My Friendly Pets

In yesterday’s entry, I introduced tips for looking and knowing a good breeder when in search of a dog. The tips came from a website, highlighted in the last entry as well. Check it out here. The site comes to us from Kate Connick and I truly appreciate the detail and ease of the information provided.

It is important to know if the breeder shows their dogs to demonstrate important characteristics such as obedience and agility. According to Ms. Connick breeders that show and allow their dogs to compete tend to have a higher commitment to breeding. This doesn’t guarantee the quality of the breeder but can be a good indicator.

Another important criteria is whether the breeder actively screens the dogs for genetic health defects. Some dogs are genetically predisposed to certain illnesses and ailments such as hip displaysia, eye disorders, hypothyroidism, etc. If you have a breeder that is reluctant to discuss the health issues of a particular breed or is defensive when you ask about such things, then beware. People who claim that their breed is magnificently healthy without any breed specific weaknesses needs to be avoided as well. Everyone knows that nothing is perfect and that includes dog breeds as well. The breeder should be familiar with the history of the breed, its strengths and weaknesses and should welcome your questions regarding such issues.

Observation is a key thing when looking for a breeder. Check out what type of dogs are on the premises. Are all of the dogs young? Does the breeder have dogs of that breed as pets? How old are the dogs that the breeders have and if they have died what was the cause? These are some specific questions that can be asked in order to guage additional info about the breeder.

As with anything, you want the breeder to be able to give you references. This is a tricky area, as most people are not going to refer you to someone who will say anything bad. But in addition to the references, will the breeder give you the name of the vet that they have used consistently to care for the breeder’s own dogs as well as those he/she breeds?

Anything that is worth doing is worth doing right, and that includes obtaining a dog from a breeder. Take the time, do the research and don’t be afraid to say “no” if it just doesn’t sound right. As with most things, “go with your gut” as it will be the best indicator, in addition to all the information you gather, that will provide you with the best breeder and then the best dog for you and your family.

Just because a dog has wrinkles, they shouldn’t be considered old!!! In fact, the breeds that we are most familiar with that have wrinkles are loved because of those wrinkles. However, wrinkles are caused by an excess of skin, which if not cared for properly, can cause significant health problems for the dogs.

St. Bernards are known for their size and good nature, but they are subject to wrinkles around the eyes which cause the lids to droop and can cause visual problems. The eyes of this breed tend to water and should be cleaned periodically, so they don’t crust which could lead to clogged ducts around the eyes.

The entry from August 10th reflected the breed of the week, which was the pug. The pug also has wrinkles in their skin due to the excess of skin they carry, mostly located around the face. One of the special care requirements of this wrinkly breed is to clean between the wrinkles and creases of skin often as irritations and infections can result if proper cleaning is not done consistently. I know I’ve shown pictures of the pugs, but I can’t resist showing another.

The dog that is the most famous for its wrinkles is the Chinese Shar-pei. This is a dog that originated from China and is known for little else except their appearance because of their wrinkles. Many shy away from the Shar-pei because they believe their skin (wrinkles) will lead to excessive skin and health problems. However, the skin conditions of Shar-peis are usually not caused by their wrinkles, but rather a hereditary skin condition. Proper brushing of these dogs and a weekly bath should minimize the skin conditions and Shar-peis should be obtained from a good qualified breeder. This will minimize the risk of any hereditary skin condition. And now for some wrinkly pictures!!!

We are all interested in extremes..you know, the cutest, the ugliest; the youngest, the oldest and yes the largest and the smallest. Of course, when I thought of the largest dog breed, I thought of a Great Dane or an Irish Wolfhound, but to my surprise the largest overall breed of dog is the Old English Mastiff, as seen above. While the other two breeds may be taller than the mastiff, in overall weight and size, the mastiff is considered the largest breed. The largest dog ever was an English Mastiff that weighed 343 lbs., but most dogs in this breed range from 120 to 230 lbs and 25 to 36 inches at the shoulder. The wide variation is dependent on the sex of the dog with the male being at the large end of the spectrum.

The smallest breed of dog, and one that we commonly see with celebs like Paris Hilton or Britney Spears is the Chihuahua, named after the state in Mexico where it was discovered in the middle of the 19th century. This dog is a part of a dog group known as the toys, of course because of its size. They only weigh between 6-9 lbs. and usually are no taller than 9 inches. Because they are so small, sometimes children forget they are not a toy, but a real dog and rough house a bit too much. This is not a breed that is known for its easy temprament and might become quite agitated when provoked…kind of like a temper that makes up for their size. However, this is an extremely popular breed with many devoted and loving owners.

The beagle is such a popular breed and yet we don’t often notice them as the quality of dog that they truly are. Because of their quiet temperment, their size and their lack of hereditary health problems, they go rather unnoticed.

The beagle is part of the hound family and they have exceptional scent detection qualities. Their breeding allowed them to develop as hunters of hare, rabbits and other types of game. Because of this superb quality, they have been used as detection dogs for protecting people from prohibited agricultural goods.

It is said that the beagle has been around as a “breed” for over 2000 years, but the modern beagle as we know him, really gained popularity and distinction as a breed in England during the 1700’s. To enhance the physical characteristics and hunting strengths of this dog, Reverend Phillip Honeywood in England formed a beagle pack in the 1830’s and continued to breed from this pack to establish the beagle we know of today.

Quality beagles did not start to be imported and seen in this country until the 1870’s and wasn’t recognized as a breed by the AKC American Kennel club until 1884.

Beagles are medium sized dogs averaging between 13 and 16 inches high and can weigh between 18 and 35 pounds. They have strong jaws with teeth that scissor together. This allows for better hunting and gathering of the prey. The beagle has a muscular body with a medium length, smooth hard coat. Beagles can come in different colors, but the tri-color coat is what we are most used to seeing.

The beagle is considered a very even tempered dog who is considered neither aggressive or timid. They like people but need to warm up to strangers in order to truly show their affection. They are a basically obedient breed, but can be distracted when a strong scent takes away their attention. Its in their blood!!! They are considered great family dogs because they are so good with kids, but because they see themselves as so much a part of the family “pack”, they can suffer from separation anxiety.

As mentioned this breed probably doesn’t get the attention it deserves. However, when a breed spawns one of the most endearing and enduring cartoon characters known as “Snoopy” from Charlie Brown fame, we truly know how very special a dog from this breed can be.

That was our American Pit Bull Terrier. Geo was a loving family pet until his passing in June 2005. He was only 8 years old and his illness and untimely death was unexpected and we probably still haven’t totally recovered. I think it is time to pay tribute to this breed!!!

Unfortunately, the APBT has a very bad reputation, but like any dog, they can be trained to be mean and many have been bred when they shouldn’t have been because of bad temperaments, health problems or genetic defects.

However, in lieu of this, we need to speak of the many great attributes of the American Pit Bull Terrier. The American Pit Bull and the Staffordshire Terrier (its close cousin) come from a canine heritage that fought other animals including, bulls, bears other dogs and lions!!! These breeds according to historical records state that there was intentional breeding of bulldogs and terriers. This was done to enhance the speed and activity of the dog while also adding qualities of exceptional hunting abilities that the terriers possessed.

While certain qualities are part of the breeding in these dogs, they will become what their care, socialization and training determines they will become. These dogs can be excellent companions and family dogs as dedication to their pack leaders (humans) is part of their breeding.

These dogs can be great with children and are not automatically aggressive. However, you can’t disregard that in their breeding is also their tendency to fight other animals. This can be reinforced either way. Proper socialization will teach these dogs to live in harmony with other animals. However, if the opposite is encouraged, then it will not be a surprise to see these dogs revert to their genetic disposition and attack with ease.

These are medium sized dogs and for some reason, most in this breed think they are excellent lap dogs. They are usually well toned and muscular with a short, close and glossy coat.

I know these dogs, as a whole have been given a bad “rap”. However, there was never a more gentle and kind dog than our pup Geo. At the time, we also had two cats with whom Geo lived peacefully. He was not particularly fond of other dogs, and we kept that in mind and did not put him in situations that would be detrimental to him or another dog.

He loved people and guests in our house were always welcome after an initial sniff. Once he knew you were O.K., you would have a friend for life and he would let you know with warm, wet kisses all over your face. Geo, as most APBT, was very bright. He knew when we referred to Grandpa, my Dad was coming over and he would be getting a special treat. Over time, we had to refer to my father as GPA, as the mention of his name would get Geo so excited, that he’d be running and barking in anticipation of the man’s visit and his treat.

Please don’t regard this breed as the terror and horror they are made out to be. Remember, they become what we want them to be and should warrant the respect and kindness we show other breeds. A pit bull may or may not be the dog for you, but remember, love, good care, training and proper socialization will make for an excellent pet, no matter what breed you choose.

Aren’t they just beautiful? Seeing a collie conjures up such warm fuzzy feelings; the same ones I had watching Lassie on Sunday evenings when I was younger(much younger…lol). They look brave, hearty, loving and kind all at the same time. Again, I am fortunate enough to work with a woman who has two collies. Her most recent is a collie she rescued named Alice. Alice is a bit skiddish because of her background, but loved just the same!!!!

Collies originated in Scotland and were used primarily as herding dogs. Their popularity grew when Queen Victoria visited the Scottish Highlands in the 1860’s and fell in love with the Collie.

Collies come in two breeds, Rough and Smooth. Smooth collies have a short flat coat while rough collies have the long harsher textured coat that we identify with collies. The collie is neither large nor small. It is catagorized as a medium sized dog and usually ranges between 50 and 70 lbs. The rough collie always appears so much larger because of the abundance and thickness of their coat.

Collies are known for of course their beauty, but also for their loyalty, friendliness and intelligence. They are one of the friendliest breeds and make good family pets because of their devotion. Due to their herding background, they are also known for their barking, but are not especially agressive. However, they are considered excellent watch dogs. Their intelligence makes them attentive and interested in everything that goes on around them.

When growing up, a neighbor had a collie named Teddy. He was a neighborhood favorite. We all loved Teddy. This was long before leash laws and Teddy could often be found wondering from house to house visiting the neighbors and insuring that all was safe and sound. Looking at the collie pictures, I thought of Teddy. Between he and Lassie, they provided me with a lasting and loving impression of this very special breed.

Temperament – cheerful, sweet, sensitive. The cocker spaniel is easily trained and gets along well with children and other pets.

Grooming – Since they have a long coat, these dogs need to be brushed often and shampooed frequently. Cocker Spaniels have beautiful, silky hair which does shed, but not excessively.

Activity Level – a small yard will do, as they require regular exercise.

Size – according to AKC standards, the average Cocker Spaniel will grow between 20-30 pounds.

AKC Breed Standard
The American Spaniel Club

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Who could resist those floppy ears?

Temperament – The beagle is gentle, loving, curious and very good with children. They get along well with other dogs, but will typically give cats a hard time. They are well tempered and loyal. Often bred as hunting dogs, beagles make excellent pets as well.

Grooming Requirements – Since the beagle has a short coat, not much grooming is required. A bath as needed will do. Beagles are average shedders.

Activity Level – This dog is active. They need either a fenced-in yard, or several acres to run around. Beagles have a strong urge to chase things, especially small animals such as cat and squirrels. Shelters usually have a number of beagles who were not able to make the way back home after a chase.

Size – The average beagle weighs between 20 and 25 pounds, a medium sized dog.

The National Beagle Club of America

dogs, pets, animals, breeds, beagle, breed profiles

The Maltese is lively, vivacious, playful, gentle, and loving. They are intelligent and loyal to their masters. They make wonderful little companions. Although the Maltese is generally good with children and other pets, they may snap if handled roughly by a child.

Grooming Requirements – The trademark of this breed is their silky, white, flowing hair. They need to be brushed daily and shampooed often. As with most white dogs, the eyes must also be wiped regularly to prevent tear staining. The Maltese sheds little to no hair.

Activity Level – This dog loves indoor play, and doesn’t necessarily need a yard. They do have a tendency to jump in puddles when outside.

Size – These are very small dogs, usually weighing in at 4-6 pounds.

AKC Breed Standard
American Maltese Association

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Temperament – proud, intelligent, pleasant, perky, and lively. They make great companion dogs, and are good with other pets. The toy and miniature breeds may snap if teased or picked on by small children. The standard poodle is more at ease than the smaller breeds, and excellent with kids.

Grooming Requirements – poodles have a thick, curly coat. They must be bathed regularly, and clipped about every six weeks. They shed little to no hair at all. Extra care must be taken with the ears; pulling the hair from them regularly.

Activity Level – moderately active. The toy and miniature breeds will do fine without a yard, and love to play indoors, but the standard poodle does better with a little more room to run around.

Size – Poodles are bred in three different sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They toy is the smallest, usually weighing from 6-9 pounds. Miniature poodles weigh between 15-17 lbs and the Standard Poodle 45-70 lbs.

AKC Breed Standard
Poodle Club of America

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The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, as they are more commonly called is known to be one of the smartest breeds of them all. Some people call them a miniature collie, which they are not. The two are entirely separate breeds, although they favor one another. Shelties are obedient and loyal, loving and affectionate towards their owners, but weary of strangers. They make excellent watchdogs. They are fairly active, and love to chase. This can probably be attributed to their herding ancestry. Shelties will do okay in homes without a yard, but need to be walked regularly. Mental and physical stimulation is essential for these dogs. They are smart, easily trained, and eager to please. Shelties don’t require bathing very often, but they may need to be brushed from time to time. They shed their undercoat twice per year. They typical weight for a Sheltie is between 14-27 pounds.

AKC Breed Standard
American Shetland Sheepdog Association

Technorati Profile

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Do you want a dog, but you’re not sure which breed would best suit your lifestyle?

CLICK HERE to take this quiz from The Dog Breed Info Center.

Simply answer the questions about yourself and your family. The quiz will generate a list of breeds that would be best for you. They even have links to breeders.

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Cheerfulness is the hallmark of this breed. Bichons are fairly small dogs, with puffy white hair and dark, inquisitive eyes. They usually weigh between 10-16 pounds. They love to be with people and bond easily with their families. They are playful, but not hyper, and good with other pets as well as children. Bichons do well in apartments or homes without a yard. They do need to be walked, but are happy to play indoors. This breed is very easily trained, and can be taught tricks.

Bichons require a lot of time and energy in regards to grooming. They need to be brushed daily, and frequent trips to the groomer may be necessary. The upside to this is that they shed very little. When their coat is taken care of properly, they will have a “powder-puff” appearance. All Bichons are white, but some may have buff or cream shadings.

Bichons make excellent pets in almost any home, but they do require time and attention from their owners. They are loving, affectionate, and eager to please.

AKC Breed Standard
Bichon Frise Club of America
Dog Owner’s Guide

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I’m sure you’ve heard of them by now.. mixed breed dogs usually ending in -poo. Maltipoo, cokerpoo, shihpoo, labradoodle, peke-a-poo, yorki-poo, schnoodle, pom-poos, and the list goes on. Are these new breeds? No.. not at all. They’re good old fashioned mutts, sold at a high price.

Breeders market these puppies as “designer” breeds, and claim that when mixing two breeds you get the best of both worlds. What they don’t tell you is that you might also get the worst of both worlds. The truth is that most responsible breeders commit to one breed, and would never consider mixing them. The point of breeding is to create healthy dogs, who also meet the breed standards as specified by the AKC. Certain breeds are prone to certain health problems and behavioral traits, and breeders strive to eliminate as many problems as possible. When two breeds are mixed, the risk is creating a dog that holds the undesirable traits of both breeds.

Don’t get me wrong, my family has owned many mutts who were excellent dogs. But beware when you see a “designer dog” advertised as some special hybrid mix that’s going to be the greatest dog ever. These dogs are usually sold at higher prices than pure-breeds!

My advice - find a reputable breeder and stick to pure-breeds. If you want a mixed breed, that’s fine, but don’t pay the “designer price” for it. There are tons of mixed-breed dogs at shelters in every city, waiting to be adopted.

Quiz - Mutt or Designer Breed?

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The “Westie” has been described as independent, energetic, alert, strong willed, and intelligent. They are compact little dogs, but not necessarily lap dogs. Westies will do okay in homes with older children, but the children must understand how to properly treat a dog. Westies have low dander, which is great if you have allergies. Their coat consists of a soft inner layer, and a hard outer layer. They need to be brushed regularly, but bathing is only recommended once a month to keep their skin from drying. While these dogs are not “yappers”, they will bark to announce a visitor or if startled.

Is a Westie the dog for you? Click Here

AKC Breed Standard

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