Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Questions For A Shar Pei Breeder

By Melissa Coleman

You have decided to get a Shar Pei and now the time has come to decide on a Shar Pei breeder. This is a very important decision and you will need to know what questions to ask to find out if you are dealing with a good breeder or not. Many times a good breeder will insist that you ask them a lot of questions so do your homework, don't be shy and be ready to have a nice long talk with each breeder before you make your decision. Deciding on a breeder can affect your relationship with your pet for many years, so be sure before you make up your mind.

Always ask what national breeder registry they are listed with so you know what breeding standards they adhere to. Any reputable breeder will be listed with a registry and you can confirm their listing yourself on the Internet. Be cautious of a breeder that is not listed with a registry and ask them why they are not listed and find out what they use for breeding standards.

A good Shar Pei breeder will be part of your life, and your pet's life, for many years to come after the transaction is completed.

It is important to have this open communication with your breeder and if your breeder is not into communication after the sale then it is time for a new breeder.

If you are talking with a reputable breeder then they will tell you that not only do you get the dog when you are ready to take your pup home but you also get complete and detailed care and feeding instructions that every owner needs and a sample of your dog's food as well. If the breeder you are talking to has no intention of offering care instructions or a food sample then you probably do not want to deal with that breeder.

As has been mentioned a Shar Pei breeder is there to help an owner with advice on how to care for their new pet. Sometimes things happen that you cannot foresee and you have to give up your dog.

Ask prospective Shar Pei breeders if they have a policy of taking back dogs rather than having the dog end up abandoned or wind up in a shelter. You won't get your money back but at least you know you are dealing with someone that cares as much about your dog as you do.

Choosing a breeder is extremely important and requires a lot of the right questions. Sometimes the more reputable breeders offer free pet insurance to new owners so don't forget to ask about that. Just be ready to ask a lot of questions because choosing a Shar Pei breeder is an important step in buying your dog and you want to choose the right breeder from the very beginning.

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Being Consistent When Training Your Dog Will Make a Difference

By Johnathan Bash

Dog training is a very important thing to do with your dog. No matter how much time, effort, and energy it requires, it is beneficial.

The family dog who is normally a perfect pet until dinner time when he then becomes focused on upsetting everyone's plates and chowing all the food before anyone can say "NO!" is a very real issue. He will move from one person to the next, being as noticeable as possible by putting his face on your legs or even reaching the top of the table with his paws as he drools at the sight of the food.

He only cares that it is food and nothing else.

One may wonder to himself how this normally well behaved pet has transformed into such a terror at mealtime!

Only once does he have to go through this experience of receiving a taste of food from the dinner table and he will begin his begging mission for life. That one occurrence allows for him to develop an association between his food and table food.

Now, while a dog can't live on table scraps, they can eat many of the same things humans do so occasional leftovers are not going to be a problem. The problem only comes when you feed your dog from the table.

If you want to share some of your food with your dog you just need to follow two simple rules:

Share his treat solely in his bowl.

Don't give him anything until you have finished eating.

Following the two steps will make the future easier. If you give him sporadic rewarded goodies, while avoiding scraps, as the sole item not on his plate you can support healthy practices and avoid allowing him the option to have unhealthy practices.

It's always going to be easier to make a good habit than break a bad one.

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Symptoms and Treatment of Feline Acne

By Kurt Schmitt

The specific causes of feline acne are not known. Cats with weakened immune systems are more susceptible, but otherwise healthy male and female cats of all ages may be affected.

There are a number of factors that may contribute to the development of the disease, including poor grooming habits, abnormal sebum production, and stress.

Lesions vary in severity, but are typically mild. Itching and pain are uncommon unless there is a secondary bacterial infection present. Lesions usually initially present at about one year of age, and remain cyclic for the life of the cat. Pain and/or itching are not common unless there is a secondary bacterial skin infection.

Treatment may or may not be required. Your veterinarian will have to make this determination depending upon the severity of the symptoms, and whether or not any secondary conditions exist.

Signs and symptoms of feline acne -- Clinical signs may include lesions on the chin and lower lip. There may be swelling of the chin and around the lips. Your cat may have crusted reddish papules or dark brown comedones.

In more serious cases, there may be a secondary bacterial infection present. Signs of this may include edema (swelling) of the chin area, or drainage of the lesions. In these cases, antibiotics, both systemic (taken internally) and topical, may be prescribed.

It's possible to mistake bacterial skin infections for acne, but appearances may be deceiving. Sometimes ringworm or yeast infections may be mistaken for acne as well.

Feline acne treatment -- Treatment is often not necessary, except in more serious cases. In fact, it's believed that overtreatment may increase the severity of the skin lesions.

Your veterinarian may recommend topical therapy of some kind to help remove the comedones (blackheads). Depending upon the severity, more aggressive treatment may be recommended.

In order to facilitate cleaning of the affected area, as well as the application of topical medications, your vet may remove excess skin from the area around the lesions. You should never attempt this yourself as you can hurt your cat or cause an infection.

Treatment may include the use of antiseptics, such as Listerine or alcohol. Antiseborrheic shampoos may help as well. Some of these contain salicylic acid, which is a common component of human acne treatment formulas.

Topical benzoyl peroxide solutions are often used as a treatment in gel or shampoo form, and may be effective. You should note, however, that benzoyl peroxide preparations made for small animals are 2.5 percent, and those for humans are 5 percent.

Never use preparations designed for humans on your cat unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian. Even the animal formula benzoyl peroxide treatments may be irritating to your cat's skin when used repeatedly.

In cases where patients are immune compromised, such as feline AIDS patients, treatment may include steroid therapy. Additional supplements may be used as well, including off-label drugs.

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Proper Ways To Groom A German Shepherd

By Jan Ryan

It is essential to have regular grooming when caring for your German Shepherd even if you don't do a lot of bathing. Your German Shepherd will have a shiny coat and will have a lower chance of contracting skin problems if you maintain proper grooming procedures. For eight to twelve weeks you should do moderate grooming and then maintain it every night. When it comes to grooming your German Shepherd it is best to comb at least twice a week in order to manage the double coat that is common with the German Shepherd breed.

German Shepherd's shed all year long, but this gets worse during the shedding season so you may want to use a shedding blade. However, since you need to have proper training before using a shedding blade you may choose to use another tool. To help take out the mats in the undercoat around the neck, chest and thigh areas you should consider a metal rake. Using a modern high velocity dryer to remove excess water after bathing is better than the hand fluff method. When brushing always remember to go in the direction of hair growth.

When grooming your German Shepherd you may also want to consider a haircut. Using a quality pair of scissors you can remove the long hairs you find under the feet and any nearby stray hairs. If you want your dog to have a fluffier or fuller looking coat then you should brush in the opposite direction of growth and then do a light brushing in the direction of hair growth, but never clip for cosmetic reasons.

An alternative to the haircut is to use thinning shears to give the dog an overall neater appearance. Selective thinning is a good way to make your German Shepherd look heavier boned. Grooming isn't just limited to the coat because you also need to focus on the toenails, ears and teeth. While brushing be sure to check the nails and trim them regularly as needed in order to avoid split or broken nails that will occur when they are left unattended and grow too long.

Grooming your German Shepherd allows you to make sure that the oils in the fur are evenly distributed which helps prevent matting and tangles from occurring. It also helps to remove the dead skin cells and loose hair, which can clog the coat and take away from the neat appearance.

Just make sure you don't cut or scratch the dog's skin when grooming. So you don't miss any parts of your dog's coat it is best to use a combination of brushes and brush heads.

For the German Shepherd it is best that you select the right shampoo as well, since they can be easily affected by wheat and may have other allergies as well. Oatmeal shampoo is one option but it can cause material to build up faster, which means you will have to bathe the dog more often.

If you don't have to worry about fleas then a shampoo with aloe is a good idea. By constantly using proper grooming techniques you can keep your German Shepherd looking well-groomed all the time

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Large Dog Breeds: The Rottweiler

By Sharon Davies

The modern day Rottweiler dog breed developed in Rottweil, Germany and is named for that city. The breed had experienced a decline in popularity in the 1800s so much that only one Rottweiler was shown in the Heilbronn, Germany dog show in 1882. In 1901, a Rottweiler Club was formed in Germany and by 1935 the breed had been recognized by the American Kennel Club as a purebred member of the working dog group.

The modern day Rottweiler was named after Rottweil, Germany where it gained support in the early 1900s. Prior to that date, Rottweilers have an uncertain lineage though the common belief is that they descended from the large Roman mastiff dog almost two thousand years ago. Even then, early forms of Rottweiler were known for their skill in protection and military service.

The personality and appearance of the Rottweiler dog breed make it unique. Surprisingly, one of the first adjectives used to describe the Rottweiler's personality is calm. The breed is known to be an excellent, relaxed family pet. In fact, a calm, courageous and confident temperament is the breed standard according to the American Kennel Club, which registered the Rottweiler in 1935.

Surprisingly, the American Kennel Club, which judges purebred dogs on not just physical traits but also behavioral characteristics, defines the breed standard for Rottweilers as calm, confident, and courageous. Rottweilers are actually known more for their laid-back nature than aggression. Problems in behavior may stem from Rottweiler dogs' natural tendency to protect their owners and families.

Besides having specific breed standard personality traits such as self-assuredness, loyalty, courageousness, strong work ethic and trainability, the Rottweiler dog has unique physical traits. Rottweilers must have a short black coat with distinctive brown markings on specific areas of the face, muzzle, paws and legs. Rottweilers are muscular with broad chests and heads, they have a scissor bite, or lower incisors that touch the inside of the upper incisors and they have docked tails to create a more streamlined appearance.

It is important to clarify that the natural temperament of the Rottweiler dog breed leans more toward calm than aggression. A potential Rottweiler buyer should research the breed and make sure he can handle a large, active dog before buying. However, a buyer should not be more afraid to buy a Rottweiler than any other dog breed.

Steps a buyer can take to ensure he purchases a physically and emotionally healthy Rottweiler include researching the breed first and know what breed standard traits to look for, research breeders to find an ethical breeder of purebred Rottweilers, visit the breeder kennel to see how Rottweiler puppies are raised, obtain pedigree information to determine lineage, obtain health information to ensure the Rottweiler has been evaluated for genetic problems, ask the breeder to provide Rottweiler information, specifically on training and discipline, and lastly make sure the buyer's household is appropriate to meet the Rottweiler's social and activity needs

Buyers should know the breed standard for Rottweiler dogs and should look for the calm temperament, specific black and tan markings and other characteristics unique to the breed. Most importantly, the buyer's household should meet the Rottweiler's social and activity needs so that dog and owner will have a healthy, happy life together.

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Siberian Husky: Breeding Practices

By Andrew Preston

There is hardly any other dog breed that can match the Siberian Husky in terms of sheer looks, but you also need to be aware that it is not the ideal pet to bring home if you are a first time pet owner. The Siberian Husky likes roaming about and that is reason enough to never let it out without being leashed because not only can he easily lose himself, but he may cause other people some harm as well.

Siberian Husky breeding requires considering quite a few aspects including whether it will make for a good show dog. This is important as it is where the Siberian Husky can prove his mental as well as physical soundness, and be a good representative of its breed as well. You should also ensure that you know what is required of it to become a good running dog and to also know for sure that it can perform various functions while still remaining a fun as well as lovable pet for an owner to take pleasure and pride in.

When it concerns the best Siberian Husky breeding practices, as a breeder you must be aware of all possible hereditary problems that can affect the breed. Even after having provided it with the best Siberian Husky care, and once you become aware of potential problems, you need to then strategize so as to not have them affect your litters. One of the more common of these hereditary problems is juvenile cataracts, while others include corneal dystrophy and in poor Siberian Husky lines the condition known as hip dysplasia is commonly found to affect the breed.

There is another hereditary problem that continues to plague the Siberian Husky breed and that is von Wilebrand's disease that can affect your Siberian Husky's blood and even result in its untimely death. So, with so many different hereditary problems to contend with, Siberian Husky breeding is certainly going to tax your brains to the limit, because only by having thorough knowledge about all aspects of the breed can you hope to have a realistic chance of preventing further deterioration in the quality of dogs that you breed.

Another, and growing hereditary problem that you need to study is hereditary epilepsy which ails many Siberian Huskies as is also the condition known as von Wilebrand's disease that is a blood disorder that can result in death.

In addition, with thyroid problems to contend with as well, which often cause disorders in the coat and skin as well as reproductive organs of the Siberian Husky, breeding needs to be done according to the highest standards of breeding only.

You need to be sure that you can indeed provide your Siberian Huskies with a lot of effort and care before throwing your hat into the Siberian Husky breeding ring. In fact, today there are many lines of Siberian Husky in which cesarean sections are becoming more and more routine because of the problem the breed has with uterine inertia. Then, there are thyroid problems to be worried about which can result in many skin and coat as well as reproductive disorders in the Siberian Husky breed.

It also does mean needing doing at least the genetic screening and failing to do so would indicate that you are not serious about proper breeding practices, which will be a reprehensible act on your part.

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Understaning Dog Training Collars Correctly

By Jenny Lindston

In order to get in touch with the dog, dog trainers use dog collars. It's certainly something that's effectively used as a tool to train a dog. Dog training collars are perfect tools for dog training.

Since professional dog trainers have a multidude of different training styles it's therefore logical that there are multiple types of dog training collars.

If you are not a professional dog trainer then it's not usual for normal people to use dog training collars for teaching basic dog obedience. They can also give advanced training and sporty dog training themselves, without further "experts".

Sometimes, people use these collars to teach fundamental obedience orders such as 'stay', 'sit' or 'heel'. The dog training collar has to be of correct size, hence measure dog's neck with a tape or string and add three to four inches more into its measurement.

In different situations it's better to use different types of dog training collars. If you try more and more dog collars you'll also recognize that differeny collars for for different type of training.

There is more than one form of dog training collars available on the marketplace.

Electronic Collars: They are also termed as shock collars and were invented before thirty years. Today, this collar is the most effective way to train a pet dog.

There are other collars such as e-collars and remote collars. Once the dog does something wrong a remote collar gives out a light while being remote controlled.

The signal sent by this collar, draws the attention of the dog and suggests him what is good and what is bad. Consequently, the dogs stop that bad action. Most collars feature several correction levels.

Chock Collars: They are the best training collars to train dogs effectively. These collars offer the dog trainers with an instant control which allows for perfect correction through the use of stiffening the collar around the neck of the dog. The collar will be comfortable and remain loose around the dog's neck.

But, if the dog is disobedient or makes a mistake then the trainer has the ability to tighten the collar showing the dog what is correct. This stops the dog from disobeying and makes it respond to the owner's command properly.

Lightweight Collars: They are reliable and lightweight dog collars. They are used for all types of dog behaviors. These types of collars include pain buckle collars, limited choke collars, snap around choke, martingale collar, head collar, pronged collar, no-bark collar and choke chain.

This type of training collar is of great function when the trainer uses it accurately. Professionals and veterinarians, as well as dog trainers believe they are harmless training tools, but some dislike them.

Yet, there are several dog training collars accessible in the market. Manufacturers are continuously evolving to make the collar even more comfortable and dog friendly. There are collars that are designed to glow in the dark and at night. Some have ornaments and there is one called schutzhund.

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How to have a Healthy Havanese

By Fiona Kelly

The Havanese is a great choice as a family pet for many families, because he is a friendly, playful dog that enjoys adults, kids and other animals alike. However, just like any new pet, there are some things you need to know about caring for your Havanese properly before you bring him home from that breeder. These little dogs can be fairly flexible and resilient, but there are care requirements that are general dog care guidelines as well as concerns that are unique to this breed. It is important to educate yourself in the area of Havanese care to ensure that your new pet gets the best environment possible to grow and thrive.

Part of Havanese care is to concern yourself with specific aspects of Havanese health, so that you know what types of problems to need to be aware of with your dog. It is also important to know what the requirements of your dog will be in terms of grooming, and diet and exercise. By preparing for your Havanese care in these three aspects, you will be ready to bring that adorable puppy home and make it a part of your family.

The first step in assuring good Havanese health is to educate yourself about some of the genetic medical issues that are typical for this breed. While the Havanese is a relatively healthy breed with a long life expectancy, all breeds have a few problems that you will need to watch out for.

These might include eye problems like cataracts and progressive retinol atrophy, which can cause blindness. It may also entail issues with hip dysplasia, or a condition known as patellar luxation, which is a slipping of the kneecap. By becoming aware of these conditions, you can ask your breeder about the history of these issues in his lines of dogs.

Another aspect of Havanese health is to keep your puppies coat clean and groomed. This required daily brushings and monthly baths to keep your pup looking and feeling his best. It may also include visits to the groomer if you choose to keep his coat clipped shorter, but you can do this job yourself if you learn how to do it properly also.

The Havanese diet is another important component in Havanese health, and most breeders will recommend feeding your pet either a high quality manufactured dog and in most cases, a dry food is preferable over a canned one. If you are concerned about some of the ingredients that are found in your commercial dog food, you can also opt to feed your dog a raw food diet. It is best to talk to your veterinarian about the best way to approach this method of feeding.

It is best to find a brand that both you and your dog like and stick with it. If you must switch food, transition your pet slowly and gently, to avoid giving your dog stomach trouble. Most breeders and veterinarians will provide a dry food over a canned product, especially for young dogs.

Along with the nutritious diet, your pup will need regular exercise, and he will enjoy it more if he gets to do it with you! Take him for a walk every day, or play a few rounds of fetch in the backyard. With daily exercise, regular grooming sessions and a healthy diet, your pet will be the healthiest and happiest that he can be.

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Golden Retriever Nutrition For Health

By Carol Matthews

As part of good Golden Retriever care, Golden Retriever nutrition must meet the needs of Golden Retrievers for high quality protein. As a large working breed dog, Golden Retrievers have greater protein needs than their owners. A Golden Retriever has nutritional needs that can be met by the ingredients used to prepare Golden Retriever dog food recipes.

A dog's health and appearance are improved by an excellent diet filled with nutrition. Protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals are nutritional needs that can be met with natural and organic ingredients. Nutritional supplements can be added to your dog's food and you can even make your own dietary supplements from simple Golden Retriever dog food recipes.

Golden Retrievers need high quality protein and have greater needs for protein than that of their owners. Golden Retriever dog food recipes should fulfill a dog's nutritional needs based on ingredients, correct proportions and nutritional value.

You should meet the Golden Retriever nutrition and dietary needs of your dog for good health. Proper nutrition and diet is a large part of Golden Retriever. You can customize Golden Retriever dog food recipes to match your dog's health, age and medical condition.

Meat provides the protein that is easiest to digest. Protein provides amino acids that are vital to a dog's health. As for carbohydrates, ground whole grains, brown rice, potato starch and oatmeal can provide carbohydrates. The amount of fat eaten should be controlled. Fats help the body to absorb oil-soluble nutrition. Vegetable fiber sources provide a vitamins and minerals and enough fiber to keep the digestion tract healthy. Although beans are nutritious for dogs, beans and broccoli can cause excess gas.

When you want to develop a food plan for your dog, you will have to consider the amount of exercise that your dog receives. A more active dog has greater nutritional needs than a sedentary dog. Extra weight puts a strain on a dog's body, back, hips and joints. For a Golden Retriever to receive the best Golden Retriever care, it must have a controlled diet that provides proper Golden Retriever nutrition. The right Golden Retriever dog food recipes will not overfeed a Golden Retriever, which will overeat if given the chance.

When you use Golden Retriever dog food recipes, you can be sure that a dog's nutritional needs are met, even with vegetarian ingredients. You can alter dog food recipes to meet any special dietary restrictions such as low fat, wheat free and hypoallergenic diets. You can provide soft foods or smaller food sizes for your dog as it ages. You can supplement your dog's food with nutritional oil based supplements or powder based supplements that you mix with your own recipe. When you choose healthy options for snacks and chew toys, your dog's health will improve from the extra nutrition.

Choosing healthy snacks such as raw carrots, natural and organic treats will contribute to your dog's overall health. By providing quality chew toys, your dog's teeth will be cleaner and its gums will be healthy. Chew toys can occupy a dog's attention for hours. Proper Golden Retriever care demands the best foods to meet Golden Retriever nutrition and dietary needs. With attention to the ingredients, your Golden Retriever dog food recipes can meet your dog's nutritional needs.

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Ways To Maintain Beagle Health

By Michelle Adams

The first concern anyone has when they take on a new pet is how to properly care for that new pet and owning a beagle is no exception. The biggest concern for any beagle owner should be beagle health and there are many simple ways to maintain your beagle's health that can allow you to make sure that your beagle is always safe from harm. When it comes to your pet's health never guess or think you know something. If a persistent problem arises then contact your vet right away.

Beagles love to eat just like any other living creature and the idea that there is such a thing as human food separate from any other creature's food is wrong. A healthy diet for your dog should consist of properly cooked meats, raw vegetables, and raw fruits as well. All creatures eat food and you should help keep your dog healthy by feeding your beagle the foods that are best for it.

Beagles love to get dirty no matter what their environment is and it is up to you to make sure that their love for dirt is not their eventual undoing. You should plan on bathing your beagle at least once a month.

The benefit is for your family as well because your family is also coming into contact with your beagle's coat so keeping it clean is essential.

Proper grooming is also very essential to the health of your beagle. A regular brushing of your beagle is not only essential to good health but also probably something your beagle would appreciate and enjoy as caring for that thick coat can be difficult. You can try clipping the dog's nails but in the end you may want to leave that to a pro as beagles and nail clippers don't normally get along very well. But nail clipping is extremely important to the health of your dog.

Beagle's are world famous for their cute and floppy ears that are considered to be one of the most identifying features of a beagle. But those floppy ears are also an area of concern for ceagle health as they can block proper air flow in and out of the dog's ears. You need to check under those floppy ears regularly and if you notice anything unusual, or any build up of any kind, you need to contact your vet immediately.

Your beagle's teeth need cleaning too. You need to get them used to teeth cleaning at a very young age by rubbing your finger gently over the beagle's teeth every once in while.

They may then let you move up to a doggy toothbrush. Your beagle looks to your for their health care so don't let them down, take care of your beagle.

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Boston Terrier Health

By Wendy Caples

The goal of every owner is to provide quality Boston Terrier health care so that their dog can maintain a happy, healthy and long life. When it comes to proper health care there are some basic steps you can take to provide general care for your Boston Terrier without going through a lot of expense, but rather allows you to spend quality time with your dog.

One of the most important aspects of Boston Terrier health care is to make sure you have a good veterinarian. It is also important that you choose a good and appropriate food for your dog. Although more expensive it is worth the price to feed your dog a quality, premium food. These foods will help to keep your dog healthier for a longer period of time. The artificial ingredients and chemicals found in less expensive brands can actually weaken your dogs immune system. Finally you want to provide your dog with regular exercise in order for them to have a good life and to make sure they have proper protection when outside.

Knowing what conditions to look for and when to seek emergency care is another important aspect of caring for Boston Terrier health. It is likely that your dog's life will go by smoothly, however there is always the chance that an incident can occur. By knowing when is the right time to seek emergency attention you can prevent the condition from becoming a tragic event. Also by knowing how you should respond during serious situations can make all the difference in your pet's life.

One of the most common situations that affect the Boston Terrier and all dog breeds is a car accident. If your Boston Terrier is hit by a car it is important that you seek veterinary care right away since every minutes counts towards saving your dog's life. Small objects such as balls and bones also present a chocking hazard for the Boston Terrier. You should perform the Heimlich maneuver or bring your dog to the vet right away if you notice them gasping for breath or being unable to breathe.

Certain diseases and ailments can affect Boston Terrier health that don't affect other breeds in the same way. You can avoid these life threatening conditions for your Boston Terrier by known what they are and what you should look for.

However, despite these health conditions this doesn't mean that caring for your Boston Terrier is more time consuming than other breeds. In fact, the Boston Terrier is one of the least time consuming of all breeds.

For Boston Terriers the biggest health concern is breathing problems. Breathing issues can arise when your dog runs too much or becomes too stressed. Because of their short noses the Boston Terrier is more susceptible to breathing problems. When your dog is having trouble breathing you should try to soothe them and then if they don't improve you should take them to the veterinarian right away.

There are many options available to you when it comes to treating your be due to the expansion of veterinary medicine. So you should feel comfortable taking your pet to the veterinarian in the event of an emergency.

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The Bichon Frise Puppy Cut: Short And Sweet And To The Point

By Mary Stevenson

When looking for the perfect dog for a family, many people are drawn to the popular and lovable Bichon Frise. This sweet little white dog resembles the Maltese in appearance, yet is smaller and of a more tempered nature. The Bichon Frise is also a very popular show dog, with their "look at me, ain't I grand" attitude. But the biggest hurdle that many people face when dealing with a Bichon Frise is the fact that they require almost daily grooming to keep their fluffy appearance.

However, if you're not looking to enter your dog into any of these competitions, you may prefer to give your dog a Bichon Frise puppy cut, as it is much shorter and easier to maintain. The coat of a Bichon Frise requires daily brushing in order to preventing matting, and the shorter nature of a Bichon Frise puppy cut makes it much simpler to pull those mats without damaging your dog's sensitive skin. Also, a Bichon Frise puppy cut doesn't need to be retouched as often as a full cut does.

Maintaining a Bichon Frise puppy cut is much easier than a show cut. The short fur also makes it much simpler to comb out the mats, which can cause your dog to have severe skin issues if not removed. Your dog groomer can show you the proper way to maintain a Bichon Frise puppy cut; and remember to have your dog's fur trimmed every month and a half.

Even with the shorter fur, you will still need to brush your dog's fur on a daily basis, and bathe him at least once a week. It is important to remember to comb your dog's fur before putting them in the tub, rather than after, as wet mats can become a permanent part of your dog's coat, which will then need to be shaved to correct. Your dog's groomer can show you the proper combs, brushes and clippers to use to maintain your dog's Bichon Frise puppy cut between professional grooming sessions.

Even if your dog has a Bichon Frise puppy cut he will still require daily brushing and combing to keep the fur from matting. You should also give your dog a bath once a week to keep the fur clean of any irritants. It is important to remember to comb the fur thoroughly before bathing, as wet mats in the fur become impossible to remove; and a dog with impossible mats will have to be completely shaved to correct the problem.

The hair around the eyes needs to be trimmed on a regular basis, as well. This way your dog can see and be seen.

Last but not least it is important that you understand that the Bichon Frise puppy cut isn't meant for anyone who plans on entering their dog into competitions for show. The cut is considered too short for show, even though it is much easier to maintain.

But if your dog is only a pet, and you want to make life easier on the both of you, then a Bichon Frise puppy cut is definitely the right choice for you to make.

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Cat Illness Symptoms: 3 Major Categories

By Kurt Schmitt

Since your cat can't tell you where it hurts, you'll have to be on the look out for problems. Let's talk about some cat illness symptoms you should know about.

Pay attention to changes in your cat's behavior as this can indicate signs of illness. Cats tend to disguise signs of pain and illness as a throw-back to their wild days.

Elimination problems -- Cats may experience a number of issues involving urination, defecation, and litter boxes.

Some urinary tract problems can be life threatening. FLUTD (feline lower urinary tract disease) is a label for a group of problems that can involve crystals, stones, infection, or inflammation.

Cats self-groom regularly, but excessive licking in the anal or groin area can be a sign of illness. If your cat is urinating more often than normal, this can be a sign of an illness such as diabetes.

Treatments are available for hairballs/constipation, and include store bought hairball remedies as well as veterinarian prescribed treatments such as lactulose.

Impacted anal glands my also be a factor which will require treatment. It should be noted that long term constipation may lead to a serious bowel condition known as megacolon.

If your cat is dragging her rear end on the floor she may have impacted anal glands or a bad case of constipation. If your cat makes frequent but unsuccessful trips to the litter box, or cries out while using the box, she may have a problem that needs to be looked at.

If your cat is not urinating or defecating or is missing the litter box, contact your veterinarian immediately. Inappropriate elimination is common and is the number one cause that adult cats are brought to shelters. It has a number of physical and behavioral causes. You should address any medical problems first.

Diarrhea may indicate intestinal disease and can lead to dehydration, which can be fatal. Other things to look for are evidence of blood in urine or feces, including black tarry stools.

Eye and mouth problems -- The haw, or nictating membrane, is a "third eyelid" that you will sometimes see when a cat's eyes are open. This is often an indication of illness. Check your cat's eyes for cloudiness, pupils of uneven size, or discharge.

Pallor of the lips and gums is a sign of disease and could indicate anemia. Other possible cat illness symptoms include bad breath, ulcers in the mouth, and obviously, loose teeth.

Hair and skin problems -- Poor coat or problem skin can be a sure sign of cat illness. In fact, the coat and skin of your cat can be used as a measure of overall health.

Certain cat illnesses will manifest as poor or oily looking coat. In addition, if a cat stops grooming, it's a sure sign of trouble.

Also look for swelling, hair loss, excessive dryness or flaking, or skin eruption or growths. Check your cat at least once per week for parasites.

Domestic felines may experience other health problems for sure, but these are a few of the major categories. Keeping an eye on your cat's normal routine, and being sensitive to any of the above problems is an essential part of cat care.

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Ear Mites in Cats: Recognizing and Treating

By Kurt Schmitt

Ear mites in cats are fairly common in the United States. They can be very unpleasant for your cat, and, at times, dangerous.

If left untreated, they can lead to secondary yeast and bacterial infections. Some cats seem to develop immunity to mites over time, so younger cats are more likely to to be afflicted. Cats with compromised immune systems are likewise at higher risk.

What are they? -- Mites are the most common cause of outer-ear inflammation in cats. They are tiny crab-like parasites that typically live in and around a cat's ears, and also on the head. In more extreme cases, they can cause a rupture of the ear drum, and may lead to deafness and even seizures.

Some cats are very sensitive to mite infestations and others don't seem to be disturbed by it much. Younger cats are typically more bothered than older cats.

What are the symptoms? -- The most common symptoms of ear mites in cats are frequent scratching of the ears, and head shaking due to irritation of the ear canal. The obvious sign is a build up of dry, black wax that often resembles coffee grounds.

Some cats may experience hair loss around the ears. As can happen with parasite infestation, secondary bacterial infection is not uncommon. In addition, the waxy build up may cause extra irritation in the ear.

In more severe cases, excessive scratching may tear into the skin at the back of the ear, which may lead to permanent scarring.

Treatment -- Treating ear mites in cats begins with cleaning out the cat's ears. This should be done only by a veterinarian, as damage to the ear could result if it is done improperly.

Mineral oil may be used to soften the wax. Flushing out the ears removes a large number of mites and dislodges the wax at the same time.

After the ears are cleaned, an ear mite treatment can be administered. Flea control medication is often used to prevent a recurrence of infestation by any mites that have migrated to some place other than the ear. Over-the-counter remedies will typically take longer to work than the ear mite treatment preparations from your veterinarian.

Ear mites in cats can also be spread to other animals in the house, including people. Physical contact with affected cats, therefore, should be limited. This is a very treatable condition, although treatment may take quite some time in more severe cases, and your veterinarian may administer "off-label" drugs.

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Finding Bulldog Breeders

By Bobby Callahan

Bulldog history originates in England. The term Bulldog generally refers to the English version of the breed though there are also French and American Bulldogs. The original Bulldog, the Old English bulldog, was a large dog used to drive cattle. The English later bred these dogs to be aggressive and used them in gambling sports like bull baiting and dog fighting. When England passed the Cruelty to Animals Act of1849, bull baiting and dog fighting were banned and much of the population lost interest in the Bulldog.

In the 1800's, English Bulldog breeders began to breed toy versions of the Bulldog. These smaller versions were not popular in England and were subsequently exported to France. The French version of the Bulldog became so popular that French breeders renamed it the French Bulldog, or Frenchie. Many English people were offended due to the Bulldog being a traditionally English symbol. The French Bulldog remains a distinct breed today. It is smaller than the English Bulldog with bat-ears rather than rose-ears seen in English Bulldogs.

The American Bulldog is another breed that is larger in size and resembles its cousin, the Pit Bull, more than the English or French Bulldog. Buyers of Bulldogs should thoroughly research this breed before committing to ownership. All three versions of Bulldog require extensive care and may have exorbitant veterinary bills due to inherent medical conditions.

For example, French and English Bulldog bitches usually require caesarian sections to deliver puppies due to the size of puppies' heads being too large to pass through the birth canal. Not all owners are prepared to go to such lengths for their pets.

Potential Bulldog buyers should research the breed thoroughly before finding a breeder. Bulldogs require high maintenance and are not for inexperienced dog owners. Buyers should also thoroughly research Bulldog breeders and make sure they choose a breeder that has continued to breed out the aggression once bred into the Bulldog.

Buyers should be positive that they want a Bulldog before buying and should be experienced dog owners as Bulldogs are not appropriate for novice pet owners. Buyers can ask Bulldog Breeders questions about care, grooming and discipline. A good Bulldog breeder will be able to provide answers to all of a buyer's questions.

The most important thing for buyers to know about Bulldog breeders is that good breeders never sell to pet stores. Any purebred dog breeder, like the Bulldog breeder, loves the breed and treats animals like family members, not merchandise. Due to the high price that can be fetched for purebred puppies, some breeders run illegal puppy mills, which are operations in purebred dogs are bred constantly to produce multiple litters to sell at auction. Dogs in puppy mills are mistreated. They are bred incessantly without regard to their health, kept caged with no exercise or play, and receive little human contact.

If you use this list when interviewing potential Bulldog breeders you will surely find a reputable, experienced breeder from which to purchase your next pet.

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Golden Retriever Health: The Most Common Health Issues

By Carol Matthews

Anyone who is interested in owning a Golden Retriever should first become more educated on the matter of Golden Retriever health. Of course you are going to want your dog to be as happy and healthy as possible, and this means learning the important issues relating to Golden Retriever health, in particular coming up with the best Golden Retriever diet. There are certain foods that a Golden Retriever needs that other breeds do not, and as well because they are larger dogs they typically require larger amounts of food as well.

You want to make sure that your dog is going to live as long and healthy a life as possible and to ensure this one of the best things you can do is choose the right dog food. After all, this is where they get the majority of their nutrition, and so it is imperative that you take the time and put in the effort to choose the specific dog food that is going to best suit their individual needs. There are many different brands to choose from so it may seem intimidating at first, but with a few helpful tips the process will be made a great deal easier.

It is imperative that you choose the right food for your dog in order to maintain the best Golden Retriever health. First keep in mind that besides breed there are also a few other factors that should be taken into consideration here, including age, activity level, and physiological conditions. You want to choose a food for your Golden Retriever that mentions both the AAFCO and Animal Feeding Trials on its label.

You want to select a food that is balanced and which is going to provide all the essential nutrients to your dog, including water, protein and energy. Recognize the fact that the feeding directions that are noted on the labels can really only be estimated and therefore must be modified in order to fit individual pet needs. Depending on your dog's age, activity level and even physiological conditions, all of these are going to play a major role in the Golden Retriever diet that they should have.

Creating the right diet for your pet is one of the best things you can do for their Golden Retriever health. It is imperative that you provide them with the nutrition that they need, and besides buying the right dog food this also refers to you making sure that they are getting plenty of exercise, and this means a walk at least once a day.

Getting them out for regular walks is going to be very important, and also making sure that they are drinking enough water. Dogs are very similar to humans, and they can easily become dehydrated, a condition which can be serious and even potentially life threatening if unnoticed or left untreated.

It is also important that they get enough water because just like humans they can get dehydrated and this can be very serious, possibly even life threatening. By taking proper care of your Golden Retriever you will be making sure that they live as long and healthy a life as possible.

They are truly beautiful dogs as long as they are properly taken care of.

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Looking Into Labrador Health Problems

By Brooke Sunderland

There are a lot of reasons why people get a Labrador and a lot of reasons why the Labrador is the most popular breed of dog in the world. Aside from being intelligent and obedient the Labrador is also a relatively healthy dog. If you get medical care for your dog when it needs it and make sure there are regular visits to the vet then the average Labrador will live for twelve to fifteen years. But you should also know some of the warning signs of Labrador health problems so that you know when your dog may need help.

Knowing what to look for when looking for Labrador health problems is extremely important. If your dog is having difficulty walking then it may be experiencing a chronic disorder known as hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is when the hip joints are not properly formed and are causing the dog pain. They can be treated but the condition does worsen over time so if you notice difficulty walking get your dog to the vet right away.

Hip dysplasia is not the only thing that can make it painful for your Labrador to walk. The Labrador breed can also be prone to developing problems in the elbow area, which can make walking painful and difficult. This Labrador health problem is a little more pronounced that dysplasia of the hip so if you start to notice your dog having any issues walking at all it is extremely important that you get it to the vet right away to get the surgery it needs.

Labradors are also known to get simple problems such as eye infections. If you notice excess fluid in your dog's eyes then get them to the vet for medication right away. Eye infections can get complicated by your dog cleaning their eyes constantly to relieve the infection so be sure that you do not wait on the eye condition and get the antibiotics and other medications your dog needs to relieve its discomfort as soon as possible.

A constant attempt to clean an infected eye can lead to many more problems so get the problem addressed immediately.

Sometimes the Labrador health problems that your dog can experience don't seem so bad to you but they are devastating to your dog. Labradors love to eat and usually their owners love to feed them. However obesity is a huge Labrador health problem and it is up to the owner to regulate their dog's diet to be certain that they are not eating too much. Also make sure your Labrador gets plenty of exercise every day to avoid obesity and just getting lazy in general.

Labrador health problems are not common but when they start to appear it is up to you as the owner to make sure the dog gets the treatment it needs to relieve its discomfort.

Keep them active and on a proper diet to avoid obesity and always make sure you get your dog to regular visits to the vet to avoid any problems for their lifetime.

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How to Spot Feline Diabetes in Your Cat

By Kurt Schmitt

Depending upon the type and stage of the disease, feline diabetes symptoms will vary from cat to cat. The prime candidates for diabetes are over weight older males, but cats of either sex and any age may be affected.

Excessive urination and thirst (known as polyuria and polydipsia) are the most obvious early signs of the disease. Initially, your cat may show only these symptoms, or no symptoms at all.

As diabetes progresses, more symptoms may become apparent. In addition to polyuria and polydipsia, a diabetic cat may experience increased appetite, while at the same time losing weight.

In addition, sick cats will become lethargic. They also may develop diabetic neuropathy, a condition that causes weakness in the back legs.

Untreated cats may experience increasingly more severe symptoms. These may include vomiting, dehydration, and subsequent loss of appetite. Over time, affected cats may develop poor hair coat, secondary infections, and liver disease.

In severe cases, a potentially fatal condition known as ketoacidosis can develop in some diabetic cats. This condition has its own accompanying symptoms. These may include breathing abnormalities, weakness, and vomiting and diarrhea.

With proper treatment and disease management, feline diabetes can be controlled. There are two things you can do to help prevent the onset of the disease and reduce its effects in affected cats. First, ensure that your cat gets plenty of exercise, and second, ensure that your cat does not over eat.

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Everything You Need To Know About Bulldog breeding

By Bobby Callahan

When people think about Bulldog breeding, generally they think of puppy mills and all of the money that is being made off of these poor little animals. Of course it is not true that everyone who is involved with Bulldog breeding is in it for the wrong reasons as there are people who truly love to breed animals and share their passion with others.

Sure, it is okay to see that there is money to be made and that it is okay to look forward to it, but if that is your sole purpose for doing it, you need to rethink your decision. If you truly do not care about Bulldog care and such, it will show and there will be a price to pay for those wrong decisions that you make. For you to truly be the best that you can be, you must give yourself time to learn everything there is to know about Bulldog breeding.

After you know that you are truly in it for all the right reasons, then you can begin to get ready to start breeding. But Bulldog breeding is not always that easy and there is a lot of information that you need to know about in order to make the most of your time and efforts and to keep the dogs healthy. There is a lot of Bulldog information that can be found in books and in articles online. Make sure that you read up on Bulldog breeding as much as possible so your truly know what to do and what you can expect from it all.

Now that you know that you are Bulldog breeding for the right reasons, it is important to make sure that you are truly prepared. It is not as simple as picking a male and female, forcing a mating and then hanging out until puppies are born. There is a lot of know about and a lot of work ahead of you so it is vitally important to make sure that you are truly educated on as much Bulldog information as you can get your hands on.

Even when someone thinks that they know everything there is to know about Bulldog breeding, it is important to remember that you may not have done absolutely everything. Something that seems to be forgotten the most is a check up for the adult dogs at the local vet's office.

By sending your dogs in for a routine checkup, you will be able to be forewarned about possible problems that can occur because of the particular breed or the particular dog you are dealing with.

This is information that is the most valuable and can only be given by an experienced vet. Also, by letting your vet know that you intend on breeding those particular dogs, they may be able to caution you on certain things to watch for.

First hand experience like that is hard to come by and you should always listen to what your vet has to say as it could save you a lot of heartache.

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Old Dog, New Trick: Teaching Your Older Dog Not to Bark

By Amy Nutt

Many people believe the old saying "You can`t teach an old dog new tricks. Fortunately, when it comes to old dogs that bark, you CAN teach them new tricks. Obviously, it is easier to train a puppy not to bark than it is an elderly dog, but this doesn't mean it's impossible.

Whether you have raised your dog from a puppy and missed teaching him to be quiet along the way or are getting an older dog from a friend or even the local pound, it`s important to teach your canine friend some dog obedience and not to bark needlessly.

Why Dogs Bark

There are several reasons why your dog is barking and not all of them are bad. While you don't want the steady barking of a nervous animal, you certainly will want your pet to let you know if there is an intruder or if someone needs help. Understanding the method behind the madness will give you a far better chance of training your dog the right way.

Fear: Is your dog afraid of thunder? Perhaps he barks only around strange men, like the mail carrier. This is quite common, but it doesn't need to be permanent. Letting dogs have a safe place to retreat to can really help with this type of barking issue. A safe spot to curl up with a favorite toy and a treat will help your dog relax and keep busy for a bit.

Lack of attention: Dogs are social creatures and they often live to please their humans. If you are out of the house for long periods of time, you dog is probably suffering from separation anxiety. To help him get over this, be sure to take him with you sometimes and to take it slowly. For example, just go outside the door for five or ten minutes while leaving some treats and new toys for your dog.

Boredom: Your dog could be barking simply for something to do. If you notice that your canine pal is extra active, scratching at the door or chasing silly things, chances are he needs something better to do. Giving your dog a chore will help him feel happy and useful and will get rid of that bark. Teach him a new trick or play fetch in order to keep him busy. New toys can also be used.

Change: Some dogs are more sensitive to change than others and if there has been a recent move, death in the family or other drastic change, your older dog may be barking for this reason. In this case, it is often a matter of letting your pet become accustomed to the new situation. If there is someone missing, it can be helpful to give your dog a piece of their clothing.

Teaching an Older Dog Not to Bark

Dogs that are over five years may be a little more difficult to train not to bark, especially if this is not a recent development. Many pet owners have unintentionally taught their dogs to bark by responding to them when they make noise, often from the time they are puppies. This just lets the dog know that if he wants attention, he only needs to start barking.

Patience will go a long way in teaching your older dog not to bark. Since this is an ingrained response, the longer your dog has been barking, the longer it will take for him to unlearn the behavior. Rewarding good behavior and teaching the command, ?Quiet? will help you get your dog to understand that barking isn't a good thing to do. Over time this dog training will improve your relationship with your dog. Most dogs are happy to please their humans and once they realize that you want the behavior to stop, they will usually attempt to comply. Again, patience is key.

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Proper Pug Health

By Jenny Donaldson

Pug health requires that you brush their coat at least once a week and a bath whenever they require it. The Pug dog will shed a lot, so by brushing often you can help reduce the amount of fur that coats your furniture, car and clothes. There isn't much that goes into the daily care of a Pug, but you need to pay special attention to the wrinkles on a Pugs face.

Pugs are naturally curious and as a result stick their nose into a lot of things. This means the wrinkles easily become full of dirt and require regular cleaning. There is also the chance of moisture building up in the wrinkles, which can cause itching, irritation and occasionally a bad infection. But cleaning the wrinkles isn't that difficult, you just need a soft tissue and make sure you clean the wrinkles on a regular basis to keep the buildup down.

It is also important that you regularly trim your Pugs nails as you would with all breeds. However, Pug health depends on these trimmings since the nails can become caught on blankets or other things when they grow too long. Longer nails also make is painful for the Pug to walk.

Pugs are different from other breeds in the sense that they do like water. So when bathing the only real difficult part is to avoid getting water in the ears, which can lead to ear infections and don't get shampoo in the sensitive eyes.

The one area where Pugs are very different from other breeds is in the fact that they really like water. So when it comes to bathing the only things to avoid is getting water in the ear, which can cause infections and getting shampoo in their sensitive eyes. But if your Pug really likes the water and insists on playing then let them do this for a while, so you can make bath time an enjoyable event for both yourself and your Pug.

Another important part of Pug health is to keep the ears dry and clean. Since Pugs have a narrow ear canal they are prone to ear infections. Wipe the ears clean regularly using a soft tissues or cotton ball, but you should never use a cotton swab.

You will need to pay extra attention to your Pug if they are shaking their head a lot or scratching their ears. Also you want to take your Pug to the vet if you start to notice a weird smell in their ears since this could be a sign of a fungus or ear infection. Since Pugs will get ear infections often many owners have a bottle or two of old ear drops at home.

Although you don't want to use these since it can make the infection worse. It is best to use them only under the approval of a licensed veterinarian and only if you have cleaned the bottle very well and stored it in the refrigerator.

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Avoiding Fake Beagle Breeders

By Michelle Adams

The time has come to bring a little beagle dog into your family and you have decided that you want to deal with a beagle breeder so that you know what you are getting. However, like any other industry, there are fake beagle breeders out there that are trying to scam you. You want to make sure you avoid a fake beagle breeder or else you may get an unhealthy pet that could rack up huge vet bills and cause you and your family to make difficult decisions.

One tell tale sign on whether or not a beagle breeder is legitimate is if they offer you pet insurance on your beagle to extend to after the sale. Be sure you get this guarantee in writing as many fake beagle breeders will promise you insurance and then there will be nothing when you go to use it. Insurance companies give beagle breeders free pet insurance that lasts six weeks after you have purchased your dog in the hopes you will be inspired to buy a pet insurance extension so it is no expense to a legitimate breeder.

Your relationship, and contact, with your beagle breeder is an ongoing thing that does not stop just because you took the beagle home. A legitimate breeder will be available for any beagle owner to answer questions and offer any advice you may need.

If you are having a hard time getting your breeder on the phone, or they won't answer any questions for you, then the chances are you have a fake breeder.

Beagle breeders are also supposed to help novice beagle owners with health advice and even guidance on the kinds of foods your beagle should be eating. A good breeder will send you home with detailed care instruction on feeding your new beagle and will also send you home with samples of their food to help get you started. Once again if the breeder disappears on you then chances are they are not legitimate.

A reputation for being professional, helpful, knowledgeable, and accessible is everything to the business of a beagle breeder along with providing quality pets. You should always be able to stay in touch with a legitimate breeder and if you find that you cannot keep your beagle later in its life then a good breeder will take the dog back but without giving you a refund for your purchase price. At least you will know that your beagle will be taken care of. A fake breeder will not offer that service.

Unfortunately if you have purchased your beagle from a fake breeder then there is not much you can do beyond suing the breeder to get your money back. You are encouraged to report the breeder to the National Kennel Club but in all reality there is not a lot they can do to make your situation right.

Before you purchase a beagle from any breeder always check out the breeder with the National Kennel Club to make sure you are dealing with a legit business.

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Rottweilers Make Excellent Companions

By Sharon Davies

One thing that immediately strikes you when you look at the Rottweiler is its robust nature and the power in its body and the next thing you will come to realize is that it is a very loyal creature that has good protective instincts as well. That is what makes the Rottweiler an excellent guard dog and besides, it is also a very good companion, which with proper Rottweiler care will be an asset to any home. However, given its special traits and because, thanks to good Rottweiler breeding, these animals are strong of a good size. This means that you need to shoulder a few more responsibilities in raising these breeds than is the case with other breeds. As a person interested in owning a Rottweiler, it would pay for you to learn about good Rottweiler breeding so that you can find out exactly what it takes to make a good Rottweiler, and thus make an informed decision when purchasing the breed.

Other considerations that you need to be on the lookout for include American Kennel Club registration papers and also Orthopedic Foundation for Animals certification. Genetic problems present in the Rottweiler, its health history and also that of its parents which should show whether the pup has been wormed and been given its shots.

In any case, you need to be wary about those Rottweilers that are being offered for sale at very low prices because these could be the result of poor Rottweiler breeding. If breeders offer you guarantees in writing, it is a welcome thing though not a guarantee that their dogs are of adequate standards. So, watch out for unscrupulous breeders of whom there are many.

There are many things that you will also need to consider about Rottweiler care and Rottweiler breeding that will help you choose the right puppy and thus ensure that you are giving a new home to a Rottweiler that has been well bred and which will be a part of your life for the next eight to fifteen years. It is also a good idea to read up about Rottweiler breeding and then carefully evaluate the mental as well as physical characteristics of the prospective puppy or adult dog that will suit you the best.

Dog shows are an ideal place where you can view and also find good Rottweilers that have been well bred and since such shows are sure to have many Rottweiler breeders showing off their puppies and dogs, you could make contact with them and thus find a good Rottweiler for yourself. If these Rottweilers are the product of good Rottweiler breeding they will stand about two feet tall and weigh about a hundred pounds though the females will be slightly shorter as well as a bit lighter in weight.

A Rottweiler may not look too tall or imposing, but it is certainly a very strong animal and they were also at one time used for pulling carts, which has made their bodies very muscular and strong. They can easily knock a full-grown person down and thus must be kept away from older people who could come to harm as a result of accidental bumps. However, the Rottweiler will respond well to obedience training and thus can be kept under control quite easily.

You need to ensure that before buying your Rottweiler you do not buy from breeders who do not show respect to the breed and will indulge in indiscriminate Rottweiler breeding and thus produce Rottweilers that have more than the desired numbers of problems. Don't be fooled by low prices and look to see that the Rottweiler has good black coat or even one that is of tan color, is strong looking and has an athletic build, while its movements are supple.

Because of its strength and generally imposing demeanor, there are many that are scared of the Rottweiler and even have gone as far as wanting Rottweiler breeding to be stopped. These people obviously do not know this great German breed is a superior animal and has been bred for more than two thousand years. The only problem with regard to this excellent creature is that improper Rottweiler car and training can cause more aggressive than is required.

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Questions You Should Ask Your Bulldog Breeder

By Bobby Callahan

Bulldogs are truly fabulous dogs. Besides their incredibly unique appearance which is unmatched by any other breed in the world, they also have a wonderful personality. Bulldogs are loyal, affectionate, good tempered and even good around children. They are easy to train and extremely devoted to their owners. Getting a Bulldog as a pet may be one of the easiest decisions you will ever make, but the process of actually finding one may not be.

You will need to find a legitimate and responsible Bulldog breeder, one that really cares for their dogs and wants to ensure that they are all healthy and that they will all be going to the best of homes. The process of finding a good Bulldog breeder can often be lengthy and quite trying, especially because the Bulldog is such a popular breed. You want to avoid dealing with mass breeders because these are breeders who breed as often as they can in order to make as much money as they can. They care very little about the dogs and could care less whether they make it to a good home.

The process of finding the right Bulldog breeder really does not have to be difficult, as long as you know the right questions to ask. One of the first things you will want to ask a Bulldog breeder is what the asking price of the puppies is, keeping in mind that you want to avoid any breeder who charges different prices for males or females or who charges extra if you want a pedigree or registration.

There are certain questions that you are going to want to ask a Bulldog breeder, one of the most important being how long they have been in the business for. This is because you want to make sure that they are educated and that they know what they are doing. Another important question to ask a Bulldog breeder is in regards to what health tests have been done on both parents of the litter.

This way once you get the puppy home you will not experience fear or other behavioral problems as a result of a lack of this exposure. From this it is easy to see that the process of finding the right Bulldog breeder is certainly not always easy, but it can be done. The key thing here is that you ask the right questions so you can ensure that you will be dealing with the best possible Bulldog breeder.

However, as long as you take your time and ask each Bulldog breeder the right questions you will be able to get the information you need and from this make the right decision on which Bulldog breeder you should choose to go with.

Good breeders want to make sure that their puppies are going to be headed to the right homes and so be prepared for them to ask just as many questions as you. Expect them to inquire about where you live, how large your home is, and whether you have any children or other animals.

That is because good breeders care about their dogs and want to make sure that they will be headed to the most suitable homes. Be prepared for them to ask just as many questions as you including where you live, how large your home is, and who is going to be occupying the home.

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So You Purchased a New Puppy... Now What?

By Tony Bueler

Congratulations are in order - this will be an exciting time for you and your family - especially the kids. The smiles on your children's faces when they see their brand new puppy will be hard to beat. Just think of the hours of enjoyment they will bring to each other!

But those few couple of months can be a challenging. There will be some training issues that you will need to deal with. These will be no problem, but the earlier you can train your little puppy, the more you will be able to enjoy him/her later on.

For example, those little puppy teeth can be sharp! When puppies play together, they naturally and uninhibitedly bite and mouth each other. This is not a big problem for them since their skin is relatively thick and it causes no discomfort whatsoever.

But when you are training them to socialize with humans, this is not the kind of behavior that is acceptable. And although this kind of biting is cute when the dog is just a few pounds, it ceases to be cute when they are 25 pounds or more. Controlling this 'biting reflex' is an important first step in training the little puppy.

It would be good to have the puppy socialize with other puppies if at all possible. Puppies will bite each other as they roll and play. But this also happens to be the best way to train the puppy out of their biting habit - especially if they are playing with already socialized pups. The group will mildly punish the puppy that becomes to aggressive while playing and teach them to suppress their biting habit.

The socialization they get with other dogs also teaches the puppy not to be afraid of other dogs and it helps them drain off their excessive energy. Puppies that do not get the chance to socialize with other dogs also tend to be more hyperactive as they develop fearful and aggressive habits. A dog will tend to react aggressively in a new and unfamiliar environment if they had never been socialized.

A puppy should also be socialized with adults in order to become a member of the household and neighborhood. Introduce your puppy to both children and adults and help them to make the distinction between those who are their owners and between other people.

The ideal time to teach your little puppy to be socialized is when they are 3 months old or younger- this is when they catch on very fast. This is even more important when dealing with breeds that are typically less passive.

The best way of training your puppy not to bite is to get them to trust you. Never strike your puppy as this will not help them to trust or respect you, It will simply cause them to distrust you - which is not what you want. The confused little puppy won't really grasp why you did this and it will be counterproductive to their training.

And finally, enjoy your puppy, he/she will bring endless enjoyment to you and your family.

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