want to shy away from larger breeds or breeds that tend to be aggressive. You may be interested in adopting a breed that is friendly and affectionate.

Some of the dog breeds that are known to fit this description are:

1. Boxer
2. Bernese Mountain Dog
3. Bichon Frise
4. Labrador Retriever
5. Golden Retriever

Comparing dog breeds and knowing which is right for you and your family is a good start. But as mentioned before, every dog has his own personality and positive/negative behaviors. Please be sure to spend some time with the dog you are considering in different environments. That way you will have the chance to evaluate him properly. Too many dogs end up in shelters every year because owners are either unwilling or unable to provide the training and care that is necessary. Do your research, compare dog breeds and select a one that "fits" your lifestyle so that your dog doesn't become another statistic.

Discover more great training info at:

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Tips on Choosing a Dog

While many people may assume that choosing a Dog is simply finding one you like (and perhaps can afford) there really is much more that should be considered before you make a final decision. Pet owners who fail to consider all the ramifications of their choices are often left with an unhappy relationship with their Dog that can lead to serious consequences for both dog and owner. So if you are considering adding a dog to your home here are some tips for choosing a dog.

Choose the Right Breed

Before you adopt or buy a dog, it is extremely important that you know what type of breed would be best for your lifestyle and family. Don't narrow your choices to quickly as there are a lot of dogs out there. Records show that there are approximately 200 breeds of dogs that come in all shapes, colors and sizes. Each of these dogs was bred for specific traits. Having the right information on the traits of different breeds will help you choose the type of dog that will blend with your family and become a lifelong companion and friend. It is important to keep in mind though that this choice entails a lifetime responsibility, as you will commit yourself to loving and caring for this animal for ten years or more. Pet advocates recommend using an online dog breed selector to help you find several breeds you like and then you can read about the breeds in books to learn more.

Choosing Puppies Is Harder than it Looks

If you have decided that your new dog will enter your life and your home as a puppy it is important to know which type of puppy will work best for you. Everyone knows that puppies are cute, adorable, and hard to resist but if you want to choose the right puppy, do not fall in love with the first one you see. Experts recommend that before you choose a new puppy you should take a look at the entire litter and see how they interact. If some of the puppies are excited and others are not the more docile ones may actually make the most even-tempered and easy-going adults. But like people the puppies that are in the middle, which are neither too aggressive nor overly docile, are probably your best bet. Keep in mind that most puppies are trusting, curious, playful and friendly and if the puppies you are looking at are not, the breeder may not have spent enough time with them, and therefore may never really fit into a family. Remember, to use your instinct-if the puppies do not seem right, well-cared for or happy pass these on by to continue your search.

Think Outside the Box

Often times pet owners may have their heart set on a certain dog breed but feel the dog may be too large or require too much care. Before giving up entirely you may want to consider a miniature dog of the same breed. For example, if you love Collies but you simply don't have the room for a dog that size think about getting a Sheltie, which is a smaller breed that closely resembles a Collie but doesn't need as much space or grooming as its full-sized cousin. If your chosen dog breed does not have a miniature variety, look at breeds in the same family (such as the herding or toy families) to find other dogs with many of the same characteristics of the dog breed you love. Dog breeds in each breeding family tend to share many characteristics, so chances are that you will find other dog breeds similar to your favorite but a more practical fit for your particular needs and lifestyle.

Debbie J. Gretsch is a work-at-home writer and mom. Her interests are parenting, education, pets and relationships. She lives in San Diego with two German Shepherds, two cats, two kids and her husband.

Read http://www.onlydogbeds.net/choosing_a_friendly_dog_for_your_family-18669.php for more.

Questions For Potential Labrador Retriever Breeders

Take a list of questions for a Labrador Retriever breeder written ahead of time when you visit them. This list will also be handy if you are going to be meeting a lot of Labrador retriever breeders at a Dog show. If you meet a breeder online, you are still going to want to ask a lot of questions. You will be overwhelmed by all of the cute furry faces in order to trust your memory to recall the questions you need to ask.

The questions that will tell you the most about any Labrador Retriever breeder will be what kind of contract do you require, when can I visit the kennels and are there any health warranties. If your potential breeder refuses to let you visit the kennel, say goodbye and move on. They may have something to hide. If your breeder doesn't do contracts, also move on, because they definitely have something to hide.

You can tell a lot by what a Labrador Retriever breeder is like when you visit their home and kennel. Are they messy? Did they even remember you were coming? And does the place stink of Dog poop? The place should be reasonably clean, smell okay and the Dogs should appear clean, happy and friendly. It is normal to see some living outside most of the time in covered kennels. If you don't like what you see and smell, move on.

You also need to ask what the breeder considers a good home for one of his or her puppies. If they don't seem to care, then they certainly do not care about dogs. They are just after your money. A good Labrador Retriever breeder will go on and on about they kind of owner he or she wishes all Lab puppies could go to. They will also quiz you about your store of Labrador information to see if you are anywhere close to being their idea of a good Lab owner.

Although there are no certainties in the dog world, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting a raw deal and a sickly puppy by obtaining certain paperwork from the Labrador Retriever breeders. You need to see the health certificates of both of the puppy's parents, especially their hip dysplesia scores. If the breeder doesn't know what you are talking about, say goodbye. Hip dysplesia is the most common ailment among Labs and is carried by genes.

A contract also can help eliminate a lot of future headaches. It should list what the breed is responsible to provide and what they are not. They might even have clauses such as you having to go to them first if you are no longer able to keep the adult dog. You won't get your money back, but at least your dog will have a good home. Assume nothing. Great Labrador Retriever breeders will bring all of this up if you forget to ask.

Brooke Sunderland has experience dealing with canines and understands how important learning about a breed's history really is. Not only is the Labrador an attractive, statuesque dog but they also have a very long and complex history. The Internet is one of the best available resources when it comes to finding out further Labrador information regarding the history of Labradors.

Dog Breeds - Which Are Better For Watch Dogs

Dog Breeds differ with different characteristics that are strong with each breed. For example, not all Dogs are good for hunting. Not all Dogs are good for home companionship. Likewise, not all dogs breeds are good for watch dogs. Did you know their is a difference between a watch dog and an guard dog? A watch dog will bark to alert the owners of an intruder. It is also an attempt to scare off intruders. This is were the usefulness of an watch dog stops. A guard dog will do the same as a watch dog and bark, but the guard dog will take it a little further. A guard dog might be trained to restrain or attack intruders. The guard dog is often large and strong enough to attack and drive away a predator. But, often times guard dogs are simply trained to restrain an intruder with his owner's guidance. Be careful of your local laws as a guard dog could get you in trouble if it does attack someone.

If your looking for a guard dog here are three dog breeds that I would recommend.

1. Rottweilers - This dog started as just a farm dog but over the years of breeding they have developed into very strong guard dogs. Rottweilers are sometimes good around children so make sure they are well trained and acclimated to an environment for children.

2. German Shepards - Very strong breed that has been breeded just for a guard dog role. Germain shepards are not for inexperienced owners and should not be around children.

3. Doberman Pinscher - Another very strong breed. Doberman Pinschers were also breed just for the role of a guard dog. They are very aggressive and dominant of their surroundings. Once again this breed is not for inexperienced owners and should be handled with care.

As for watch dogs you have a lot of choices. Here are 3 of my best choices for watch dogs.

1. French bulldog - The French bulldog in not a great barker, but it will certainly alert the family to approaching people. A natural guardian, the Frenchie is devoted its master.

2. Boston terrier - Small, muscular and compact, the Boston terrier is one of the few truly American breeds. They are gentle, friendly dogs that are protective of family and home. Most have a good bark to alert people when strangers approach.

3. Chihuahua - The Chihuahua is a small dog with a big bark. It will bark vigorously, as if they are trying to make up for being just 6 to 9 inches tall and weighing under 5 pounds. They make sure you know when someone's approaching the house.

Their are many more choices of watch dogs to choose from but these are my best choices.

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