Life Expectancy of Large Breed Dogs

Large breed dogs have a shorter life expectancy than smaller breeds which is unfortunate for the owner/guardians of large breed dogs. We love our big dogs even knowing their time with us will be short. We don't focus on the quantity of time but the quality of time we spend together. Sharing our homes with our big fur balls is like having a small piece of heaven for our own.

Everyone has probably heard of the term "dog years". The myth that a dog ages seven years to every one year of human life is just that, a myth. There is no accurate guideline that can be followed because dogs age more quickly in puppy stage then they do in later years. Also, different breeds of dogs actually age differently with large breed dogs remaining puppies until the age of eighteen months to two years. By the same rate, large breed dogs can become senior citizens by the age of six years.

Feeding a large breed puppy a managed diet is important. Make sure the puppy's diet is not rich in fats and served in moderate portions. For a large breed puppy it is better to feed three small meals a day instead of one or two large meals. Even though the puppy is large, the digestive tract is smaller in proportion to a smaller dog. We don't want the puppy to become overweight as this may shorten his/her lifespan and we want to ensure he/she receives all the nutrients they need. Ensuring our large breed friends are healthy and well cared for may extend their time with us to the max. Many of the injuries and ailments that strike our dogs have their origins in our dogs being overweight. It has been estimated that 23% of the dogs in the United States are either overweight or obese. Just look around you the next time you are in a pet store or out walking your dog; are the dogs you see overweight? It is so very important that you do the research on the breed you have decided you want to share your home with. Knowing beforehand the care and life expectancy of the breed you have chosen will assist you in the preparations for raising your new puppy.

Many large breed dogs suffer from joint ailments. This is also aggravated by being overweight. Having the right nutrition with the correct mix of vitamins, minerals and proteins in the food you give your dog is important. Making sure your dog receives the exercise and activity level that they need to maintain their ideal weight is one way to ensure their health.

As stated above, the large breed dog approaches senior years starting around six years old. To keep our large friends in good health, make sure they are given well balanced meals with high quality ingredients. A good diet in combination with regular exercise and regular visits to the vet will keep your dog in good health and hopefully increase their longevity.

There are some factors that are beyond the control of the pet owner. Some inherited illnesses and diseases that are common in some breeds should be monitored by the breeder and hopefully will be disclosed to you when you are inquiring about selecting a puppy from a breeder. Hip dysplasia, cardiomyopathy and hypothyroidism are just three of the inherited diseases some large breed dogs may encounter. Do your research and find out what diseases are most common in the breed of dog you are interested in. Then find an informed reputable breeder that is working on improving the breed.

Spayed and neutered animals tend to live longer then unaltered animals. Altered animals tend not to roam as much and appear to have a reduced risk of some cancers. The age of the animal at the time of neutering should be well thought out and discussed with your breeder and vet. It was considered appropriate at one time to neuter your animal between the ages of six and nine months. Now after many studies it has been brought forth that dogs in sports or competitions should not be neutered until after they reach one year of age. Also other studies have been released that states some cancer and diseases may be linked to having your animal neutered. Which is correct? No one can say definitely which the correct answer is until further studies have been done. As long as there are statistics there will be conflicting information regarding any subject. You as a pet owner/guardian need to ask questions of the breeder and vet and make decisions that you feel are in your pet's best interest.

The average life expectancy of a dog weighing between 120 and 150 pounds has been shown to be between 8 and 10 years. Of course this is just general and in no way can be taken for fact. I've know 5 Rottweilers who have died at six years of age and a 150 pound Lab that lived to 13 years of age. We can strive to give our large dogs plenty of love, food and exercise and just hope we have them around for many years of enjoyment.

Jim McKiel lives in the Chicago suburbs with his wife Doris and their pet family members Buddy and Buster. They have devoted their lives to the betterment of pet ownership.

For more information, visit Large Breed Family Dogs

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How to Find the Best Domestic Dog Breed For Your Personality Type

  If you want to bring a dog into your family you may be wondering what type of domestic dog breed is best suited for your personality. 

After all owning any animal, especially a dog is a long term commitment. You want to be sure that you choose the right breed and specific dog for your lifestyle, family and personality. 

Finding the right dog for your personality type is easier than you might think. Read the personality descriptions in this article to find the right dog breed for your demeanor.

Every human being has a truly unique personality. However, most people display certain personality traits more often. Choose a dog based on your most dominate personality traits.

TYPE A: Outgoing and Funny

People who have a type A personality are very happy the majority of the time because they look at the bright side of life. These people love to be apart of something bigger than themselves, and they strive to make other people laugh. Type A personalities have a happy go lucky innocent approach in life

. They are very successful people who love to spend time with family and friends. People who are outgoing and fun to be around should opt for playful energetic dogs. 

Top domestic dog breeds for this personality type are: Labs, Golden Retrievers, Pomeranians, Yorkshire terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Shih Tzu, Poodles, Alaskan malamute, German shepherd, and Collies.

TYPE B: Creative and Artistic

People who have type B personalities have a great deal of talent. They are very creative, crafty and they can be social, yet quiet when they need their space. They love to find new friends traveling all over the world. These people tend to be very caring, and emotional individuals. They treasure their close relationships. Creative people do well with all kinds of different breeds because these people are so versatile.

 Top dog breeds for this personality type are: Pugs, German Sheperd, Alaskan Husky, Lab, Golden Retriever, Saint Bernard, Collie, Shetland sheepdog, Great Dane, Greyhound, Dalmatians, Chihuahua, and Smooth Fox Terrier.

TYPE C: Sensitive, Loving and Emotional

People with type C personalities are very loving, and emotional. They strive to treat everyone fairly and avoid fighting. Type C personalities have strong marriages because they work hard to keep everyone together. They forgive easily although they can be naïve and too giving at times. 

Sensitive people do very well with affectionate playful dogs. Top dog breeds for this personality type are: Labs, Golden Retrievers, Border collie, Blue Heeler, Petit Basset Griffon Vendee, Pug, English Setter, and Poodles.

TYPE D: Successful, Aggressive, Charming

People who have this personality type can be very successful because they are either aggressive or assertive. They put plans into action rather than dreaming or thinking about what they want to do. Type D personalities tend to be charming over-achievers. They also focus on their appearance and sex appeal a lot. 

They love having a good time and getting attention from the opposite sex. Type D personalities do very well with athletic and unique dog breeds. 

Top domestic dog breeds for this personality type are: Bloodhound, Plott Hound, German shepherd, Alaskan malamute, Akita, Golden Retrievers, Australian Cattle Dog, Beagle, Border Collie, Giant Schnauzer, Great Dane, Trottweiler, Bull Dogs, and Brussels Griffon.

                          Keep in mind that even though certain dog breeds are known for personality traits each animal is still unique. Spend some time getting acquainted with the dog to be sure you found the best match. 

Also remember that there are many wonderful mixed breed dogs at your local animal shelter that will also make great pets. Dogs are wonderful family pets, but they can be even better life long additions to the family when they are properly trained! Get Your Copy of Dog Training and Behavior Secrets Now at [http://www.dogs101.info]

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Is Your Dog a Member of One of the Smart Dog Breeds?

Recent studies indicate that smart dog breeds are no longer in the eye of the beholder. In the past, many owners would determine how smart their dog was by how well they completed a task or obeyed a command. Hey! Who is going to own up to have a dumb dog?

Breeds developed hundreds of years ago primarily emphasized sight and smell. They tend to score "less intelligent" in dog IQ tests. They tend to rely more on instinct. Let's face it, it's not their fault. But, dogs bred in more recent times, tend to score much higher on IQ tests. 

Some suggest that the reason for this, is that these breeds have been trained to be more responsive to humans and their needs.

So, what makes smart dog breeds?

It seems that even the average dog has the smarts of a 2 year old human. The Alpha in the pack, a little higher. It can be trained to respond to basic commands such as sit and stay

. Depending on what it was bred for, it may exhibit traits that on the surface suggest the dog is a bit of a dull lamp. But that's not fair. 

Hunters, herders and retrievers for example, may reflect behavior that looks distracted but in effect, they are quite focused on the task at hand.

According to neuro-psychologist Stanley Coren, PhD, of the University of British Columbia, the smarter dogs didn't need a command repeated more than 5 times for it to absorb it's meaning and obey. In fact, these dogs obeyed the command 95% of the time or more.

Now, let's take a look at which smart dog breeds bring home the A+ report cards:

• Border Collie: No surprise here. Everybody knows that this breed is the Einstein of the dog world. Ever watch this collie work it's magic on a herd of sheep?


• Poodle: Although, to some, cut to look dumb, this is one of the most intelligent dog you could own. Something you may not know about this breed is that they were bred to be a retriever.


• German Shepherd: This breed is most known for it's involvement in law enforcement and the military. They are also a fantastic family dog, great with kids and very loyal.


• Golden Retriever: Beautiful and intelligent! Just not fair. A hunter by breed, they are wonderful companions and have found effective roles as rescuers and guide dogs.


• Doberman Pinscher: A great protector although somewhat intimidating. Can be very large and fast. Also used in law enforcement. They are one of the most common of breeds.


• Shetland Sheepdog: This is a herding dog. Duh! A smaller version of the Collie. It's a long haired working dog. They are verbal, excitable and very energetic.


• Labrador Retriever: This breed was originally bred to retrieve fishing nets and has somewhat unique webbed paws. They are very loving, playful and gentle dogs.


• Papillon: The breed was named because of it butterfly look. They are very alert dog. It has the ability to learn very quickly. Great companions and wonderful family dogs.


• Rottweiler: This is a powerful breed that dates back to the Roman Empire. Primarily a herding and stock protection dog who loves to work. Owners consider them incredible companions.


• Australian Cattle Dog: Herding dog that loves to work. It is muscular but compact and can be very agile. It is very smart but can be independent in temperament.

Well, there you have it. The top smart dog breeds. We should keep in mind, that being a smart dog doesn't inherently mean that it's a good companion or a family protector. Yes, they may quickly learn and understand a command, but not necessarily obey it.

Smart dog breeds still require effective training, a loving home environment and healthful care.

Choosing the best dog breeds for your needs or preferences, can be overwhelming. If you wish to learn more about various dog breeds; their characteristics and breeding particulars, visit us at http://www.best-dogbreeds.com.

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World Record For Largest Dog Breed

The holder of the world record for the largest dog breed is a Harlequin Great Dane by the name of Gibson. He is a familiar face for most of us, as many have probably caught any of Gibson's previous appearances in such television shows as The Oprah Winfrey Show,

 The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Good Morning America, Inside Edition, the Montel Williams Show, Animal Planet's Guinness World Record of Amazing Animals and Larry King Live; and in magazines like Parade Magazine, Ladies Home Journal, and Life Magazine.

Gibson may be truly busy with appearances left and right, but he sure has time to pursue another passion in his life: helping kids and adult cope with their medical conditions.

 Indeed, Gibson's heart is as big as he is tall. He makes the rounds of hospitals with his owner Sandy Hall, to put smile on sick children and grown-ups' faces and help them get through the healing process, by allowing himself to be petted and sometimes growling "I love you"-a hit among all the patients. 

When he is not out healing people's hearts or appearing on television, Gibson spends his days relaxing in their Grass Valley, California, ranch with a goat, a horse and a puppy.

As of the moment, Gibson holds the record for being the world's tallest dog, the world's tallest therapy dog, and the world's tallest Great Dane. 

He stands 42.6 inches tall at shoulder height, stretches up to seven feet and two inches on its hind legs, and weighs 180 pounds. When he was born on April 26, 2002, Gibson was the first to be born out of his mother's first litter of 12. He was named after his musician owner's favorite guitar. 

While he wasn't remarkably big in the first few months, Gibson began to fill out at four months. By the time, he had large paws and a lot of skin hanging on his body such that people mistook him for a shar-pei, according his owner.

 When he was one year old, Gibson had grown to be 40 inches high-a height that was not normal even by Great Dane standards.

Gibson has since learned many different tricks and earned different recognitions since. Aside from being a title holder in the Guinness Book of World Records, this Harlequin Great Dane is also a holder of the AKC Dutchman Meistersinger Pedigree, a premier line of Great Danes from as far back as the late 1800s in Germany.

Aside from his ability to growl "I love you," this certified therapy dog can also bite a regulation basketball and dribble it with his mouth.

 He recently co-authored with his owner a book entitled "Gibson Speaks," which is about his life and experiences as the tallest dog in the world.

Early this year, unfortunately, Gibson's front leg had to be amputated to prevent bone cancer from spreading to the rest of his body. 

The cancer was detected on the paw, but the veterinarians thought it best to cut the entire leg for Gibson's safety. Despite this, Gibson has not lost his happy heart, or his title as the world's tallest dog.

Looking for more information on what is the [http://www.dogbreedhub.com] most popular dog breed Visit [http://www.dogbreedhub.com] today to learn everything there is to know!

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Dog Breeding - Is my Bitch Coming Into Season?

        One of the commonest questions asked by dog owners who have a bitch that has not been desexed, is - Is my bitch coming into season?

To help you know - it's VERY IMPORTANT to know your dogs age, as accurately as possible! A bitch can come into season from the age of 6 months - to as late as 12 months. You will need to be switched on though and start checking - at around 6 months of age.

PLEASE NOTE - professional breeders are obliged by their breed associations to breed ONLY from 12 months onward. This is because dogs that are only around 6 months of age are still very much puppies, and are immature both physically and mentally. 

Your dog will be a stronger and better mother and her pups will do much better if you wait until she's at least 12 months of age.

If you're tempted to breed early ONLY because you think you'll make money by selling pups - be warned, Vet bills can be high - it really is best to wait for the dog to be mature!

Early Signs of Heat

One of the really early signs can be a stage of "scenting" to let male dogs know of their condition. This will appear to the more observant owner as an increase in urination and generally occurs around 2 weeks prior to coming into season. There may also be an increase in the dog licking its vulva in an effort to keep itself clean.

More Obvious Signs (Pro-oestrus - about 9 days length)

This next stage is much more obvious and is really the first full stage of heat. The bitches vulva begins to swell and can go to as large as TRIPLE its original size, this stage will last about 9 days.

IMPORTANT you need to have been observing - in order to detect the swelling. For an indication of the extent of the changes - SEE PICTURES on my site under dog breeding.

You should not miss this stage though, it is VERY obvious, because usually there is a blood stained discharge, which will vary in intensity from bitch to bitch. The discharge may start off a brown colour and progress to red.

 The dogs appetite can also decrease, but this is not always the case. 

Also usually the bitch may be more dominant with other females and begin to "flag" male dogs - ie, putting her tail up and presenting her rear to the nose of the male dog.

It should be noted however that the bitch will NOT allow a male to attempt mating at this point!

Needless to say, being observant early on means that you should be able to pick the next stage - which is the BEST time for mating - OR if you do not want to breed, the RISKIEST time - the time of maximum fertility!

The next stage is called Oestrus or Standing Heat and is where breeders will want to introduce the stud dog, to allow for mating and a "tie" to occur, for more information on this next crucial stage of the dogs heat cycle, please visit my site, at the link below.

Steve Gaskin is an author of Dog Breeding, Feeding and Training articles - he and his wife own and breed Staffordshire Bull Terriers. For more information - for Ebook reviews and a FREE Home-made Dog Food Recipe visit: http://dogloverstoolbox.com

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Small Dog Breeds For Small Homes

Just because you live in a small home or apartment doesn't mean you can't have a dog. There are many small and toy breeds that make excellent pets for small homes. 

But even small dogs like variety and exercise, so it is important that you are prepared to spend time with your dog, take her for walks and ensure that she gets the best care.

 Once you have made that commitment to yourself, you can choose which breed of dog is most suitable to you and your lifestyle.

Small dog breeds make the cutest puppies, and one of the cutest small dog puppies around is the Maltese. 

This popular small dog breed generally grows to no more than six or seven pounds in weight, and has a beautiful white coat. The Maltese is a very ancient dog breed and has a strong constitution, though it should not be kept in very hot areas, due to the thick coat. The Maltese enjoys walks and is very playful. 

A great companion if you want a lively little pet and will enjoy the grooming chores.

Another delightful long haired small dog breed is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. 

This lovely small dog is as courtly as its name and weighs about twice as much as a Maltese. The King Charles is a friendly and sociable small dog, well known for giving a lifetime of loyal attachment. 

This is the ideal dog if you prefer to lead a quiet life.

Top of the line in long haired small dog breeds is the Lowchen, as long as you enjoy spending long hours brushing, and don't mind the hefty price tag. The beautiful `Little Lion' dog can cost around $1000.

 A true indoors dog, the Lowchen is no exercise fanatic but owners have reported `separation anxiety' to be a problem, so don't get this dog breed if you are away for long hours every day.

If you want a pet with a shorter coat, try the Miniature Fox Terrier. This lively little dog will need lots of exercise, and appreciates having a collection of toys. 

Fox terriers can be yappy, so your pet may need to go to obedience school if she annoys the neighbors. This is a healthy and low maintenance dog breed, suitable for the owner who just wants to enjoy having a pet without all the grooming fuss.

A more sleek and elegant short haired pet is the Italian greyhound, and if you want a pet that enjoys exercise, this is the dog breed for you. Owners report that the Italian greyhound is a very well behaved dog, but prone to stress, so it is not a suitable pet where there are small children. 

This dog breed grows to a height of about 15 inches but is very lightweight - around 5 pounds.

The Welsh corgi is one of the classic small dog breeds, and very popular with Queen Elizabeth II of England. They will be popular with you, too, if you want a playful, affectionate pet. The Welsh corgi comes in two breeds, the Cardigan and the Pembrokeshire.

 The Pembrokeshire is smaller and more popular than the Cardigan, but both make faithful pets for small homes.

Finally, there is the ultimate small dog breed for apartment living - the toy poodle. Naturally popular in Europe, the toy poodle is somewhat high maintenance regarding its fluffy coat, but a surprisingly undemanding pet. Toy poodles love to play and appreciate having their own toys, but they are easy to train and adapt to their owners. Like most pets, the toy poodle prefers company to being left alone, but if you spend a lot of time away from home, perhaps you should think twice about getting a pet anyway!

Copyright © 2005, Ian White

Author Ian White is founder of Dog-Breeders.biz. This extensive online directory includes listings by private breeders, kennel clubs, and occasional hobby or family breeders. Those seeking dogs can locate and match with appropriate breeders. Dog-Breeders.biz automates the matching of dogs for sale with puppy wanted entries, with daily email notifications to all parties.

Find Purebred Breeders in your area. Email notification of available puppies

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Popular Dog Breeds - The Top Five

       

With 157 AC (American Kennel Club)Popular Dog Breeds  recognized dog breeds, and hundreds more besides, which breeds of dogs are the most popular with U.S. dog lovers? The top five, with some information about each; Popular Dog Breeds: Labrador Retriever - Whether used for its abilities Popular Dog Breeds in the field or as a family dog, the Labrador dog breed selector Retriever is a breed of intelligence and loving temperament. This breed can weigh from 55 to 80 pounds, and was bred to be agile in the water. It has a thick 'otter' tail that the dog uses as a rudder and webbed paws.   They can be black, yellow or chocolate in color. A breed that is usually devoid of aggression towards humans and other animals.dog breed selector The kind and outgoing nature of this breed has made it the most popular in America for many years. . Yorkshire Terrier - A breed that has steadily increased in popularity for the past ten years. It is a member of the Toy Group of breeds, and as such weighs between three and seven pounds. It is long-haired with a blue and tan coat. Don't let the size of this dog fool you. It is a terrier, and as such has a lot of spirit and acts like its larger terrier cousins at times Popular Dog Breeds how do you do ?? . German Shepherd - A member of the Herding Group, this breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and perseverance. It is dog breed selector no wonder that this breed is used for Seeing Eye dogs, search and rescue dogs, Popular Dog Breeds and police dogs. This breed responds well to training, and retains it. This breed can be suspicious of strangers.   The love and trust of a German Shepherd is earned. Popular Dog Breeds  But once it has been earned, this breed is a friend for life, and will be loyal until death. Popular Dog Breeds it has been :dog breed selector . Golden Retriever - As with the Labrador Retriever, this breed was bred for hunting and retrieving of game. It is eager,Popular Dog Breeds alert and self-confident. As its name implies, it is golden blonde in color, with a coat longer than the Labrador Retriever. It can weigh from 55-75 pounds.  A generally happy Popular Dog Breeds, friendly and trustworthy temperament makes this breed a good choice for hunting or a family pet dog breed selector. . Beagle -dog breed selector A member of the Hound Group of dog breeds. They hunt by scent and are used for rabbit hunting, sometimes in packs. They usually do not have a 'dog' odor, Popular Dog Breeds and do not shed very much. Popular Dog Breeds best  They have a lot of energy, and like a lot of activity. When a beagle is to be a family pet, its energy and 'hound' voice needs to be kept in mind. Beagles come in two varieties, according to height, ones not to exceed 13 inches, and ones over 13 inches but not to exceed 15 inches Popular Dog Breeds.