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THE WIRE FOX TERRIER
The Wire Fox Terrier is one of two Fox Terrier breed variations recognized by the American Kennel Club. Standing aloof with its sturdy, short backed and symmetrical body, Wires are an energetic terrier with an independent nature and confident, yet inquisitive, look written all over their faces. Thanks to their sociable nature, Wire Terriers are a charmingly perfect companion to any family.
Brief History
It was during the late 1700’s when Fox Terriers were seen as capable hunting dogs, used for British fox hunts. Their main job was to draw foxes from their burrows to allow hunters to pursue them in the open. From their early use in fox hunts, Fox Terriers, especially Wires, went on to be phenomenal show dogs of the early 20th century. In 1985, the AKC recognized both Wire and Smooth Fox Terriers as separate and distinct dog breeds. One famous Wire in history is Ceaser, King Edward VII’s favorite dog.
wire fox terrier
Physical Features
The Wire’s general build is compact, yet strong. They’re neither too leggy, nor too short and often stand with a cleverly alert posture. Their ears and tail fall forward while their eyes are round and tend to shine with intelligence. Wire Fox Terriers have a rough and wiry white coat with tan or black markings. The wiriness is often more pronounced on their muzzles and mouths.
Average Height:
15 inches
Average Weight:
15-18 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
Wires have a keen expression which is often shown by their eyes, ears and tail. Their confident and alert nature made them ideal companions for humans who love to hike and explore. They are loyal to their owners and are also very patient with children as well as other dogs.
Special Needs
Wire Terriers are an exuberant breed and they require a lot of attention in order to avoid boredom. Their training necessitates a great sense of humor, patience and consistency. They also respond well to positive training and will always shut down if treated harshly.
Possible Health Concerns
In general, Wire Fox Terriers are a healthy breed. Responsible breeders are however advised to screen their stock for conditions such as: elbow and hip dysplasia, various eye disorders (glaucoma, primary lens luxation and cataracts), luxating patellas and wobblers gait — which is a neurological condition.
wire fox terrier breed
Exercise
Wires are an energetic breed full of life both indoors and outdoors. Due to their large prey drive, they’ll need to be kept on a leash or within a fenced area. Daily exercise routines with activities such as long walks or playing chase are a fun way of keeping a Wire both physically and mentally fit. Sporty activities that require lots of intelligence, speed and agility are another fun way for them to exercise.
Grooming
The Wire’s coat is rough and wiry with a short length. Owners should make sure to spend some time brushing their wire’s coat to remove loose hairs and avoid shedding. Nails should also be trimmed frequently and teeth brushed once a week. It’s also important to check their ear regularly for wax and dirt.
Wire Fox Terriers are intelligent, loyal and confident. They are fun, active and adventurous companions.
wire fox terrier dog breed
NATIONAL VETERINARY TECHNICIAN WEEK
Sunday, October 12, 2014, marked the first day of National Veterinary Technician Week. Veterinary Technicians are dedicated animal hospital professionals, who provide the ultimate care for your four-legged friends, your pets. They perform a multitude of tasks around any animal hospital to enhance the health and welfare of your special family member.
THE YORKIPOO
The Yorkipoo is a fun-loving, energetic and loving small breed. They are are versatile dogs that can live in a large house or an apartment with equal satisfaction. They’re extremely easy-going and love lounge time just as much as a walk in the park. The Yorkipoo may be petite, but make no mistake, their little bodies pack a ton of energy and agility.
Brief History
The Yorkipoo is a cross between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Toy Poodle and were first bred in the United States. Yorkipoos were bred to be hypoallergenic and make great companion dogs to people of all ages. Due to their mixed breeding, the Yorkipoo is not recognized by the American Kennel Club but is recognized by the American Hybrid Canine Club and the Designer Dog Kennel Club.
Physical Features
The Yorkipoo combines all the favorable physical characteristics of the Yorkshire Terrier and the Toy Poodle. They are small in stature and have a long, smooth and silky coat — either curly or straight. The Yorkipoo has black or brown eyes with an intelligent glint and their noses are typically brown or black.
The Yorkipoo’s coat can be of a wide range of colors such as apricot, brown, white, gray, or a combination of a few. The Yorkipoo’s ears can be straight and upright or floppy. Overall, they’re handsome dogs with a ton of personality.
Average Height:
7 – 12 inches
Average Weight:
3 to 14 lb
Life Expectancy:
10 to 15 years
Temperament
Yorkipoos are full of vitality and are always up to something interesting. Be prepared for their antics to make you laugh a lot! Yorkipoo are confident and comfortable while engaged in active play, but are also quite ready to relax on your lap. This little dog is quite intelligent and can make an ideal playmate for children. Their love and affection also come in handy for more senior owners.
The Yorkipoo is gentle and behaves well with strangers. Thanks to their cool disposition, the Yorkipoo can be socialized easily. Like many small dogs, the Yorkipoo has no idea of its small size and will play with much larger dogs. To avoid any accidents, Yorkipoos should be introduced to larger dogs under strict supervision until they can make friends.
Yorkipoos are extremely smart and always eager to please. This makes them easy to train. While teaching this dog, you should use positive reinforcement. They typically don’t respond well to harsh commands or threats. Instead, enthusiastic praise and treats after good performance will help the Yorkipoo learn quicker.This dog’s innate qualities give it great potential for obedience or therapy training.
Special Needs
Yorkipoos have a strong constituion and can stay healthy over a long period of time with proper care.
Possible Health Concerns
However, they are prone to conditions such as dry eye, retinal detachment, hypoglycemia and endocardiosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can ward off many of these diseases and help the Yorkipoo make a full recovery each time.
Exercise
The Yorkipoo requires regular training to keep their high energy levels in check. A brisk, short walk once a day is enough to keep them healthy and strong. The Yorkiepoo also loves running around with a ball or toy.
Nutrition
The Yorkipoo is known for being a picky eater. To solve this problem, you can experiment mixing wet and dry food together to see what works best.
Grooming
Yorkipoos have long, beautiful, hypoallergenic coats that require regular care. Owners must make sure to brush this pup regularly throughout the week to prevent matting and bathe them once a month. Consult your veterinarian for shampoo recommendations.
A Yorkipoo is a little dog with big energy and a big heart,. They make excellent companion dogs and love to bond with their humans.
All About Horses
Loved by many, horses and humans have enjoyed a strong bond which dates back to ancient times. At first horses were hunted, but humans learned to tame and ride them. From there the horse helped transform how people got around and worked, being one of the primary forms of land transportation until the car came into popularity.
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.
THE IRISH SETTER
irish setter dog breed
The Irish Setter is an aristocratic dog breed that originated from Ireland, and is part of the UKC, Gun Dog Group, and the AKC, Sporting Dog Group. This breed is believed to have been bred from English Setters, Spaniels, Pointers, and Gordon Setters during the 18th century. They were used to locate gamebirds, by using their sense of smell. Both Irish Red and White Setters are considered separate breeds today.
Brief History
During the 1800s, Irish huntsman bred the rangy “Red Setter” to cover flat countryside of the Emerald Isle. The Irish Setter’s kinsman from Scotland then bred the “Gordon Setter” to flush and retrieve game in rocky terrain. The Irish Setter is a hardworking dog breed that is both energetic and efficient in the Gun Dog Group. It is a good looking dog breed that is graceful, and gentle. This dog breed will show a hunter that he’s found birds by lying down on his belly. The Irish Setter has been a tremendous success in the show ring since the 1870’s.
Physical Features
The Irish Setter is a medium-to large-size dog breed that is lean and athletic in build. With a long, lean head, and almond-shaped brown eyes, the Irish Setter has long drop ears, and a black nose. There is delicate chiseling along the muzzle, around the eyes and along the cheeks.
Their tails are tapered to a fine point. They are rich red in color and aristocratic in build. Their coats are mahogany or a rich chestnut red. Their coat are flat and may have white markings on the chest, toes, and throat. This dog breed has an outgoing personality suitable for all family members, adults and children alike.
Average Height:
23-28 inches
Average Weight:
55-80 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Irish Setters are the quintessential family dogs. These pups need companionship, and plenty of mental stimulation. Gun dogs were bred to help hunters in the field, and to work together with people and other dogs. This breed adores children, and are the best companions for camping and hiking trips. They also enjoy swimming and boating. This dog breed is very active, and needs positive dog training and socialization from puppyhood to ensure that they are welcoming to everyone. This breed does not do well with apartment living, and is at its best with farms, and large gardens to play in. Active dog parents are a must because the Irish Setter.
Possible Health Concerns
The Irish Setter is a healthy dog breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary developmental disease. HD affects Irish Setters. HD occurs when the hip joint fails to develop properly.
Hypothyroidism: This is a deficiency of the thyroid hormone, and can cause weight gain in the Irish Setter, as well as constipation, and cold sensitivity.
Osteosarcoma: This is a type of bone cancer that is on the rise in Irish Setters. It is mostly found on the dog’s limbs, although it can also be found on the shoulder at times. Most Irish Setters who are affected with osteosarcoma will get this between the ages of 7-10 years of age.
Entropion: This is an inherited eye condition. This occurs when the eyelid rolls inward causing the eyelid to rub against the cornea. This is a very painful condition that can lead to blindness. Surgery correction early on helps to correct this condition and prevent blindness.
Bloat: The Irish Setter 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. At the first signs of dry vomiting, restlessness and discomfort, contact your emergency veterinarian. Don’t wait for a few hours. This is a true emergency that is life-threatening
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) is the name for a group of diseases that cause degeneration of the retina. This will include inherited abnormalities of light-sensitive cells.
irish setter
Exercise
The Irish Setter needs daily exercise with plenty of off-leash runs to maintain a healthy weight and stay mentally stimulated. This breed enjoys training, and benefits mentally from all the positive attention it receives during positive dog training. The Irish Setter is a great running and hiking companion, and is also an excellent hunting dog.
Nutrition
Each brand of dog food should be chosen with your dog’s age and specific health needs in mind. Consult with your veterinarian as to the best dietary option for your Irish Setter.
irish setter puppy
Grooming
The Irish Setter has a rich red, silky and soft coat. Grooming needs to occur daily with a soft bristle brush, and a metal dog comb to remove tangles and matting. Twice yearly dental visits are recommended for cleanings to prevent gum disease in your Irish Setter. Nails should be trimmed as often as necessary.
The Irish Setter is an affectionate and happy dog breed that is eager to please, and will easily adapt into your home. These pups do not do well alone at home all day, and need to participate in plenty of family activities. This breed is gentle and loving with children.
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.
Preparing Your Pets for Winter
Winter storm Cato is heading up the east coast, and is expected to bring the first snow fall of the season to many cities. These conditions give us pause to consider the preparation for and well-being of our pets during these times of extreme weather. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. They should be kept inside. Long-haired and thick-coated dogs are more tolerant of cold weather, but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below freezing weather.
