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THE HAVANESE
boston terrier dog breed
The gentle and friendly Havanese with their soft coats and bright eyes are a favorite of apartment-dwellers. But this lively and intelligent “Dog of Cuba,” who is gaining popularity, was once nearly extinct.
Brief History
The Havanese is from a bloodline called the Barbet, now known as the Bichon family, descended from the Mediterranean area as far back as 600 B.C. Relative breeds include the poodle, the water spaniel, and the Portuguese Water Dog.
There is some dispute between dog historians about the origin of the Havanese. Some theorize that they descended from the Italian Bolognese and the South American Poodle. Others think their origin lies within the Maltese and that they were transported to the West Indies.
Cubans agree that the Havanese were brought by sailors as gifts intended to charm señoras in the early 1800s. The puppies were goodwill ambassadors, encouraging trade between the sea captains and wealthy Cuban families. The Havanese became a fixture in the homes of well-to-do citizens.
The Cuban Revolution of 1959 endangered this dog, as the population was forced to flee the country. They left pets behind in the care of friends and servants. A couple of families managed to smuggle their dogs out of the country. These were the first Havanese to arrive in the United States.
In 1974, the Goodales of Colorado began searching for a dog to enhance their breeding career. They wanted an intelligent companion dog, and in their search, they discovered an article about the Havanese in a Spanish magazine. They tracked down the Cuban families who had spirited the dogs out of the country and acquired six dogs from them. They expanded their search and located six more Havanese from a Cuban devotee in Costa Rica. Through their efforts with four bloodlines, they kept the breed from becoming extinct.
Five years later, the Goodales helped to found the Havanese Club of America. The United Kennel Club recognized the Havanese in 1991, and five years later, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Physical Features
According to the AKC breed website, the Havanese has, “a curled-over tail and a gorgeous silky coat, which comes in a variety of colors.” The Havanese has a sturdy body that is longer than it is tall.
Average Height:
8.5-11.5 inches
Average Weight:
7-13 pounds
Life Expectancy:
14-16 years
Temperament
The Havanese is a fun animal and has a reputation for being a canine clown. They are intelligent and sturdy enough to compete in dog sports such as obedience and agility.
Special Needs
The Havanese is active and needs a sufficient amount of exercise daily. Their coats need regular brushing, although some owners like to let the hair grow in plaits.
Possible Health Concerns
Havanese can be prone to the following:
Hip dysplasia
Chondrodysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Cataracts
Legg-Perthes disease
Mitral valve insufficiency
Patellar luxation
Deafness
Heart murmur
Portosystemic shunt
the havanese
Exercise
The Havanese is a toy dog, but these animals require more exercise than some of the couch potato breeds. This lively, fun companion will keep you busy throwing a ball or even playing chase with a wad of paper. They enjoy climbing, and you may often find them on the back of your couch.
Nutrition
Because Havanese are keen-witted, they can quickly con their owners into feeding them only tasty table food. It takes a savvy owner to keep a Havanese on a strict diet of balanced kibble with some added meat or fish or steamed veggies.
The Havanese is a high-spirited and sweet companion. Knowing one will make you grateful that the breed is still around.
havanese
THE WEIMARANER
The Weimaraner originated in Germany during the early 1800s. They were bred by German aristocrats, and used for hunting large game.
Brief History
It is believed that the Bloodhound was bred with several German and French hunting dogs resulting in the Weimar Pointer or Weimaraner. By the 1950s, the Weimaraner was extremely popular as a companion and hunting dog. The Weimaraner was first used to hunt bears, wolves and mountain lions. As the wildlife population decreased, this breed then was used as an all-purpose-hunter.
Physical Features
The Weimaraner is a medium-sized dog with a large, lean and muscular body. They have long, broad heads, light-amber; gray, or blue-gray eyes and high-set drop ears with a slight fold. This breed also has a grey nose. Their tails are docked, and the Weimaraner’s plush coat is short and sleek. This breed is elegant, athletically built, and has aristocratic features. The Weimaraner is intelligent and kind.
Average Height:
23-27 inches
Average Weight:
55-85 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
The Weimaraner is intelligent, friendly and athletic. This fun-loving dog breed needs a job, and plenty of regular exercise. The Weimaraner is sensitive and enjoys being around people, family, other dogs and animals. Because this breed is so active, they are prone to scrapes and accidents. The Weimaraner does well with positive puppy training classes, and plenty of socialization. This breed also gets on well with children, and enjoys family outings, trips to the beach and playing Frisbee. The Weimaraner always wants to be with its pet parent, and will be your shadow.
Special Needs
This breed needs socialization, and plenty of exercise. This is a high-maintenance dog breed that has to have consistent runs, walks and benefits from partaking in a few canine sport activities. The elegant and sporty Weimaraner does well with plenty of off-leash exercise. This breed loves to chew things, and pet parents need to watch out for gastric torsion.
Possible Health Concerns
The Weimaraner is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Gastric Torsion: Also known as bloat, gastric torsion is a life- threatening emergency. The stomach distended with gas and fluid, and then twists, trapping the gas and fluid in the dog’s stomach. Early symptoms are pacing, gagging, excess saliva, and attempts at vomiting. The stomach will appear distended, and the dog will not be able to vomit. You will need to take the dog immediately to the emergency veterinarian. This cannot wait for a few hours since your dog may not survive.
Hip Dysplasia: This is an abnormal development of the hip joint in large dog breeds like the Weimaraner. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease. Dogs should be fed a high-quality diet that is geared towards their life stage. Puppies should only be fed high-quality puppy dog food. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional factors, and hereditary factors all come in to play with hip dysplasia. Consult with your veterinarian for expert advice.
Cataracts occurs when the lens becomes cloudy, then blocks the light from reaching the retina. This causes mild or partial blindness. These are often inherited in certain dog breeds like the Weimaraner. Dogs with vision loss appear to use more caution when moving, and also tend to stay closer to their pet parents.
Dermoid Cysts are birth defects that may occur in certain dog breeds like the Weimaraner. These are skin pockets into which pollen, dander, oil, hair, and other bits of debris accumulate. These are found on a dog’s backbone. They can be surgically removed.
Exercise
The Weimaraner is an active breed that benefits from regular exercise and long runs. This is a working dog that needs to have a job. Active pet parents are a must for this wonderfully athletic dog breed.
Nutrition
Good high-quality nutrition is key to a healthy Weimaraner. Always opt for the very best high-quality dog food that you can afford, and add in supplements, steamed veggies and safe fruits. Ask your veterinarian about the veggies and fruits that are safe to feed.
Grooming
The Weimaraner almost self-cleans, and looks immaculate most of the time. Although this breed has a short coat, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice yearly. Because this breed has drop ears, it’s very important to keep themclean to prevent ear infections caused from trapped moisture.
If you’re active, and have lots of time to spend with this sensitive and intelligent dog breed, the Weimaraner is a good dog to adopt. This breed is easy to groom, keeps clean, and is friendly with everyone — children included. Because the Weimaraner is fun-loving and energetic, prospective pet parents need to understand that this breed does best with plenty of outdoor activities.
WHAT ARE AFRICAN GREY PARROTS?
One of the most distinctive breeds of parrot is the African Grey. This gallant bird is known for its stand-out smoky grey tinted feathers that give it such an unusual appearance, and of course, it’s chatty persona.
All About Avalanche Dogs
Dogs – they are man’s best friend for good reason. But more than just companionship, our canine friends can provide import functional roles in day-to-day life.
THE MINIATURE SCHNAUZER
miniature schnauzer dog
The miniature schnauzer is a true terrier in every sense of the word: Plucky, big-hearted, and active. Woe to the person who appears to pose a threat to this pup’s loved ones: This courageous, bright-eyed little dog is loyal to the end.
Brief History
The Schnauzer is a very old German breed, having been depicted in paintings as far back as 1492. The German word for muzzle is, “schnauzer,” with all schnauzer varieties being bred to have bristly hair on the nose and mouth. The standard version of the breed originated in Germany, pulling vegetable carts from the farmers’ fields to markets in town. The dog was also put on guard duty.
The brilliance of the schnauzer lies in its versatility. They were used as an all-around stock dog — herding sheep, cattle, and pigs. They kept vermin at bay and were the quintessential farmer’s best friend. Even today, German Schnauzer Clubs will promote “ratting” trials, keeping the schnauzer as a pragmatic working breed. In America, schnauzers are a common choice for barn hunt and earthdog trials.
The miniature schnauzer descended from a cross between its standard-sized relative and an Affenpinscher. While even breed fanciers are not sure whether the cross was intentional, they treasure the results. The mini has enjoyed breed recognition since first being entered in shows around 1899. The first miniatures were bred in the United States in 1925 and officially gained AKC breed recognition the following year.
Physical Features
According to the AKC breed standard, the miniature schnauzer is “a robust, active dog of terrier type, resembling its larger cousin, the standard schnauzer, in general appearance, and of an alert, active disposition.”
The AKC allows only three coat colors: Salt and pepper, solid black, or black and silver.
Average Height:
12-14 inches
Average Weight:
11-20 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
The miniature schnauzer is high-spirited, friendly, and eager to please. They are courageous like most terriers, but generally obedient.
Special Needs
Although they thrive apartment-sized environments, miniature schnauzers require a regular exercise schedule. Their genetics as a hunter make them want to dig holes and bark.
Possible Health Concerns
If adopting a miniature schnauzer from a breeder, look for a background with clearances from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism, and von Willebrand’s disease. Breeding schnauzers should also be tested for thrombopathia and have an eye certification.
Exercise
Schnauzers are active, athletic dogs. They can excel at dog sports such as agility and obedience. They tend to love activities like rally and barn hunt. If you are considering life with a schnauzer, prepare to keep moving!
Nutrition
Like many other small dogs, overfeeding can be a problem. A schnauzer’s diet should be monitored closely, including quality kibble, meat, and blanched vegetables. Monitor their weights to make sure they are maintaining the correct numbers for their size, and be sure they gets plenty of exercise.
If you are considering adding a miniature schnauzer to the family, be ready for new adventures. These playful, happy dogs are game for just about anything you want to do. They are not couch potatoes by any means! Be prepared for a good, long lifetime filled with fun.
THE BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG
Bernese Mountain dog
When we talk of the Swiss, we can’t help but think of the finest things the world has to offer. Of Swiss origin, the Bernese Mountain dog is no different. Handsomely built, these dogs are noticed everywhere they go. Their beautiful, multi colored coats have graced many famous films and add to their proud demeanor.
Brief History
Bernese Mountain dogs, also known as Berner Sennehund is one of the many dog breeds that trace their origins to the mountainous regions of Bern, Switzerland. Sennehund literally means “the herdsman’s dog”, which explains much of what this dog was used for. They were used as companion dogs to herdsmen and shepherds often seen pulling milk carts to the market, driving cows to and from the mountain pastures and guarding their keepers’ homesteads. The biological roots of this breed can be traced back to the breeding of a large mastiff dog and a small cattle farm dog. By the end of the 19th century, this breed almost became extinct when their usefulness was actively replaced by roads and machines.
Thanks to a specialty breed club formed in Switzerland in 1907, the breed was saved, giving it a new life as show dogs. In 1937, the ACK recognized the breed. In the 1970’s, the CKC followed suit. Today’s Bernese breed is lovable and fun to be around, they crave human companionship and are instinctively gentle with little children as well as little animals.
Physical Features
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a generally sporty build, which explains why they were a choice dog to compete in shows. Bernese dogs love the cool weather, and their thick silky tricolored coats keep them warm during the rough winter months. Their coat colors are: rust, clear white and jet black. On its coat and face, you are bound to see distinctive markings which are the breed’s hallmark.
Average Height:
23-28 inches
Average Weight:
70-115 pounds
Life Expectancy:
7-10 years
Temperament
Bernies are extremely friendly with people they know, but may be wary of strangers. Small animals, women and children are never a threat to them, however they are always wary when dealing with men.
Special Needs
Bernese Mountain Dogs have a wide range of personality types, due to their mixed-breed heritage. It is best to get to know your particular dog over time with lots of attention, patience and love.
Possible Health Concerns
Despite their sturdy appearance, Bernese Mountain dogs are a breed with many health problems. Their active breeding has left them more susceptible to hereditary diseases, which keep their average life expectancies low. Hereditary cancers are a major concern while other diseases are: orthopedic diseases, elbow dysplasia, bloat or gastrointestinal syndrome, blood clotting disease, heart disease, hip and elbow dysplasia and eye diseases.
the Bernese Mountain dog breed
Exercise
Bernese dogs are not an exercise-oriented breed, despite their stature. As a matter of fact, they’re known to detest long periods of activity. Due to the importance of exercise, you’ll need to devise a strategic plan that keeps them active. Having outdoor space where they can casually roam, or other pet friends to play with are good ways to encourage this to happen.
Nutrition
Bernese dogs require high quality dog food. It may be commercially prepared or home prepared under the supervision of your vet. Always provide your Bernese with clean water at all times.
the Bernese Mountain dog
Grooming
Due to their thick coats, Bernese dogs don’t do well in the hot weather. Brushing should occur several times a week to prevent shedding and hair matting. Bathing may take place as needed.
However, cleaning the face, ears and any area with folds should occur daily. You may choose to groom your dog further by taking it to a vet for hair and nail trimming.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a beautiful, loving breed that commands attention everywhere they go. If you’re looking for a gentle companion to a house with children, Bernies are the way to go!
All About Arachnids
Arachnids are a family of crawling animals which includes spiders and scorpions. They are often referred to as creepy crawlies due to their ability to frighten. In modern times, they have been found to be quite delightful pets. For the last several years, people have kept arachnids as pets. One of the most popular ones is the tarantula spider. It’s a unique pet that is quiet, low maintenance, and requires little space. Keeping a tarantula can be an interesting hobby. Here’s how to take care of such a pet.
VACCINES FOR PETS
Vaccines are laboratory prepared substances acquired from killed or weakened forms of a causative agent of disease for the purpose of building the immunity of the body against infectious diseases. Puppies or kittens acquire passive immunity through lactation from the mother’s milk as well through the placenta. With time this immunity decreases and vaccinations are necessary to build the bodies immunity (active immunity). Most of the diseases vaccinated against are incurable, highly infectious and often lead to death.
