Dog Breeds

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Interesting Facts about the German Shepherd Dog

Interesting Facts about the German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog is one of the most popular breeds in the world. It consistently rates among the most common household pets in the US and UK, predominantly due to its vast intelligence, loyalty and obedience. Below are some interesting facts about a popular, but often misunderstood breed.

Today, German Shepherd Dog’s are used in numerous countries as police dogs. Due to their breeding, the German Shepherd enjoys working with humans and loves to be active. However, it is partly due to its work as a police dog that the breed has a fearsome reputation. Although they make splendid working dogs, they are equally suited to family life and can be wonderful companions.

As the name suggests, the German Shepherd Dog has its origins in Germany as a herding animal. However, until the 19th century, there was no standardization of dog breeds in Europe. An advocate of standardization, Max von Stephanitz, had very clear views about the physical form and character traits of the ideal working dog. By chance, he found the dog that matched his ideal, purchased it and used it as a breeding animal. Stephanitz founded the German Shepherd Dog Society and is credited with creating the breed.

Through a careful breeding program, Max von Stephanitz’s first German Shepherd, Horand, produced numerous pups. This second generation was also selectively bred, leading to the birth of Beowulf, who is an ancestor of all subsequent German Shepherd Dogs.

Compared with most breeds of dog, the German Shepherd is a relatively modern addition. Established in 1899, the breed was not recognized by UK Kennel Clubs until 1908.

The breed’s popularity exploded after the conclusion of the First World War. Returning soldiers spoke very highly of the breed, which led to a dramatic rise in the number of German Shepherd Dogs in the UK.

Ironically, after World War 1, an epidemic of anti-German sentiment led to the UK Kennel Club changing the name of the German Shepherd Dog. Shortly after the war, the breed was registered under the name Alsatian Wolf Hound. However, the name was soon shortened to Alsatian and adopted by many Kennel Clubs around the world. It was not until 1977 that the name German Shepherd Dog was restored.

The German Shepherd can be found in a variety of colors. The most common color combinations are tan and black or red and black. However, it is also possible to have all black, all white, blue, brindle, sable, liver and panda.

In some quarters, the all white German Shepherd is not deemed acceptable, because its color would not allow it to herd effectively or be seen in wintry conditions.

According to Kennel Club specifications, the German Shepherd Dog should have a long muzzle with a black nose, medium sized eyes that are brown in color and large erect ears. Other noticeable features of the German Shepherd Dog is the bushy tail, which should reach to the hock and the long neck, which is outstretched when the dog is excited.

Max von Stephanitz was very particular about which dogs he bred and was implicit that defects should be bred out quickly. Today, however, with a lack of breeding regulations, some terrible defects have crept into the breed. Subsequently, hip dysplasia, missing teeth and a number of other ailments can affect the German Shepherd Dog.

Despite their fearsome reputation, the evidence for aggression in German Shepherd Dogs is refuted by reputable source, including the American Veterinary Medical Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Most owners find that the German Shepherd is docile, loyal and obedient. If properly trained, they are happy to share their home with other animals and although naturally wary of strangers, a German Shepherd is not viscous or aggressive by nature.

If you’re looking for a loyal, devoted and loving family pet, you can’t go far wrong with a German Shepherd. However, prospective owners are advised to research the breed and ensure that you can provide the right home for a dog.

Visit www.TrainPetDog.com and GRAB A FREE COURSE ON TRAINING YOUR GERMAN SHEPHERD! Learn all about housebreaking, obedience training, and correcting behavioral problems like barking, biting, jumping, chewing and digging. For more information on the characteristics of German Shepherds, go to www.TrainPetDog.com The german shepherd dog is a multifuncional dog. Is training for police dog, military dog, k9, protection, schutzhund, guard … perro pastor aleman.
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Lhasa Apso Breed Information

Lhasa Apso Breed Information

DogBarkings.com

DESCRIPTION

The Lhasa Apso is identifiable by its long coat that reaches all the way to the floor.  The coat is heavy and double-coated, draping over the whole body and coming in the following colors: Gold, cream and honey (the most popular colors), however they also come in smoke, dark-grizzle, slate and a multi-color assortment of brown, white and black.  The color of the Lhasa Apso can change as it grows and matures.  Some have likened their appearance to a miniature version of the Old English sheepdog.  The coat itself, has a hard. heavy texture and feel, without silkiness.  The hair cascades over the body as well as the apple shaped head, finishing over its eyes.  Lhasa Apsos have dark a dark beard and moustache, with a medium length muzzle, without squaring.  The ears are feathered heavily and pendant in shape, whilst the eyes are deep set, dark brown in color and large (but not overly so).  They have a longer body than they are tall, with strong loins and well developed thighs.  Forequarters are straight and both forelegs and hind legs are covered with hair.  They have cat-like feet with thick pads and a tail that is well feathered and carried in a screw like fashion over the back.

TEMPERAMENT

Their slightly ostentatious look, hides a hardy dog, full of character.  The Lhasa Apso is an assertive and intelligent breed, with a friendly and lively disposition, displaying a lot of affection for its masters.  They can be trained to a high obedience level, however unfortunately, due to their size, many owners neglect obedience training and do not reinforce their position as pack leaders, as a result this breed is susceptible to ´small dog syndrome.´  This can lead to a variety of unwanted and negative behaviors.  Having said this, if this dog is made aware of its place in the ´family pack´ and owners display alpha dog traits, they should make wonderful little pets.  When training a Lhasa Apso, motivational and positive reinforcement methods achieve the best results  The Lhasa Apso is a vocal dog, with a keen sense of hearing and so can make a good watchdog. 

HEIGHT: Dogs 25-28cm (10-11 inches), Bitches 22-25cm (9-10 inches)
WEIGHT: 5.9-6.8kg (13-15lbs)

HEALTH

Lhasa Apsos can suffer from skin conditions if parasites are not removed from the thick, long coat and some dogs may suffer from hip dysplasia.  More rare issues include eye problems, kidney issues and bleeding ulcers.

LIVING CONDITIONS

These dogs will do fine in an apartment, they are very active indoors, however their small size means that they will not require too much room to run about in and will not require a back garden or yard.

EXERCISE

A brisk daily walk is needed to keep this breed fit, both physically and mentally.  Although these dogs are very active indoors and play a lot, whilst this will burn some of their energy, it is important to understand that walking outside and not simply playing is an inherent need of all dogs.  It fulfills and instinctive requirement and can go a long way to help reduce unwanted behavior issues.

LIFE EXPECTANCY: Average 15 years, however many have been known to survive to 18 years
LITTER SIZE: Average of 4 puppies

GROOMING

The Lhasa Apso´s coat is parted along the spine and falls straight on either side.  It doesn´t require stripping or trimming, however daily brushing is required when they are in full coat, avoiding matting.  Cutting the coat shorter can reduce the grooming requirements.  Dry shampoo when necessary.  Feet, ears and eyes should be checked and cleaned regularly.  Lhasa Apsos are average shedders.

HISTORY

The Lhasa Apso is native to Tibet where its name is Abso Seng Kye, which translates as “Bark Lion Sentinel Dog.”  It finds its home in the region surrounding the sacred city of Lhasa.  Its keen hearing and vocal bark, where used as a second means of defense against intruders.  They were able to distinguish between friends and foe with astonishing accuracy and it was this perfected ability that lead to the breeding of Lhasa Apsos for almost 2000 years by Tibetan monks and nobles.  So revered were these little dogs that it was considered the vessel by which an owners soul was carried upon his or her death.  The first export of the Lhasa Apso came as a gift from the Dalai Lama and for many years it was close to impossible to purchase this breed, despite its fabled bringing of good luck.  The Lhasa Apso arrived on British shores in the 1920´s and in America in the 1930´s.  Suydam Cutting,a naturalist and traveler is considered the man solely responsible for the breeds popularity in the United States.  The Lhasa Apso was originally considered a terrier breed (1935), however it was reclassified in 1959 as part of the Non-Sporting Group.  The breed is now the most popular Tibetan breed in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Original article with pictures and more – Lhasa Apso

Dogs 101 Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkie is the second most popular breed in the world, and considered hypoallergenic.

Latest Styles In Men’S Boxer Underwear

Latest Styles In Men’S Boxer Underwear

Boxer underwear is arguably the most preferred choice of male underwear. Of course underwear is a very personal thing but we have to look for comfort, perfect fit and quality of fabric when selecting underwear. Market analysts opine that cotton boxers are the ones in great demand.

Here are a few latest types of boxers – 2(x)ist Basic Button Fly Boxer Underwear, Calvin Klein Cotton Knit Boxer, C-IN2 Snap Fly Boxer, Hanro Basic Classics Retro Boxer, C-IN2 Side Vent Boxer, Lands\’ End Pattern Broadcloth Boxers.

There are special types of boxer briefs that fit from the waist to the top of the thigh and are recognized as the classic style of men\’s underwear. The sides are wider than bikinis and the length is shorter than standard boxer briefs. Low rise briefs fit lower in the waist than regular briefs and the side fabric is also narrower.
The fit of Boxers varies from loose fitting to tight fitting. Boxer shorts are the ones that offer maximum loose fit and cover the body from the waist down to about mid-thigh. They often come with an elastic waist band and fly in front.  Boxer shorts generally resemble the shorts that professional boxers wear in the boxing ring. Few of the boxer shorts are made of silk while most others are made of synthetic materials. The materials which present day boxer shorts are made are also from a variety of fabrics that include anti bacterial fabrics, soft silky micro-fibers and organic cotton.  

Boxer shorts are today available in different designs and styles and when you look at some online retailers you will be confronted with too wide a range and confused what to pick. Boxer shorts were for long regarded as loose fitting shorts that offers little or no support. But today the styles of boxers have undergone a sea change. Fitted boxer shorts, boxer briefs, trunks, maxis and hipsters are among the host of styles available in the market.

Boxer briefs are a bit shorter than boxer shorts and also fit closer almost clinging to the body. The boxer brief style is a versatile type of men\’s underwear suitable for all physical builds. Trunk styles of men\’s underwear are a lot like the boxer briefs except the leg length is shorter. Gone are also the days of the button fly, although these are still available for old-timers who want them. It is indeed a fact that the modern man has to contend with a much more demanding life that he expects more convenient functional aspects of designer men\’s boxers.

There are sexually provocative boxer shorts with top styles including men\’s boxers, boxer shorts, boxer briefs, silk boxers etc. Most manufacturers offer a cutting edge line of men\’s sexy underwear, specializing in men\’s boxers in both classic and trendy designs. You will be struck with wonder when you see the array of new and exciting prints, different fabrics, and multitude of colors the range of sexy men\’s underwear. There are boxer shorts in lots of different patterns and colors, and are worn partly exposed in some trendy fashion. For a truly sexy look, boxer trunks can be opaque, semi opaque or wholly transparent concealing nothing.

A Boxer holds the record for having the longest tongue WOW can you imagine that
Video Rating: 4 / 5

The History Of The Yorkshire Terrier

The History Of The Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers, according to Yorkshire Terrier information sources, originally came from Scotland and bred with native terriers. The founding father was named Huddersfield Ben. Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred to kill mice and rats. There are very few records of dog breeding from this time. Yorkshire terriers were originally bred to kill rats, not to be a fashion accessory. They arrived in America as early as 1872 and have never looked back.

If you took a trip back in time to 1870, you probably would have a hard time recognizing a Yorkshire Terrier. In about one hundred thirty years, the breed has gone through tremendous changes in their looks and in their functions. But the Yorkshire Terrier has adapted to the great changes that the Industrial Revolution brought to the economy and to family life. Yorkies back then weighed about thirty pounds and came in more colors than just blue and tan.

Back in the 1870′s, word was getting around about the great pups from a sire named Huddersfield Ben, who was born in 1865. Huddersfield Ben was considered an ideal dog – a champion ratter as well as being friendly and handsome. Any dog that resembled Huddersfield Ben had to have been from Yorkshire, where Ben lived. Yorkshire dog breeders kept their breeding methods secret so they could be assured of buyers. His puppies eventually became known as Yorkshire Terriers.

Back in 1865 – the year of Huddersfield Ben’s birth – dogs were bred to exhibit useful qualities, not for their looks. There also was not much interest in keeping breeds pure. There are very few accurate records of dog breeding at this time. It is also thought that dog breeding was considered such a secret business that no records were kept for fear of the knowledge getting out to competitors. Yorkshire Terriers got their name because the breed was perfected in Yorkshire.

Yorkshire Terriers were bred to be specialists in killing rats. They were (and still are) thought to be more reliable at killing mice and rats than cats. They were also bred to bark when they found their prey and to let their masters know where they are. The mining industry thrived in Yorkshire at this time – and the mines were full of rats. They were until the Yorkshire Terriers got to work.

As time went on, the need for big working dogs decreased. People were living in smaller homes and needed smaller dogs they could physically control easily. The Yorkshire Terrier filled this niche admirably. They were a hit on both sides of the Atlantic. Not only did they make great guard dogs, but were affectionate and did not need a lot of exercise. They were introduced to America in 1872.

Over the last century, Yorkshire Terriers have become ever smaller. The original Yorkies were about thirty pounds and came in several colors. Today’s show Yorkies are not to exceed seven pounds and must be steel blue and tan (and have those colors in specific proportions). The hot trend is top breed Yorkies that tip the scales at three pounds, which has lead to concerns about the health of breeding such small dogs. The Yorkshire Terrier, as of 2006, is the second most popular purebred dog in America.

Shih Tzu puppy Lacey discovers stuffed toy lion for first time

Here is Lacey (7 months) acting so fierce, lol. She just discovered the stuffed lion and is checking it out.
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Exercise Requirements Of The Samoyed Breed

Exercise Requirements Of The Samoyed Breed

Samoyed’s are a breed with a history of requiring strenuous physical activity, the dog is a working breed which was bred to do such tasks as herd reindeer and pull sleds in harsh, bitterly cold temperatures. The Samoyed has some very specific requirements for exercise that need to be met if he or she is to adapt well and be truly happy. The requirements do not mean an owner must purchase a big sled and move to the North Pole, but if you want your dog to get the necessary exercise, it means you need to become educated and knowledgeable about the needs of the breed.

When the dog is in puppyhood, it can be less resilient than other breeds of around the same age. When they are a puppy, the dog’s muscles and skeleton are not completely developed and the dog will not be able to perform any type of heavy work. The exercise the dog gets when a puppy comes from playing, learning and exploring with its littermates. The Samoyed as a pup has an open-minded temperament which means it is a great time to take advantage of some obedience training. An owner will find that a Samoyed puppy is much easier to train in contrast to a full grown dog. Obedience training will help the dog get some exercise in a way that is perfectly suited to its developmental stage; training should be neither too lax nor too rigorous.

Once the dog has reached the midway maturity point at approximately 6 months of age, an owner can begin involving the dog in more difficult and challenging obedience training courses that involve a high level of physical activity. The dog will be able to run and maneuver through an obstacle course. Additionally, by the time a Samoyed is resilient enough to withstand being taken on a daily walk, it is extremely important to keep the dog tethered on a lead at all times.

When the Samoyed reaches adulthood, the dog needs to receive a moderate amount of strenuous exercise for a minimum of one hour per day. With the dog having an amicable personality, it means you can also get them to adapt to a variety of activities and provide them with the exercise needed. An example would be if you were biking or hiking, you can bring the dog along with you and they will completely enjoy participating.

If you live in a climate that experiences snow, you may even want to allow the Samoyed to participate in sled pulling. If you have youngsters, this can be a very enjoyable activity which can be engaging for the entire family, like any exercise that combines fun and family bonding, your dog is sure to love it immensely.

It is important to remember that a Samoyed requires an owner to begin with a small foundation for learning and to gradually build to more impressive activities for which the breed is known. With time and patience, your Samoyed will adapt well to your family and provide years of love and companionship.

Sedna is in the dog salon. It took 2,5 hours. I take my dogs to dog salon once or twice a year. (DogCity Szeged)

Bulldog…..?

Question by Bubbly: Bulldog…..?
Ok i love american bulldogs but they might be too big for me and i like english bulldogs but they are too small. Is there any type of bulldog that is in between those 2 sizes?

Best answer:

Answer by Stark
These are pretty rare, they are Olde English Bulldogges. I think they are absolutely adorable. But they require an experience owner. I have seen a few come through animal shelters.

http://dogbreedinfo.com/oldeenglishbulldogge.htm

I actually want to adopt this one, but I just don’t have the room for 2 dogs right now.

http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=9554440

And I know you know this, but you can also consider adopting an American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, or a Boxer.

Give your answer to this question below!

Another Type Of Cocker Spaniel, The English Cocker

Another Type Of Cocker Spaniel, The English Cocker

If you live in the United States, you can probably picture a Cocker Spaniel in your head: a smaller dog with long, shiny fur, dangling ears with wavy hair, and big brown eyes. However, there is an English Cocker Spaniel that does not adhere to this stereotype! English Cocker Spaniels differ greatly from American Cocker Spaniels, but both are wonderful and charming breeds of dog.

Spaniels, a member of the hunting group, date back to the 1300s, and quite possibly existed undocumented even before that. Spaniels vary greatly in size, temperament, and official use. Bred for hunting, different spaniels were initially divided into two groups based on their hunting proficiency: land and water. The water spaniels remained one group, while the land spaniels were eventually divided into two additional groups: setting spaniels and springer spaniels. The Cocker Spaniel falls into the Springer Spaniel group, and is the smaller than any other spaniel in its category.

The Springer Spaniel category did not always have clarification for the difference between Cocker Spaniels and their groupmates, the English Springer Spaniel and the Sussex Spaniel. There was no documented differentiation until the late 1800s, when England finally acknowledged that the Cocker Spaniel was a separate breed altogether.

While there was deliberation in England about the breaking up of the Springer Spaniel group into smaller, more specific breeds, the Cocker Spaniel had already been imported to the United States and was becoming a much sought-after breed of its own. This explains why the American and English Cocker Spaniels began to differ in various characteristics of the breed.

Even though the Cocker Spaniel’s primary use in England was as a hunting dog, Americans appreciated the dog for entirely different reasons. Their glamorous coats made the American Cocker Spaniel very appealing, and thus breeders worked hard to accentuate their aesthetic traits as opposed to their working ability. The traits between English and American Cocker Spaniels continued to differ until there were distinct and obvious lines between each breed. In the 1940s, English Cocker Spaniel enthusiasts took action. They forced the AKC to recognize the English Cocker Spaniels as a different breed, unassociated with the American Cocker Spaniel.

The primary differentiation between the English and American Cockers is their coats. Having been bred for beauty, the American Cocker Spaniel’s coat is much longer, shinier, and thicker than their English counterparts. The American Cocker Spaniel has also been bred somewhat smaller, also resulting in different facial features, such as a shorter snout and more forward-facing eyes. Despite the differences, both breeds are absolutely lovely.

Molly from puppy to adult
Video Rating: 4 / 5

West Highland White Terrier Puppy And Dog Information

West Highland White Terrier Puppy And Dog Information

The West Highland White Terrier is a hardy, happy little terrier that love the companionship of people. They are very good looking and make good watch dogs. They can get along with other pets, especially if socialized when young. They have been known to chase cats as a sport. They are generally very good with children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male is 10 to 12 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 15 to 22 pounds. The female ranges from 9 to 11 inches to the withers and 13 to 16 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the West Highland White Terrier is no exception. Be on the look out for skin allergies, progressive neurological disorders and tear duct problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. They have a double coat. The inner coat is soft and fluffy. The outer coat is white, straight and hard hair. This is a breed that needs to be professionally groomed regularly. She should also be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The West Highland White Terrier can live around 15 or more years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The West Highland White Terrier comes from Scotland where they were raised to hunt vermin. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1908.

Some Registries:

* West Highland White Terrier Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 2 to 5 West Highland White Terrier puppies

Category: Terrier

Terms To Describe: Alert, friendly, reliable, happy, balanced, hardy, self-esteem, strength, affectionate

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a good watch dog.

Sheds almost no hair.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

They may dig.

They may bark plenty.

*Other Names Known By: Toseneath Terrier, Poltalloch Terrier

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

West Highland White Terrier Puppy
Video Rating: 4 / 5