Dog Breeds

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Australian Shepherd?

Question by courtney!: Australian Shepherd?
i’m looking for a friendly, protective dog that can be left alone for short periods of time. is an Australian Shepherd a good choice?

Best answer:

Answer by Megan G
Yep. Aussies are great.

Add your own answer in the comments!

Golden Retriever runs a store

This is Murphy our golden retriever that helps us run our drive thru beer and coffee company. Located in Michigan Center, MI on Page Ave. Just outside of Jackson, MI. YellowdogCoffeeCo.com
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Basset Hound – the Facts Every Owner of This Dog Breed Should Know

Basset Hound – the Facts Every Owner of This Dog Breed Should Know

The Basset Hound originated in sixth century France and is thought to be descended from the St. Hubert Hounds. The Basset Hound (bas means ‘low-set’ in French) proved useful to hunters, with its slow movement and long ears to stir up scent, they could drive prey out from dense covering and into open fields. The Basset Hound has stamina to keep up with hunters and to track and prey for long periods of time. Basset Hounds are still used for hunting in some areas of the world. The Basset Hound is described as gentle, sociable and stubborn.

Basset Hounds are loyal to their families and good with children and other animals. They prefer to be lap dogs and do not make good guard dogs, as they will greet any stranger who approaches them as a friend. Basset Hounds tend to be strong-willed and independent, making them difficult to train, but with enough consistency this can be overcome. When out for a walk with a Basset Hound, always keep it on a leash as the hunting tendencies may override any and all training.

Though Basset Hounds have a short stature, standing 12 to 15 inches tall, they are not considered small dogs, and will on average weight 50 to 65 pounds when mature. They have short coats that are tri-colored (black, white and tan) or red and white, and require relatively little maintenance. Regular brushing will keep the coat free of dirt and reduce shedding. Baths are necessary only a few times a year, as their coats tend to repel water. A Basset Hound’s ears need regular cleaning since their long, floppy ears do not allow air to circulate, increasing the risk of infection and they do tend to slobber more than other dogs.

Basset Hounds need to be exercised frequently and often times have to be encouraged to do so as they are prone to taking naps in the sun. The Basset Hound is prone to some genetic disorders. Von Willebrand’s disease is a platelet disorder that results in mild to moderate bleeding and a longer than average bleeding time. Through breeding, the incident of this condition has been reduced in the breed.

Basset Hounds are also prone to glaucoma, gastric torsion and interdigital cysts. Some Basset Hounds are allergic to certain grasses. Without proper exercise, Basset Hounds are prone to obesity, which can cause arthritis, back pains and heart trouble.

There is a website that has great information on Basset Hounds and most other breeds of dogs. It has details that pertain to a dog breeds health, grooming, living conditions, best food choices and more, the website is called: Dog And Cat Facts, and can be found at this url:

http://www.dogandcatfacts.com

By Robert W. Benjamin

Copyright © 2006

You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter on your web site as long as it is reprinted in its entirety and without modification except for formatting needs or grammar corrections.

Breakfast at Ginger’s- golden retriever dog eats with hands

Ginger enjoys a leisurely breakfast. Be sure to check out the version with no laugh-track and let us know which one you like better! Here is the link: www.youtube.com (Unfortunately we are having trouble posting the actual video here).
Video Rating: 4 / 5

Famous West Highland White Terriers

Famous West Highland White Terriers

With a friendly temperament, high energy disposition, and beautiful white coat, it is no surprise that the West Highland White Terrier has become the most popular terrier in the world. Their handsome good looks and excellent temperaments have allowed Westies to become famous actors on television and in films, and become models for various applications, characters in books and cartoon representations. For your enjoyment, below are some of the most famous West Highland White Terriers, America’s favorite Terrier.

The name of the charming Westie that appears on the label of Australia’s My Dog brand of dog food is Imelda.

A Westie with black ear tips played in a feature film based on the French cartoon character Axterix, as the pet dog of Axterix’s friend, Obelix. In the film, he was called Dogmatrix, or Idefix in the original French version.

The pet of the Souphanousinphone family on the animated series King of the Hill is played by a West Highland White Terrier named Doggy.

An acting dog, Happy, who had been abused by her first owner, found a part on the television show 7th Heaven. After being rescued from the animal shelter, it was necessary for Happy to make friends with adult actors before the filming began. She appeared on the show for eleven seasons,

The main character in a series of illustrated books created by Rosemary Wells and illustrated by Susan Jeffers is a West Highland White Terrier named McDuff.

Hamish Macbeth is a fictional police officer in a popular series of books written by M. C. Beaton. Macbeth is often accompanied by his Westie, Wee Jock. The series was later adapted into a popular television show for BBC that ran for three seasons.

The mascot and poster dog for the Cesar brand of dog food is Cesar in the United States. In Canada, a different Westie, Maggie, appears on the containers and commercials.

American author and recipient of the Caldecott Honor, David Shannon, wrote a children’s book titled “Good Boy, Fergus!” in which the title character is a Westie.

Agatha Gregson owned a West Highland White Terrier named Macintosh in the celebrated series Jeeves and Wooster, by P.D. Wodehouse.

“Greyfriars Bobby,” by Eleanor Atkinson, depicts an embellished true story of a Skye Terrier who spent the better part of his life sitting on his master’s grave, to whom he was deeply devoted. In a later film, produced in 2006, called “The Adventures of Greyfriars Bobby,” the dog, Bobby, was portrayed by a West Highland White Terrier.

The Westie that appears in the American Girl series of books and dolls is named Coconut.

House, a currently produced television series, boasts a Westie named Hector, who lives with Wilson, one of the main characters of the show.

As you can see, Westies are famous world wide. If you are interested in purchasing a Westie for you household, make sure to do plenty of research and know exactly what type of dog you are getting. While Westies are well mannered and intelligent, there may be certain traits you might not like. It’s also important to do plenty of research into your breeder of choice. Make sure your breeder is ethical and properly screens their puppies.

Alaskan Malamute Dog Breed Profile Information

Alaskan Malamute Dog Breed Profile Information

Description: The Alaskan Malamute is a medium to large dog in the sled dog family. The dog is 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder and the bitch 22 to 24 inches. The dog will weigh approximately 80 to 95 pounds, and the bitch will be between 70 and 85 pounds. The coat of the Alaskan Malamute has a very dense double coat which is 2 to 3 inches long. This dense coat is what allows the Alaskan Malamute to remain outside in arctic winter conditions. The coat is usually found to be grey, black and white, wolf grey, or red. White is the only permitted solid color. The Alaskan Malamute will generally live for 12 to 15 years.

History: The Alaskan Malamute has been used by the Inuit for over 2000 years. This is a very old breed that shows its wolf ancestry in its appearance. This dog was named for the tribe called the Mahlemuts, who had come across from Siberia to settle in what is now Alaska. The dogs provided the Mahlemuts with a dependable form of transportation in an very challenging climate. Used not only as sled dogs, the Malamute was also used in polar bear hunts.

Temperament: The Alaskan Malamute is a even tempered dog that enjoys being with its human family. This is a friendly dog that does not make a good guard dog. The Malamute is used mostly today as a companion dog, although some are still used for mushing. This dog is quite smart and can learn quickly, however training should start early. The Malamute is good around children and enjoys playing with them, but make sure that the child is large enough to play safely with this rather large dog. Some dogs, male and female alike, in spite of socialization, remain hostile to dogs of the same sex.

Health Issues: The Alaskan Malamute is subject to bloat, or stomach torsion. If your dog experiences this, it is vital to get it to an animal hospital immediately for treatment. This dog can suffer from hip dysplasia, also. Cancer is found, especially in older dogs, and this breed can exhibit hereditary dwarfism. Eye problems can surface in the form of cataracts or progressive retinal atrophy.

Grooming: As the Alaskan Malamute is a heavy shedder, it is necessary to brush out the coat at least twice a week. This dog will blow its coat twice a year, and it is probably a good idea to brush it more during these times. A dry shampooing is all that is needed in the way of bathing.

Living Conditions: As the Alaskan Malamute is kept today mostly as a companion dog, it will usually be kept in the house. It is perfectly capable of living outside as long as it is visited by its owner during the day. The Malamute is not a dog that should be kept in an apartment, it is far too active for such a confined space and needs to have a great deal of exercise to keep it fit. This dog will be come extremely destructive of its surroundings if not given enough exercise.

Its not my personal video. I jacked it from somewhere else in cyberspace. Pretty cool though.

How to Train a Basset Hound

How to Train a Basset Hound

Do you want a cute and short dog with an impeccable nose?

The Basset Hound, the “Hush Puppies” breed, is an adorable and well-behaved dog that will melt your heart with its appearance and demeanor. It is also a breed of amazing ability for tracking scents.

Origin:

The Basset hound is very old breed of dog. They were originally developed in France to assist in hunting slow trailing game animals such as rabbits and hares. They are perfect as trail hunters because their slow quiet movements won’t easily scare game.

Their popularity was at its peak during the reign of Emperor Napoleon. The true fame of the Basset Hound began in 1863, when it was presented at the Paris Dog Show.

They got their name from the French word “bas” meaning “low” in reference to their low set appearance.

Appearance and Abilities:

Basset hounds are very low to the ground. They have short legs. Proportionally, they have heavier bones as compared to other dogs.

Their short build can be deceiving. They are actually long dogs and able to reach counter and table tops to reach food. However, their short limbs and heavy bones make them poor swimmers.

Their skin is extremely loose and falls in folds on their heads. They have long velvety ears that fall way below their noses. They have a naturally sad expression on their faces even when they are happy.

They have short and smooth coats and are accepted in many recognizable colors. There are no rules concerning about coat color and color distribution.

Basset hounds have impeccable sense of smell. Their scent keenness is at par with that of the Bloodhound. They are able to pick up scent from very far and can track its origin with tremendous resolve.

Temperament and Tendencies:

Naturally, Basset hounds are well-mannered and loving dogs. They are never vicious or aggressive as fairly suggested by their melancholic faces. They are very patient and friendly with children.

They are very vocal breeds. They tend to howl or bark if they want something or warn their owners about something. They can whine by murmuring a sound to get attention from their masters. It may sound like they are speaking sometimes.

Training and Care:

Basset hounds will prefer someone to lead them with natural authority. Most dogs battle for the alpha role but Basset Hounds actually prefer it if they are led by gentle consistency.

They respond well with to positive reinforcement. Train them by praising good behavior. Stubborn and wise creatures they are, they will not follow commands if they believe that there is some reward to go with it.

Bassets are rather difficult to train because they are easily distracted by their acute sense of smell. Training them needs persistence and must be done in an area with less distraction from scents.

Always monitor their feedings because overweight Basset hounds have low life spans. Too much weight will put grave pressure on their legs and spine. Vigorous exercise is not necessary but you should give Basset Hounds their daily dose of walks and soft play.

Grooming them is relatively easy. Occasional baths and brushes are adequate and shampoo only when necessary. Always clean their ears and clip their toe nails. Their nails, when not clip are sharp and can scratch you. Basset hounds also shedding constantly so make sure to brush them frequently.

The Basset Hound is a short-legged breed of dog of the hound family. They are scent hounds, bred to hunt rabbits by scent. Their sense of smell for tracking is second only to that of the Bloodhound. The name Basset is derived from the French word bas, meaning “low”, with the attenuating suffix -et, together meaning “rather low”. Basset hounds are commonly brown and white and most often spotted, but also exist in a variety of colors.These dogs are around 1 foot in height at the withers. They usually weigh between 35-70lbs. They have smooth, short-haired coats but a rough haired hound is possible. Although any hound colour is considered acceptable by breed standards, Bassets are generally tricolor (black, tan, and white), open red and white (red spots on white fur), closed red and white (a solid red color with white feet and tails), Honey And White (honey coloured back, light brown spotty nose and legs, light brown tails with white tip) and lemon and white. Some Bassets are also classified as gray or blue; however, this colour is considered rare and undesirable. They have long, downward ears and powerful necks, with much loose skin around their heads that forms wrinkles. Their tails are long and tapering and stand upright with a curve. Some prefer that the tail be tipped in white. This is so they are easily seen when hunting/tracking through large bushes or weeds. The breed is also known for its hanging skin structure, which causes the face to occasionally look sad; this …
Video Rating: 4 / 5

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.
Video Rating: 4 / 5

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.