feed dog - 4 basic methods to find out if your dog is overweight or just perfect

Is Your Dog’s Weight Healthy?

four basic ways to tell if your dog is overweight or just perfect:

1: You should be able to feel your dog's ribs, but not see them except with hounds races. There should be only a thin layer of fat between the skin bones. If there is excess fat covering the ribs, he / she is overweight. If the ribs are under heavy fat cover, he / she is obese.
2: standing on your dog, you should be able to see an hourglass where there is a hollow at the waist from behind just before the ribs to the hips. Races differ, but if you can not tell where the size begins, he / she is probably overweight.
3: Looking at the side profile of your dog, you should see the tummy tuck starting just behind the last rib and climb into the hind legs.
4: Ask your veterinarian to assess the size-dog every check-up. Once your dog reaches maturity, ask her optimum weight. In general, 15% above that weight is obese; zero to 15%

Feed Dog - Best of 5 Tips For Feeding your dog


feed dog advice

Although mainly dealing with human food here in the Kitchn, many of us travel with our pets when we go on an adventure. Here are some tips to keep your puppy happy and healthy.

This blog will deal mainly with dogs, because cats eat canned tuna in the blink of an eye. Dogs, however, can be finicky eaters of road tripping, which causes abdominal pain and bizarre behavior. Keep your tummy happy dog ??is as important as your own, then here are some tips to keep in mind:

Feed dog a minimum of food for human consumption, but Fido could end the last bite of his cheeseburger, you do not need one of them, but given the sad face.

Always have fresh water: water in traffic stops can be difficult to find and will cost $ 2/bottle. Bring your own and if it is available at all times pit stop. Make sure alcohol is the key to successful potty breaks and happy stomachs.

Exercise creates hunger: It is difficult to exercise your dog while driving cross-country - dog parks are not exactly everywhere. But popping a quick run or two with your dog around the gas station or rest stop will help your metabolism the same way you do yours. It also means they will be willing to defer to the next stage of the journey. (They are not so easily appeased with the iPad as human children, so it is worth your time to break a sweat with them.)

Bring your food with you: Keep a bowl of its usual food with you to keep a normal routine. Make sure it is available when it stops and you have enough to return or have places that sell on the road. Road trips are not the time to pick up something cheap until you get home, unless you want to deal with the next tube, for yours feed dog .

Bring settlers belly: Although rejected previous human consumption, there are some things, like pumpkin and yogurt canned, which can help resolve the stomach. They will pacify a sick puppy a little dog and reduce gas (ew gross), which is very important when you are in a confined area. You laugh, but do not tell me you do not know what I mean.

finish the article feed dog.

This post will mainly deal with feed dog, because cats will eat canned tuna at the drop of a hat.

feed Dog , however, can be finicky eaters when road tripping, resulting in an upset tummy and odd behavior. Keeping your dog's tummy happy is as important as your own feed dog, so here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Bdo you feed dog : You are what you eat; if that is true for humans than that is also true for our furry companions.

 best feed dog of :

Dogs need proper feed dog  nutrition to live healthy balance lives; just like we do. And just like us, dogs need balanced, moderately-sized meals that fuel their activities feed dog,
WHAT SHOULD MY feed dog ?

When it comes to nutrition, dogs are a lot like people. They're omnivores, meaning they can live healthy lives while eating a variety of feed dog. Meats, vegetables, and grains all can be a part of a dog's diet.feed Dog need protein. Protein should make up about 18% of your dog's diet, as it should for you.

 not an overindulgent diet that will expand their waistlines and put them at risk of diseases.feed dog

Weight Loss Cat - Top 3 Causes of Weight loss in Dogs and Cats


When an animal loses a considerable amount of weight for no apparent reason, should go to your vet, as it can be a sign of illness. There is no guarantee, however, that need treatment. 
 
overview 
In today's world, while more than 50 percent of dogs and cats are considered overweight or obese often weight loss is a desirable outcome for the sedentary animals overfed. Purpose When animals lose weight despite little stress on the actions of their own to carry out this change, it is often an unpleasant symptom of the disease. This is especially true in cases where weight loss is rapid and severe (more than 10 percent of body weight). 
 
causes 
The animals may lose weight for a variety of relatively benign reasons weight loss cat : 
weight loss Dog  
A change in diet can sometimes cause weight loss cat , either because the animal food or less attractive because it has fewer calories weight loss Dog . 
Moving to a new home,a schedule change weight loss cat 
,  
weight loss cat reasons 
 
or access to the outside can lead to weight loss if an animal becomes more active as a result. 
Geriatric animals may sometimes weight loss Dog  lose weight small amounts of participation in the process of normal aging weight loss cat  . 
 
 
Permanent weight loss, reasons rapid or dramatic (more than 10 percent of the body weight of an animal), however, can be a sign of serious illness, Leg: 
 
Liver disease in dogs and cats 
Periodontal disease in dogs and cats 
Thyroid disease in cats 
Kidney failure in cats and dogs 
weight loss cat  
cancer 
Chronic gastrointestinal obstruction (when ingested foreign bodies)

dog Weight loss - 5 Tips to help your dog Shed weight


Weight loss dog  can cause fat dog dogs live up to 2 years previously.
Two years!
Dog weight loss how do
This is important not only because of the increase in life expectancy, but because many dogs could benefit ... almost half of all dogs are obese, and this percentage is increasing Dog weight loss.

In addition, between 60 and 70% of owners of fat dogs do not think their dogs are obese, according to the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
It could be one of 3 or 4 on 5 overweight dog owners do not realize that their dog is fat Dog weight loss?
Girl with dog
Buy at AllPosters.com
Do not put this off. If you do not already know, pick up the phone now and call your veterinarian to determine the ideal weight for your dog. We'll wait here ...
... Have the number? How do they compare with the actual weight of your dog?
If your dog could lose a little, read on Dog weight loss.

Fitness Paper -Unleashing The Real Power

Nutrition and Fitness Paper SCI 100 Paradigms of Health 
A 6? 0? and about 210 pounds with a BMI (body mass index) of 28 I considered universe orotund heavy (a) and really miserable by the weight of  website. 
 I'm sure my poor navigability and genuine and really brackish argon nutritionally ingest habits of my exhaustion of health and the fitness paper state of my overweight developed. 
 I apologize for my current fitness and physical habits nutritionally is basically useless. My current physical habit imply more than the occasional field or exit bowling, and does not extend more than two time 2-3 months. fitness papery current eating habits are as great, if not worse. 
 I used to do was selling one or two times a day and are usually large portions of food very loose unwieldiness. For example, the previous (a) Thursday fitness paper, I managed to eat 2 medium pizzas Pizza Hut pie sitting on the drive and on Saturday I ate two sandwiches meters long introductory low around 40 minutes.  
My fitness and eating habits were similar for years and success is why I am so close to being considered obese.  
There is an inclination of the health risks associated with the build fitness paper. According to WebMD.com? Obesity is not only a rewarding problem is a health hazard. or sooner which is 40% overweight is twice as likely to clutter prematurely as a person of average weight.fitness paper 
Order your test and get a job Order essay original custom, high quality 100% on time. 
This is because obesity has been associated with several serious diseases?fitness paper. 
 Some of the health risks associated with obesity include heart disease and stroke, the school of hypertension, diabetes, cancer, disease, gallbladder and gallstones, arthritis and respiratory problems much (pronominal) such as asthma. (WebMD.com). I understand the need for diversity of my habits hygiene standards

Common Dog Health Questions Answered


There are some things about our dogs health left close dog owner scratching their heads and wondering: "Well, what do I do now" Some of the most common dog health issues that are made by dog ​​owners and how you can help or cure the problem.

Dealing With Insect Bites in Dogs

Dogs are naturally curious animals, they like to explore their environment. This curiosity often lead to insect bites. Some places simply have too many insects around and in this case, insect bites are not completely avoidable.Common areas where there is likely to be bitten by the dog are the exposed areas of the skin such as the face, head and stomach and between the fingers.Insect bites are not always easy to detect, especially in long-haired dogs. If the dog is excessive itching or tries to bite your skin, then you need to separate the hair and skin tests. The bite area is often swollen and red. Sometimes you can find the bug still in place, as in the case of ants. You must carefully remove the ant, do not pull, as this may cause the head of the ant stop being attached to the skin.

Dog Breed in Relation to Dog Training

Experts dogs in the United States agree that all dogs should be trained at one time or another for better integration into human society. We are not talking about training in the sense of giving the dog to jump through hoops of fire Laden led through obstacles in a race, and keep the premises against intruders, although many dogs are subjected to this kind of training experience.
Formation of the correct type
Instead, we talk about training in internal training and basic obedience training. These two ways to train the dog is a good animal able to work as part of a new hierarchy in which man is the alpha dog of the pack. Stuff that a dog can behave like a circus animal is just the icing on the cake, so to speak.
But like any dog ​​expert will tell you, dogs are often formed on the basis of race, for obvious reasons. Each breed has unique physical and mental characteristics that require unique approaches to training in a general framework. For example, dog trainers use rewards to reinforce behavior god, but the frequency and type of reward differ from one race to another.
Moreover, even within the same breed, the dog will receive adequate training to individual goals associated with this particular dog. For example, your German Shepherd in the urban environment will have a decidedly different from a German shepherd working in the field as a working dog, German Shepherd and a bomb disposal unit training program.
We suggest that you consult an expert in dog training on the best type of training method for your pet. You should also inquire about the when, why and how of training, even when you register your pet in obedience classes dog. Eventually, your dog will be your responsibility and therefore, you must learn to manage the dog in its own without the coach.
According to increase training
The following are only general guidelines used in the formation of certain types of races. Please note that your dog has a personality that must be taken into account during training. Must adapt to the situation and personality as the need arises.
• Boxers respond better to the formation of dominant undisputed alpha dog from the beginning with the alpha dog of being yourself, of course. The breed is known to be competitors champion agility and guard dogs and family pets in recent years.
• German Shepherds are a breed of aggressive alpha dog status of your strong hand is highly recommended. You should avoid aggressive reactions to its aggressive actions to prevent such an attack is encouraged. Positive reinforcement is the best.
• Bulldogs should have a training program organized under the care of a dog trainer, mainly because of his stubborn nature and physical strength. Once formed, the Bulldog can be docile and gentle with children.
You must take the necessary steps to train your dog in his new role at home. Your health and your dog is at stake, not to mention paying for both sides to know where the other messages on the relationship between man and dog

Dog Sports - 9 Sports That You Can Enjoy With Your Mixed Breed Or Purebred

Much of the pleasure of owning a dog is to be able to do things together, if it's just the two of you or an event. While competitions tended to have a reputation for being only for purebred dogs, more events are open to mixed breed dogs.
Clubs mixed race in America was founded in 1978. American Mixed Breed Obedience Registry followed in 1983 and became the property of the Agility Dog Association of North America in 2006. The registry of the breed in North America was established in 1995. These three organizations have mixed breeds, the possibility of training and sports titles such as conformation, obedience, agility, tracking, flyball, and almost any other activity they love purebred.
October1 in 2009, owners of mixed breeds can register their dogs with the new program AKC (American Kennel Club), allowing mixed breeds to compete and win titles in AKC obedience, agility and rally events, competing only against other mixed breeds. A description of the new sports that you can enjoy with your dog if he or she is a race or a wonderful dog.
1. Obedience is essential. Obedience training is one of the most important things you can do for your dog things. Each dog must have a reliable sit and stay down (sleep) and stay and stay up and do not leave until told otherwise. They must also understand and respect "let" and the command "drop". Each of these basic commands could one day save your life. Courses puppy and adult training are usually available at your fingertips. Look for a program that uses positive reinforcement, not punishment, as a training tool.
Basic obedience is necessary before further training in other sports. An obedient and well mannered dog is a joy. They can continue to train and compete in formal obedience trials that offer degrees. Also available for all dogs, both thoroughbred breed is mixed and AKC Canine Good Citizen or CGC title. All dogs who pass a ten-step CGC test demonstrating solid obedience may receive a certificate.
Two. Rally Obedience is a low-impact sport for dogs with disabilities of any kind. Guide you browse a drive with signs that lead to the exercises in several places. The exercises were modified to take into account the limitations of the dogs. For example, if the jump is a problem, running on a pole on the floor will suffice. One of the greatest use is the Association of Dog Trainers. Both pure and mixed breeds can compete.
Three. Agility has become a popular sport. Anyone who saw the events agility experienced the joy and excitement of the dog and handler in a race around an obstacle course. This course is provided in which the animal must go over jumps, through tunnels, through a set of slalom, staying on a pause table, a swing pass and a bridge and a raised top and bottom of frame within a given interval of time. It is a driver to drive properly dog ​​on the course. For dogs who have physical or just as some of the barriers than other limitations, not only for the sake of agility (JFF), which is not competitive.
April. Conformation is well known as a sport in which purebred dogs are judged against the standard set of ideals of their race. However, some organizations offer training mixed breeds competition. Here, the emphasis is on the guide and how they and their dogs work together as mixed breeds which can be judged by the breed standard.
May Canine Musical Freestyle mixture of obedience, dance and bag of tricks to your canine friend with the music chosen appropriately to interact together creatively choreographed routine. Competition generally include a large number of very athletic demands, but there are also courses offered by several freestyle organizations, which are especially for older dogs that do not require athletics. Certainly, you do not have to compete. Dancing at home with his dog (he or she will probably love), or informal dance friends. The main goal is simply to have fun.
June Flyball is a popular sport in which teams of four dogs running around like a relay. The first two dogs are released and are competing for four obstacles or jumps to a box that releases a tennis ball when a spring is pressed by the dog. The dogs catch the balls and races obstacles to their masters with the ball in his mouth. Each dog must carry the ball on the goal line before the next dog is released. The first team to have all four dogs cross the finish line without errors wins the heat. Small dogs are often very popular with the obstacles that are the height of the smallest dog. Many championship teams have stray dogs in them.
July. Frisbee, also known as disc dog, is an extremely popular and very accessible sport. All you need is a person, a dog, a level playing field, and a disc to throw. Contests include long distance events and freestyle catching and have categories like Athletic canine, degree of difficulty, and entertainment. The discs also have their place in the freestyle dance routines. Many world champions were Métis and some were rescue shelters. This is a great activity for one-on-one outdoor, and only a small portion of dogs playing frisbee participate in competitions.
August You love your canine friend from the water? Spring break may be the perfect sport for him or her. In this case, the dogs compete for the jump distance or height from a dock into the water. A guide and a dog of any age for six months, of any kind, or any size are a team. The Manager may take a toy, but the dog is not required to recover. There are many divisions, including small dogs, small dogs "," old dogs that have more than eight years, and the "veterans".
9. If you have a herding dog, livestock may be interested in testing or sheepdogs. It is a competitive sport in which the sheep dog moves through a field and several obstacles such as fences, gates or fences that their managers directly. There are several different events of the difficulty in which the dog can participate. Some organizations allow competition makeup of the meeting, while others allow any dog ​​that has been trained to work share to competition.
It was a look at some of the most popular dog sport. When choosing one for your friend and yourself skin, look for something you both enjoy. See also the special talents and limitations of the two of you may have. It is a sport for almost everyone, of every age and fitness level. You do not have to compete for fun, either. The living room or backyard can be the perfect place for your own one-on-one version of whatever calls sport for you and your best friend!

Before You Decide To Breed Pit Bull Puppies: Dog Breeding Advice

If you are considering breeding Pit Bull puppies, it is important to take the necessary steps to become a responsible breeder. There is more to being a breeder creating puppies. It is important to be a breeder who really cares about the dogs, and not just one that makes it only for monetary purposes. You should always have your best interest at heart pitbulls.

Before considering breeding any dog, it is imperative to follow all vaccines, and should have a complete physical examination to diagnose and treat any potential health problem. Want breeding dogs to be in the best health possible to ensure that the puppies are also healthy. You should also make sure the routine medical examinations during pregnancy and after childbirth. It is important not to reproduce dogs to give them a break between litters. Health tends to decrease with an increase in the number of pregnancies.

Part of being a responsible breeder is to ensure the safety of pit bulls lift. Be sure you send their animals in a loving home forever. Know lifestyle buyers determine if they have the time to pay proper attention to pitbull puppy, and it will be a good fit with children or pets at home already. Make sure that the person who buys the Pit Bull is well informed on how to take care, training, exercise, food, etc. In case the buyer is not familiar with how to care for dogs or have questions, should be more than willing to help, or recommend resources she can. Inform the buyer of the specific needs of the dog, so they can be prepared before taking the puppy pitbull house. Be upfront about any health problem or suspect a hereditary problem. Recommend that all Pit Bulls need preventative care and vaccinations, and should get a good vet to do it. In addition, provide information on care or special grooming as required.

Caregivers breeders should be willing to help in any way necessary, even years after the dog was purchased. Inform the buyer how they can reach you in case of problems with the puppy pitbull, or if you have questions.

It is important to inform potential buyers on the aggressive nature that most Pit Bulls tend to have. Tell them they are dogs that need a lot of love, attention and training in order to thrive.

Above all, love of animals they raise. Yes, you can make money by selling your pitbull puppies, but ultimately, it is love game love pet owner. It is your ultimate responsibility as coach Pit Bull

Dog Breeding Business

If you are looking for a fun and profitable business to venture into, then you might want to consider getting into the dog breeding business. This would be a really good idea if you are the kind of person who loves dogs.

Be warned though, just because you love to surround yourself with these cute and adorable furry critters, that wouldn't qualify you to be a great breeder. You will need to invest not only money, but a lot of time and patience before you could even enjoy the fruits of your labors. Ideally, the return on investments would only be earned after at least eighteen months after starting the business - that is assuming that your dog was a new born when you got him or her.

If you really are serious about getting into this industry, then you must consider some important points before starting it. First of all, you will need a dog. What kind and pedigree of canine you are supposed to get would depend on you.
 If you want to breed show quality dogs, then you must find professional and reputable breeders that raise these kinds of dogs. Pet stores can only offer you pet quality dogs. Although they may be pure breeds, pet quality ones will never be qualified to join competitions. They would still be marketable though since a lot of households aren't meticulous about whether the dog's pet quality or show quality.

The pedigree that you should get would also depend on your personality as an individual. It would be best to find one with characteristics that would match or fit yours. If you are the laid back type of guy, then don't get a hyperactive dog. If you live an active lifestyle, then you might want to get a more athletic dog that you could take with you when you jog. Your location of residence is also a factor. If you live in a humid or hot place, it is inadvisable to breed long coated dogs or a Siberian Husky. The climate will be uncomfortable for them.
Choosing which pedigree and which kind of dog to breed is just the beginning of your problems. Once you have determined this, you will have to deal with a lot of other things like registration, vaccinations, and medications if necessary. You have to watch the dietary and nutritional needs of your canine. Make sure that he or she gets all the nutrients needed to ensure his or her health as well as prevent any health complications.

Usually, breeders would opt to start with a bitch or a female dog. If you are going to get a female yourself, then you will have to watch and monitor its heat cycle. The dog will experience her first cycle on her first month. You can't let her mate during her first cycle though because the chances of her conceiving puppies are low. Plus, she isn't physically and mentally ready to be pregnant this early. You will have to wait until she's around eighteen months old (third cycle) before you could let her mate.

During pregnancy, she will need extra attention and care. This is to ensure the puppies' health as well as the mother's. It would also be wise to take note of the day when she conceived. Knowing when she got pregnant will help you prepare when it's time for labor. You have to be ready when the whelping day arrives.
After she gives birth, you will have to let the puppies nurse with their mother for a while. You will also have to take them to the vet for deworming, vaccinations and other medical procedures before you have the puppies registered.

Once all this is done, that would be the only time you could find new homes for the puppies and earn from their sale. It would take while before you could really earn money from dog breeding. But the process that will get you there will sure be fun.

Choosing Food for Large Breed Dogs

A large breed dog has a heavier weight, bigger build, and faster growth cycle than one of a small- or medium-breed. Because of these, it has special nutrition needs. Also, since many large breeds are really meant to be working with humans, they need to have the right quality of food and the proper amount of vitamins and minerals. If you own a large breed dog, here are some suggestions on how you should choose its food.

It's best to ask a veterinarian about the best brand, formula, and recipe for your pet. The vet will base his recommendation on your pet's age, breed, and activities. You should ask the vet for a couple or more brands so you can compare which would be better for your dog and your budget.

You should also observe your dog if it has allergies or other considerations and tell the vet about it. He should be able to tell you which ingredients you need to avoid when checking pet nutrition products. Usually, allergies in dogs are caused by the wheat or soy content in their food. Some symptoms include falling hair and itchy skin.

When shopping for food for large breed dogs, read the labels carefully. The protein source or sources should be the first in the list of ingredients. Beef, chicken, lamb, salmon, and turkey are the prime protein sources you should see. Do not buy any product that say "animal protein" only. It has to be specified so you'd also know if your dog exhibits some kind of allergic reaction. Also, poor sources of protein won't give your dog the nutrition it needs regularly and may even add fats and other unnecessary substances to its diet.

Grains are just fillers. They provide very minimal nutritional benefits for your dog and even cause frequent loose stools. Be sure that grains appear far down the ingredients' list on the product label. This includes corn, which is actually discouraged by many vets. Corn is even totally omitted by some of the premium brands in the market.

If your dog has special concerns that you want to address through its regular diet, check the additional ingredients in the dog food that you want to buy. Large dogs are prone to bone and joint problems, because they are heavy. Glucosamine and chondroitin in dog food will help them fight these troubles.

Lastly, be sure that the dog food is made by a reputable company that doesn't have any nutrition issue or recent product recall. Also, buying top-quality dog food may cost you a bit more than feeding it table scraps and substandard meals. However, it will save your dog the dangers of illnesses and will help you enjoy its company even more.

Hills Science Diet is one of the best pet nutrition brands in the market. It has special recipes for large breed dogs and also has a Hills Science Diet Puppy line. Visit the Paws for Life website for this brand's selection of dog food.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7061093

Dog Breeders - What Does It Take To Breed Dogs?


Not everyone is cut out to be a good dog breeder. If you're willing to invest the time to learn how to breed healthy puppies and have a strong commitment to your animals, dog breeding is a heart-warming experience. In fact, it's a lot of fun!

The joys of dog breeding are limitless - waiting for the big day as the puppies develop in the womb, witnessing their entry into the world, and nurturing them through their first six to eight weeks of life can be a tremendously rewarding experience. But to be a really good dog breeder, you must care about more than the financial "bottom line." You have to have genuine love and concern for the animals you've taken into your charge. The best dog breeders create happy, healthy puppies for truly loving homes.

There's more to breeding dogs than one small article can cover. You have to know the best time of year for breeding and how to provide the best environment for mating, birth, and early care. Good dog breeders need to understand more than the dogs under their care: they must be able to maintain a successful small business. Most of all, good dog breeders are willing to invest the time and effort necessary to learn all the ins and outs of breeding before they begin.

Your most important building block in breeding happy, healthy puppies is your female dog. She must be in heat before she can breed. Typically, this happens every six to seven months. However, even though she may go into heat while she's young, she may not be physically mature enough to carry, deliver, and care for her new babies. You should wait until your dog is physically mature before breeding her. For some breeds, this may be two or more years of age.

Your veterinarian can help you decide when the time is right for dog breeding. Vets know about your animal, and they know how to perform and interpret the necessary tests and physical exams. It's best to wait until your vet tells you your female dog is ready to breed. If you don't give her enough time, you could lose both mother and her puppies.

Even when your vet has given you the go-ahead, you'll have to find the appropriate male to mate with your little lady. Be sure the dog you choose for her is healthy, and verify with his owner that he is of a pure bloodline, particularly if you want to register your puppies.

Mating usually works best when you bring your female to the male because the male needs to be comfortable to perform his task. That usually happens in his own territory.
Most female dogs aren't fertile until they've been in heat about ten days, and they remain fertile for about four days. Fertility periods vary, so consult your vet to identify the most favorable times for mating. You'll also have to go through some trial and error to learn what works for your female dog.
Mating is only the beginning of a successful dog breeder's work. You'll have to be a dedicated nurse, mid-wife, and nanny for your dog and her puppies. And good dog breeders are very careful to find warm, loving homes for their precious ones. You can find lots of good advice and personal contacts to help you succeed through your vet, other breeders and, of course, through Internet websites dedicated to dog breeding.

Abhishek is an avid dog lover and he has got some great Dog Health Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 80 Page Ebook, "How To Take Care Of Your Dog's Health" from his website http://www.Dog-Tale.com/192/index.htmOnly limited Free Copies available.

Dog Overeating - Which Breeds Are High-Risk?

Hope for the opposite as we may, humans don't enter this world on an even playing field. Even excluding complex socioeconomic issues, inequality lurks in our medical charts: some of us are genetically predisposed for medical issues such as heart disease and certain cancers.
 A study from Harvard's School of Public health suggests that our genes even make some of us more likely to be obese*.
The genetic injustice doesn't stop with homo sapiens. Our canine companions can be genetically fated for certain disorders as well due to breeding practices. Over countless generations, dog enthusiasts created the various breeds by selecting and breeding only dogs that displayed certain desired traits, such as certain coat colors and face shapes. This selective breeding for appealing qualities depleted genetic diversity, leaving weaknesses in individual dogs' genetic maps.

For instance, the intense breeding required to produce the Dalmatian's stunning spots also brought their genetic predisposition for ailments such as kidney stones and deafness. Along the same lines, poodles are well-loved around the world for their gorgeous, hypo-allergenic fur and intelligence. Unfortunately, rigorous breeding to satisfy demand for these popular pooches has also made poodles the breed most predisposed to disease: they have been linked to 145 genetically-influenced disorders.

Obesity is no exception. In many cases, the causes of obesity are self-evident: as in humans, when a dog eats too much, and exercises too little, he or she is likely to become overweight
. Additionally, low-quality, low-protein dog foods may encourage overeating, as dogs need to eat more to feel satiated. The majority of canine obesity cases are rooted in these causes.

However, certain dog breeds are more likely to gain excessive weight, for the reasons listed below. If you're feeling worried because your adorable puppy's breed is listed, take heart: we've also listed techniques for preventing weight gain, or, if it's too late for prevention, helping your dog shed those extra pounds.

Chow Hounds: Breeds Likely to Eat Quickly
A quick review of the history of the canine species explains why some dogs practically inhale their food. Many experts believe that dogs broke off into separate species 15,000 years ago, when certain wolves opted to step into a new human-created niche, living near the easy food supplies of waste dumps.
 In this circumstance, it made sense for dogs to eat quickly, so they could ingest as much food as possible before the appearance of rival dogs or predators.
Today, the original utility of rapid consumption has been replaced with the problems of obesity and dog bloat. Obesity results when owners often assume that their chow hound is still hungry, leading to over-feeding. 
Gastric tortion, or dog bloat, is a much more immediately severe disorder in which the dog sucks up air with their food, causing the stomach to twist in on itself, blocking exits, even as digestion continues to release more gas. The deep, narrow chests of breeds such as the Collies and the St. Bernard make them more likely to suffer dog bloat. Other fast eaters include large breeds such as Labrador retrievers, Basset Hounds, Rottweilers and any dog that had to worry about having its food taken away as a puppy.
 Keep in mind that any breed may eat too quickly; monitor your dog's eating habits to determine if he or she is overeating food.
How to Slow your Chow Hound Down
? Set a consistent feeding schedule, and stick to it. Many vets suggest two daily feedings, in the morning and evening. Record how much you typically feed your dog each day, and check with your vet to see if this is an appropriate amount. Avoid giving your dog table scraps and other people treats.

Create an obstacle in your dog's bowl. Some owners and vets recommend placing a tennis ball or large rock in your dog's bowl to slow eating. Other, more aesthetically-pleasing solutions, like the DogPause Bowl, uses the same principal to simply but effectively slow down a dog's eating pattern. 
These bowls have half-cup divisions in the bowl that create an obstacle for your puppy to work around in order to get to its meal.
Canine Energy: Breeds that Need Lots of Exercise
Some dogs were specifically bred for work. Shepherds were bred to run around all day herding sheep, for instance. It's no surprise, then, that work dogs like German Shepherds, Dobermans, Rottweilers, and Beagles put on extra weight when they don't get daily exercise.
How to Get Your Four-Legged Friend Back to a Healthy Weight:
Get out there and play. A half hour of exercise is a good idea for all dogs, regardless of size. Your dog may need more - some vets recommend that you walk your dog one city block for every ten pounds of weight.
 Talk to your vet about the recommended amount of exercise for your puppy to see if his or her breed may require a little extra time running around to stay in shape.
~Ben Anton, 2008
The Best Collie Dog Bowl [http://www.dogpausebowl.com/]: Reduce your dog's chances of becoming obese by checking out the best solution for reducing dog bloat [http://www.dogpausebowl.com/dog_bowls_s/1.htm] at DogPauseBowl.com.

Which Breed of Dog Should I Get?

First take look at your living environment.
Do you have a big house, small house or apartment?
Do you live in the city, a suburban area or rural area?
Do you live by a lake or the ocean or near a forest or mountainous area?
Is it a hot climate, cold, or one that has all four seasons?
Do you have a small yard, big yard, acres of land or no yard at all?
Is your yard fenced? If you don't have a fenced yard you need to be prepared to walk your dog multiple times every day.

Different breeds are a better fit for different environments. For example, you don't want to get an active medium or large breed dog that loves to run and needs lot's of exercise if you live in an apartment. Breeds that were meant for cold climates don't do well in the heat, unless you want to spend the money to have them clippered down. Dogs with strong prey drives, like terriers and hunting dogs, will run off after squirrels, rabbits and other prey. If not fenced in, they are at risk of getting lost or hit by a car.

Next, consider your living situation.
Do you have a small baby or will you be planning to start a family?
Do you have small children or teenagers?
Are you a single person or a couple living alone?
Do you travel often? What will you do with your dog?
Do you have guests over frequently? Do you want a giant breed greeting and interacting with them?
Many breeds are wonderful with either a single person or a family with children, however, some, like Golden Retrievers are much more tolerant of young children than some breeds. Toy breeds can be fragile and some breeders prefer they not go to a home with any children under the age of 8.
What type of personality do you have?
Really, you ask? What's my personality got to do with the breed of dog I get?
Well, just as people have different personalities, so do dogs.
People and dogs can be outgoing, quiet, assertive, shy, aggressive, talkative, thoughtful, inquisitive, energetic, calm, etc. Some dogs are more of a barker than others, some howl.
If a person is more of a shy or calm type of person they may not appreciate or want to deal with the high energy of a terrier and vice versa. An active person who likes to hike or roller blade would fit well with a high energy dog that can keep up if they want their dog to enjoy these types of activities also. A couch potato type person would fit best with a couch potato type of dog, or a dog with a calm energy like a golden retriever or a small dog in the toy breed group.
Another thing to consider is the care required for the breed of dog you get.
Do you want a dog that needs regular professional grooming, a long-haired breed that will require frequent combing and may leave a lot of hair around, a short-haired breed or one that doesn't shed much at all.

Are you looking for a big dog to provide protection? Be careful with this idea. Any dog will alert you to strangers but if you want a bigger breed as a protector you should be an experienced dog owner. These breeds are not for beginner dog owners or those with a "soft" personality. A barking dog will scare away most intruders no matter what breed it is, however, there are breeds, like Airedale Terriers, that are great family pets and excellent protectors.

If an intruder is not afraid of a barking dog they likely will have planned for a way to work around that. They may bring meat with them to occupy the dog or even may kill the dog. If you want protection get an alarm system for your house or buy and learn how to use a gun. Getting a dog for protection only isn't a good idea.

Now lets look at the breeds as a group to help narrow down the field.
\
Toy breeds - These dogs are very small and more fragile than bigger breeds though they can be full of energy. Just because they are small does not mean they are wimpy, they will stand their ground and it's not unusual to see a toy breed back down a larger breed. They shed little and are good apartment dogs.

Sporting group - These dogs enjoy the woods and the water and usually have well-rounded personalities but they do need exercise and enjoy a good hearty workout.

Non-Sporting - This is a diverse group of dogs and are a varied collection in terms of size, coat, personality and overall appearance.

Herding dogs - These dogs are herders and they are remarkable at how the can control the movement of other animals. These are intelligent dogs, easy to train and make good companions. They have a very strong need to herd, however, so unless they have a "job", they can become frustrated and take out this frustration on you, your children or your household belongings. It is not uncommon for people to complain that their herding dog is "biting" their children, when, in fact, they are nipping and "herding" them. If you choose a herding breed, be prepared to give them plenty of exercise and something to keep that herding instinct busy in a productive manner.

Hound group - Most of the dogs in the group have been or are used for hunting. Some are these dogs have amazing scent abilities while others have a large amount of stamina. Some of these dogs bay, or howl. If you haven't heard this sound make sure you get familiar with it before you get one of these dogs.
Working dogs - These are large breed dogs, strong and powerful. These aren't a good breed for a new dog owner. They are smart dogs but need an owner who has experience training and handling this type of dog.

Terrier group - You could also call this the Terror group (just kidding, sort of). These are feisty, energetic dogs and often have little tolerance for other animals, including other dogs. They can be quite assertive and do best with an equally assertive owner who can establish clear rules, boundaries and limitations.

Misc dogs - This is a group of relatively rare or new to AKC breeds. Research them further if you have an interest in one of these.

No article can tell you exactly which breed of dog is right for you but can assist you with making sure you ask the right questions and give you some resources to check out. There are hundreds of different dog breeds so you will need to do some additional research to determine the best breed for your situation. Your research of the different breeds will help you to get a better understanding of what might be a good fit for your environment. The purpose of this article is to help you formulate your questions and provide a little direction for finding the best breed for you.

The dog you get will live with you for the next 10-15 years so some careful thought should be given and research done to determine the best breed for you. Both you and your dog will appreciate that you put in some work now to identify the type of dog that will fit in well in your life.

This web site (http://www.akc.org/breeds/#) will allow you to view each dog by group and by breed. You can see on the left column links to view the dogs by breed and by group. There is a picture of each dog and by clicking on it you can get a good description of the different characteristics of that breed.

Where should I get my dog?
If you decide you want to get a pure breed dog then find the best breeder you can, one who does health certifications, belongs to their National Breed Club and sells their dogs with a written contract and health guarantee. Ironically, a well-bred purebred dog is often less expensive than those sold in stores. Never, ever buy a dog from a pet store! All those puppies come from puppy mills. If you aren't familiar with "puppy mills" just Google the term and read about the horrible conditions in which these dogs live. No matter what they tell you, no ethical breeder would ever sell pups to a store. In fact, it is cause for dismissal from the National Breed clubs. Likewise with the internet. Buyer beware! There are hundreds of websites with pictures of cute puppies next to flowers or with ribbons in their hair when the reality is that they were born in a horrible puppy mill type situation. Research your breeder and go to visit if at all possible. To find a quality breeder start by looking for the breeder club of the state you live in and you can use the link provided above for the AKC.

You may pay a little more but its worth it to get a dog that is properly bred, is healthy and has the correct temperament of that breed.

If you can't afford or don't care about having a quality purebred pup you will be just as well off adopting a dog from a local shelter.

There are many dogs available at rescue facilities that can be a good companion for you. National Breed Clubs also sponsor the rescue of their own breeds so they can point you in the direction of a purebred rescue. There are frequently purebred dogs at shelters, through no fault of their own, but the result of someone NOT doing their homework and buying the wrong breed for their lifestyle and then discover that breed just isn't a good fit for them. Some of these dogs will be mixed breeds, so by reviewing the various breeds you will get a better understanding of what the dog may be mixed with to determine if it might be a good fit.

This will be a new member of your family and you should take the time to find just the right one. You will be rewarded with many years of loyalty and unconditional love.

A few words about training.
Be sure to start training your dog on day one and consistently reinforce the behavior you want and ignore or discourage the behavior you don't want. Nearly all behavior problems are the result of poor or inconsistent training and not properly socializing your dog with other dogs and humans. Establishing clear rules, boundaries and limitations so your dog understands your expectations will create a happier and well-behaved pet.

It can be helpful to remember that even though we all love our dogs very much, they are not human. They don't think like or rationalize like a human does. They are very eager to please and whatever behavior you praise, laugh at or give comfort to is a behavior that your dog will continue to do.

There are two very common mistakes people make with their dogs.

The first one is to comfort their dog when it is anxious, nervous or scared and this just reinforces that behavior.

The second thing is showing excitement when your dog is overly excited, such as when you first come home or see the dog after an absence. The excited human makes the dog even more excited and it is nearly impossible to control an excited dog. Remember, excited does not necessarily mean happy, an aggressive dog will also show a high level of excitement and it may not be at all happy at the time.

A doggie obedience class with your new friend can make a big difference and create a happier, well-adjusted dog.


Terry and Debbie are the owners of http://www.partofthefamilykennels.com. This is a pet boarding kennel and grooming business serving the Tampa, FL area. We have extensive experience in pet care, breeding and showing dogs. If you are going to be in the Tampa area and need a kennel or grooming service please contact us.

Breeds of Terrier Dogs

From the funny little pals to the more aggressive ones, terrier dogs definitely have wide spectrum of temperaments and dispositions that anyone would find interesting. In fact, any kind of owner would fit with the various characteristics that this breed can show. Beware though for some can be very mischievous while others can display timidity.
Terriers are primarily bred to help hunters in catching vermin, otter, foxes, rats and the likes. Newer breeds though tend to be so domesticated that they are now included in the companion and toy breeds.

As with many other dog breeds, terrier dogs have diverse characteristics that set one type from another. A number of owners find them as faithful in their families and are always ready to protect the home to which he has accustomed himself with. Distinguished excellent guardians, many dogs from this breed can easily determine well-intentioned strangers from those who mean harm.

This instinct to protect probably rooted from the earlier breeds which were originally used in bloody dog fights. Since the banning of this sport, many breeders resulted to producing more docile dogs for homes. Through innumerable cross-breedings, keen and protective terriers were produced.

Some notable terriers of this disposition are American Stafforshire Terrier or AmStaff, Airedale Terrier and Bedlington Terrier.

One of the major features terrier dogs have is their capability to respond well to training. In fact, some types are endowed with natural intelligence which makes them fit for obedience training and ring shows. Some terriers with this disposition need lots of activities that would challenge them mentally. Those included in this type must be given enough training so as to refrain them from being destructive out of boredom. Unlike larger breeds though with much intelligence, most terrier dogs will not make as much damage.

Some of this type also has the determination and dignified disposition that give them the air of confidence.

Some terrier dogs are fun loving and humorous in some sense. They are lively, frolic and gay which provide entertainment for their families and has become the favorites for many centuries.

Social terriers meanwhile should be given enough social environment so as to ready them as they mature. Most terriers with this disposition tend to dominate other dogs when they have come to their ideal age to assume authority. The bull terrier types could best display this temperament.

Surprisingly, some of the smallest terriers are among the toughest. Take the case of Cairn dogs. For their relatively small size and the stocky built, they still portray the disposition of being always ready when the need for activity arrives.
Many types of this breed though still retain the true terrier disposition. That is, hunting. Yet, significant with such dogs are their keenness to human companionship which make them both good ratters and affectionate pets.

Others still have the power, speed and endurance that many of their ancestors possessed. While some may be repressed due to domestication, many of them can manifest whenever the drives arise.

This breed is quite old. In fact, many of them had been existing since time immemorial. It's not surprising that they have various characters that an owner can either detest or love.

Training is essential to make your dog much better and very responsible to you and your family. If you need more info please visit my review of a great dog training book at http://www.billysreviews.com/review-of-sit-stay-fetch-dog-obedience-book.html
Don't poison your dog anymore by feeding it store bought food. There are many easy to make foods that you can make cheaply at home. If you need more info please visit my review of a Dog Food Secrets book at http://www.billysreviews.com/dog-food-secrets.html

The Mixed Breed Dog or "Who's Your Daddy?

Have you ever wondered how many breeds make up the breed of your mixed breed dog? Are your frustrated that when people ask you what kind of dog you have you are not able to answer with 100 percent accuracy or certainty? Well, there is a sure way to find out. It is the DNA in your dog, and it is a simple way to find out. The companies and costs vary. But other than knowing the truth, what are the other benefits?

First, knowing your dog's breed will tell you a lot about your dog's health and health issues. This will enable you to discuss likely health problems with your veterinarian and put together a plan of action.

Secondly, your dog's breed may require a dietary adjustment. Your dog's diet may be suitable or unsuitable for your dog's health and energy. This too would be something on which your veterinarian could advise.

Thirdly, the DNA results could guide you with the obedience training plan for your dog. Certain breeds could respond better to certain types of training and this could save you time and money when the right plan is put in place.

Fourthly, the DNA results could explain the personality of your pet. Understanding this could help you cope with any quirky behavior you may have been wondering about.

If you watch any of the crime shows on TV you probably have seen DNA examples taken by swabbing the inner cheek of the person. Well, not surprising, the same procedure is used on dogs. You then mail in the swab and within approximately a few weeks you will get your results. You will find out the breed and traits of the parent, grandparent and even great grandparent. In addition, you will get the percent of breed represented in your dog. With some of the kits you will get an ancestry chart showing where each breed got involved. Mystery solved.

One of my friends was given a Doggy DNA kit for a Christmas present. It was with great anticipation that my friend waited for the results. Curiosity was at a high. Finally the results came and the mystery was solved. My friend poured over the report which explained some things about the behaviors. It was a great present with great results.

Sound like something you would like to try? It is quick and easy and makes for great discussion.
After leaving the corporate world I started an internet business selling pet beds. I picked this product line because of my life-long interest in pets, especially dogs. Check out my business at http://iHeartPetBeds.com. Janet Hosler, Author

What To Consider About Large Breed Dogs and Elderly People

A dog can be the best friend you've ever had and whether you're young or elderly, caring for one of these intelligent, loyal animals can bring an almost indescribable amount of joy into your life. For seniors, a dog can be an especially welcome addition to their lives, offering companionship, affection and health benefits in the form of reduced stress and anxiety and alleviating feelings of loneliness and isolation. In fact, many studies have been published suggesting that pet owners are likely to live longer and indeed, happier lives.

There are many people who would suggest that at least for most elderly people, a small, easy to care for dog is the obvious choice. However, there are just as many who would argue that for many older people, a large dog can be a great fit. Some people just prefer larger dogs, but there are some good reasons to consider large breeds as pets for seniors as well. Many larger dogs are actually calmer and easier to care for than their smaller counterparts and there is one other important health benefit which is more strongly associated with having a large breed of dog as a pet rather than a smaller one - exercise.

Having a larger dog gives seniors an excellent reason to get active. Larger dogs will rarely be happy with a simple trip around the block two or three times a day like a smaller dog will, so choosing large breeds as pets can help the elderly to get the regular exercise that they need to stay in good health. Larger breeds are also more likely to enjoy playing fetch and engaging in other activities which give both pet and owner some much-needed physical activity.

Naturally, this isn't to say that every large breed of dog is necessarily a good choice as a pet for a senior citizen. Some large breeds are extremely active, just as is the case with smaller dogs, but even these breeds may make good pets for seniors who are more active. If you're an older person considering adopting a pet dog, it's a good idea to do some reading up ahead of time to learn about the characteristics of different breeds so that you know what to expect. You should also give some thought to what you're looking for in a dog and how your new pet will fit into - or change - your lifestyle.

There are individual variations within any breed of dog, large or small and because of this, it's a good idea to meet any dog you're thinking of adopting before you make your decision so that you can get to know them. You may end up meeting a dog and falling in love with them, even though you may not have been particularly interested in getting a dog from that breed before meeting that particular animal. With that said, the following are some of the large breeds of dog which elderly prospective dog owners may want to give some consideration to.

Get detailed recommendations about large breed dogs for seniors. Check out my favorite pet store, Friendly Paws Pet Supplies, for a full range of dog supplies.