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Thinking About Adopting a Bird? 5 Things to Know
Interested in adding a bird to your home? Great! Birds are intelligent, social creatures, that don’t require much grooming or maintenance. However, most birds are anything but quiet, and they do require a lot more interaction than you may realize. It’s a good idea to do your research before adding a bird to your life.
THE JAPANESE CHIN
The Japanese Chin dog breed
The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, is aptly named after its country of possible origin. It is part of the UKC, companion Group, and the AKC, Toy Group. Despite its name, some believe the Japanese Chin actually came from China as a gift from a Chinese emperor. Historically, the breed was very popular with the Japanese nobility.
Brief History
The Japanese Chin’s origin is of question. Some believe this breed came from Korea, while others say that it originated from China. There were Buddhist monks, Chinese emperors, as well as European merchants that were credited for bringing the Japanese Chin to Japan, approximately 500 to 1000 years ago. The Japanese nobles then improved on this small breed. In 1854 the Chin was introduced to the west when Japan opened for trade after 200 years of isolation.
Physical Features
The Japanese Chin is a small, square-shaped and well-balanced dog breed with a large, round head. Japanese Chins have large, warm brown eyes that are often emotive. It has a short, broad, muzzle with a black nose, open nostrils and small v-shaped drop ears. This breed looks aristocratic and has a very unique expression. Its famous tail is plumed and carried over the back. They tend to have very curious and alert facial expressions. Their coats are thick, single, and silky with a heavily coated rump area. The coat color typically ranges from black and white, to black and white with tan characteristics, or red and white. Occasionally they can have tan or red spots over the eye area, inside ears, and on their cheeks.
Average Height:
8-11 inches
Average Weight:
4-11 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-12 years
Temperament
The Japanese Chin has a good memory. This very intelligent dog breed is sensitive and mild-mannered. They typically get along with everyone — dogs, animals and children. They can be initially shy with strangers, but affectionate with immediate family and once they get to know a new person. Above all, the Japanese Chin enjoys being pampered. This breed does not do well if isolated from family during the holidays. The Chin is easy to train, though has bursts of stubbornness at times. The Chin needs to start socialization during the first four weeks of life and positive dog training early on to overcome stubborn habits. Male Chins may have some housebreaking issues, but these are resolved easily with consistency and regular positive training.
Special Needs
The Japanese Chin is a low maintenance dog. That said, the long silky coat needs plenty of care. The Chin does well with all dogs, children, and people. This breed can only benefit from positive dog training classes to help prevent stubbornness. They’re usually independent, loyal and devoted to family. The Chin has some cat-like qualities and may be shy and reserved. This is a sensitive dog breed.
Positive training for the Chin needs to be consistent, yet one needs to take into consideration the sensitivity and intelligence of this breed and not break their spirit with unnecessary harsh reprimands. Dog training needs to mold the needs of this dog breed in a positive way so as not to break his quirkiness. Attentive pet parents are usually recommended. Socialization, as with all dog breeds should start during the first four weeks.
One quirk: Japanese Chins tend to be afraid of thunderstorms. Vets usually recommend “relax and recover shirts” to provide therapeutic pressure to help dogs feel secure and calm during thunderstorms or times of stress. Use of calming essential oils with the use of Calm Paws Calming Disks work well. Thundershirts, another anxiety wrap, also provides gentle, constant pressure to help dogs deal with stress during travel, separation anxiety, storm phobia and other every day stresses that your Chin may have to deal with.
Possible Health Concerns
Luxating Patella: The Japanese Chin may be predisposed to this condition. This occurs when the patella slips out of the trochlear groove and causes lameness. The kneecap ends up being displaced towards the midline of the dog’s body.
GM2 Gangliosidosis: This is a recessive hereditary diseae. This disease was also called Tay Sachs disease or Sandhoff’s disease. It involves lysosomal storage, and is fatal. Symptoms include loss of coordination, head shaking, mental dullness and weakness.
Cardiac Diseases. Inherited cardiac diseases in the Chins like subaortic stenosis and cardiomyopathies are congenital (present at birth). Some symptoms may include heart murmurs resulting in exercise intolerance, and possible congestive heart failure. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Epilepsy results in seizures that can be caused by numerous conditions. Some of these include low blood sugar, brain tumor, heat stroke, nutritional deficiencies, poisons or toxins, and distemper. Inherited epilepsy in the Chin has been showing up a lot in this gene pool. Environmental hazards are also to blame.
Cataracts: This is a condition where the lens of the eye progressively loses transparency. This often results in blindness.
The Japanese Chin dog
Exercise
The Japanese Chin needs regular exercise and lots of fun play time. This dog breed has bursts of energy and does well with frequent short walks, trips to the dog park and playing ball. The more regular the exercise, the better their overall disposition will be. This is not a dog to leave alone all day. The Chin will get agitated and lonely. Plenty of socialization is needed during puppyhood so that this dog breed has no problems with other dogs later on.
Nutrition
A high-quality dog food for the appropriate life stage is recommended for the Chin. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and spirited breed. Assess your dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that they may be prone to. Ask your veterinarian to help you.
The Japanese Chin
Grooming
The Japanese Chin has a very long and silky coat. This breed needs to be brushed every day to remove loose hair and dirt. This also helps to prevent matts and tangles which can be worked through with a slicker brush or metal comb. Using natural spritzes and conditioners will make grooming easier.
Teeth need to be brushed daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Ears need to be cleaned regularly and checked for sensitivity. Trim nails as needed. Your Japanese Chin will need to have a professional dental cleaning twice a year. Consult with your veterinarian for advice. If you’re using a professional groomer, be sure to check references. Chins are a small dog breed that need to be treated gently and enjoy lots of positive reinforcements like healthy dog treats. These can be used to reward your Chin when he behaves during a nail trim.
This dog breed enjoys the comforting scent of people, most especially family, including children. This mild-mannered and sensitive dog breed needs time to adjust to new surroundings.
THE SIAMESE CAT
siamese cat
The Siamese is one of the oldest and most famous cat breeds, with ancestral roots in Siam, known today as Thailand. In Victorian England it gained the nickname “Royal cat of Siam” and was highly favored for its striking looks and an elegant coat color. These cats are beloved for their intelligent and curious natures.
Brief History
For many centuries, travelers to ancient Thailand brought home art and manuscripts that depicted the Siamese in full stature. Their migration to the western lands began during the late 19th century when they were used as show cats, most notably at the London Crystal Palace cat show. From here, they were introduced to the states when a US diplomat stationed in Thailand gave President Rutherford B Hayes a Siamese cat as a gift.
Physical Features
The Siamese coat is perhaps one of its most unique physical features for its color and glossy appearance. There are two types of Siamese cats: traditional and show. Traditional Siamese cats have apple shaped heads while show Siamese cats have wedge-shaped heads with ears that are large and triangular in shape. The show Siamese has a tubular body with long legs and flat paws. Both have striking almond-shaped blue eyes that sparkle with adoration and curiosity.
Average Height:
12-15 inches
Average Weight:
6-14 pounds
Life Expectancy:
11-15 years
Temperament
Siamese cats are known to bond deeply with their owners and always want to be a part of any activity you do. Whether it be following you around the house, climbing into your lap or sharing your bed, this breed loves to be involved. Siamese cats are also known for being extremely vocal — they have opinions and love chirping back to their humans.
siamese cat breed
Special Needs
Siamese tend to exhibit lots of beauty both inwards and outwards. Because of this, they are one of the most commonly-stolen cat breeds. Make sure to maintain close supervision when letting your Siamese cat outdoors.
Possible Health Concerns
Amyloidosis — when the amyloid protein is deposited in body’s organs, primarily the liver in Siamese cats.
Asthma/bronchial disease.
Congenital heart defects.
Exercise
Siamese cats are generally very active. When left with other cats and animals, Siamese will join whatever activity the rest of the pets are involved in. They love to play.
Nutrition
Any cat-friendly diet, both home-prepared or commercially manufactured, should grow with the Siamese at all its ages. Siamese owners are also advised to check their diets when they get to adulthood. Fresh, clean water should also be available for them to drink.
Grooming
The short Siamese coat is easy to groom and maintain. While they do shed, if you adhere to a strict grooming routine, it shouldn’t be too cumbersome. Comb the coat on a weekly basis using a stainless steel comb to remove any dead hair.
Siamese cats are ideal for owners who crave companionship and affection. They are highly intelligent, hyper-vocal, and love staying active.
the siamese cat
THE BOMBAY CAT
bombay cat
The Bombay cat was first bred by a Louisville, Kentucky cat breeder, Nicky Horner. She wanted a short-haired, black-eyed, mini panther-like cat that could live at home. She was also inspired by the black leopard of India.
Brief History
The Bombay has no link to wild cats. In 1953, the Bombay was created through selective breeding. Horner bred a black American Shorthair cat to a Burmese female that was a Grand Champion show cat. After a few generations, the Bombay breed was formed. This black cat looked like no other domesticated cat and received CFA Championship status in 1976. This Bombay is now recognized by all cat breed associations. The International Cat Association recognized them in 1979.
Physical Features
The Bombay has a sturdy and compact body of medium height. Their coats are short, flat and black, displaying the Bombay’s muscular form. There is no paling along the black roots of the coat. Their eyes are either copper or green and their nose, soles and mouths are black.
Average Height:
8 to 10 inches
Average Weight:
8 to 12 pounds
Life Expectancy:
9 to 13 years
Temperament
The Bombay is extremely friendly. This breed needs one-on-one time with its cat parents and does not do well alone all day. Curling up on their owners’ laps for hours is not uncommon. The Bombay needs plenty of love, fun cat toys, and mental stimulation. This breed is not very vocal.
bombay cat
Special Needs
Gingivitis: Regular dental care will reduce plaque development in your Bombay, which can lead to gingivitis and gum disease. With gingivitis, the gums will become inflamed because of plaque. Ligaments and bone are not yet affected. By including daily tooth brushing, dietary changes, using a plaque prevention gel, and oral rinses, you’ll be helping your cat. Consulting with your veterinarian for preventative cleanings every 3 months to save your Bombay’s teeth.
Sinus Problems: Viral infections are the most common causes of sinusitis in cats. Allergic sinusitis can occur seasonally or throughout the year. You cat may be exposed to indoor allergens like dusts and mold spores. Cats are prone to chronic nasal and sinus inflammation after severe acute viral infections. There may also be fungal nasal and sinus inflammation. Consult with your veterinarian.
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.
Possible Health Concerns
The Bombay is a healthy and moderately active cat breed that may be susceptible to the following health conditions:
The Turkish Van is quite a healthy cat — there aren’t many health issues that affect this breed. Despite this, the Turkish Van can suffer from a condition that is known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is an inherited genetic condition that require medical attention.
Exercise
When choosing cat toys for your Bombay cat, opt for toys that allow the entire family to play together.
The Bombay cat needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people. This cat breed is well-behaved and does well with routine. Cat gyms, cat scratchers, and interactive cat toys within a cat friendly home environment work best for keeping this playful breed stimulated.
Nutrition
All cat breeds need high quality fat and protein in their diets. They also need amino acids, including taurine that cannot be found in either human food or dog food. There are also numerous specialty diets for your cat that are formulated specifically for certain medical problems like urinary tract disorder, obesity, or kidney disease.
All cats do well by being fed twice daily. During kittenhood, kittens will need to be fed every few hours. Growing kittens need more calories, nutrients, vitamins, protein, and calories. Your Bombay should be able to enjoy a peaceful meal in a quiet corner of the house. Some cat parents prefer to leave cat food out 24/7. Consult with your veterinarian for the best dietary advice for your Bombay.
Grooming
bombay cat
The Bombay needs daily grooming to remove shedding fur. Because this breed has a short and sleek coat, minimal grooming care is required. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. The Bombay is a cat breed that is always clean and shiny. Regular brushing will keep the Bombay’s coat sleek and shiny. Healthy nutrition also contributes to good coat health in cats. 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.
The Bombay is terrific companion and loving addition to any home. Remember that they thrive on attention!
THE MINIATURE PINSCHER
The Miniature Pinscher has been around for hundreds of years and is even older than the Doberman, though not related. It is believed that the Min-Pin was originally breed to be a ratter, but quickly became one of Europe’s favorite Toy dog breeds. Their quirky natures also make them very popular in the U.S.
Brief History
The Miniature Pinscher was bred around 1895 and is a part of the AKC/UKC, Toy Dog Group. Historians believe that the Min-Pin is a cross of the Dachshund and the Italian Greyhound. The German Pinscher was also crossed in at some point, though WWI slowed its development. Once the war concluded, German dog breeders and dog fanciers continued breeding the Miniature Pinscher. The Min-Pin arrived in the U.S in the 1920’s. Although the Min-Pin is a small dog breed, they make highly capable watch dogs.
Physical Features
The Min-Pin is a well-balanced, sturdy, and small dog breed. This dog breed has a compact and muscular wedge-shaped body. With a narrow, tapering head and a flat skull, the Min-Pin has a strong muzzle. Their heads are well-balanced with a black nose. Chocolate-colored Min-Pins typically have a brown nose to match. This pup’s eyes are alert, oval-shaped and so brown that they’re almost black. Ears may be cropped or natural. The Min-Pin has a short, smooth and straight coat. Coloring is either red, stag red (red with black mixed in), black with rust markings, or chocolate with rust markings.
The Min-Pin always looks well-groomed. This dog breed has a hackney-type movement that is high-reaching, and a free and easy gait. The tail and head are always carried high. The Min-Pin has total self-confidence, and is also a fearless, athletic dog breed.
Average Height:
10-12 inches
Average Weight:
8-10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
miniature pinscher
Temperament
The vigorous and fearless Miniature Pinscher is a proud, alert, and well-groomed breed. They typically are extremely confident with tremendous spirit and may seem arrogant to other dogs. This breed may be wary of strangers and is sometimes aggressive with other dogs.
The Min-Pin will be combative if provoked. This dog breed does well with positive dog training and socialization starting at puppyhood. That said, dog parents need to protect this super confident little guy from larger dogs.
The Min-Pin does well with apartment living. Additionally, this spirited dog breed enjoys being indulged, and is very popular when visiting bookstores and cafes. The Min-Pin does well with all the attention he gets when out and about. They make spirited, loyal family additions.
Special Needs
The Min-Pin makes a wonderful active and alert companion dog, but definitely needs plenty of socialization starting the first four weeks of puppyhood. They may occasionally have aggressive tendencies towards strangers and other animals, so the sooner this breed starts with socialization and positive training, the better. Although you may think that because this dog breed is small, this is a laid back dog breed, keep in mind that the Min-Pin’s original purpose was for ratting. This dog breed is amenable to city living, but must have daily walks and trips to the local dog park. The Min-Pin often makes for a wonderful travel companion. This breed should always be supervised around children, as they tend to be short-tempered.
Min-Pin pups that have been socialized early tend to be more relaxed later on in life in different environmental situations. They also are more tolerant of children, other animals, and people. The more socialization and positive training your Min-Pin gets, the nicer they’ll be.
Children should also learn not to disturb the Min-Pin when eating, not to carry him around or be aggressive. This dog breed generally prefers adults to children and does well with a relaxed environment. That said, the Min-Pin is prone to separation anxiety when left alone. This breed may also be difficult to housetrain, especially male Min-Pins.
The Min-Pin has a high prey drive and may be possessive over food and dog toys. They love affection and benefit from a lot of TLC.
Possible Health Concerns
Cervical Dry Disk: This is a common neurological problem found in Min-Pins. Cervical disk disease results in the loss of flexibility in the intervertebral disk. The discs no longer act as shock absorbers. Symptoms include stiff head and neck, severe muscle spasms and possible paralysis.
Patellar Luxation: This is typically congenital in Toy breeds like the Min-Pin, and may occur at the same time as other limb abnormalities. It is caused by the abnormal development of the kneecap(patella). X-rays will aid in seeing the severity of the displacement.
Legg-Calve- Perthes Disease: This is the deterioration of the top of the femur (femoral head), and is seen in Toy and smaller dog breeds. It is characterized by a lack of blood supply, and the destruction of blood vessels of the bone. Some symptoms may include hindlimb lameness, loss of muscle in the thighs, and pain when moving the hip joint. Treatment involves surgery.
Epilepsy: This is an inherited disease that causes seizures.
Hypothyroidism a deficiency of the thyroid hormone and can cause weight gain in dogs, as well as constipation and cold sensitivity. Treatment typically involves thyroid hormone supplementation.
Canine Mucopolysaccaridoses: The Min-Pin is especially prone to this. It is a group of metabolic disorders that are caused by an accumulation of glycosaminoglycans or mucopolysaccharides. Symptoms may include severe bone disease, dwarfism, degenerative joint disease, and eye cloudiness.
Exercise
The Miniature Pinscher is a sturdy and headstrong little fellow and needs to be walked regularly to avoid cabin fever. This breed tends to bark a lot, and will become demanding if he’s left alone too often. That said, this breed learns very fast, so don’t let bad habits set in. The Min-Pin does well with frequent visits to the dog park and running off leash.
If this breed is not exercised properly, it may become aggressive and very rowdy. Long hikes, walks, canine surfing, and obedience classes are great for this loyal and alert pup. The Mini-Pin wants nothing more than to be with their pet parent.
Nutrition
The Min-Pin does well on a high-quality dog food. If you’re opting for home-prepared dog food, consult with your veterinarian first. All dog food diets should have the approval of a veterinarian. Smaller dog breeds tend to pick up weight easily and are prone to being overweight.
The Lagotto Romagnolo
Grooming
The Min-Pin is a low maintenance dog breed with minimal grooming required. Daily combing with a soft brush is all that’s needed. Consult with your veterinarian as to the healthiest flea and tick products. Your Min-Pin will need to be bathed weekly. With so many natural dog shampoos and conditioners available today, make sure that you use one that is appropriate for your Min-Pin’s skin and coat. Tearless shampoos work well. Some sensitive Min-Pin’s may not do well with scented products and may only be able to tolerate hypoallergenic products.
Min-Pin’s require monthly pedicures. If you’re not comfortable doing this, consult with a professional dog groomer or veterinarian. The Min-Pin’s ears also need to be regularly cleaned. This can be done by wiping a cotton ball or canine wipe, moistened with a canine ear cleaner, inside the ear. To prevent chronic gum disease, brush your Min-Pin’s teeth every morning. Professional dental cleanings are recommended twice a year.
THE BURMESE CAT
The Burmese originated from Thailand, near the Thai-Burma border. This cat breed was then developed in the U.K, and in the U.S. In 1871, Harrison Weir had a cat show at the Crystal Palace where two Siamese cats were shown. Both resembled the Burmese cat breed as it is today. It is almost similar to the Tonkinese cat breed. Dr. Cheeseman Thompson imported a cat called Wong Mau into San Francisco in 1930. This cat was a brown female cat that was different in build to the Siamese, and could be classified as a separate breed.
Brief History
The Burmese cat breed is believed to be related to a female Tonkinese cat called Wong Mau. This cat was imported in to the U.S in 1930, and in turn was bred with the American Siamese cat called Tai Mau, a sealpoint Siamese. The kittens were dark brown. U.S cat breeders then developed a breed standard that was different from the Burmese one. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized this breed in 1936. The CFA then suspended breed recognition a decade later due to extensive Siamese outcrossing. By 1954, the CFA lifted the suspension, and by 1958, the United Burmese Cat Fanciers (UBCF) set forth an American judging standard which still stands today.
Today, most modern cat registries do not recognize the two cat breeds as different breeds. The British breed is known as the European Burmese. The first Burmese cats were dark brown. Today, the Burmese comes in numerous colors. The Burmese is well known for its playful and social temperament. They are also very vocal.
Physical Features
The Burmese has two breed standards in which both head and body shape differs. The British (traditional Burmese) cat breed has a body that is slender, long-bodied, with a wedge-shaped head. The ears are large and pointed. The muzzle is long and tapering. The eyes are moderately almond-shaped. The eye color is gold or yellow. The legs are long, and the paws are oval. With a tapering tail of medium length, the British Burmese cat breed is a small to medium cat breed that is muscular and heavy. They are also silky soft when touched.
The American Burmese cat breed has a stockier build, with a much larger head, round eyes, and a much shorter, and flatter muzzle. The ears are also set wider apart, with the legs and tail proportionate to the body. In both breed standards, the breed is a muscular breed that is thicker in build, and heavy when picked up. The coat is thick and shiny, and looks like satin. Blue Burmese will have a medium colored blue coat. The nose and paw pads will be slate grey. Champagne colored Burmese will yield a honey beige coat color. The nose is brown and the paw pads pinkish, brown color. Platinum Burmese will be a silvery grey color. The nose and paw pads will be pinkish, lavender in color.
Average Height:
10-12 inches
Average Weight:
6-10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
The Burmese loves to gaze and admire the outdoors. This cat breed is laid back and fun. They adore affection, plenty of interactive cat toys, and cat trees with perches. These cats are great climbers that can be leash trained easily. This is an outgoing cat breed that delights in making new friends. They get on well with people, other animals that are not aggressive, and gentle children.
The Burmese loves to play, and will follow you for attention. An assortment of interactive cat toys is recommended for this cat breed. They enjoy being around family, and do not do well being alone all day. They are a one-person cat breed that bond closely with their pet parent. The Burmese is vocal, and are known to be persistent when trying to get your attention. This very intelligent and affectionate cat breed does well with apartment and indoor living. The Burmese may be prone to feline depression and anxiety if left alone for long periods of time. This cat breed does well with plenty of TLC! They do well with active families, and other pets.
Burmese cat
Possible Health Concerns
Gingivitis: With gingivitis, the gums will become inflamed because of plaque. By daily tooth brushing, dietary changes, using a plaque prevention gel, and oral rinses, you’ll be helping your cat.
Psychogenic Alopecia: This is when there is abnormal hair loss that is caused from excessive grooming. It may result from cat’s being stressed from other cats, dogs or people.
Cherry Eye (Eyelid Protrusion): This is a disorder of the third eyelid, resulting in swollen redness of the eye. It is more common in Persian- related cat breeds.
Cleft Palate: The Burmese may be prone to this birth defect. This is due to the palate bones not diffusing. Kittens will be unable to nurse if born with this defect.
Vestibular Disease: This is caused by a congenital abnormality. It may also result from trauma inside your cat’s ear. It may be caused by cancer or certain infections. It affects the nervous system in cats, and causes a lack of coordination.
Exercise
Your Burmese will scratch for numerous reasons, such as stretching and exercising their toes, shedding the dead outer layer of their claws, and to mark their territory. Free-standing scratchers are ideal for the Burmese, as well as cat condos that have designated scratching posts.
The Burmese cat breed needs daily exercise combined with plenty of mental stimulation through active play and interaction with people.
This cat breed is an intelligent and very affectionate cat breed that does well in most cat friendly environments. They still need to play and interact with people, and should not be left alone all day.
Grooming
The Burmese needs daily grooming to remove shedding or dead hair. Because this breed has a short and fine, soft coat, grooming is easy. Stainless steel combs help to remove dead hair. Care must be taken when grooming leg hair and body hair to avoid sensitive areas. Some cats have very sensitive areas along their backs, legs, and belly area. Curry brushes help with grooming, and will remove dead hair and debris from your cat’s coat.
With their intelligence and fun personalities, this vocal cat breed has plenty of attitude.
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.
DOG TRAINING AND BEHAVIOR TIPS
Training a dog can be both a highly rewarding and completely frustrating endeavor. Far too often, new dog owners stumble through training their pooch, then give up after a major setback.