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THE DALMATIAN
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian, also known as the English Coach Dog, Carriage Dog, and the Firehouse Dog originated from the U.K. This breed is part of the UKC, Companion Dog Group, and the AKC. The origin of the name comes from the Eastern European coastal area of Dalmatian. This dog breed was thought to have been imported to the U.K during the 18th century.
Brief History
The Dalmatian was bred as a coach dog in the U.K. as a guard for passengers and property. The Dalmatian’s love of horses made it perfect for following horse-drawn fire engines. British nobleman also enjoyed having this breed around their stables.
Despite noble origins, today Dalmations are looked upon as a fire station mascot and help bring fire-awareness in education programs for children. The Dalmatian has been in the U.S from colonial times, known as the coach dog breed. By 1888, the Dalmatian was a registered dog breed in the AKC stud book. The Dalmatian is still very popular as a companion dog breed today.
Physical Features
The ever-friendly Dalmatian is a muscular and large dog breed with a slightly square shape. The Dalmatian’s pear-shaped head is almost flat with a slight groove down the center. Their noses are typically black, large and broad. Their medium-sized eyes are brown, blue or a combination of both colors. This breed has medium-sized drop ears with a deep chest and well-arched, compact feet. The Dalmatian has a long tapered tail that they carry with an elegant upward curve. Their coats are short, shiny, and tight. Oh, and don’t forget their famous coloring — white base with gorgeous black spots.
The Dalmatian has lots of endurance and moderate speed. It is an elegant, sporty and active dog that adores people as well as other dogs and animals. Their movements tend to be steady and graceful. With an even temperament, this outgoing dog breed is intelligent, outgoing and dignified.
Average Height:
19-24 inches
Average Weight:
45-65 pounds
Life Expectancy:
11-13 years
Temperament
The Dalmatian is an active and lively dog breed. They tend to be outgoing, friendly, and rarely shy. In fact, they’re known to constantly encourage new friendships wherever they can find them — whether with other animals or people. This dog breed is great with horses and does well on equestrian farms. The Dalmatian is also sensitive and does well with positive dog training. Socialization starting at puppyhood is also beneficial. This dog breed is very affectionate with family and good with children. The Dalmatian has a strong work drive and needs to partake in organized canine activities.
Special Needs
The Dalmatian requires plenty of exercise, socialization, and positive dog training. The importance of early positive housetraining cannot be emphasized enough. Dalmatian pups need to be taught to go outside or they will develop bad habits that will often be difficult to break. It’s also important to prioritize positive obedience training for puppies. This can start as early as 9 weeks of age and should be done in super short increments of time, like 5 minute sessions a few times a day.
Allow for healthy food treats as rewards when positive dog training. Organize dog training classes outside your home to allow for this dog to socialize and meet other dogs and people. The Dalmatian needs a fenced garden or backyard and does not do well with apartment living. This breed does best on farms or large properties with horses, other dogs and lots of companionship.
Possible Health Concerns
Deafness: Dalmatians may be born with normal hearing, yet may lose hearing a few weeks after birth. Deafness is hereditary in Dalmatians, and comes from an auto-recessive gene. This gene also affects eye color, and contributes the blue iris in Dalmatians. As many as 30% of Dalmatians suffer from deafness in one or both ears. Some dog parents may confuse deafness to obedience problems.
Kidney Stones: This is common in the Dalmatian, and can be dangerous if not treated immediately. Feeding a low protein diet with fish or chicken works well in helping to preventing kidney stones. Beef and organ meats should be eliminated from the Dalmatian’s diet. Clean and fresh water needs to be available 24/7.
Hip Dysplasia: Hip Dysplasia is an abnormal development of the hip joint in large dog breeds like the Dalmatian. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease.
Epilepsy: This has been occurring more frequently in Dalmatians, and can be hereditary or the result of an injury or exposure to toxins.
Dalmatian dog
Exercise
The Dalmatian needs a consistent exercise schedule if living in an apartment or small home. Dalmatians living on farms and equestrian properties tend to get lots of exercise and travel. This dog breed has superb memory, and is a quick learner. Positive dog training sessions are a pleasure with this dog breed. Dalmatians enjoy going out for runs or long hikes. They’re always game to take part in family activities.
Agility is a great sport for Dalmatians. They can start training at a young age for agility, and tend to do well in this canine sport. Advanced obedience is also a great option.
Nutrition
When it comes to choosing a food, understanding your dog’s current health and nutritional needs is paramount. There is no “best diet” since all dogs have different dietary needs, so it’s always smart to consult with your veterinarian — especially if your dog has a medical condition.
Dalmatian dog breed
Grooming
This breed is quite easy to groom. Daily brushing will keep your Dalmatian’s coat in superb condition. A horsehair mitt or rubber curry comb should do the trick.
This dog breed enjoys frequent baths and daily teeth brushing. Bathing should increase if dogs are playing around on farms and in horse manure. Twice yearly visits to the veterinarian for dental hygiene maintenance is a must. Ears need to be regularly wiped out and checked regularly because they flop down and retain moisture. Nails need to be trimmed every month. If your dog does not enjoy having their nails trimmed, try out a nail grinder, visit a professional groomer or your veterinarian.
Not only is the Dalmatian a gentle and playful dog to have around children and family, this dog breed has a happy and outgoing personality that makes everyone else happy. This dog breed does not do well alone and needs to be around people and other animals. Taking part in family activities like hiking, camping, and playing ball at the dog park are a must.
If it’s summer time, all Dalmatians need to use a canine sunblock because their white coats make them more prone to sunburn. Exercise should only take place during the early morning hours or late afternoon.
THE AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD
Australian Shepherd dog
The Australian Shepherd comes from a line of European herding dogs and is thought to have originated from the Basque regions of Spain and France.
Brief History
The Australian Shepherd is a herding dog breed. During the 1800’s, Australia’s Basque emigres pushed further inland to cattle farm and brought their dogs with them. The Basque Shepherd dogs were then crossed with Collies and Border Collies. After some time, the population began to immigrate to California. Farmers there took a liking to these herding dogs and named them Australian Shepherds.
Physical Features
The hard-working Australian Shepherd is a medium-sized dog that is both athletic and intelligent. With a strong head and a slightly rounded skull, this exceptionally easy-going dog has a muzzle that is equal to, or slightly shorter than, the length of the back skull. The Australian Shepherd has warm almond–shaped eyes that can be blue, brown, amber, or a combination of the three.
This breed has adorable triangular drop ears which are high set. Their tails are straight and naturally bobbed or docked. The Australian Shepherd has a double coat that is either wavy or straight. Feathered fur covers the backs of legs, thighs and neck. This breed’s coat color is either blue merle, red merle, black, red and with or without white markings.
Average Height:
18-23 inches
Average Weight:
35-75 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-15 years
Temperament
The Australian Shepherd has a strong work drive, and is an intelligent dog breed. They are easy to train and enjoy being around family. The Aussie is sensitive, loyal, fun-loving, energetic and smart. They also make terrific guard dog and manage their posts without aggression.
The Aussie is also fantastic with children, other dogs and animals. They have a strong prey drive and also try to herd people around them. The Aussie should be kept away from small animals and sometimes cats depending on the individual dog. This high-energy breed does well with an active family and open spaces. The Aussie does well with farm life around cattle and horses.
Special Needs
The Australian Shepherd has to have a job and plenty of daily exercise. These dogs form very close bonds with their pet parents and enjoy long off-leash hikes. Aussies make good running companions after puppyhood when their bones are fully formed. The Aussie most definitely is at his best when competing in canine sports like agility, obedience and herding.
Possible Health Concerns
This breed is generally healthy. Yet there are still a few illnesses they may be prone to:
Hip Dysplasia – This is an abnormal development of the hip joint in large breeds like the Australian Shepherd. It is generally characterized by a loose joint and degenerative joint disease. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional and hereditary factors all come into play with hip dysplasia.
Cataracts – This is a condition in which the lens of the eye progressively loses transparency, which often results in loss of vision. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Elbow Dysplasia – This is an abnormal development of the elbow joint in young, large, fast-growing breeds. It involves abnormal bone growth, cartilage development, or joint stresses. Treatment involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and surgery before the degenerative changes of osteoarthritis take place.
Australian Shepherd dog breed
Exercise
The Australian Shepherd is a high-energy breed that thrives on exercise. The Aussie needs to have a stimulating environment and active pet parents. Rural or countryside living with plenty of space work well for this breed. Cattle herding is an Aussie’s job preference, followed by simply being a fun-loving companion.
Nutrition
A high-quality dog food for the appropriate life stage is recommended. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for their Australian Shepherds. That said, a dog food that works for one Aussie, may not work for another.
Grooming
Daily grooming is necessary for this breed’s waterproof, double –layered coat. During shedding season pet parents will need to groom more frequently. Undercoat rakes will remove dead coat hair and wire brushes are great for grooming. This breed is most often outdoors, so bathing regularly is a must. The Aussie is often dirtier and smellier than other dogs when outdoors having fun. Nails, ears and teeth need regular care.
With a sweet and fun temperament, the Aussie makes a great dog breeds to adopt if you are active and have a large property. It’s not a good idea to adopt this dog breed if they will be cooped up indoors. The Aussie is too smart to do nothing all day and needs a job. Children often love this dog’s fun-loving temperament.
Ultimate Guide to Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are the perfect, joyful, and lovable companions. They fall into a category of dogs that make us ask, “What did we ever do to deserve dogs?”
THE COLLIE
The Collie, also known as the Scotch Collie or Scottish Sheepdogs, was bred as a multipurpose farm dog. This super friendly and intelligent dog breed is well known for its herding abilities. The name Collie is derived from the Scottish word black sheep, colley.
Brief History
This herding dog breed became popular in the early 20th century after Queen Victoria favored the breed as a companion dog. It is believed that the Collie’s ancestors arrived in Scotland 2,000 years before Queen Victoria did. They were brought over by the Romans during their conquest of Britain.
Physical Features
The Collie is strong, powerful, athletic and graceful. With a long, lean body, wedge-shaped head, and intelligent brown or blue eyes, the Collie is a strikingly beautiful breed. They’re also known for their high folded ears that bounce adorably as they run around. Rough Collies have long double coats, and Smooth Collies have a short double coats.
Both of these can be found in sable and white, tricolor (black, tan, and white), blue merle, tricolor, white with sable, or with blue merle markings. Collie’s have an intelligent, bright and alert look.
Average Height:
24 -26 inches
Average Weight:
55-80 pounds
Life Expectancy:
13-15 years
Temperament
The Collie makes for a wonderful family dog that is kind around children. This breed is active and intelligent, as well as outgoing. The Collie enjoys being around family, other people and animals. This breed is good with horses, and other livestock. The Collie is active, responsive and enjoys participating in agility and other canine sports. Due to their high energy, this dog does not do well with apartment living.
The Collie need lots of physical and mental stimulation. Daily exercise is a must to promote good behavior. Luckily, their intelligence makes them extremely easy to train, so fun games and tricks can easily be added to the exercise routine. his breed needs lots of love and attention. It does not do well left alone for long periods of time.
Special Needs
Collies are known for having high energy levels and lots of curiosity. Because of this, pet parents should be vigilant that your pup does not get into anything that could cause them harm.
Possible Health Concerns
The Collie is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Collie Eye Anomaly. This is an inherited eye disease that is found in the Collie. It causes abnormal development in layers of eye tissue. Consult your veterinarian if you think that your Collie may have this eye condition.
MDR1 Mutation. Collies may be sensitive to certain medications. It is a genetic disposition to adverse reactions to certain drugs. This includes ivermectin, milbemycin, and related drugs. Ask your veterinarian about these.
Exercise
Your Collie loves to exercise. In fact, they were bred for herding, so constantly running around is in their natures. Make sure you schedule plenty of play time, long walks and trips to the dark park to keep your pup happy, healthy, and mentally stimulated.
Nutrition
There is no best diet for all dogs, since all dogs have different dietary needs, but it’s best to start with food that is high in protein, carbohydrates and without fillers. Consult with your veterinarian as to the best high-quality dog food diet for your Collie.
Grooming
Collies need to be brushed every day to prevent matting and take away dead hair. If left to mat, dogs may chew on their hair which can lead to skin infections. Collies need to have their nails trimmed regularly. Ears need to be kept clean by wiping with a cotton ball or wipe and an ears cleaned weekly with a cotton ball or clean cloth. Weekly teeth cleaning is also necessary to prevent gum disease.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR DOG – COMMON SENSE TIPS
It’s an exciting time welcoming a new puppy into your household. They provide so much fun and love, and are like a new child in your family. This time can also be daunting to the new puppy owner, especially if they have never owned a dog before. In this article, we will give you a whirlwind tour through everything you need to know to take care of a new puppy.
THE SPHYNX CAT
sphynx
Part of the hairless cat breeds, the Sphynx draws human attention everywhere it goes. That’s great news, because Sphynx cats love human company and make great pets for city apartments and additions to homes with children.
Brief History
The Sphynx cat is a product of selective breeding in Canada during the 1960’s and are known for their almost dog-like personalities as well as famous hairlessness.
There are two types of the Sphynx breed: the American Sphynx and the European Sphynx. Both the European and American Sphynx groups are descended from two natural lines of mutation. The first line started in 1975 with the Pearson family’s dermis and epidermis barn cats and the second started in 1978 with two stray cats, Bambi and Punke, which were found in Toronto in Ontario, Canada.
Physical Features
The International Cat Association identifies the Sphynx as a unique cat breed with the following standards. They have a wedge-like head with high cheekbones. Their eyes are large and assume a lemon shape while their ears are also large with a soft down outside base and no inside hair. A Sphynx may or may not have whiskers and if present, these whiskers are either full or broken. Their necks are of medium length, well-muscled and powerful in build. Other unique features are: a barrel chest, torso of medium length, full and round abdomen, tapering tail with a whip like appearance and thick paw pads.
Average Height:
8-10 inches
Average Weight:
6-12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-16 years
Temperament
Sphynx cats love attention and are generally very cheerful. They make great therapy pets being because of their loving disposition and constant smile. When not seeking or receiving attention, Sphynxes spend their time exploring their surroundings. While doing this, they are often very lively, energetic and curious.
sphynx cat
Special Needs
Sphynxes are highly social cats that can make a family out of anything. Because of this, they hate being locked away or put in enclosures that limit their freedom to move about. If you need to be away for long periods of time, consider adopting a friend for your Sphynx to play with.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bombay is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
The Sphynx is a generally healthy cat breed, however they remain vulnerable to various diseases common to both mixed-breed and pedigreed cats. Sphynx owners should be on the lookout for: Urticaria pigmentosa and Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Exercise
Sphynxs are energetic and love to spend most of their time involved in an activity. They play well with children and fellow pets and also excel in brain teaser games such as puzzle toys. Because of this, an exercise routine schedule isn’t necessary. However you can spare some time to walk with your Sphynx and play a game or two.
Nutrition
Sphynxs should do well with high nutrition cat food both home prepared or commercially manufactured. They love fruit as treats, but make sure to only give those with lots of fiber and vitamins such as apples. Clean water should also be available for them to drink and remain hydrated.
Grooming
Despite having a hairless body, the Sphynx’s coat and skin needs as much care as hairy cats. Wash your Sphynx on a weekly basis using a mild moisturizing shampoo or baby shampoo and keep the skin moisturized with scent free oil or lotion. Bathing the Sphynx from a tender age will teach it to accept baths and get more used to water. Brushing the Sphynx’s teeth helps prevent it from developing periodontal disease.
sphynx cat breed
THE SCOTTISH FOLD CAT
The Scottish Fold is a domestic cat that originated from Scotland. This cat breed has a natural gene mutation which causes its ears to fold back. The very first Scottish Fold cat was a barn cat named Susie and was born in Scotland, in 1961.
Brief History
The Scottish Fold domestic cat came about when Susie, a barn cat, had kittens and two of them had folded ears like Susie. William Ross, a farmer became a cat parent to one of them and registered the breed with the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in 1966. Ross started a breeding program with the help of a geneticist, Pat Turner. This resulted in 76 kittens, 42 of which were born with folded ears. To this day, all Scottish Fold cats share a common ancestry with Susie.
Physical Features
The Scottish Fold kitten is born with straight ears which will fold at around 21 day. This gives them an “owl-like” look. Those that do not develop an ear fold are named “Straights.” Fun fact: the first Scottish Folds originally only had one ear fold! Today they have a double or triple crease due to selective breeding. This causes the ear to lie close to the head. This breed has a large round head, with large, round eyes. Their whisker pads are round, and their cheeks are full. This adds to the notorious facial roundness of the Scottish Fold. While their ears are folded, they’re still able to swivel, lie back, and perk up to listen.
The Fold’s nose is short, and has a slight curve. They typically have a medium-sized, round build body with medium-to-short sized legs. Their heads are dome-shaped and they typically have short necks. Folds’ eyes are broadly spaced which adds to their sweet expression. The Scottish Fold has many different short-haired and long-haired coloring options. Short-haired Folds have dense and fluffy fur, with long-haired Folds have thinner, more majestic fur. Long-haired Folds are also called the Highland Fold.
Average Height:
10 to 12 inches
Average Weight:
8 to 13 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10 to 15 years
Temperament
The Scottish Fold is a sweet and calm cat breed. This cat breed does well with people, gentle dogs, other cats, and animals. This cat breed enjoys standing on their hind legs to peer at the world. The Scottish Fold is a relaxed and gentle cat breed that enjoys human companionship. The Scottish Fold tends to prefer a quiet environment that is environmentally stimulating — so make sure you provide plenty of cat toys.
The Scottish Fold cat
Special Needs
Scottish Folds are a wonderfully easy cat breed to live with, but they do need mental stimulation and will get bored when alone for long periods of time. This cat breed gets bored when alone for long periods of time. Consider getting them a friend if you’re out at work all day! Exercising your Scottish Fold may be more challenging, yet cat parents can do so by purchasing certain cats toys to promote exercise.
Possible Health Concerns
The Scottish Fold is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
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.
Osteochondrodysplasia: (OCD) This is a developmental abnormality that affects bone and cartilage in the Scottish Fold cat breeds. All folded breeds are affected by OCD. OCD is the reason the ear folds in this cat breed. It can also affect the limbs, and cause distortion with extreme pain and arthritis. OCD has been seen as early as 8 weeks in kittens, and continues throughout a cat’s life. Symptoms are chronic pain and lameness. Consult with your veterinarian.
Exercise
The Scottish Fold cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people.
Nutrition
Wet food is often recommended by veterinarians because cats don’t drink a lot of water and tend to get dehydrated without realizing it. Consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary advice for your Scottish Fold!
Grooming
The Scottish Fold cat
The Scottish Fold needs daily grooming to remove shedding hair. This coat is easy to groom, because it is short and dense. Curry brushes help with grooming, and will remove dead hair and debris from your cat’s coat. Ears should be checked weekly for cleanliness and sensitivity. If there is a buildup of wax and dirt, bacteria 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.
Scottish Folds are affectionate cats and make wonderful, loving companions. These cats are docile, and adapt easily to new environments. It’s the Scottish Fold’s easygoing temperament that makes them so popular with cat owners.
THE LABRADOR RETRIEVER
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds. Dogs in this breed are high-energy, intelligent, and social. This breed is a sporting dog, and originated in Newfoundland, first dubbed St. John’s Water dog.
Brief History
The first record of this breed was in Newfoundland in the 1700’s. They were brought to England in the early 1800’s. Some think they were bred from the Greater Newfoundland dog or the French St. Hubert’s dog.
This breed of dog was known for enjoying retrieving, originally with English fisherman in Newfoundland. The fisherman would use them to retrieve fish that had fallen off their hooks, or bring fishing lines in through the water. This made them good hunting dogs. The name Labrador was introduced in 1887 by the Earl of Malmesbury.
Physical Features
Labs come in three colors: black, yellow, or chocolate, with black being the most popular. They have large, stocky bodies. Their coats are dense and short, and repel water and dirt.
Average Height:
22-24 inches
Average Weight:
55-79 lbs
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
Labrador Retrievers are extremely social, and will want to play quite frequently. They’re fast learners and bond quickly when given attention. They have gentle dispositions, are easy to get along with, and are known to be loyal.
Labs are ideal family dogs, sporting dogs, and therapy dogs. They are obedient with proper training, and their favorite activities are swimming and retrieving (naturally).
Special Needs
Regular exercise is incredibly important for Labrador Retrievers in your family, not only because they are high energy dogs and love to play, but also because they are susceptible to weight gain if they’re sedentary. Labs also have a tendency to push themselves to the limit of their physical abilities, and can overheat in warm weather.
While they are good outdoor dogs, this breed prefers to live inside with their human companions.
Possible Health Concerns
A common health concern for Labrador Retrievers is obesity. Healthy dogs will have an hourglass shape. Other conditions they are susceptible to include:
Patellar Luxation. This happens when the dog’s patella is dislocated. Treatment involves surgery.
Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD). When the ball and socket of the hip joint are malformed and grind against each other instead of moving smoothly. Treatment could be outpatient but it could also involve surgery.
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD). When cartillege in a joint is damaged. Treatment could involve surgery.
Exercise
Labrador Retrievers are highly active, and you’ll need enough space in your home and yard for them to run around. They’ll go on runs or play fetch. You won’t want them to get bored, because they can become temperamental and even be destructive.
Labs need a lot of exercise, and especially love swimming, in any type of water. While young, you’ll need to watch them in the water, but over time they’ll gain confidence.
Nutrition
Each Labrador Retriever is different, and may need different nutritional needs. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian. Since this breed is prone to obesity, monitor their food consumption.
Grooming
Due to their dense coats, Labs will need to be combed weekly if not daily. They also shed, so watch out for your carpets! Their coats are resistant to water and also dirt, so brushing is mostly for shedding maintenance and to keep them looking healthy. They’ll need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning as well.
Labrador Retrievers are high-energy, loyal, family dogs who love attention and being involved in family activities. Know that when you adopt, you’ll have to put the time in to train them, but your efforts will be rewarded!
