The Loyal Working Companion Dog: American Pit Bull Terrier
This breed of dog, also fondly called as APBT, is known for its loyalty and intelligence. The dogs of this breed make excellent companions since they are very aggressive because of their protective nature.
How, then, are they different from the Staffies? For the UKC or the United Kennel Club, Staffies and APBT are of the same breed but many disagree with this suggestion. For instance, if the American Kennel Club has an American Staffordshire terrier, it will be registered as an American pit bull terrier by the United Kennel Club. Furthermore, many breeders noted that their lineages have been separate for a long time already for these dogs to be still considered as having the same variety.
Meanwhile, the American Kennel Club does not register a UKC-listed American pit as an American Staffie. In order to gain dual-registry, the dog must initially be recorded as an AKC American Staffie before it can be listed with the UKC as an American pit bull, and not the other way around.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about APTBs:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor
Coat: smooth, shiny, thick, and short
Colors: color varies
Height: between 18 and 22 inches
Weight: between 30 and 60 pounds
Temperament: courageous, full of energy, and loyal; should be socialized early on with other animals especially with children
Health Issues: heart murmurs and mange
Care and Exercise:
• Bathe when necessary.
• Brush their coat only occasionally using a brush with firm bristles.
• Rub down their coat with a towel or a chamois to remove hairs that are loose.
• Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time and/or running along a bicycle while on a leash.
• They should be on leash while walking in public places.
Origin/History:
The ancestors of APBT came to the US in the mid-1800s with some Irish-Boston immigrants. Like the Staffie, they were originally bred from bulldogs and terriers. Since APBT is a forerunner to the Staffie, it was also molded to be a fighting dog. However, the Americans made their variety some pounds heavier and trained them to have a more powerful head.
Bull baiting and dog baiting were prohibited in England so bull terriers were no longer bred for bouts. It is in America where the pit bull also gained its popularity for many uses and reasons like:
1. It was used to embody the country in one WW1 artwork.
2. Well-known companies like the Buster Brown Shoe Company and even RCA used the breed as mascots.
3. Petie, a pit bull, was one of the stars in, “Our Gang”, a well sought children’s TV series.
4. A mix breed called Stubby was transformed into a popular and decorated WW1 hero.
5. Pits became good companies of pioneer families on their journeys.
6. Jack, a working pit bulldog was owned by Laura Wilder of lines of books called “Little House”.
7. Popular people like Helen Keller and US President Theodore Roosevelt owned the variety.
Here is some history about the cause of dilemma regarding the registries of APBTs.
In 1898, the United Kennel Club or UKC was structured to provide fighting guidelines and registration for APBT as fighting dogs. Later, there were breeders who shun away from dog fighting so they asked the AKC to recognize their pits so they would be fit for performance events like dog shows.
In 1935, the AKC approved of their petitions but the dogs were registered as Staffordshire Terriers, naming them after the little province in England that the breed was known to have originated from. Thus, many breeders have dogs that have dual-registry.
It is interesting to note that Petie, which was one of the stars in the, “Our Gang” TV series was the first breed that was dual-registered to be Staffordshire Terrier/Pit Bull. However, the UKC later started registering other performing-type varieties and they also began holding dog shows comparable to those of the American Kennel Club.
The AKC soon sealed its studbooks to APBTs. They allocated registration to those pit breeds with lineages that are listed as Staffies. For a little time during the 1970s, the AKC disclosed the American pits to their studbooks.
In 1973, the American KC decided to add the word “American” with the pit’s name to discriminate it from a Staffie. At present, those dogs with mixed APTB-Staffie parents are recognized by UKC and even the American Dog Breeders’ Association as “American pits or American pit bull terriers”.
Nowadays, the pit bull has been used as search and rescuers, guard dogs, livestock workers, and even as therapy animals because they are good as companions and working dogs.
Moreover, the variety can even compete in dog sports such as herding, obedience, and conformation, French Ring, and Schutzhund. Breeds of this type can be very loving as pets for everyone. The physical demands and harshness of various activities developed a healthy, strong, and stable animal.
If you want to have an APBT as a pet, be sure that the puppy is handled well and properly socialized. A solid and good training will surely produce an obedient, tranquil, and good companion or even a working dog!
| Dog Breeds
The Scruffy Little Hunter Dog: Border Terrier
The Border terrier got its name from the area called Cheviot Hills, which is actually near the border of England and Scotland. This is where these dogs were bred to attack and kill predatory foxes.
They have wiry coat, which is why they usually appear as scruffy. However, this scruffiness is an attention-grabber and is the reason why owners do not forget to hug their little ball of energy.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Borders:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)
Coat: wiry and short; double coated
Colors: tan, red, grizzle and tan, and/or blue and tan
Height: between 11 and 16 inches
Weight: between 11 and 16 pounds
Temperament:
Naturally,
• they are scruffy, hard and bold hunters
• they are active as puppies but mellow down as they mature
• they are not friendly with rabbits, rats, hamsters, and even birds
• they are economical to feed
• their activity dies down when left alone all day as they really love to please people especially their owners
When properly trained,
• they can get along with the household cats but not with cats in the neighborhood
• they may even catch a burglar
• they may lose timidity when accustomed to active environments
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Canine Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome or CES, also called as “Spike’s disease”, which is a hereditary, neurological, metabolic and muscle disorder that is sometimes confused with canine epilepsy
• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes
• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
• Deafness
• Skin problems and a few skin allergies
Care and Exercise:
• Their coat needs weekly brushing.
• They should be professionally groomed at least twice a year.
• They should bathe only when necessary since they shed little to no hair. Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on leash.
• They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts.
Origin/History:
The exact origins of Border terriers are obscure but many breeders accepted the story that the variety was developed in the Cheviot Hills area near the border of Scotland and England. The Borders have been used as hunters of rabbits and hares. They can even keep up with running horses with their short yet sturdy legs. They were also used by farmers to lure predatory foxes into their dens before killing them.
They were also trained to hunt otters, marten, and even fierce badgers. Like most terriers that were once trained as hunters, they also evolved as pets and became lovely, friendly, and loyal companion dogs. They also take part in dog shows and they can easily grab their audience’s attention with their agility, appearance, and bright disposition.
The breed was registered by the British Kennel Club in 1920 and by the American Club ten years after.
At present, Borders are highly favored as companion dogs and pets due to their adaptability, friendliness, and winning personality. Nonetheless, they can be reliable when it comes to tracking down vermin. In fact, some of their esteemed talents include hunting, guarding family members, and performing tricks and sports that require competitive obedience.
Like most terriers, you can be assured to having a loyal and bright companion dogs if you give your attention and affection to a Border.
| Dog Breeds
The Perfect Sporting Dog: The Collie Dog
The Collie dog makes an excellent sporting dog and can be taught to do the work of the Pointer and the Setter, as well as that of the Water Spaniel and the Retriever. The Collie can be trained to perform the duties of other breeds, too. He is clever at hunting, having an excellent nose, is a good vermin-killer, and a most faithful watch dog, guard dog, and companion dog.
Little is known with certainty of the origin of the Collie, but his cunning and his outward appearance would seem to suggest a connection to the wild dog. Buffon was of opinion that he was the true dog of nature, the stock and model of the whole canine species. He considered the Sheepdog superior in instinct and intelligence to all other breeds, and that, with a character in which education has comparatively little share, he is the only animal born perfectly trained for the service of man.
At the shows, this type of dog is invariably at the top of the class. He is considered the most tractable, and is certainly the most agile. Second to this type in favor is the smooth-coated variety; a very hard, useful dog, well adapted for hill work and usually very fleet of foot. He is not as sweet in temper as the black and white, and is slow to make friends. There is not a more graceful and physically beautiful dog to be seen than the show Collie of today. Produced from the old working type, the smooth-coated collie is now practically a distinct breed.
The skull should be flat, moderately wide between the ears, and gradually tapering towards the eyes. There should only be a slight depression at stop. The width of skull necessarily depends upon combined length of skull and muzzle; and the whole must be considered in connection with the size of the dog. The cheek should not be full or prominent.
The muzzle should be of fair length, tapering to the nose, and must not show weakness or be snippy or lippy. Whatever the color of the dog may be, the nose must be black. The teeth should be of good size, sound and level; very slight unevenness is permissible. The jaws Clean cut and powerful. The eyes are a very important feature, and give expression to the dog; they should be of medium size, set somewhat obliquely, of almond shape, and of a brown color except in the case of Merle, when the eyes are frequently (one or both) blue and white or china; expression full of intelligence, with a quick alert look when listening. The ears should be small and moderately wide at the base, and placed not too close together but on the top of the skull and not on the side of the head. When in repose they should be usually carried thrown back, but when on the alert brought forward and carried semi-erect, with tips slightly drooping in attitude of listening.
The neck should be muscular, powerful and of fair length, and somewhat arched. The body should be strong, with well sprung ribs, chest deep, fairly broad behind the shoulders, which should be sloped, loins very powerful. The dog should be straight in front. The fore-legs should be straight and muscular, neither in nor out at elbows, with a fair amount of bone; the forearm somewhat fleshy, the pasterns showing flexibility without weakness. The hind-legs should be muscular at the thighs, clean and sinewy below the hocks, with well bent stifles. The feet should be oval in shape, soles well padded, and the toes arched and close together.
In general character he is a lithe active dog, his deep chest showing lung power, his neck strength, and his sloping shoulders and well bent hocks indicating speed, and his expression high intelligence. He should be a fair length on the leg, giving him more of a racy than a cloddy appearance. In a few words, a Collie should show endurance, activity, and intelligence, with free and true action. In height dogs should be 22 ins. to 24 ins. at the shoulders, bitches 20 ins. to 22 ins. The weight for dogs is 45 to 65 lbs., bitches 40 to 55 lbs. The smooth collie only differs from the rough in its coat, which should be hard, dense and quite smooth.
| Dog Breeds
The Most Intelligent Dog Bleed: Poodles
The Poodle is commonly acknowledged to be the most wisely intelligent of all members of the canine race. There is a general belief that he is a fop, whose time is largely occupied in personal embellishment, and that he requires a great deal of individual attention in the matter of his toilet. It may be true that to keep him in exhibition order and perfect cleanliness his owner has need to devote more consideration to him than is necessary in the case of many breeds; but in other respects he gives very little trouble, and all who are attached to him are consistent in their opinion that there is no dog so intensely interesting and responsive as a companion. His qualities of mind and his acute powers of reasoning are indeed so great that there is something almost human in his attractiveness and his devotion. His aptitude in learning is never denied, and many are the stories told of his marvelous talent and versatility.
Not merely as a showman’s dog has he distinguished himself. He is something more than a mountebank of the booths, trained to walk the tight rope and stand on his head. He is an adept at performing tricks, but it is his alertness of brain that places him apart from other animals.
The profuse and long coat of this dog has the peculiarity that if not kept constantly brushed out it twists up into little cords which increase in length as the new hair grows and clings about it. The unshed old hair and the new growth entwined together thus become distinct rope-like cords. Eventually, if these cords are not cut short, or accidentally torn off, they drag along the ground, and so prevent the poor animal from moving with any degree of comfort or freedom.
Corded Poodles are very showy, and from the remarkable appearance of the coat, attract a great deal of public attention when exhibited at shows; but they have lost popularity among most fanciers, and have become few in number owing to the obvious fact that it is impossible to make pets of them or keep them in the house. The reason of this is that the coat must, from time to time, be oiled in order to keep the cords supple and prevent them from snapping, and, of course, as their coats cannot be brushed, the only way of keeping the dog clean is to wash him, which with a corded Poodle is a lengthy and laborious process. Further, the coat takes hours to dry, and unless the newly washed dog be kept in a warm room he is very liable to catch cold. The result is, that the coats of corded Poodles are almost invariably dirty, and somewhat smelly.
Poodle’s General appearance
Head: Long, straight, and fine, the skull not broad, with a slight peak at the back.
Muzzle: Long (but not snippy) and strong not full in cheek; teeth white, strong, and level; gums black, lips black and not showing lippiness.
Eyes: Almond shaped, very dark, full of fire and intelligence.
Nose: Black and sharp.
Ears: The leather long and wide, low set on, hanging close to the face.
Neck: Well proportioned and strong, to admit of the head being carried high and with dignity.
Feet: Rather small, and of good shape, the toes well arched, pads thick and hard.
Legs: Fore-legs set straight from shoulder, with plenty of bone and muscle.
Hind-legs: Very muscular and well bent, with the hocks well let down.
Tail: Set on rather high, well carried, never curled or carried over back.
Coat: Very profuse, and of good hard texture; if corded, hanging in tight, even cords; if non-corded, very thick and strong, of even length, the curls close and thick, without knots or cords.
| Dog Breeds
The Playful and Versatile Dog: Wheaten Terrier
Like most terriers, the Wheaten terriers, or simply called as Wheatens, were originally bred as hunters. Therefore, their physique naturally evolved as strong and healthy. Their hunting instincts have made them agile and alert as most terriers are. However, this breed is more even tempered, stable and steady as compared to most terriers as they were used as by Irish farmers as all-purpose dogs.
Among the activities that molded their instincts and physical features were herding cattle and sheep, vermin killers, hunting both in water and on land, and serving as watch dogs to keep trespassers away.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Wheatens:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)
Coat: single coat, medium length, silky and soft, wavy
Colors: born to have black coats but at the age of two, their coats lighten to achieve the
color of wheat grains
Height: between 17 and 20 inches
Weight: between 30 and 45 pounds
Temperament:
Naturally,
• they rarely bark especially when it is unnecessary to do so
• they immediately reflect the moods of their household or those around them.
• their type requires a great deal of commitment and effort in training them so they should not be given to novice breeders and/or owners
If trained properly, they
• are generally happy and friendly
• are easy-going, confident, and deeply dedicated to their family’s security
• can get along well with older children and other animals that have been raised with them or are living within the same household
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Flea allergies
• Addison’s disease
• Heat stroke
• PLN and PLE
Care and Exercise:
• They require daily combing to prevent their wavy and thick coat from tangling.
• They should undergo trimming by professionals at least four times each year.
• Dry shampooing or even bathing should be done only when it is necessary.
• Eyes and ears should be checked and cleaned on a regular basis.
• They should be brought along with family activities such as play sessions, hiking, picnic, and even walking.
Origin/History:
The soft coated breed of terriers, shortly called as Wheatens, originated from Ireland. When they were first bred is obscure but many assume that Wheatens are one of the oldest among other Irish varieties. They were trained as herders, farm dogs, and hunters and terminators of vermin, like the Cairns of Scotland.
From Ireland, they were brought to the US in the year 1946. Slowly they gained popularity as pets and as entertainers. However, the extraordinary appeal of this breed to the Americans at present would not have been possible if Patrick Blake have not save its lineage from extinction in1932. They were registered by the American Kennel Club in the year 1973.
Though their types have hunter instincts, they can get along well with older children and other animals within the household through proper training and attention. Like most terriers, they easily develop close affinity with family members so they normally appoint themselves as watch dogs or guard dogs.
For professional breeders, why not appoint them as well as your pet especially when you are looking for a playful yet reliable companion and guard dog? To this effect, you can say that what you own is one heck of a dog – a dog that can work and play as well!
| Dog Breeds
Everyone’s favorite dog: Golden Retrievers
In a dog’s world, Golden Retrievers are simply the fatal attraction. They are a preferred dog breed, making great pets, hunting dogs, obedience competitors, show dogs, and even a combination of all these traits. No matter what your intent may be to own a Golden Retriever, you’ll have an excellent dog that will live up to its potential and then some.
Golden Retrievers are calm, well mannered, and extremely affectionate. They are easy to train as well, very intelligent, and great for those who need a companion. Golden Retrievers are also loyal to their owners, lovable, and great with children of all ages. They also make great watchdogs as well, as they will bark loud and let you know when a stranger is near.
Like other dogs, Golden Retrievers will shed their hair throughout the year and more in the spring – no matter how many times you brush them a day. They also like to be in and near the water, similar to Labs. If you have any type of water on or near your property, your Golden Retriever will be in it, and tend to be either wet or muddy quite a bit – which can tend to get frustrating.
If you are always on the go or never at home, you shouldn’t get a Golden Retriever. If you prefer cats over dogs, you should look into another breed. Golden Retrievers crave attention and admiration, and normally don’t do too well if you leave them at home by themselves for long periods of time. Golden Retrievers need attention, and desire to be around you at all times. If you spend a lot of time at home on the other hand, or have kids, a Golden Retriever will be a perfect addition to your family.
A lot of people out there prefer to get a puppy and raise it themselves. This way, the puppy will grow up with the skills they have taught him. This is a great idea and very rewarding, although it can consume a lot of your time and tend to be very frustrating at times. Those who don’t have a lot of time to spare or tend to get easily frustrated shouldn’t get a puppy. Instead, they should look towards an older Golden Retriever who has already been house broken and trained.
Golden Retrievers are an excellent breed, and they can provide you with the companion you have been looking for. They can participate in several activities with you as well, such as hiking, camping, and walking. Golden Retrievers love the outdoors and they love just getting out there and doing things with you and your family. If you include your Golden Retriever in family activities – you’ll have a friend for life who will quickly grow on you over the years.
| Dog Breeds
The Popular Pet and Lap Dog: Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, originated from Scotland but were bred in England. Originally, they were trained to hunt rats, but nowadays they are popular as pets. In fact, their variety was one of the Top Dog Breeds of 2005.
They usually are bred to be small and light. Hence, owners do not mind having their pets on their lap almost all day. Moreover, this usual bonding activity usually transforms this lap dog into a bright, playful, and loyal companion pet.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Yorkies:
Category: Toy (Terrier)
Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)
Coat: silky, glossy, long and fine; no undercoat
Colors: black when young but they attain the colors tan and blue as they mature
.
Height: between 8 and 9 inches
Weight: between 3 and 7 pounds
Temperament:
Naturally,
• they are territorial and like their privacy to be respected
• they are intelligent and fearless
• they are assertive and independent
When properly trained,
• they develop close affinity with older children
• they become really playful and lively
• they become extremely affectionate
• they do not mind having other pets at home
• they focus much of their attention and affection toward their owner
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Alopecia, or losing hair
• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes
• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
• Dwarfism
• Entropion, a disorder with the eyelid; lashes on the eyelid that irritate the eyeballs could lead to other complications
• Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye
• Hydrocephalus
• Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or the reduction of tear production
• Low blood sugar
• Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap
• Portosystemic shunt, or the accumulation of blood toxins in the liver
• Urolithiasis, an infection of the urinary tract leading to the formation of bladder stones.
Care and Exercise:
• They require daily grooming.
• Ears and eyes must be cleaned and checked regularly.
• Dental hygiene must be regularly maintained.
• They are fit only for short strides.
• They should have a regular play time while lying under the sunbeams, chasing shadows, and joining tug-of-war.
Origin/History:
In the 19th century, a number of weavers from Scotland migrated to England and brought with them different terriers that were bred to hunt rats. Through time, these terriers were crossed and terriers with “broken hairs” were produced.
In 1870, a “broken-haired Scotch terrier” was named as a Yorkshire terrier by a reporter. He argued that the breed should be called as such because his types were bred in a town called Yorkshire.
Though the Yorkies were originally bred as working dogs, they became fashionable pets is England in the latter part of the Victorian era. In 1972, Yorkies were brought to the United States and became the country’s favorite pet.
You can say that the Yorkies developed into tough breeds because of their ancestors’ reputation as rat-hunters. However, their size, and playful and bright character have actually captured the attention and affection of most pet owners. Most proud owners would boast that they have the great giants inside the bodies of these little dogs. If you want a small but terrible breed of dog, grab a Yorkie now! Just a friendly reminder, they would really need your attention and companionship than any other terriers.
| Dog Breeds
The Playful and Inquisitive Dog: Cairn Terrier
The Cairn is assumed to be one of the subcategories of Scotland’s terriers along with the Westies (West Highland White) and the Scottish, The Westies and the Cairns are highly related. For one, Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western Scotland. The Westie can be considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the other two. These dogs originated from the short-haired Skyes.
Cairn is the smallest breed among the terrier group. The name Cairn was coined after the small stone piles that marked borders of Scottish farms and graves. In the early days, this breed was used to guide small animals into these piles of stones. However, cairns are strong and sturdy but are not heavy.
This breed of dog has been bred since the 1500s, well before it became popular in 1930, after the appearance of “Toto” in “The Wizard of Oz” as Dorothy’s companion dog. Presently, like the American pit bull terriers, Cairns are used as companion dogs. Among the variety’s talents are tracking, watching over the house, hunting, and performing tricks and sports regarding competitive obedience.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Cairns:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: indoors (highly recommended); outdoors (fenced yard)
Coat: shaggy and coarse outer coat and short and soft furry undercoat
Colors: any color except white
Height: between 9.5 and 10 inches
Weight: between 13 and 14 pounds
Temperament: like most terriers that were bred as hunters, these dogs are mischievous, alert, restless and high-spirited; also have a special connection with children age six and above
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Atopy, a type of allergy
• Cataract, or loss of transparency of one or both lenses of the eyes
• Cryptorchidism, wherein testicles do not descend into the scrotum
• Glaucoma, a condition that causes an increase pressure within the eye
• Patellar luxation, a disorder in the kneecap
Care and Exercise:
• Daily brushing is recommended to prevent tangles and mats.
• Hair around ears and eyes must be trimmed regularly.
• Do not over feed them as they gain weight easily.
• Their physique requires a regular exercise routine which includes a daily play time while on leash.
• They should be on leash while walking in public places because of their hunting instincts.
Origin/History:
As already noted, the earliest records of Cairns date back to the 1500s. At around 1700s, the Isle of Skye and other highlands in Scotland were already breeding lots of small terriers. Scottish breeds were separated into two: the Skye terriers and the Dandie Dinmont terriers.
The Dandie Dinmonts were categorized as a separate breed. The Skyes included the Scotties, the Westies, and the Cairns.
In the year 1912, the Cairns receive their official name based on their excellent ability to hunt down vermin such as otters, foxes, and badgers that were hiding in cairns. However, it was in the year 1913 when they received the official recognition from the American Kennel Club.
The Cairn terrier is one heck of an agile little dog that relates to any members of the family. This breed is playful, prying, and is always ready to join the fun. If you are still not convinced, just reckon how Dorothy was entertained and accompanied by this type of dog.
| Dog Breeds
The Stylish and Reserved Dog: Scottish Terrier
The Scottish terriers, also known as Scotties, are short-legged British terriers. They are one among other go-to-ground and wire-coated terriers developed in the highlands of Scotland. The Scotties are said to have jaunty attitude so they are often used in advertisements to represent the country to where they were first bred.
However, Scotties’ nature is not in coherence with their public image or trademark. In fact, Scotties are like the citizens of his native land who are independent, stoic, and fiercely loyal to their masters. They also adhere much to their own privacy.
Scotties, Westies, and Cairns are very similar regarding their appearance. The Westies and the Cairns are, in fact, closely-related. The Westie can be considered as the white variety of the Cairn who has a coat of any color but white. Westies are hybrids of white dogs crossed with Cairns of western Scotland. Scotties, however, have longer heads and bodies, have generally dark coats and are aloof than the other two.
The following are some of the basic facts breeders would really love to know about Scotties:
Category: Terrier
Living Environment: either outdoor or indoor (mostly preferred by breeders)
Coat: wiry, short (about 2 inches) and thick
Colors: iron gray or steel, black, wheaten, or sandy; the coat may also be brindled or grizzled
Height: about 10 inches
Weight: between 18 and 20 pounds
Temperament: they need to be praised frequently and they adapt with the moods of the household
Breeders should note of the following health issues:
• Von Willibrand’s disease (VWD), an inherited disorder
• Flea allergies and other skin problems
• Epilepsy
• Jawbone disorders
• Scottie cramp, a minor condition that causes walking difficulties
• Cerebellar abiotrophy, a slow-to-progress and rare neurological disease that causes loss of coordination
Care and Exercise:
• Their coats need special care to maintain its appearance and texture. It is suggested that they should be subjected to professional grooming once or twice each year for their coats to stay wiry and firm.
• The fur needs to be combed a couple of times in each week and even needs occasional trimming.
• Scotties’ dead hairs should be plucked out through stripping. Using electric clippers will only make their coats dull and soft.
• Play with them. Hunting and squeaky balls and toys are their favorites.
• They should be on leash while walking in public places.
Origin/History:
The origins of the breed are unclear. It is believed that the ancestors of Scotties were sent to France’s Royal Highness by King James I of England during the 16th century. Later on, three different terriers were revealed as Scotch Terriers, which included the Westies, the Cairns, and the Scotties. The Dandie Dinmont variety had also been noted as closely-related to the above mentioned terriers but its apparent physical differences categorized itself as a separate breed.
Terrier dogs that were bred in Britain were developed to hunt vermin that ate grains, and pestered eggs and poultry farms. Most breeds grew as scrappy and courageous dogs and were trained to follow badgers or foxes into their dens. Their wiry coats and soft undercoats protected them against rugged terrains and harsh climates.
If you want to have a Scottie in your life, you should not be aware that the breed need attention and proper training. If properly taken cared of, the Scottie can be a fiercely loyal guardian of the family, going so far as to endanger its own life. To this effect, I guess you must agree that a Scottie is a dog that is second to none.
| Dog Breeds
Your dog can’t tell you when he is sick, so it is important for you to learn to spot behavior by your dog that may be symptoms of illness and his overall general condition.
If your dog is frequent sick, it’s an indication that your dog’s health is not what it should be and he should be checked out by his veterinarian. For example, if the dog has persistent nasal discharge, it may an indication that your dog is suffering from nasal congestion and if the discharge is usually thick, the dog may be suffering from something more serious such as pneumonia.
A dog throwing up once or twice during the year may not be a sign of any serious illness; however, if your dog throws up frequently, it may indicate a serious health problem that should be checked out by a veterinarian.
If your dog is continuously scratching an itch, you should check him for any skin inflections or infestation by parasites such as ticks, lice or fleas. You can check for these parasites by examining the dog’s skin by separating the dog’s hair material. If you see your dog shaking or scratching his ears frequently, like his trying to shake something off, you should take him to a veterinarian to see if he has ear mites.
Notice the whites of your dog’s eyes. The corneal opacity is a good indicator of diseases such as trypanosomosis. If the mucous membrane of the eyes of your dog turns pale or in severe cases, white, and the dog seems weak, uncoordinated and anemic, he may be afflicted with trypanosomosis. Trypanosomosis is caused by another parasite which may also attack the dog’s heart and slowly cause heart failure. The symptoms could be confused with more common types of heart disease. If a large number of the parasite gets in the dog’s heart, an inflammation of the heart may occur, and the dog may suddenly collapse and die.
Check you dog’s stool. If he has infrequent loose stool, once or twice a year, this is normal and not something of concern. However, if your dog is continuous passing loose stool, then the dog may be suffering from bowel disorders that need to be looked at. On the flip side, if your dog does not pass stool for two to three days, or have difficulty passing stool, he may be having digestive problems that needs to be checked out right away.
Just take time to observe your dog’s walking movements and notice any abnormal movements. Any signs of your dog favoring one leg or side, or if him walks with a limp, could be an indication of foot lesions.
Since your dog can’t tell you about his needs, it is up to you to learn the sign of common illnesses that could affect your dog.
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