Loading...
Explore our articles and resources for pet parents
THE NORWEGIAN FOREST CAT
The Norwegian Forest cat — nickname Wegie — originated from Norway. This magnificent cat breed is known as the Norsk Skogkatt, and was considered a stray cat breed for many years. It is almost lynx-like in appearance — similar to the Maine Coon. The Norwegian
Brief History
It is thought that the Norwegian Forest cat breed may be descendants of cats that the Vikings brought to Norway from the U.K and the long haired cats brought in by the Crusaders. These are forest cats that had to survive the harsh, cold winters of Norway on their own. In 1938, the Norwegian Forest Cat Club was formed. The breed was growing extinct after WWII, and the club’s aim was to prevent this from happening. In 1975, the Norsky Skogkattrino Association was formed, which estabished a breed standard for the Norwegian Forest cat. In 1993, the CFA board accepted the breed for complete championship status. The Norwegian Forest Cat was registered with the American Cat Fanciers Association in 1994.
Physical Features
The Norwegian Forest is an active breed, much larger than most cats. The head is triangular and long. They’re known for their ears, which are large and triangular with hair tufts. Their eyes are almond-shaped and a wide-range of colors. They typically have a strong stature with heavy bones — especially with their long legs and fluffy tail. Their coats are waterproof, thick and long with an wooly undercoat. Their voice tends to be very quiet, but very vocal around dogs.
Average Height:
9 to 11 inches
Average Weight:
9 to 16 pounds
Life Expectancy:
14 to 16 years
Temperament
The Norwegian Forest cat is a playful, sweet and intelligent breed. They do very well with people, gentle dogs, other cats and animals. They greatly enjoy climbing and being both indoors and outdoors. The Norwegian Forest cat does require a lot of attention, and will follow you around the house just to be close.. The Norwegian Forest needs an environmentally stimulating home with plenty of cat climbers, scratching posts and feline toys. This breed does well going for long walks with his pet parent. Consult with your veterinarian as to the best cat leashes and harnesses for your Norwegian Forest cat breed.
The Norwegian Forest Cat
Special Needs
This breed matures late, and will be playful for many years.
Possible Health Concerns
The Norwegian Forest cat is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a heart muscle disorder where the heart walls of the left ventricle thicken. This results in the walls becoming stiffer. This is a common primary heart disease in cats. It tends to noticed at around 3 months to 17 years of age. Most cats will be middle aged when this disorder occurs. This disorder tends to affect males more than females, and it is an inherited genetic defect. Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, weakness or paralysis of the hind limbs. Fluid may also accumulate in the lungs, and in the space between the lungs and chest wall. Veterinary treatment will aim at improving cardiac function, and reducing blood clots. There is a good longterm outlook for mildly affected cats. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Hip Dysplasia: This is rare in domestic cats, and is common in purebred cats. This occurs when the hip joint is loose, and leads to degenerative joint disease. (osteoarthritis) Symptoms include lameness that can be mild to severe. Cats generally need no surgery for hip dysplasia. Weight reduction can help reduce discomfort.
Glycogen Storage Disease Type IV: The body converts glycogen to glucose for energy. Cats with this disease may weaken progressively, until they cannot get up. Kittens can die from this. This disease usually can be noticed by 4-5 months, and is deadly. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Polycystic Kidney Disease. This occurs when the polycystic kidney has numerous cysts within the functioning part of the kidney resulting in enlarged kidneys. Consult with your veterinarian if your cat vomits frequently, has a decreased appetite, and increased thirst or urination.
Exercise
The Wegie needs daily exercise combined with plenty of active play and interaction with people. Finding a variety of mentally stimulating cat toys will allow for your cat to lead a well-balanced life with the right amount of exercise. Cat harnesses also allow for daily walks.
Nutrition
All cat breeds need high- quality fat and protein in their diets. They also need amino acids, including taurine. There are numerous specialty diets for your cat that are formulated specifically for certain medical problems like urinary tract disorder, obesity, or kidney disease.
When looking for a high-quality cat food, here’s what to look out for:
No low-quality fillers
No artificial additives
Low grade ingredients or toxic ingredients
Meat-based
No garlic
Plant-based ingredients should be listed after the protein-based ingredients
Consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary advice for your cat.
Grooming
The Norwegian Forest Cat
Your Norwegian Forest cat may be susceptible to skin diseases originating from flea bites, mites, yeast and other bacterial infections. Opt for natural cat grooming products to help resolve these skin irritants.
This cat will also need daily grooming to remove shedding hair, and to prevent hair from matting. Because this breed has a long and thick double coat, extra care is required. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. The Wegie sheds the most during the summer, so increased grooming may be necessary during those months.
Daily cleaning with pet wipes beneath the tail is necessary. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity. If there is a buildup of wax and dirt, organisms can lead to an ear infection. Consult with your veterinarian about safe and gentle ear cleaning techniques. Nail trimming is necessary every few weeks. Eyes should also be cleaned gently every morning with cotton wool or a soft wipe. Each eye should be cleaned with different wipes or cotton balls to avoid eye infection contamination in both eyes.
With their super sweet personality and upbeat attitude, the Wegie makes for a fun companion.
THE BIRMAN CAT
The Birman is a well composed cat with a sweet, tolerant and friendly nature. Also known as the sacred cats of Burma, this breed has very ancient origins which still remain unknown to the world of cat fanciers, standards and federations. Today’s Birman makes an excellent therapy pet suitable for families with children.
Brief History
There are many stories on the history of the Birman’s true origins. One common legend speaks of the Birman’s ancestors as holy cats that were kept at Mount Lugh temple in Burma. By early 20th century in around 1919 Birmans were introduced in France which became the first country in Europe to host this breed. European Cat fanciers visiting France from England and Germany took this breed back home and within no time the Birman grew quite popular amongst European households. Its migration from Europe to Australia was the next forthcoming step and from this country together with France, Germany and England, the Birman made its way into American soil.
Physical Features
The Birman is of medium size and has a round face with full cheeks. The ears are small while the oval shaped eyes are blue in color. Within their medium size is a strongly built body covered in a coat of lush and silky fur which feels soft when touched.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
8-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-15 years
Temperament
The Birman is friendly, highly social, self-assured and outgoing. Birmans are confident in familiar environments however their curiosity always leads them to a trail that they must explore. A strange environment is captivating to this cat and they’ll spend more time roaming about. If provoked or afraid a Birman will always glare at the source of provocation or fear before turning back to seek the comfort and reassurance of its owner.
Birman cat breed
Special Needs
The Birman cat is a gentle yet loyal breed that doesn’t like being left alone and always adores human company. If its owners are away, it will go to the nearest possible human company known or not known to them. This is a breed that participates in activities but not in an overly excited manner. Giving your pet Birman the freedom to explore its environment is crucial as they don’t like being put on a leash or behind closed doors for long periods.
Possible Health Concerns
As with all cat breeds both mixed-breed or pedigreed, Birmans are vulnerable to certain genetic disorders as well as health conditions. Breeders are advised to carefully screen their breeding stock for these health issues: Congenital hypotrichosis, Corneal dermoid, Spongiform degeneration, kittens born trembling or shaking and unusually high concentrations of creatinine or urea in the blood.
Exercise
Being curious cats, Birmans leave this nature for their passionate explorations rather than exercise. They exhibit moderate energy levels that requires little play and activity. Routine exercise doesn’t move this breed and if you want to instill this ideal you need to use positive methods that entice its curiosity. Exercise time should be adhered to strictly so your cat stays in good shape.
Nutrition
Birmans love feeding time more than any other time. During exercise, you can use treats to motivate this cat and make it livelier.
Grooming
The Birman’s long and lush coat doesn’t matt easily and requires minimal maintenance. They love to be washed and brushed making this grooming routine enjoyable to them and their owners. Its dense coat sheds but lightly so during this time its always ideal to brush the coat regularly and keep any loose dead hairs out.
UPSET STOMACH IN DOGS AND CATS
There’s nothing more upsetting than seeing a family member unwell, and cats and dogs are no exception. However, gastrointestinal upset will happen from time to time as part of an active pet’s natural life.
THE COCKAPOO
Widely regarded as the “first designer dog,” the Cockapoo is a cute, love-able dog. It has a bubbly personality and is quite comfortable in social situations — especially around children. The Cockapoo was created by crossing an American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. It embodies the innate and physical characteristics of both breeds. This little dog packs a lot of love and energy in a compact body.
Brief History
The Cockapoo was created in America in 1960 and went on to become one of the most popular mixed breed dogs in the world. Known as a Spoodle in Australia, it is a cross between two beautifully looking and social dogs — the American or English Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle.
Due to their mixed heritage, Cockapoos are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a legitimate dog breed. Despite this, generations of this little dog have been developed by breeders over time with an attempt to finally establish them as an original breed.
cockapoo dog
Physical Features
The Cockapoo is an attractive little dog. It has a relatively soft coat of fur that does not shed, but requires regular grooming. The dog is small in stature and has smart, bright eyes. Their small size makes them the perfect dog for apartment and city living.
Average Height:
14-15 inches
Average Weight:
12-24 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-20 years
Temperament
The Cockapoo has a cool and friendly temperament. It is slow to react aggressively and forgives quickly. Cockapoos love to show off their agility by running, jumping and rolling over. This dog enjoys human company and will also perform well around other dogs. The Cockapoo is often used as a therapy dog.
Special Needs
Since this dog is supremely social, it does not enjoy being alone for long periods of time. Cockapoos will develop social anxiety if repeatedly isolated. If you can’t be home enough to help your pup with this, consider adopting a companion for them.
Possible Health Concerns
The Cockapoo is generally a healthy dog. It may, however, develop some health issues. One of these is the laxating patella. This is a knee joint issue which affects many dog breeds.
In addition, Cockapoos can develop certain eye problems such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy where the retina gradually deteriorates over many years. This may lead to visual difficulty and eventually, blindness.
The luxating patella and Progressive Retinal Atrophy can be avoided through careful breeding.
One of the more attractive features of the Cockapoo is its floppy ears. Owners should also be aware that this feature will also make them prone to issues such as mites, yeast infections and bacterial infection as well. To avoid this, clean the dog’s ears every week.
Exercise
Being quite an active dog, the Cockapoo requires regular, consistent exercise. This is to prevent restlessness and ensure good overall health. Exercise can be accomplished through walks in the park, running through a doggy obstacle course or even a jog around the block. Two exercise sessions every day is ideal for the Cockapoo.
Grooming
The Cockapoo has an attractive coat that can be quite silky and curly. Regular brushing is necessary to keep it smooth and free of matting.
Well known for its lovely nature, beautiful coat and glitzy origin, the Cockapoo is a wonderful dog. They are known for being sociable and can fit in a variety of human and dog environments.
THE SAINT BERNARD
The Saint Bernard belongs to the AKC Working Dog Group and the UKC Guardian Dog Group. This breed originated from Switzerland and was bred by Swiss monks during the seventeenth century.
Brief History
The Saint Bernard was bred by hospice monks in the Swiss Alps at the Hospice of Saint Bernard, a refuge for travelers, to help locate and rescue travelers that had been injured by avalanches or lost between Switzerland and Italy.
Though bred for search and rescue, this brave dog was also used for drafting, guarding, and turn-spit. They are believed to have rescued over 2,000 lives through their search and rescue efforts at the hospice. They are descended from the Roman Mastiff and arrived in the U.S during the nineteenth century.
Physical Features
The Saint Bernard is a large and powerful dog breed with a large head and square shaped body. Their highly-recognizable heads have a deep furrow over the skulls, which is about twice as long as it is short.
Their eyes are intelligent and kind, with lower eyelids that don’t close completely. Their medium-sized and triangle-shaped ears are dropped and high-set. This pup’s feet are large and their tails are charmingly long.
This breed has a double coat —a thick undercoat, with a straight short or long outer coat. Its coloring ranges from red to brown, or brindle, with white markings at the chest, feet, tip of the tail, noseband and neck. There can also be markings on the collar, between the eyes, muzzle, belly, legs, and end of tail. The Saint Bernard has a dark mask on the face and ears.Don’t forget their famous wrinkles.
The long haired version of this breed looks exactly like the shorthaired breed, apart from the coat, which is typically of medium length and slightly wavy.
Average Height:
25.5 -30 inches
Average Weight:
120-180 pounds
Life Expectancy:
7-10 years
Temperament
This is an affectionate, fun-loving dog that is just as friendly with strangers as with family. It’s for that exact reason, however, that they shouldn’t be counted on to be a guard dog. This breed enjoys being around children and other families. They’re big gentle giants that thrive on playing in the snow with family members and friends. During puppyhood they are super clumsy due to their large size. As they grow into adulthood, these dogs settle down and tend to nap a lot. This breed does best in snowy, cold weather.
The Saint Bernard needs to be socialized early, and to begin positive-reward training classes during puppyhood. This super large breed is best suited for farm life or suburban homes where they will have the space they need. Unfortunately, this rules out apartment life. As the Saint Bernard ages, they can become a little lazy. It’s important to maintain their exercise schedules to keep healthy and fit.
Special Needs
This breed does best with plenty of protection from the heat and needs to be kept indoors during summer. Exercise, including walks should take place early mornings and late afternoons, so as to protect this breed from heat stroke. Winter makes every Saint Bernard happy – the colder the better!
Saint Bernards that live in warmer climates will greatly benefit from getting clipped. This breed needs to be supervised carefully over the summers to make sure that they do not get overheated. Since this is a very large dog breed, they tend to become more difficult to train as they gets larger. All the more reason to start during puppyhood.
Possible Health Concerns
This is a healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Genetic predisposition to DCM is seen in large breeds like the Saint Bernard. DCM is a disease affecting the heart muscle where the heart stops pumping properly.
Bloat. This breed is deep-chested, and thus more prone to bloat. Bloat is a life threatening emergency. It is caused by the twisting of the stomach, together with the accumulation of gas, with or without fluid. It is best to never elevate your dog’s water and food bowls. Stress is also a major factor in causing bloat. Never feed a Saint Bernard a large meal followed by exercise. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian. Never wait for a few hours.
Hip Dysplasia. This is a hereditary developmental disease. HD affects Saint Bernards, and occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly. The head of the thigh bone does not fall into the hip socket. The imperfect fit results in the joint becoming loose and unstable, and results in osteoarthritis.
Laryngeal Paralysis. This is where the cartilage and the vocal folds of the larynx do not open fully, making breathing difficult. This is an acquired medical condition, and not an inherited one.
Skin Allergies like pyoderma are common in this dog breed. This is a bacterial skin infection caused by an infection in the folds and wrinkles of their skin due to grooming difficulties.
Epilepsy is an inherited disease that causes seizures. This breed will generally require treatment with anticonvulsants from their veterinarian.
Exercise
Saint Bernards need regular exercise every day to stay fit and maintain a healthy weight. They also need daily exercise to build muscle strength. Although these are strong and powerful dogs, they do not require excessive exercise. That said, this breed does enjoy hiking, sledding and long peaceful walks. (Tip: They enjoy pulling children in carts and sleds!) They love being out in the snow and cold weather and are at their best with family and children around them.
Nutrition
Feeding your Saint Bernard a well-balanced diet with high-quality food is necessary to promote good health and longevity. The diet you choose needs to be appropriate to your dog’s age, activity level and medical conditions. That said, these dogs don’t need excessive amounts of food just because they’re large. Weight needs to be actively monitored, as they gain easily. Never feed right before or right after exercising.
Grooming
Saint Bernards have either long or short hair. Both types need careful daily grooming to avoid the buildup of dirt and grime. Use a slicker brush or metal comb for tangles. Shedding occurs twice yearly. During this time, it will be necessary to groom vigilantly and to remove loose hair so as to prevent shedding around the home.
This breed enjoys being bathed. Use natural and organic dog grooming products to keep their coats healthy. Ears will need to be wiped regularly and inspected for infections. Teeth also need to be brushed every day and cleaned twice a year at the veterinarian. Trim nails as needed.
Saint Bernards are sensitive, affectionate and loving. They’ll need to have a large garden or home to live in and absolutely cannot live in an apartment. This dog breed will need to be indoors during the hot summer months. Every effort must be made to keep this breed from overheating.
The Saint Bernard makes for a great adoption in the right home environment. Puppy training should start early because they are hard to handle as they matures due to size. Puppies are energetic and will need lots of socialization. While incredibly gentle and kind, this breed still needs regular exercise and mental stimulation. They don’t do well alone at home all day and need companionship.
The Fourth of July Fireworks and Your Pet
Each year at this time many pet owners are faced with the Fourth of July fireworks and their pets. Although many dogs don’t seem to be bothered by the sounds and sights of fireworks, others become totally terrified during this annual celebration. These frightened dogs will show signs of apprehension and anxiety at the first sound of the explosions of fireworks as well as the flash that is associated with them. For those dogs that express mild distress during the traditional fireworks on this holiday, you may be able to control their fear satisfactorily by closing them in a basement or otherwise dark room. Close the blinds and play music on the radio or stereo and this might be enough to cover the noise and flash that makes them exhibit this distress. If you live close to the annual fireworks display in your town, this method might not be enough to cover the sounds and sights of this event and you may have to resort to stronger methods to relieve them of their fear.
THE BRITTANY
The Brittany, also known as the Brittany Spaniel, first originated in Brittany, France during the mid-nineteenth century. This breed was a cross of French Spaniels and English Setters, hence their wonderful gentle temperament.
Brief History
This breed was developed by French hunters in Brittany, France. At the time, medieval poachers and peasants wanted an all-purpose dog breed. It became popular in the U.S during the 1930’s and today is considered one of the most sought-after hunting dogs.
This breed was registered with the AKC in 1934 as a Brittany Spaniel and is still known in France under that name. However, during the 20th century, the British and French lines merged. This led to the Brittany’s in the U.S working game by pointing like a Setter. This breed also stands higher on its legs than the Spaniel. In 1982, the AKC shortened the Brittany Spaniel’s name to the Brittany. Today they are one of the most popular field dog breeds in the U.S.
the brittany dog breed
Physical Features
The Brittany is an athletic and compact medium-sized breed. They have short, high-set triangular drop ears with a fawn, tan, brown, or deep pink nose. With dark, deep-set affectionate eyes, this breed can be tailless or have a docked tail to about 4 inches.
The Brittany is an agile breed that can cover lots of ground. They are strong, fast, friendly and intelligent. Their coats are flat, wavy or dense with neither a wiry or silky feel. Front and hind legs have feathering with skin that is fine and slightly loose. Coat color ranges from orange and white to black and white.
Average Height:
17.5-20.5 inches
Average Weight:
30-40 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
This is a good-natured dog breed. This dog is gentle, good-natured, active and fun to be around. They are easily trainable and love dog sports that involve agility like flyball and dock diving.
The Brittany makes for a wonderful active and outdoor family dog. They are gentle companions and are great with children. That said, a well-socialized and positively-trained Brittany does best in homes with large backyards and plenty of space to run off-leash. Pet parents need to keep in mind that this breed needs plenty of exercise and should participate in organized canine sporting activities when possible.
Special Needs
This good-natured dog needs plenty of exercise and a job to do. Positive dog training and canine sports are a must to keep this wonderful breed happy and healthy! The Brittany was bred to hunt, so long hikes in the woods are ideal. On-leash daily runs with pet parents will also satisfy the healthy and active lifestyle they crave. Unfortunately, apartment living is not preferable!
Possible Health Concerns
Ear Infections – These take place when yeast or bacteria levels in the ear get out of proportion. A dog’s outer ear is most likely to get infected due to exposure to dirt, sweat and possibly foreign objects. Brittany’s are prone to ear infections because of moisture retained in the ear from swimming. Ears should be checked and dried daily.
Retinal Detachment – This occurs when the retina becomes detached and is separated from the back of the eye. Part of the blood supply to the eye is also restricted and the eye is prevented from functioning properly. In the Brittany, retinal disorders are hereditary and presented at birth.
Hip Dysplasia – This is an abnormal development of the hip joint in large dog breeds. It is generally characterized by a loose joint which leads to degenerative joint disease. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional and hereditary factors all come in to play with hip dysplasia.
Exercise
The Brittany needs plenty of regular exercise. This breed is not only intelligent, but also active. Pet parents need to organize stimulating hikes, trips to the dog beach or dog park, dog training classes, agility classes, and other mentally stimulating activities for their furry family member.
Positive puppy training classes should commence during puppyhood so that socialization begins early.
Nutrition
Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet.
Assess your dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that they may be prone to. Consulting with your veterinarian about the best high-quality food options will help to give your Brittany a longer and healthier life.
Grooming
The Brittany has a short flat or wavy coat and does not require heavy grooming. As with all breeds, daily grooming with a soft brush or hound glove is necessary. They may need some light clipping done around the neck and head for showing purposes. Daily toothbrushing, ear cleaning, and regular nail trimming are a must.
This dog is best suited to active and outdoorsy pet parents.
The breed does well in both rural and suburban environments and thrives with jobs. The Brittany does not do well being left alone at home all day. This breed is affectionate and loves to be around people. That means family outings too. Plenty of trips to the dog park and exploring.
BEHAVIORAL DIFFERENCES IN CATS AND DOGS
Having both a dog and a cat at home isn’t unusual. They are two creatures that can live in harmony together. Pet owners do the same for both as far as caring for them goes. They provide them with food, shelter, and water. Cats and dogs still share a few obvious differences… and not just their size. Here are five ways having dogs is different from having cats.
