Showing posts with label Bulldog. Show all posts

Here's a great article for new dog owners.... Hope it helps you find your forever friend! –Kim

14 Worst Dog Breeds for New Pet Owners

We asked 218 veterinary professionals to vote on the dog breeds and mixes that are not good choices for first-time pet parents. German Shepherds, Bulldogs and Akitas are among the breeds of which new pet owners should steer clear.

Akita

No. 1: Akita
The Akita was bred to hunt big game such as bear, boar and elk. He can also weigh upwards of 115 pounds (or even more), and requires a 20-30 minute walk every day, always on leash due to a strong prey drive. He's a beautiful dog, but sheds heavily and can be a challenge to train, making him best suited to experienced dog owners.

No. 2: Chow Chow
Not known for being particularly lovey-dovey, the Chow Chow isn't the teddy bear he appears to be. He's intelligent but stubborn, and may require a lot of training before you get the results for which you're looking. This breed is wary of strangers and may be aggressive toward dogs he doesn't know.

No. 3: Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei requires an assertive, experienced owner to train him and keep him from getting bored. This highly territorial dog tends to bond with one person, and can be quite distrustful of those he doesn't know – humans and canines alike. And all those dramatic skin folds can increase the tendency for chronic skin and eye conditions that a naïve pet owner may find daunting.

Alaskan Malamute

No. 4: Alaskan Malamute
He's friendly, joyful and exuberant, which may make him attractive to someone seeking a first dog, but be warned: The Alaskan Malamute sheds like crazy, pulls on leash with all of his 65-100 pounds and is a talented escape artist. This breed is made to travel far on his own four feet and he needs a family committed to a lot of exercise when it's best for him. That thick fur coat also leaves him vulnerable to heat injury.

No. 5: Rottweiler
Although he can be a gentle giant, the wrong Rottweiler with the wrong owner can truly be a scary dog. A Rottweiler wants someone to be the boss, and if you're not taking the job, he will. He's powerful and protective, and known for being extremely loyal when it comes to his people and his property. Considering he can weigh as much as 135 pounds (and most of it muscle), he can generally back up his threatening growl.

No. 6: Weimaraner
The "Gray Ghost" earned his nickname for his beautiful gray coat and habit of following his owner closely, but the highly intelligent Weimaraner isn't the right dog for everyone. He's extremely energetic with no "off" switch, and he's not happy being left alone – separation anxiety can be a real issue with this breed. He can be difficult to housetrain and a hazard to cats and other small pets, but if you plan to spend many days hunting, hiking or doing obedience and agility with him by your side, you might have found your perfect companion.

Dalmatian

No. 7: Dalmatian
The spotted Dalmatian isn't just a Disney darling – he was bred to work as a coach dog, running alongside carriages or horses, alerting coachmen to approaching highwaymen and warding off stray dogs. That's how he became the traditional firehouse dog – he kept the streets clear for horse-drawn fire engines. However, the traits that made him perfect for this work can make him a challenge in the home. He has an endless capacity for exercise and can be destructive when bored. Also, he's a notorious shedder with stiff fur that weaves its way into fabric (but not out).

No. 8: Australian Cattle Dog
Sometimes known as a Blue Heeler or Australian Heeler, the Australian Cattle Dog is a medium-sized dog with serious endurance. Originally made up of several breeds, including the Collie, Dingo, Bull Terrier, Dalmatian and Black and Tan Kelpie, he has a reputation for being stubborn and having energy to spare – not to mention a truly adventurous spirit and belief in his own invincibility that will leave you wondering how he'll injure himself next.

No. 9: German Shepherd
Highly intelligent and a natural protector, the German Shepherd Dog is well-suited to a wide variety of jobs: He's worked as a guide dog, a drug sniffer, and, of course, a police and military dog. There's little he can't do with the right training, but that's exactly why he's not ideal for newbies – it takes quite a bit of training, exercise and dedication to stay "smarter" than he is. And all those smarts come with higher-than-average tendencies toward some pretty serious health problems, including hip dysplasia and neurologic issues.

No. 10: Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is incredibly lovable, but this gentle giant is also a lot of work. He drools (and drools and drools) and is known to ingest items like socks and dishtowels. Because of his enormous size (130-180 pounds or more), you might think he'd like to hang out in your big backyard, but you'd be wrong – he's prone to heatstroke and loves being around his people, so he's very much an indoor dog.

Siberian Husky

No. 11: Siberian Husky
The happy and affectionate Siberian Husky is a working dog that thrives in cold, snowy climates. He was bred to pull sleds over long distances, and his liveliness reflects that – a short walk around the block won't do for this breed. He sheds heavily, is a capable escape artist and has a strong predatory drive, so he's not a great choice for homes with cats or small pets.

No. 12: Bulldog
The Bulldog is generally good-natured and his goofy, wrinkled mug certainly makes him lovable, but the breed's heavy build and flat face make him particularly sensitive to heat, exercise and stress. He can't swim, so if you have a pool, pond or spa, his access should be restricted. He is prone to a variety of health issues and some may say he's challenging to train, but his fans don't mind – his entertaining antics and laid-back attitude make up for it in the right home.

No. 13: Bullmastiff
Devoted and protective to the point that he'd lay down his life for his family, the Bullmastiff has a mind of his own – and considering that he weighs in at 100-130 pounds, he can easily overwhelm an owner who isn't ready to stand up to him. He needs good, consistent, positive training and firm boundaries from a young age. He also needs someone to follow him with a mop, because this dog can drool. His high prey drive means he should always be kept on leash, and he doesn't generally love other dogs, so he's best as an only pet.

Airedale Terrier

No. 14: Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is quite a character. Independent, intelligent and stubborn, he'll keep you laughing – and on your toes, as he's a notorious digger and counter-surfer. He'll bring the same exuberance and joy to playing games as he brings to excavating your garden and eating your drywall. He's not great with other dogs or animals and needs plenty of stimulation (both physical and mental). It should be noted, too, that this "King of the Terriers" was the inspiration for Margaret Marshall Saunders' novel Beautiful Joe, the story of an abused dog, which sparked the creation of the modern humane movement.

• Are You Ready for a Dog in Your Life?
• How to Prepare for a Puppy
• Basic Breed Information - 1
• Basic Breed Information - 2
• Basic Breed Information - 3
• Basic Breed Information - 4
• Basic Breed Information - 5
• Basic Breed Information - 6
• Basic Breed Information - 7
• Basic Breed Information - 8
• Basic Breed Information - 9
• Basic Breed Information - 10
• Basic Breed Training Information

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Celebrities You Didn't Know were Pit Bull Lovers

We know that Rachael Ray and Betty White (above) are pit bull lovers, but here are 10 more celebrities you might not have known regularly snuggle up with pibbles.

1. Norman Reedus might kill zombies as Daryl on The Walking Dead, but he'd never hurt a dog! He was trying to convince producers of the show to let his character have a dog, but they knew everyone would pay more attention to his companion. And if the dog were to die? People would lose their minds.

2. Kaley Cuoco calls pit bulls "the greatest dogs in the world," and has three rescues to prove it! She supports a number of pit bull advocacy groups and even had the groom's cake for tennis pro hubby Ryan Sweeting designed as a giant tennis ball with their pups, Loretta, Norm and Shirley.

3. Torrey Smith is a wide receiver for the Baltimore Ravens, and when he's not on the field, he's spending time with his dogs. Prince and Mama were both adopted from the Baltimore Animal Care and Rescue Shelter, which is just a football's throw the stadium where he plays. He recently took part in the "Show Your Soft Side" campaign, which was launched to help show people that hurting animals doesn't make them look hard.

4. Lake Bell, known from Children's Hospital, Boston Legal, and No Strings Attached, loves her dogs Texas and Margaret so much that she made them “dogs of honor” at her wedding with artist Scott Campbell. She grew up with Dachshunds, but became a pit bull lover and foster fail with the crop-eared, overbred rescue dog, Margaret.

5. Danny Trejo – good with machetes and pit bulls. Not much scares him, and these dogs certainly don't. One time he and his wife were driving down a street when they noticed ahead of them was a pit bull in the opened tailgate of a truck. The drivers were swerving to injure the dog for fun, and the couple made the men pull over – right in the parking lot of animal control. Trejo has a pit bull himself, and will not tolerate animal abuse.

6. Jennifer Aniston adopted a pit bull puppy last year from the Best Friends Animal Society, who fought to keep Michael Vick's surviving dogs from being euthanized. She named her Sophie, because it felt like the situation in Sophie's Choice to choose one and leave so many behind.

7. Kevin Bacon spends a lot of time with his girl, Lilly. So much, in fact, the two even have a synchronized dive that would put Olympians to shame! Sadly, the video featuring the "tandem canine-human diving event" that had been posted online is no longer available, so we'll have to settle for a photo of a goofy hug instead.

8. Josh Hutcherson of The Hunger Games decided that he wanted to adopt a puppy – not just any kind of dog, but the most "beautiful" breed there is – a pit bull. "He was actually going to be euthanized the day after I got him," he said of Driver. "So it was kind of perfect timing how it worked out. There are so many dogs, so many puppy mills and you go to these shelters and you see these beautiful, great dogs that are about to be put down for no reason. And then people buy new dogs and it doesn't make sense."

9. Tom Brady looks tough on the field, but he's a big softie when it comes to his pit bull, Lua. While out for a stroll (with his supermodel wife, Gisele Bündchen), Lua hurt her paws on the salt and ice, so Brady scooped her up and put her in the stroller, and let his boot-wearing son walk.

10. Jessica Biel's not shy about sharing her love for pit bull Tina. She even frequently features her dog in an ongoing series on Twitter at #TuesdayswithTina. She affectionately refers to her pup as a "55-pound blanket."

Source: Life with Dogs

©2014 Life With Dogs

• Pit Bull Facts
• A Little History on Bull Terriers
• MORE Actors & Others Who Own Pit Bulls
• Letter to PETA - Stop Pitbull Genocide!
• Pit Bull Controversy
• Stray Pit Bull Saves Woman, Child from Attacker
• Dog Breed Legislation is Inherently Dangerous
• Interview on Ineffective Dog Laws
• FREE BOOK DOWNLOAD (PDF) – "THE PIT BULL PLACEBO:
  The Media, Myths and Politics of Canine Aggression"

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Add Olive Oil to Your Canine Companion's Food Bowl

Olive oil, that staple of every kitchen, happens to make an excellent, healthful addition to every dog's food bowl. I know I'm usually touting the benefits of coconut oil, which is another mainstay in my pantry, but let's not forget the oil that comes from olives, too, which has its own fantastic advantages. In fact, why not mix things up? Rotate the oils with which you sweeten your dog's food bowl! I like to switch among olive, coconut and (for the Omega 3 factor so key to senior dog vitality) fish oil by Nordic Naturals. Here are eight reasons to heart olive oil. Bone appetit!

1. It tastes doggone good
Few things perk up a boring bowl of dry kibble than a loving spoonful of what dog-loving celebrity chef Rachael Ray affectionately calls EVOO (extra-virgin olive oil) – especially if your kibble might be, ahem, the tiniest bit stale. Add a dash of cinnamon and turmeric, and you've spiced your dog's meal in grand style!

2. It helps the eater lose weight
Whether the portly pepperpot is canine or human, if there are some unwanted pounds that need shedding, olive oil will help grease the weight-loss engine. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil actually encourage pound-melting by breaking down the fat inside fat cells, to get rid of belly fat and reduce insulin sensitivity.

3. It promotes optimal health
Rich in monounsaturated fats, olive oil prevents and lessens the effects of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It contains oleic acid, in addition to some compounds (squalene and terpenoids) that are believed to be effective in preventing cancer, which kills a staggering 50% of dogs over age 10.

4. It defends the immune system
With high levels of antioxidants – including polyphenols, vitamin E, chlorophyll and carotenoids – olive oil is very effective at arming the body's immune system so it can efficiently fight off disease. That's especially important as we (humans, as well as canines) transition from one season to another.

5. It extends canine longevity
Dogs don't live nearly as long as we want them to, but nothing looks sadder than a young dog going gray before his time. Olive oil prevents free radical cell oxidation (see above), which can lead to premature aging, so it works to help keep your dog looking as vibrantly youthful as he did in his salad days.

6. It's a brain food
Olive oil helps prevent the cognitive decline associated with aging in all species, so be sure to serve it to senior dogs at least once daily, to keep their minds beautiful and cloud-free. This is especially important if your dog is a super-smartie, such as a Border Collie, Poodle or Mensa mutt.

7. It provides an energy boost

Circulation improves and breathing comes more easily with a daily dose of olive oil – it helps increase blood flow and, in humans, lessens the effects of asthma. So, by extension, it can be a godsend for brachycephalic breeds such as the Bulldog, who sometimes struggle to breathe.

8. It's also a beauty treatment
There's more to olive oil than mere substance – it's a style statement, too! Long used to beautify human hair and skin, olive oil can do the same for canines. Condition your dog's coat from the inside out with a daily serving, which helps to impart moisture and gleam to even the driest, dullest fur.
 

• Why is There So Much Cancer?
• Do You Know the 10 Early Warning Signs of Canine Cancer?

Here are some great pictures that I thought I would pass on...hope you find them entertaining! –Kim

Petey, or Pete the Pup, was the constant sidekick in Hal Roach's Our Gang & The Little Rascals comedies during the 20's and 30's. The original Petey had starred as the Buster Brown dog and had a unique quality that got him the job – there was part of a ring around one of his eyes. A then unknown makeup artist named Max Factor used black hair dye to paint the rest of the ring. Hal Roach had to take the dog as is for his Our Gang shorts and couldn't wait for the dye to wear off, so he continued the look which proved to be an invaluable decision. He could use different pit bull terriers and no one would know the difference due to the fact that the audience only focused on the ring around his eye! If you watch any of the Our Gang & The Little Rascals shorts, you will notice how almost every dog is different with exception of that iconic ring. Thanks to legendary Max Factor, Petey is one of the most recognizable dogs in history! Petey is a Pit Bull...

Petey (from Our Gang & The Little Rascals) in the makeup chair with Max Factor (1)

Petey (from Our Gang & The Little Rascals) in the makeup chair with Max Factor (2)

Helen Keller with her Pit Bull, Sir Thomas

General Patton and his Bull Terrier, Willie

Jimmy Carter with his Pit Bull, Bozo (1937)

Sergeant Stubby served with the 102nd Infantry, 26th (Yankee) Division in the trenches in France for 18 months and participated in four offensives and 17 battles. He entered combat on February 5, 1918 at Chemin des Dames, north of Soissons, and was under constant fire, day and night for over a month. In April 1918, during a raid to take Schieprey, Stubby was wounded in the foreleg by the retreating Germans throwing hand grenades. He was sent to the rear for convalescence, and as he had done on the front was able to improve morale. When he recovered from his wounds, Stubby returned to the trenches. After being gassed himself, Stubby learned to warn his unit of poison gas attacks, located wounded soldiers in no man's land, and — since he could hear the whine of incoming artillery shells before humans could — became very adept at letting his unit know when to duck for cover. He was solely responsible for capturing a German spy in the Argonne. Following the retaking of Château-Thierry by the US, the thankful women of the town made Stubby a chamois coat on which were pinned his many medals. There is also a legend that while in Paris with Corporal Conroy, Stubby saved a young girl from being hit by a car. At the end of the war, Conroy smuggled Stubby home. After returning home, Stubby became a celebrity and marched in, and normally led, many parades across the Country. He met Presidents Woodrow Wilson, Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding. Starting in 1921, he attended Georgetown University Law Center with Conroy, and became the Georgetown Hoyas' team mascot. He would be given the football at halftime and would nudge the ball around the field to the amusement of the fans. In 1926, Stubby died in Conroy's arms. His remains are featured in The Price of Freedom: Americans at War exhibit at the Smithsonian. Stubby was honored with a brick in the Walk of Honor at the United States World War I monument, Liberty Memorial, in Kansas City at a ceremony held on Armistice Day, November 11, 2006. Sergeant Stubby is a Pit Bull...
 

Buster Brown & Tige (a Pit Bull Terrier)

Source: Frank Bruynbroek Photography

---

Also see:

• Pit Bull Controversy
• More on the Pit Bull Controversy...
• Message to the Media

Here's a great article that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

See the Odds Your Favorite Breed has of Winning Westminster

Forty-eight of the top 50 show dogs competed recently at the 134 annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Several sources rank the dogs. We'll list two today.

First off, what does Vegas say? For the fourth year, Wynn Casino has posted odds. There's no wagering, and it's by breed – not on individual dogs, which some news sources are erroneously reporting. Don't believe them!

The top 10:

1. Scottish Terrier (8/1) (Is Scottie Sadie the best?)
2. Doberman Pinscher (14/1)
3. Golden Retriever (15/1)
4. Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen (16/1) and Puli (16/1)
5. (tie at 4)
6. Toy Poodle (18/1)
7. Boxer (22/1)
8. Bulldog (25/1)
9. Fox Terrier (smooth, 28/1)
10. Pointer (German wirehaired, 30/1).

The complete list (PDF) is here. The Labrador Retriever, the most popular dog in the USA based on numbered of registered dogs, is 15th (55/1).

Come back later for input from a higher authority on these dogs. Check out the video above with David Frei, who explains why some breeds may be favored, and read the Q&A with the Westminster co-host here.

You also have the chance to vote here for your favorite breed out of the American Kennel Club's top 10 list for this year. Or if, like many of us, you're more for mutts than dogs named Muffy, check out our rescue stories – many from your fellow readers.

Source: http://content.usatoday.com/communities/pawprintpost/post/2010/02/see-the-odds-your-favorite-breed-has-of-winning-westminster/1
©2010 USA TODAY, a division of Gannett Co. Inc.

Here's a great series that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Basic Breed Information – Part 3

Great Dane

The Great Dane, the giant dog, is extremely sweet, spirited, dignified, friendly, kind and affectionate with children. He is a strong dog that is very intelligent and loyal towards its owners. But, the Dane does not bark much and is also not aggressive. Great Dane Obedience Training at a young age is necessary to manage him when he grows. He normally tends to lean on people and has to be taught not to do that as it may cause children to fall. Training this breed is somewhat difficult.

The Great Dane has a slow metabolism rate and suffers from bloat. When the dog is
suffering from twisting pain of the stomach, he needs to be given immediate care.
Otherwise, he may die. Some owners tack the stomach of the Dane to prevent bloating.
The Great Dane may also have problems like dilated cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia and
congenital heart diseases. He usually lives till the age of 10 years. Great Dane
Obedience Training includes conveying the correct body language to him. He will get
stimulated and excited when his owners are happy. So, it is necessary to communicate
with him properly for positive actions.

Great Dane Obedience Training involves establishing some guidelines for your pet. You should never chase your pet when you are angry. Your dog may think that you are playing game with him and he has to run to involve himself in the game. You should give him commands with power and you should face him straight when you are giving him commands. Also, display the same behavior when he plays spoil sport.

Great Danes comes in every color – white with black spots is the most popular one. But, the most attractive of the Great Danes are the Blues, where their body color ranges from a gray to steel-blue color. Regardless of color, they are lovable pets and owners of Danes are always proud about them. The Great Dane has a thick, short, glossy coat that does not need much maintenance. Fawn, black, blue, Harlequin, mantle and brindle are the most accepted colors of this breed. Despite the giant appearance, he is friendly and mixes well with other dogs and pets. He becomes close to his family members and frequent visitors. He has to be exercised regularly to keep him more active. He quickly alerts the family about approaching strangers, although they don't bark much.

In natural intelligence, he is somewhat above other few dogs. He has a most impressive figure and never slobbers from his mouth. On the other hand, if Great Dane Obedience Training is not given properly, he can be a dangerous animal, due to his terrible strength. A Great Danes takes longer to mature and the puppy period lasts up to two years. A puppy is normally more rambunctious than an adult, and hence, he can damage household things if not under regular supervision. Early Great Dane Obedience Training is a must, as they weigh more and grow rapidly. During the obedience training, basic manners should be taught with strict discipline.

For more in-depth Great Dane training info, check out: Great Dane Training Secrets or Secrets to Dog Training.

This article was brought to you by Online Dog Training (©2008 Dog Obedience Training). For more information on Great Dane Obedience Training, visit the Dog Training Zone!

Jack Russell Terrier

Some people find it difficult to train a Jack Russell Terrier. Jack Russell Obedience training requires some thorough understanding of the breed. This dog is an intelligent working dog, and may prove too much for some owners. Given enough information and with some patience, the training process should be enjoyable and productive! You should never punish your dog if he's done something that you don't like. Instead of punishing him, you can ignore him for sometime. Dogs crave human interaction and acceptance, this approach will eventually stops him from making such mistakes.

The Jack Russell suffers from separation anxiety when left alone for a long time. He always want to get his owner's attention and when neglected he feels bad. When the dog is having anxiety attack, he usually whines, paces, chews, scratches doors and window sills and barks without any obvious reason. Other signs of separation anxiety include vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. These signs are seen when the owner neglects the dog for a longer time. So, Jack Russell Obedience training includes socializing the dog as much as possible and spending time with him every day. There are various techniques that will work best to address this anxiety problem. You can take your dog for a walk for fifteen to thirty minutes each day. This will keep him energetic and he will not feel depressed, even when you leave him alone during the day.

A Jack Russell makes an ideal hunting companion. He has high energy levels and some open space in your backyard will be the perfect place for him to carry out his search operations. He makes a good family pet as he immediately alerts the family about any strangers. He can even become aggressive towards the stranger, but he rarely exhibits this quality, especially when he has been properly socialized. Jack Russell Obedience training would not be complete without socializing. You need to socialize your dog from the moment he is home, and being an intelligent breed, he will reward your patience by learning quickly. He tolerates the presence of children and others when you invite him, although as with all dogs, children should be supervised when playing with your dog.

As Jack Russells are highly energetic, apartment life may not be suitable for him. He needs space to burn up his energy. Apartment life leads to boredom and hence he may start destroying your home! So, during Jack Russell Obedience training, train him to behave normally, even in smaller places. If you have a yard with a fence, he will enjoy being outside. This dog loves to run freely and he will also burn off the excess energy by running.

Jack Russells require minimum grooming, and removing the dirt from his coat is also quite simple. You can use a sturdy brush once or twice a week to get rid of the dirt from his coat. Russells are healthy and hearty dogs. They may require some medical attention for their eyes and ears. Deafness may develop if you are not taking proper care of the ears of the Jack Russell. Take him for a nice long walk daily to keep him healthy. He will be happy in his owner's company and also when trained properly he mingles with people very easily.

For more in-depth Jack Russell Terrier training info, check out: Secrets to Dog Training.

This article was brought to you by Online Dog Training (©2008 Dog Obedience Training). For more information on Jack Russell Obedience Training, visit the Dog Training Zone!

Poodle

Poodles are my favorite kind of dog for many reasons. They are "drop dead gorgeous" to start, and oh so intelligent. Some people think that Poodles come in second in the canine "smart" category, but I think those who say that are using a different measuring stick than I am. Having lived with Poodles and also having hands-on experience through the years, I have found them to be the most "human like" of any breed.

Poodles have a very long history of living in close quarters with humans. Their level of domestication surpasses other less domesticated breeds of canines that have been more for utility than the Poodle. Genetic imprinting (why a dog have certain behavioral attributes) has everything to do with why a dog acts as he/she does.

Genetic imprinting is why the German Shepherd just knows to protect his owners, why a Border Collie is so very proficient when it comes to herding her sheep, and why a Newfoundland will jump into ice cold water to save a human he doesn't even know. Through generations of selective breeding for a specific behavior, aptitude and ability are created in each of our wonderful purebred canine friends.

Poodles have a history in Duck Retrieval. The hunter was served very well by their well trained retrieving Poodle. Poodles also were trusted in World War II to carry messages through very dangerous territories, avoiding the enemy and delivering information that was so important at the time. Their human counterparts had long recognized that the Poodles were of superior intelligence and could be trusted with such a task.

But, after a long day of work, while the Shepherd was sleeping in his dog house, the Border Collie in the barn and the Newfoundland was drying off from his death defying dive, the Poodle, in most cases, was at his owner's feet by the fireplace enjoying the quiet companionship of the one he worshiped, his beloved master. Poodles learned to act as another member of the human household long ago, and it shows in their ability to integrate into the home of the human today. Poodles do not shed like so many of the other breeds, nor do they have a "doggy odor." They enjoy doing whatever involves their human, whether it be laying by the pool or hiking in the mountains. Poodles are extremely versatile canines.

Of the three varieties – Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Standard Poodle – the Standard Poodle is, of course, the most rugged. Poodles do not have strong gender-specific traits that separate the boys from the girls. However the females tend to be more active over all than the males. Both sexes are darling, and if someone were to tell me I could have only one, it would be a hard choice to pick between the two.

Poodles are individuals. They have very individual likes and dislikes. But one thing most Poodles have in common is the ability to communicate just what it is they are trying to say. Poodles are fun loving and have great humor in the way they perceive the world. And with their very distinct facial expressions, you can usually tell what is going on in those fabulous heads of theirs.

For more in-depth Poodle training info, check out: Secrets to Dog Training.

This article was brought to you by PoodleDogs.net. For more information on Poodle Obedience Training, visit the Dog Training Zone!

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a purebred dog registered with most official kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club. Shih Tzu dogs are in the toy group, and has a unique history originating from Tibet. DNA tests have recently shown that they may be one of the oldest dog breeds. Shih Tzu's may have originated from mixing the Pekingese with the Tibetan dog, the Lhasa Apso. Like the Pekingese, this breed was also bred to sit around the palace of the Emperor of China and bark when people approached. It's also known as a Shitzu.

The Shih Tzu is a tiny dog, averaging nine inches in height. It has a long and soft white coat. Other colors are acceptable such as black, red or tan. Some Shih Tzu's will have white mixed with another color. Their coat tangles easily which causes them to need frequent brushing. Their hair grows fast and gets very long so it is best to have them see a professional groomer every 6 weeks to keep them looking their best. To keep their hair out of their eyes, a bow or barrette is often used. Shih Tzu's do not shed. Their most striking feature is their beautiful coat and the way they carry themselves.

There are not many people who would argue that they are simply beautiful and easy to love. Shih Tzu dogs have a gentle personality that goes well with the look that they have and this makes them absolutely charming creatures.

The Shih Tzu puppy is a very affectionate, sociable and cheerful dog. She can be quite adorable. She is smart and very lovable. She seldom barks. Like many dogs in the toy group, however, she is not the easiest of dogs to train. She tends towards stubbornness. A Shih Tzu puppy is not overly keen to learn tricks or obey her master, but she does carry herself with grace and appear proud. She can get along with children and other pets, because she likes company. She can be very smart and often appear to be a very happy dog. A Shih Tzu loves to cuddle, which can make her charming. She can easily win over someone's heart.

The Shih Tzu may be the perfect small breed dog for someone who is looking for a loving and loyal companion. The Shitzu adores cuddling and is sociable and charming. She doesn't shed and has little dander, so it is great for someone who wants a dog but is allergic to most dogs. A Shitzu is not the ideal breed for someone who wants to enter dog obedience competitions. But on the other hand, if they love to train dogs and like a challenge, with a lot of determination and patience, they might win in their own breed category, competing against the other breeds in the toy group.

The Shih Tzu breed does not need a lot of exercise. She has a beautiful coat that requires a lot of care. These features would not make a Shih Tzu puppy well suited to country life or farm life. However, Shih Tzu dogs can be quite content in the city, living in an apartment

This article was brought to you by Moderndogs.net (©2007 Moderndogs.net).

For more in-depth Shih Tzu training info, check out: Shih Tzu Training Secrets (Shitzu) or Secrets to Dog Training or the Dog Training Zone!

Here's a great series that I thought I would pass on...hope you find it interesting! –Kim

Basic Breed Information – Part 4

Akita

When it comes to Akita training, you probably already know that it can sometimes be difficult to train your Akita dog. This is simply because the Akita dog is a highly intelligent, fearless and spontaneous animal. These of course are wonderful characteristics, but can lead to making training your Akita rather difficult. So can the ultra intelligent Akita dog be difficult to train?

For starters, Akita's are EXTREMELY protective of their owners and family. While this means undying loyalty to you and your family, it also means that they have a strong tendency to be rather aggressive and hot tempered towards any "unknown" visitors. This characteristic is the most difficult personality trait that needs to be trained when it comes to Akita training. Of course, with the proper knowledge of Akita training, this shouldn't pose to be too much trouble.

Akita dogs are also very intelligent animals, and it is for this very reason that they may often times think they "know better," and try to take their own path...even towards their own training. However this means that if you have the proper knowledge of how to train your Akita dog, then they will learn very quickly and with ease.

Akita's have a strong tendency to NOT get along with other pets, but this trait can be somewhat cured. Because Akita's are very dominant and territorial animals, they're not very big fans of sharing space with other animals.

From the moment you bring your Akita home to the days that your Akita is resting underneath the shade, it is absolutely IMPRETIVE that they know who their master is at all times, otherwise it is very likely that they will run all over you. A timid or submissive owner is not recommended for this breed, their strong will can over power you.

It also must be noted, that while Akita's do get along very well with children that they already know within the family, they have a tendency to not tolerate new children that are brought into the family, making it not a good choice for a family who expects more little ones down the road.

Now all these traits should not put you off owning an Akita dog. Yes, Akita training can provide the owner with some challenges, but the rewards are very well worth it. It is also important to note that while this breed might have its difficulties, these are traits that can be drastically settled down, but require the proper specialized knowledge to do so. Being an expert on dog training myself, I highly recommend that you acquire the right specialized knowledge of how to train your Akita properly, or your Akita experience might prove to be somewhat bitter.

It should also be noted, that training your Akita is actually not a hard process, even though it might seem as such, the Akita's incredible intelligence makes it a very quick and fun learner.

For more in-depth Akita training info, check out: The Akita Guide or Secrets to Dog Training.

I can guarantee that you'll have trouble with your Akita dog if you do not acquire the specialized knowledge to properly undergo Akita training. Don't ruin the chance of receiving the reward of such a wonderful dog, train them right from the start! Visit http://www.sukina-akitas.com/trainingtips.htm.

American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is known for many of its defined traits, and is almost as close to an American symbol as one can get, apart only from the bald eagle. American Bulldog training can be a very fun and entertaining experience, but still needs to be handled properly it the training is to be successful. Too often I see such smart and beautiful American Bulldogs that are just out of control and unhappy. On my professional guarantee, if you acquire the right knowledge and how to apply it when training your Bulldog, these problems will not haunt you, and the rewards of a wonderful American Bulldog will follow.

The American Bulldog is an extremely athletic, powerful, and muscular animal. This is a wonderful trait, but not a trait that every owner can handle. This means that this animal requires very frequent exercise and almost constant stimulation. This doesn't mean that you have to run 12 miles with your Bulldog and have him/her pull a sled, but it does mean that if you're not someone who is frequently active and don't take your American Bulldog along for the ride, you'll end up with an unhappy pet that can lead to bigger problems down the road. Again, you don't need extreme conditions to stimulate your Bulldog, but specialized knowledge is required to properly train and stimulate them.

American Bulldogs are happy, friendly and devoted pets that get along great with children, even those that are brought into the family later on in a Bulldogs life. However, because of they're size and love for constant stimulation, they are either best suited for older children (rather then babies or infants) or should be watched when around infants. The fear in this is not because of a possible attack or bite (this doesn't occur with Bulldogs) but because of their size and weight they could unintentionally role over or sit on an infant. However, believe it or not, you can actually train and American Bulldog to understand the difference between adult and infant with the right training, thus making him/her extra gentle around smaller children.

The American Bulldog does thankfully get along with other household pets, but only it they grow up with them in the same environment. It should be said however that the American Bulldog does not get along very well with smaller pets such as cats, rabbits, gerbils etc. This is simply because of their natural extinct to gather or work. This natural instinct however can surprisingly be subdued and with the right American Bulldog training, can be cured over time.

The American Bulldog is a very loyal animal and because of its natural guarding instincts can be wary, reserved and on occasion aggressive towards strangers it does not know. It is very important that you PROPERLY socialize this breed from an early age so that these problems do not occur. However, the American Bulldog requires that it be socialized in a very proper and specific manner, so make sure you acquire the needed knowledge.

All in all, the bulldog makes for an excellent pet and animal, but just like any other breed of dog requires training knowledge that is specifically tailored towards this breed. American Bulldog training does not have to be a chore, and while it can sometimes be extensive, it can also be a lot of fun for both you and your pet. The rewards of getting it "right" with this breed are extensive, so take the time and put in the effort to gain the needed knowledge to properly train this breed.

For more in-depth Bulldog training info, check out: American Bulldog Training or Secrets to Dog Training.

I can guarantee that you'll have trouble with your American Bulldog if you do not acquire the specialized knowledge to properly undergo American Bulldog training. Don't ruin the chance of receiving the reward of such a wonderful dog, train them right from the get go! Visit http://www.americanbulldogtrainer.com/letter.html.

Australian Shepherd

When looking for which dog breed to choose for your family, there are always several issues to take into consideration. Jesse and Harley, who are brother and sister, are the first Australian shepherd dogs we've had in our family, and I must say, I am very impressed by this breed of dog.

When Harley was a puppy and had chewed her squeaky ball to a frazzle, I put it in the bathroom sink to temporarily get it out of sight before I could throw it away. I didn't want any of the loosened rubber to get lodged down her throat. I heard a scrambling noise behind me and lo and behold, Harley had managed to scramble up the side of the bathroom cabinets and was joyfully standing in the sink, retrieving her ball!

Right then and there I knew, this is no ordinary breed of dog! We have no herd of sheep for them to corral, and we only have an oversized, fenced backyard for them to play and romp in, but lots of play at dog parks and long walks in the woods have been a necessity to keep these Aussies happy. Australian shepherds are fantastic dogs for agility training also. The fast-paced runs are perfect for their athleticism.

All in all, I've found them to be energetic, super smart, playful, good with children and one aspect that I really appreciate is that they are a breed that doesn't roam. As far as training, they are so smart, that it doesn't take long for them to catch on to what I am trying to help them understand. The slant I use for training is a gentle, positive approach.

With repetition, they are quick to catch on. For an example, if Jesse rolls in something nasty during our walks, or gets totally muddy playing in the small child's boat we keep full of water in the summer, all I have to do is ask him to jump in the tub, and show him what I mean, and he knows to go straight into the house and jump into the bathtub for a quick wash. My previous dogs were a yellow lab and a German shepherd, and I'd never experienced a dog who could just jump in the tub so effortlessly as Jesse can.

In closing, what I'd like to stress to anyone considering this breed is that they need lots of exercise (not necessarily strenuous), interesting things to do, and to stay close to their family. They are happiest in continual contact with their "flock" which includes their human family. They want to make sure everyone in the family gets along, too. Harley especially will emit a low growl if she thinks play is too rough (between other dogs or people).

She is an expert at breaking up dogs who are too rambunctious with each other if she feels one of them is being bullied or picked on. All in all, I would highly recommend this breed to the right family. They would not be suitable for a small apartment, but rather need space and an active family to let their personalities and their boundless energy shine through.

For more in-depth Australian Shepherd training info, check out: Sit-Stay-Fetch or Secrets to Dog Training.

Pet Portrait Artist, and Professional Illustrator Connie Bowen creates stunning pet portrait paintings on canvas from photos. Specializing in capturing the spiritual nature of dogs, cats, horses and other animals in a realistic fashion with impressionistic backgrounds as seen on Oregon Public Broadcasting's TV show, Art Beat. Over 200 pet portraits completed and counting! Visit http://www.conniebowen.com to view exquisite samples.

Basset Hound

Training a dog should be an enjoyable and easy task both for you and your dog, but things can be different in Basset Hound training. It is because Basset Hounds, just like any other hounds, are extremely hard to train. They tend not to obey commands given to them because as scent hounds they prefer to follow what their noses tell them. Low desire to please its owner is another reason why a basset hound is hard to train.

When it comes to dog training, especially obedience training, a Basset hound is less likely to be chosen by most dog owners and trainers because of its characteristics towards training. However, it is not impossible to train a Basset hound if you really want to. Some have been successful in training their Basset hounds but only a few of them. Patience, together with your great love for your Basset hound is essential in order to have a well behaved dog.

Training tips are just few clicks away when searching a web and you can also learn through seminars from dog experts. But the best method in Basset Hound training is to know and listen to your dog. Discover what exercise or activity your dog enjoys and start your way from there. Let him understand that training is fun! Be artistic and create fun and exciting training methods and as much as possible, vary it from time to time so as not to bore them. Limit the training session to only 10-20 minutes. Slowing down and showing resistance to work is an indication that he has become bored or he doesn't like your training method.

Using training tools such as crate and rewards are ideal partner in every training session. Most Basset hounds obey command when offered reward, but will forget the training when reward is being offered. To do away with this, hide the reward from the dog before giving a command. Show him the reward only until he has complied with the command so as to come up with a Basset hound who follows command with or without the presence of a reward. The point here is to give him the idea that you may have a reward for him even if he can not see it.

It is also important to know the right time to start training. Making mistakes in the beginning of the training may delay the process and may not guarantee better results. Begin the training with something he enjoys so that he will be convinced to do it. Avoid being harsh and force your dog to do something which you think he doesn't like. Consistency and determination is much more helpful.

With these tips, you will surely be able to come up with nicely trained dog. You can now aim higher levels of training such as obedience and agility training, and prove others that it is not impossible to train these stubborn four legged friends.

For more in-depth Basset Hound training info, check out: Sit-Stay-Fetch or Dog Breed Info Center or Secrets to Dog Training.

Richard Cussons is a great lover of dogs. Discover more about Basset Hound dogs.