Friday, December 2, 2011

Six Types of Small Dogs & Their Temperaments

!±8± Six Types of Small Dogs & Their Temperaments

Small dogs were originally bred to be the companions of royalty. Their sole purpose was to bring their owners companionship, loyalty, and amusement. The types of small dogs that comprise what is now known as the Toy Group were genetically bred to not only be tiny, but to seek companionship from humans as well. The same qualities that made the small dogs a favorite of royals also make them a favorite of Americans today. In fact, according to American Kennel Club registration statistics, since 2000 four of the top ten most popular breeds in the United States have been small dogs.

Despite their rapid increase in popularity, many toy breeds are unknown to most Americans. Following is a list of six types of small dogs in the Toy Group and some information about their history and temperament.

1. Pug

Pug History

The Pug originated in China around 400 BC. and became popular in Europe around 1027 when Prince William II of England, a long time fan of Pugs, became King of England.

Pug Characteristics

The breed is known for having a big personality in a little body and for being even tempered, playful, and loving. The Pug's reason for living is to be near his family and his sturdiness makes him one of the few Toy breeds that are suitable for families with young children. Pugs are comfortable in apartments but can adapt easily to all situations. Pugs shed, but their short coats requires little grooming.

2. Maltese

Maltese History

The Maltese breed was also a favorite of royalty, particularly in Malta. According to the AKC, the gentle, white dogs became known as "Ye ancient dogge of Malta". Now these small dogs are just referred to as "Maltese".

Maltese Characteristics

Maltese's are calm, entertaining, and generally great terrific family dogs. They mature at about 4-7 pounds and they require daily brushing to keep their fine coats from becoming matted.

3. Toy Fox Terrier

Toy Fox History

The American Toy Fox Terrier (TFT) Association states that "The Toy Fox Terrier is truly a Toy and a Terrier, and both have influenced his personality and character. "

While most terriers were bred in England the TFT was bred in the United States by enthusiasts that crossed the Smooth Coated Fox Terrier with various Toys including Chihuahua's, Min Pin's, and Italian Greyhounds.

Toy Fox Characteristics

The Toy Fox Terrier possesses tremendous life-long energy and an acute sense of hearing; characteristics that make him a great watch dog. Like all Toys, the TFT is fiercely loyal to his family. TFT's mature between 7-9 pounds, require little grooming, and are generally easier to potty train than most Toys.

4. Havanese

Havanese History

The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and the county's only native breed. The combination of the Havanese's study build and it's gentle but playful personality make it a great companion for children.

Havanese Characteristics

The breed requires slightly more exercise than most Toys and its non-shedding coat, while great for allergy sufferers, needs to be regularly groomed.

5. Brussels Griffon

Brussels Griffon History

The Brussels Griffon is one of the few Toys breeds that grew up with a working class history. Originally the breed was developed by crossing Pugs with sable colored Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This crossing resulted in two distinct types of coat: rough and smooth. The dog's sturdiness and affectionate temperament made them great companions for coachmen who used them as ratters in Belgian stables.

Brussels Griffon Characteristics

The Brussels Griffon is super-intelligent and sensitive but can be self-conscious and shy around strangers. Interestingly, a Brussels Griffon was featured in the 1997 hit movie, As Good As it Gets, starring Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt.

6. Pomeranian

Pomeranian History

The American Kennel Club's web site indicates that "The breed's name originally came from the historical region of Pomerania (now present day Germany and Poland). Originally weighing nearly 30 pounds, the dog served as an able herder of sheep in its larger form. They were not well known until 1870, when the Kennel Club (England) recognized the so-called Spitz dog. In 1888, Queen Victoria fell in love with a Pomeranian in Florence, Italy, and brought the specimen back to England, influencing its popularity dramatically."

Pomeranian Characteristics

The Pomeranian is now a showy and animated little dog having been bred down to Toy size over the last century. An average adult Pomeranian weighs about 7 pounds. The breed does not require a lot of exercise but does require regular grooming to keep his coat from matting.


Six Types of Small Dogs & Their Temperaments

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Monday, November 21, 2011

Male Or Female Dog - Which Would Be Best For You?

!±8± Male Or Female Dog - Which Would Be Best For You?

When you finish reading this article you will have learned eight important things about choosing a male or female dog. So if you want to learn these valuable, useful things about male and female dogs, be sure to read this article from this point to the end.

When it comes to selecting a dog, this can be a tough decision as there are pros and cons to both male and female dogs.

Male dogs may be more aggressive

For example, some owners believe that males can be more aggressive and even more destructive if left alone in a small space.

Other owners feel that females are easier to train and can be more affectionate.

These are sort of stereotypes and maybe true or not, depending on the breed of dog.

Spay or breed?

The downside of choosing a female is that you must either have it spayed or put up with it being in heat. If you fail to get it neutered, it can mean an ongoing need to find homes for litters of puppies.

Did you know that females do not go through menopause? This means they can have puppies clear through their entire lives. You end up having to spend weeks every year, trying to guard that female dog from males who can catch her scent from blocks away. On the up side, if you have a purebred that you want to breed, this can mean many extra dollars through the life of the dog.

Marking territory

Take it from me that males have to mark their territory. It may do this in your house or around the yard. And once the dog urinates on a spot, it will come back time and time again. You may be able to train your male to not mark its territory but it's tough because you're going against its natural instincts.

Also, if you have another male dog in the house, expect some battles over whose in charge, especially if both are alpha males. Even a smaller alpha male will fight a larger male - just to prove who's in charge.

As a general rule, dogs of opposite genders get along better than those of the same gender. And while females are not usually as vicious with one another as males, some females just don't want to share their space.

Which is easier to train?

Many trainers say that female dogs are easier to house train than males although, again, this can vary from breed to breed. On the other hand, males tend to be livelier and more active, though in some breeds, both makes and females tend to be high maintenance - think Jack Russel Terriers.

Keep in mind that female dogs tend to be more temperamental than males. For this reason, breeders tend to favor male dogs as an easier pet to manage. However, gender isn't the only predictor (or even a perfect predictor) of how a dog will behave.

Match your personality

The important thing is to find a breed that is known to be calm and tolerant, whether male or female - think Golden Retrievers.

In short, before selecting either a male or female dog, do your homework. Read about the various breeds and try to select one that matches your personality and lifestyle.


Male Or Female Dog - Which Would Be Best For You?

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Saturday, October 29, 2011

The Ingredients Used in a Homemade Dog Food Recipe

!±8± The Ingredients Used in a Homemade Dog Food Recipe

Commercial dog foods are very popular today. There are many dog owners who rely on manufactured products that are available in grocery and pet care stores. On the other hand, there are some who prefer to make the food for their dogs. This does not include feeding your dogs with table scraps of human food as well as raw foods. It is about cooking or mixing a certain recipe for your dog to keep him healthy. There are many recipes for dog foods. If you want to make some foods for your dog, here are the most common ingredients used in a homemade dog food recipe.

Safe ingredients used in a homemade dog food recipe

A homemade dog food can contain meat and bones. Meat and bones are highly recommended take a maximum of 10% of any dog diet. Meat byproducts are common ingredients used in a homemade food recipe. They are allowed by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) with some regulations according to the law. For instance, animal parts not suitable for human consumption such as brains of cow can be used as ingredient in pet foods.

Plain yogurt is also one of the healthy ingredients used in a homemade recipes. It is probably the only dairy product that is good and healthy for your dog. Others like cheese, milk, and butter should be avoided like chocolate that may have theobromine, which when consumed in large quantities can cause death to dogs.

Wheat and grain are usually used to make biscuits and cookies. You can include flour, cracked wheat and whole wheat flour when making dog's biscuits and cookies. They are usually mixed with water, yeast, honey and egg. However, these foods should not exceed 10% of your dog's diet.

Fruits are one of the main ingredients used in these recipes. They are healthy and nutritious. However, caution in the amount to be given is necessary. Including fruits in moderate amount is healthy but too much fruits can cause loose stools.

Harmful ingredients used in a homemade dog food recipe

Fillers may also be included as ingredients used in a homemade dog food recipe. However, fillers are not advisable especially if you are aiming for a natural diet for your dog. In fact, most dog owners who opt to cook the food for their dogs do this to avoid fillers that may be present in commercial products.

Other harmful ingredients to avoid are as follows: bacon or bacon drippings, ham, tomatoes, dairy products, onion, and pepper. Tomatoes should also be avoided because they are too acidic. Bacon, bacon drippings and ham are too fatty. Thus, they are not good for the health of any dog. The AAFCO recommends adding more protein-rich foods when the diet contains high fat.

One main advantage of going for a homemade dog food recipe is that you know what exactly goes into the mouth of your pet. You can give him a 100% healthy diet based on the ingredients that you will use. Some pet owners also choose to give their dog a natural or organic diet. This can be made by choosing the ingredients used in a homemade dog food recipe.


The Ingredients Used in a Homemade Dog Food Recipe

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Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Dog Biscuits Recipe

!±8± Dog Biscuits Recipe

A good dog biscuits recipe is a great thing to have around if you happen to own one or more dogs. Making your own doggie biscuits can be a lot of fun, and no doubt your dog is going to be thrilled by them. Of course you want to make sure that you get some quality recipes to try out as well. So, let's take a closer look at recipes for dog biscuits, how they can save your dog, and a few great ones you may want to try out for your pooch.

Save Your Dog By Making Dog Biscuits
Yes, it's true, making your own dog biscuits recipe or even making your own dog food can save your dog. From what, you ask? Well, it can save them from disease and early death. You see, many studies are beginning to show how dangerous commercial dog food products can be to your dog, with harmful chemicals, preservatives, and other factors that can actually end up killing dogs in the long run. So, getting a few great recipes can help you save the life of your dog so you'll have more time together.

2 Great Recipes to Try:

Not sure where to begin? Need a good dog biscuits recipe? Here are two great recipes that you may want to try out.

- Dog Biscuits with Molasses - Dog biscuits with molasses are really simple to make. You'll only need about two tablespoons of molasses, a couple eggs, half a cup of powdered milk, half a cup of chicken broth, two cups of cornmeal, and then a couple cloves of garlic as well. Combine all of these ingredients together, then roll it out and cut out dog biscuits, with cutters or with a knife. Bake them for 20 minutes on 400 until they are nice and brown.

- Basic Biscuits for Your Dog - Just looking for a basic doggie biscuit? Well, you'll need 3 tablespoons of wheat germ, about two cups of whole wheat flour, two eggs, and ¼ cup of milk as well. Stir the eggs up very well, then add the other liquids. Then, add the rest of the ingredients and start using your hands to mix it all together. Pat it out into a nice rectangle that is about ½ an inch thick and start cutting out bone shapes from the dough. Place them on a cookie sheet and bake them for 25 minutes on each side at 350 and you'll get about 16 biscuits.


Dog Biscuits Recipe

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