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So you want a dog? After you’ve decided if you want a small dog or a big dog, the next major question is breed, which is something many people get stumped at. With so many animal shelters and homeless dogs, many people feel that purebred dogs are only for snobs. However, just as many people value the consistency in behavior that purebred dogs can provide. Here are a few things you need to know about the two options:

Temperament & Appearance

One of the greatest things about a purebred is that the temperament is guaranteed for you. Everyone knows that Labradors are great with kids as are Golden Retrievers and that German Shepherds make excellent guard dogs. There’s a reason for this. Over the years, only the dogs that showed the best qualities have been bred creating a line that is very consistent in temperament as well as looks. For people that want a dog that will definitely be good with kids, or definitely show certain personality traits, a purebred is a great option. This is not to say mixed breed dogs cannot have great temperaments, only that when they are at a puppy stage, you do not know which way they will go.

Another thing about a purebred is that it will look exactly like the breed standard. Everyone knows what a German shepherd, a Rottweiler or a Poodle look like, and this is because the dogs are bred to look a certain way. If you want a dog that will grow up to be beautiful, consider getting a mixed breed.

Costs & Purebred Dogs at Shelters

A purebred dog can be expensive depending on the quality of the line, but there are many purebred dogs in shelters across the world that need homes. If you cannot afford to buy a purebred but definitely want one, you can always opt to adopt one from a breed specific shelter. One thing you need to avoid at all costs is a puppy mill. These are setups where dogs are bred multiple times in a year and kept in subpar housing conditions so that the owners can make profits from selling the puppies. If you are looking to buy from a breeder, buy from one who is reputable in your area.

Health Concerns

Purebred dogs have plenty ofhealth issues. These vary by breed, but since there is sometimes in-breeding dogs can have issues related to joints, eyes or even organ related problems. Research the breed you are interested in to make sure you are aware of the health concerns and can deal with them should you need to.

In the end, it is best to do plenty of research before you make your choice. Both mixed breed and purebred dogs can bring happiness for you, but the key thing is that you make the right choice so you can provide the best care to the dog.

Nothing is more annoying than coming home to discover that the flowerbed has been dug up by a busy dog. Happily, yards and dogs can coexist peacefully with the right knowledge.

Why do Dogs Dig?

Sometimes the answer to this question simply involves the personality of each individual dog. Some breeds are also known for their devoted digging habits such as terrier and huskies. Perspective dog owners that are concerned about their yard and garden may want to avoid breeds that have a strong disposition towards the digging trait.

Besides genetic leanings towards the habit there can be many other reasons that dogs dig.

• • Separation anxiety can cause nervous canines to form many different habits to relive their tension, including digging.
• • Some dogs are simply escape artists that constantly strive to be free of any confinement.
• • Bored dogs that are lacking attention often look for alternate ways to entertain themselves and digging is a common occurrence
• • High energy canines that are not getting enough exercise also turn to energetic ways to dispel their excess energy.

These four common reasons for digging are fairly simple to solve. Dogs with severe anxiety may need veterinary care while escape artists may need to be crated when no one is home or be on a properly built dog run. High energy dogs need more exercise and bored dogs require more interaction and exercise to keep them fit both physically and mentally.

For dogs that dig for other reasons such as pure enjoyment, the owners will have to exercise more creativity to solve the problem.

Solutions to the Problem of Digging

The easiest answer is to make sure that the dog cannot access sensitive areas such as flower and garden beds. This can be accomplished by building fences and barriers to prevent the dog from gaining entry into these spaces.

The best way to prevent digging is to ensure that the dog never has unsupervised time outside. If there is a person watching him whenever he is out, digging can be stopped before damage is done. This method combined with positive reinforcement will also teach dogs that digging is not an acceptable behavior and is a good long term solution if the manpower is available to monitor the dog’s activities.

If the dog really loves to dig another method is to create a designated area for this pastime. By allowing the dog a fixed place to make holes he can still enjoy his favorite bad habit and the owner can live with the resulting digging zone. When dealing with a small yard with restricted square footage a sandbox can be constructed and filled with sand and soil to create a small dig zone. This method also requires supervision as the dog will have to be monitored and corrected to move to the designated space, but for owners that love to make their pets happy; this is the most enjoyable solution.

With time, patience and some trial and error digging can be contained or eliminated completely, letting dogs and owners be happier with each other.

In order to have a well behaved dog it needs a certain amount of discipline. Without discipline, dogs will resort to a variety of unwanted behaviors associated with lack of limitations and rules.This lack of guidance from owners easily results in dogs with serious behavior problems because the dog does not know his place in the pack. In order to work well, however corrections must be delivered following some basic rules.

• • Sufficient Tempestivity

You must correct your dog in the moment you see him exhibiting the unwanted behavior. This means intervening ideally during or within one second according to H. Ellen Whiteley, DVM . A correction done one moment prior or afterward, will most likely be ineffective.

For instance, if a dog lately soils in the house, it is useless to punish the dog upon coming home and finding the soiled area. Because dogs live in the present they will have no clue as to why they are being punished and very likely will just deduct that the owner is unpredictable striking out for no reason. The dog will be confused and think he got punished for what he was doing seconds ago, perhaps just wagging his tail in happiness. This can significantly ruin the owner/dog bond.

• • Correct Level of Impact

In order to be effective, the correction must have a certain level of impact. There are softer and harder dogs when it comes to corrections. The softer dogs require a very mild correction in order to get the message across, whereas the harder dogs require a bit harsher correction. This does not mean however, that the dog needs pain to learn. The correction just needs to be at the right level where the dog remains a bit startled.

• • Impersonal Associations

Ideally the correction should not allow the dog to associate it with the owner. Doing so, may ruin the precious dog and owner bond. Also, if the dog associates the correction with the owner, he will soon learn that he can misbehave when the owner is not there. For instance, a dog that tends to get into the flowerbeds may learn to avoid them when the owner is around. In the owner’s absence therefore the habit will pursue. In this case, if a motion activated sprinkler is installed the dog will learn to avoid the flowerbed at all times..

• • Widespread Consistency

The correction must arrive every time that the unwanted behavior takes place. It is a good practice to have all family members on the same page to avoid confusion in the dog’s mind. If Rover is not allowed on the couch, the children should follow through the same protocol. Also, the couch should be off limits in any circumstance, even if Rover looks with pleading eyes. Dogs learn quickly that they can break the rules if the rules are not properly set in place.

• • Unemotional Approach

A correction should be given without being mad or frustrated with the dog. The owner should withdraw from being emotionally transported when delivering a correction. It does not help as well assuming threatening positions as this may cause fear in the dog.

Interestingly, sometimes a correction does not require an action, rather it consists of withdrawing something that the dog likes. For instance, a dog that jumps on its owners may be corrected by turning around and not giving the dog what he craves the most: attention.

The Silky Terrier has parentage in the Yorkshire Terrier and Australian Terrier going back to the late 1800s. Yorkshire Terriers from England arrived in Australia to help improve the Australian Terrier’s coat colour. Although most closely related to the Australian Terrier, other ancestral breeds may include the Paisley Terrier, Clydesdale Terrier, and Dandie Dinmont Terrier. American servicemen from World War II introduced the Silky Terrier to the U.S.

Physical Characteristics

According to the American Kennel Club, the Sydney Silky should have a body measuring one-fifth longer than its height at the withers. Height ranges from 9 to 10 inches (12 to 25 cm); weight ranges from 8 to 11 pounds (4 to 5 kg). This small-boned dog is larger than its ancestor, the Yorkie. This low-set terrier stands with a very level back or topline.

At birth, the Sidney Terrier has black hair. The breed wears a single coat with long hair measuring 5 or 6 inches (12 to 15 cm). The characteristic silky blue coat can range from shades of slate blue, to silver blue or pigeon blue. Tan or red markings appear on the head and legs. Long hair frames the face. Owners often sweep the hair into a stylish topknot. From head to tail base, the hair falls parted.

The long, wedge-shaped head leads into a medium-long neck and medium-wide chest. The Silky Terrier has small, triangular-shaped ears set high. Dark eyes with dark rims give a keen expression. Strong forelegs with cat-like feet run with a free and light gait.

Temperament

The friendly Silky maintains a high energy level. As a social dog, this breed should bond with humans early. An affectionate relationship can form between the Silky Terrier and his assertive master. This intelligent breed requires training, yet can rebel. Positive training should include treats, a variety of routines, and praise.

Consequences of poor training include barking at people, showing aggression to other pets, and being destructive. If the Silky Terrier takes on the role of a boss or pack leader, he will try to control humans and other animals he meets. Dogs may target children carrying food. To be on the safe side, a household should not include other pets, especially smaller ones.

Owners need to teach their children to respect their pet. Children should not pull their terrier’s coat or ears, or snatch his toys or food.

Activities

With a confident and alert manner, the Sydney Silky can be a watchdog and rodent catcher. This dog can remain active indoors. Exercise helps calm this terrier. Owners need to take their dogs outdoors for at least an hour of walks, off-leash running and fetching.

The Silky Terrier enjoys a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

With a long history of working with horses, the Dal also worked with chariots in ancient civilizations. In the Middle Ages, gypsies and their wagons roamed with their Dalmatians through European states. This breed developed its characteristic stamina that allows it to exercise for hours and for miles. Although documents indicate this dog’s existence in Dalmatia, Croatia, this country may not be the country of origin. In 1573 a Bohemian duchess gave Serbian poet Jurij Dalmatin two Turkish dogs that he later bred. Dalmatin’s dogs, however, may not be the ancestors of the modern breed.

In 18th-century Britain, the Dalmatian won the hearts of aristocrats. This coach dog worked horses and accompanied his master on country excursions and trips to festivities. In the 1800s, London fire brigades needed the energetic Dalmatian to help clear the streets and open the way for the horse-drawn water-wagons.

Physical Characteristics

The medium-sized Dalmatian sports a vivid, spotted coat, black or liver on a white background. The muscular frame has a square outline with the height of the withers matching the length from the point of shoulder to the outside rump. This breed has a level back, an arching neck and a curving tail. Height ranges from 56-58 cm (22-23 in) for females, and 58-61 cm (23-24 in) for males. Both females and males weigh 23-25 kg (50-55 lbs).

The Dalmatian’s head is of fair length with a deep muzzle and black or brown nose. The medium eyes may be black or amber and set well apart. The moderate ears, set high, have rounded points and hanging tips. With round, cat-like feet, the Dal runs with a long, powerful stride and can trot for miles.

Temperament

The friendly Dalmatian, is a dedicated pet, if cared for properly. Temperaments can range from shy to aggressive. This high energy dog may experience distress if left alone. Owners must train their puppies to avoid bad habits. Owners need to consider carefully if they can handle the Dal’s great strength and stamina. Owners need to exercise their Dal for two hours daily, including a walk for miles. A physically active family with a house and a fenced yard fares better with this breed. Without discipline, dogs can be hyper. The Dalmatian may take two or more years to settle.

The Many Roles of the Dalmatian

The Dalmatian has a proven track record as a coach dog, guardian and shepherd vermin dog. Sparky the Dalmatian, a fixture at some fire stations, visits schools and helps students learn about fire prevention.

In 1956, a book by Dorothy Gladys Smith entitled The One Hundred and One Dalmatians or The Great Dog Robbery, helped popularize the Dal. In 1961 Walt Disney Studios created the animated film 101 Dalmatians. A live action film followed in 1996 with over 200 Dalmatians in the cast.

The sugar alcohol substitute sweetener found in sugar free gum, candy, toothpaste, and some foods is toxic to dogs, causing hypoglycemia and liver failure.

According to a chart prepared by Dr. Carlye Rose, DVM, Diplomate A.B.V.P., xylitol pet poisoning cases reported to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center more than doubled between 2017 and 2018. Most pet owners now understand the dangers of chocolate but many are unaware of how deadly xylitol is to dogs. According to Dr. Paula Terijaf of 30minvetconsult.com, on a consumption basis, xylitol is 100 times more toxic than chocolate.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a sugar substitute sweetener that was introduced into the United States in recent years. It is being used increasingly in sugar free gums, candies, baked items, and other foods as well as in some toothpastes and mouthwashes. More and more products are using xylitol.

How Xylitol is Harmful to Dogs

Xylitol is absorbed rapidly into the dog’s bloodstream, causing a sudden release of insulin and subsequent drop in blood sugar which may be characterized by lethargy, loss of coordination, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. Higher doses of xylitol can also cause severe bleeding, liver failure, coma, and death.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center reports that .22 grams per pound of body weight can cause hypoglycemia and 1.1 grams per pound of body weight carries risk of liver failure and death. To get this into perspective, a 10 pound Norwich terrier died after eating sugarless gum sweetened with xylitol, and the family found only one wrapper.

Dr. Eric Dunayer, veterinarian and toxicologist for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center warns that symptoms can appear in less than 30 minutes or up to 12 hours after ingestion.

Any dog that is believed to have ingested a product containing xylitol should be rushed to a veterinarian immediately, even if symptoms have not appeared. Prompt and aggressive treatment increases chances for a better outcome.

Dr. Jon Rappaport of Petplace.com states that because cats are choosier about what they eat, accidental ingestion of xylitol is less common in felines and therefore its toxicity in cats has not been established. However, most cat owners don’t want to take chances.

Products Containing Xylitol

Although xylitol is often used in baking, sugar free gums, candies, toothpastes, and mouthwashes, pet owners need to take note that xylitol or its amounts may not always be listed as an ingredient in products or it may be listed as sugar alcohol.

Human toothpastes or oral hygiene products should never be used on dogs and pet owners should be careful not to leave any products that may contain xylitol in coat pockets or purses or anywhere else that it is in danger of tumbling out or becoming within reach of the dog. Many dog owners, as an extra precaution, won’t even use these products or bring them into their home.

When you look through websites at ideas to buy our favourite pet, we always see products to keep our pets warm but not so many to keep them cool. Over recent years the Winters have been colder and the Summer hotter, we need to start thinking about ways to keep our pets cooler on very hot days, especially if we are out at work during the day.

In this article we’ll take a look at how to keep your dog cool on even the hottest days using products you can buy from good online retailers. Some of these products will also be good for cats as well so please read on.

Cooling vests

These vests are soaked in water for a few minutes and then put onto your dog using the fasteners. The fabric side of the vest next to your dogs fur is drier, but has the wetter exterior keeping your dog cooler for many hours. The vest can also be put into the refrigerator to keep your dog refreshed.

Memory foam pads

Memory foam pet pads are comfortable and cool for your pets. These are similar to a water bed with a memory foam top designed to be used for many hours of unattended use.

The bandana – for the dog with the cool look

Dog bandannas keep a dog cool by activating the cooling crystals in the bandana with water. The longer the bandanna is left in water the longer the effect of keeping your dog cooler. Cooling crystals are also used on some of the pet cooling pads.

The cool pet bed

Another product which is similar to the cool pads above is the pet bed with cushioned pillows around the sides. This bed is filled with water which stays in the core of the bed and spreads out perfectly to keep the whole base cooler.

Most of these cooling aids come with anti-mould finishes to keep the bed clean and smelling fresh, bit it can be a good idea to fill them up daily to keep them in perfect condition.

All of these pads and beds are constructed in such a way as to withstand damage from claws, but not really recommended for a dog that likes to chew its bedding.

All of these products are available in good pet retailers online. While all these products can help, always try and keep your pet in the shade and have plenty of fresh water available. With large dogs, consider one of the water feeders which will keep the bowl full on even the hottest day.

How to keep your dog cool is a question a lot of us ask ourselves in a hot Summer, but hopefully one of these products will help and that you both enjoy the Summer together.

The phrase ‘positive reinforcement’ can be broken down to mean adding a reward to a behavior in order to increase the occurrence of that behavior. The reward given must be something that your dog views as special such as a treat, affection, or a favorite toy. This technique can be used to shape a variety of behaviors.

The Importance of Timing

Good timing in training is crucial. Dogs live in the moment, and even a few second’s delay between the behavior and receiving the reward can make the training ineffective. Dogs are engaging in many behaviors at any given time, and in the few extra seconds taken to give them the reward they may have licked their lips, yawned or just made a simple movement, but any of these can be mistaken for the rewarded behavior. The reward must be given immediately following the desired behavior.

Teaching Sit

Teaching a dog to sit can be easily done by getting him to follow a treat. Begin by putting a small piece of treat in front of your dog’s nose and then bring it slowly up and over the dog’s head. In an effort to follow the treat, the dog should tilt his head back resulting in his hind end hitting the ground. If necessary, you can apply some pressure to the hind end to encourage him to sit. Reward him immediately when he is in the sitting position.

Practice this a few times before adding the word ‘sit’. The verbal command is not effective until he has a movement to associate the word with.

Teaching Down

The same technique can be used to teach your dog to lie down. When he are in the sitting position, start by putting a treat in front of his nose and then bringing it down between his front paws. In order to follow the treat, he should lie down on the floor. This may not work with every dog. If necessary, gently push down on his back as you lure him with the treat, or gently lift up the front paws and place them in the down position. Repeat this a few times before adding the word ‘down’. Give him the reward immediately when he is in position.

Teaching Come

The command ‘come’ is most effectively learned by using positive reinforcement. This can be a life saving command if the dog were ever to get loose, so it is important to never call your dog to you to scold, punish, or deliver anything he views as negative. If this is necessary, go to him instead. This will make sure that he never views coming to you as anything but a positive experience.

Practice calling your dog to you by saying the command ‘come’ and giving him his reward as soon as he gets to you. It may be helpful at first to squat down to his level or make fun sounds, such as whistling.

Fading the Reward

Once your dog is responding well to a command, it will not be necessary to give a reward every time. In your training sessions start giving the reward only every few times he does a certain behavior. This will keep him guessing and ensure that he will be able to obey a command even if you do not have a reward in hand.