Arthritis In Dogs - Does Your Pooch Suffer?

By David P. Lee

As a dog begins to age or suffers constant stiffness or has a disability, watching their arthritic decline is heart wrenching. This disease progresses at a slow pace, beginning with a discomfort that is hard to pinpoint. The worst cases turn into an animal not being able to stand, walk about, or even eat their meals.

There are many forms that arthritis comes in with different underlying causes. This leads to many health questions. When it comes to cats and dogs, arthritis can strike any breed or age. While humans seem to commonly experience arthritis through autoimmune rheumatism, dogs too suffer from this condition. Lyme disease and primary cartilage degeneration in young dogs are common causes, joined by one of the most striking - degenerative osteoarthritis. As animals get older, their bony joints don't move as smoothly, causing bony spurs to emerge, which work towards alleviating affected joints. It is the unstable joints and bony proliferations that cause pain in an animal as they attempt to move.

When arthritis attacks, your pet is usually unable to express this pain. Older dogs and cats do not moan and groan about achy joints. Sometimes, displaying difficulty getting up and down is a sign. If they have problems climbing stairs, jumping onto furniture, getting into the car, or seem sore after exercise, you may suspect arthritis. Your pet may even become grumpy, which is why a yearly checkup for older dogs and cats is a must. With some types of arthritis (like OCD, hip dysplasia, and rheumatoid arthritis), treatments that involve surgery and medicine work well. However, degenerative osteoarthritis has no cure.

An affected animal has no choice but to live the rest of their life on anti-inflammatory drugs that include aspirin, phenylbutazone, Feldene, and when it becomes worse - cortisone-like options. Yet, some owners have found benefits in turning towards natural therapeutic treatments, which have proven to ease pain, slow down disease progression, delay the need for drugs, and reduce the medications that may cause serious side effects.

A common initial approach is to change all food to a rather high quality of natural diet selections, while the best dog food is made in the home using recipes illustrated in books by Pitcairn and Volhard. Most dogs that suffer pain undergo a great change after switching their diet to one with high in vitamines and nutrients. The next step is to administer glucosamine supplements, which work to fortify the cartilage associated with damaged or disease-ridden joints.

A veterinarian can point you in the right direction - usually suggesting brands like Cosequin and Glycoflex. To treat pathologic inflammation, antioxidant vitamins are also good, especially when used in combination of homeopathic treatments. When it comes to arthritis, the subject of herbal treatments often arises. Pet owners ask about this approach, yet numerous holistic veterinarians believe herbs are not as useful as nutritional changes and working on the body. If you are thinking about herbal treatments, check with a professional veterinarian who is well versed in Eastern herbal prescription choices.

A majority of animals that are suffering from arthritis, or other musculoskeletal conditions, attempt to relieve their constant pain by twisting about their spines. Occasional chiropractic attention is something in which these such animals will certainly appreciate. Acupuncture treatment is something else which many animals have responded well too when suffering with moderate to severe pain.

Arthritis is not a death sentence. It can be contained with a blend of natural and conventional approaches. It is essential to slow down the advancements of the dog Illness, dog disease by introducing a healthy diet with good dog food nutrition along with the administration of glucosamine supplements during the early stages of the disease. If your pet shows signs of being stiff, then ensure that you speak with a veterinarian immediately.

David Lee is owner and designer of several pet sites. For more information on cats see, cat furniture, or for dogs check out our dog ramps.

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Constipation Dog Health - The Scoop on Your Dog's Poop

By Nicki Howell

Are you concerned about constipation dog health? Typically, dogs have bowel movements at least once every two days. Read on to learn about the symptoms, causes, and prevention of canine constipation.

Symptoms.

A dog who is constipated may experience loss of appetite, vomiting and seem lethargic. If your dog strains while having a bowel movement or stool is bloody, your dog may have an infection and you should consult your vet immediately.

Causes.

Certain breeds of dogs may be more prone to constipation; however it can affect any dog. Eating large meals, bones, chew toys, sticks or other objects that aren't meant to be edible, can cause blockage in your dog's digestive track.

Causes can also be more serious, such as a condition called "mega colon" which is an inflamed colon which prevents the discharge of feces. If you suspect a problem, the best idea is to consult with your vet.

Treatment.

Typically your vet will exam your dog and use radiography if necessary. If the problem is minor, your vet may elect to use a laxative that will soften the stool. If that doesn't work, your doctor may opt for surgery. Your dog may also need to be treated for dehydration.

Prevention.

Making sure your dog has a diet high in fiber and drinks plenty of water can do wonders for preventing constipation. Regular exercise will also stimulate the bowels.

Although it may be tempting to feed your dog from the tables, refraining will help prevent constipation. Foods that contain, flour, sugar, rice, dairy and high protein can be problematic for your dog.

Did we answer your question? If not, please visit www.dog-health-info.net for additional resources.

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How To Find Your Perfect Puppy

By Tjangu Jack

The choices you make at the start are crucial. You have to ask yourself if you are prepared to devote the next ten to fifteen years of your life to the care of this living, adorable creature. Are you ready to give him unconditional love and attention, for that is what he will be giving you in return, if you treat him the right way.

If your answer is yes to these first basic questions, then you have to consider other choices, which are numerous. How big or small do you want him? Do you want an energetic or a docile pet? Do you like them long haired or short haired? Do you want him to be kid friendly? Do you want a pedigreed puppy, or a cross breed, or a rescued one?

A lot of the choices will fall into place, if you consider where you live and how you live. For instance, is your home large enough for a Great Dane? Do you have a balcony or a fenced-in yard, or neither? Are you an indoors person, or do you love going on long walks? Do your neighbors like dogs? Are there kids at home, or any other pet? Will there be someone at home at all times, or will your puppy have to get used to being home alone? Lastly, will you be able to afford feeding him, paying the vet’s bills, and kennel charges when you go on vacations?

So do all the research you can beforehand. Talk to the local vet; if there is a local dog rescue center, you can tell them about your requirements; see the kind of dogs the neighbors have, they may have already done their homework, and their experience with their pet dog may give you valuable insights; read up on different breeds at the local library, the internet, or at the bookstore. Don’t make the mistake of giving in to the kids’ whims; you have to be totally comfortable with the choice you are going to make, since you will be bearing the brunt of nurturing the puppy!

When you are doing your research, note down any special equipment which might be required for the breed you will be choosing, like yard fencing, collars and leashes, bedding, food, toys etc. You have to know beforehand if your chosen breed is prone to any health problems which it might develop; you might even have to change your mind.

Lastly, never buy a puppy for someone as a surprise, and never buy one for someone without asking them these questions.

To find out what Dog Obedience training can do for you and to
Learn expert dog training techniques for your puppy and advice to help with dog behavior problems, and more tips to raise an obedient dog and companion. Please go to this link:
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Information About Commercial Dog Foods

By Jared Lee

There is no such single commercial dog food which can be designated as the "best-suited food" for all dogs. Every dog has different and exclusive nutritional requirements based on its breed, age, size, and level of physical activity. Therefore, what is best for one dog may not work at all for another dog. Feeding your dog with just one kind of meal for its entire life can leave a lot of nutritional gaps. Therefore, all dog owners prefer to feed their dogs with a variety of commercial dog foods in order to fill these nutritional gaps. In addition, commercial dog foods contain a lot of supplements for better health of your dog.

All manufacturers of dog food are supposed to strictly abide by the AAFCO guidelines and provide the composition of the dog food. Although the list mentions the ingredients and contents of the dog food, the exact percentage by weight of each ingredient is usually not mentioned. Usually the list mentions the names of all the ingredients present in the dog food in decreasing order of weight.

There are different brands of commercial dog foods available in the market. They usually contain ingredients such as -- animal by-products, animal digests, meat (beef, chicken, etc), bone and animal fat. Many meals are grain based formulations containing corn gluten, and include corn, barley, whet, rice, oats, brewer's rice, brown rice or any other grain. Other plant based formulations include amaranth, alfalfa, semolina, barley, soybean, flaxseed, or linseed. Commercial dog foods may also contain whole eggs, whole fish or fish cuttings.

Many commercial dog meals are exclusively made up of fresh vegetable and fruit base. Such meals contain green turnips, tomatoes, carrots, peas, guava leaves or peppermint leaves. A variety of fruits are also used in commercial dog foods such as oranges, papaya or pumpkins. The benefit of a meal based on fresh fruits and vegetables is that it provides the essential vitamins and minerals required for your dog's body.

Check Out More Articles:

Develop A Plan For Dog Training

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Why Does My Beagle Dog Do That?

By Michelle Adams

The history of the Beagle dog is a long and somewhat fuzzy one. No one seems to know for sure the exact origin of this breed, but information seems to lead to the fact that Beagles came from the Talbot Hound, a breed that is now extinct. By the early part of the second century, Beagles were brought from France to England, and the primary purpose of this dog was for hunting rabbits.

Beagles were bred with distinct instincts that allowed them to chase these critters across the countryside and coax them out of their hiding spots for the benefit of the hunters. Understanding these basic hunting instincts will help a Beagle owner to better comprehend some of the habits and tendencies of their Beagle dog. For example, Beagles required a high amount of energy to keep up with their hunts, and the dogs of this breed today will also need the opportunity to exercise regularly. Because these dogs were also bred in packs, your Beagle will need the socialization of his new pack, which will consist of you and the rest of your family members.

Beagles were originally bred in packs, so this dog is used to the noise and activity of others. He will love spending the majority of his time indoors with his new family, and will not particularly want to be left alone for long periods of time. This means that if you are going to leave your Beagle while at work during the day, it is best to keep him in a confined space, like a crate, indoors. This will help to prevent the destruction that a bored Beagle can cause, as well as the "complaining" that this dog might do through barking and howling.

When you are home, your dog will want to spend plenty of time playing with you, and will love all of the members of your family in the same affectionate manner. Keep your Beagle active by taking him out to a fenced yard for playtime or indulging him in a long walk - on his leash of course. Beagles are easily distracted by scents when they are outdoors, and will think nothing of taking off on an adventure of their own if they are not properly confined.

With the proper attention, care and training a Beagle dog can make a welcome addition to most family units. They usually love children and other pets, as long as they are properly socialized and trained. It is important never to leave small pets or young children with your dog unsupervised however, since accidents can happen with this exuberant pup. Beagles will enjoy plenty of activity and exercise, and will always be happy to see visitors on walks or coming into their homes. These dogs tend to be friendly, social and very playful.

If you are considering a Beagle as a family pet it is a good idea to collect as much Beagle information as possible to ensure that you are prepared to give your new pet all of the proper care and training that he will require. With the appropriate research and preparation you will undoubtedly have a successful and happy relationship with your new Beagle.

Michelle Adams is someone who has researched many breeds of dogs, including the Beagle. Since breeding brings certain instincts and behaviors into play with different types of dogs understanding the history of your Beagle will better equip you to work with your new pet. There is plenty of Beagle information available including the interesting history of your pet. Articles like this and interviews with experts in the field will help you to understand where your Beagle came from and why he acts the way he does.

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Dog Training - Recognizing, Preventing, And Handling Dog Aggression Part 1

By Phil Donahoe

A dog is an instinctively aggressive creature. In the wild, aggression came in very handy: dogs needed aggression to hunt, to defend themselves from other creatures, and to defend resources such as food, a place to sleep, and a mate. Selective breeding over the centuries has minimized and refined this trait significantly, but there's just no getting around it: dogs are physically capable of inflicting serious harm (just look at those teeth!) because that's how they've survived and evolved. And Mother Nature is pretty wily - it's hard to counteract the power of instinct!

But that doesn't mean that we, as dog lovers and owners, are entirely helpless when it comes to handling our dogs. There's a lot that we can do to prevent aggression from rearing its ugly head in the first place - and even if prevention hasn't been possible (for whatever reason), there are still steps that we can take to recognize and deal with it efficiently.

- Different aggression types -

There are several different types of canine aggression. The two most common ones are:

- Aggression towards strangers

- Aggression towards family members

You may be wondering why we're bothering categorizing this stuff: after all, aggression is aggression, and we want to turf it out NOW, not waste time with the details - right?

Well ... not quite. These two different types of aggression stem from very different causes, and require different types of treatment.

- Aggression towards strangers -

What is it?

It's pretty easy to tell when a dog's nervy around strange people. He's jumpy and on the alert: either he can't sit still and is constantly fidgeting, leaping at the smallest sound, and pacing around barking and whining; or he's veerrrry still indeed, sitting rock-steady in one place, staring hard at the object of his suspicions (a visitor, the mailman, someone approaching him on the street while he's tied up outside a store.)

Why does it happen?

There's one major reason why a dog doesn't like strange people: he's never had the chance to get used to them. Remember, your dog relies 100% on you to broaden his horizons for him: without being taken on lots of outings to see the world and realize for himself, through consistent and positive experiences, that the unknown doesn't necessarily equal bad news for him, how can he realistically be expected to relax in an unfamiliar situation?

What can I do about it?

The process of accustoming your dog to the world and all the strange people (and animals) that it contains is called socialization. This is an incredibly important aspect of your dog's upbringing: in fact, it's pretty hard to overemphasize just how important it is. Socializing your dog means exposing him from a young age (generally speaking, as soon as he's had his vaccinations) to a wide variety of new experiences, new people, and new animals.

How does socialization prevent stranger aggression?

When you socialize your dog, you're getting him to learn through experience that new sights and sounds are fun, not scary.

It's not enough to expose an adult dog to a crowd of unfamiliar people and tell him to "Settle down, Roxy, it's OK" - he has to learn that it's OK for himself. And he needs to do it from puppyhood for the lesson to sink in.

The more types of people and animals he meets (babies, toddlers, teenagers, old people, men, women, people wearing uniforms, people wearing motorcycle helmets, people carrying umbrellas, etc) in a fun and relaxed context, the more at ease and happy - and safe around strangers - he'll be in general.

Continued in Part 2...

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5 Important Facts About A Dog Raw Food Diet

By Sandy Griffin

While the recent headlines about tainted dog food have made the dog raw food diet more popular, it has been around for a long time. Dog owners worried about their dogs health are now looking for a better way to feed them, since the recent recalls to commercial dog foods.

Dog raw food diets are very simple, they basically will eat what the would in the wild. To break it down, you will feed your dog raw vegetables, raw meat, and raw meaty bones. If you are thinking about having your dog go on a raw meat diet here are a few things you need to know:

First start off having your dog eat just the meat and bones the first few days. Make sure that their stomachs are ok with this before moving on.

Make sure that you are giving your dog raw meat and bones, cooked bones will dry out and can splinter and cause internal damage to your dog. The types of raw meaty bones are; beef, chicken necks, wings, backs, or turkey necks. Turkey and chicken bones are soft enough for your dog to chew and will help exercise your dogs upper body muscle and jaw. This is one of the many benefits of a dog raw food diet.

Once your dog has become used to eating this raw food diet of meat and bones you can start to add some bland vegetables, like carrots into their diets. Give your dog a few days to a week to get used to these bland vegetables and then you can add more vegetables as you see fit. Be sure to check with your veterinarian to find out what kind of vegetables will have what kind of effect on your dog.

Carrots are good for their potassium, calcium, and vitamins. Mustard greens and watercress will help clean out the intestines. Then you have potatoes that your dog can not digest easily, onions in large amounts can cause stomach problems. Cabbage and broccoli will give your dog gas, that can clean out a room.

Owners have reported several benefits of putting their dog on a raw food diet: better smelling breath (the dogs, not the owner), improved coats and skin, lower veterinarian bills, and improved immune system.

So before you run out to your local butcher and start ordering all the raw meat and bones for your dog, be sure to check with your veterinarian. A dog raw food diet may not be right for all dog breeds. You need to make sure it is right for your dog before starting them on one. Just as you should check with your doctor before going on any kind of diet, the same is true for your dog.

You can find even more information at Dog Health Care and also recieve a free Dog Health Book. Much more information all for free.

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Guide to Common Dog Vaccines - DHPPV, DA2PPV, DHLPPV,

By Emily Kieson

Sometimes this particular vaccine is titled DHPPV, DA2PPV or DHPPV-C or some other similar variation. This particular vaccine is commonly referred to as the "Distemper-Parvo" vaccine or the "5-in-one" or "seven-in-one". Although there are some differences between them, you can tell what's in the vaccine based on the letters.

The D in DHPPV stands for Distemper. This airborne disease is actually a virus and attacks the nervous system in dogs causing the dog to have seizures, cough, vomit, and sometimes foam at the mouth. This disease is incredibly contagious and all dogs should be vaccinated with DHPPV as a result. Although secondary infections can be treated, most cases of Distemper are incurable and untreatable. Since this is a neurological disease, all dogs should be vaccinated for Distemper regularly. Puppies should receive a series of DHPPV shots before they are five months of age.

The H in DHPPV stands for Hepatitis also known as canine adenovirus type 2 (therefore when "A2" appears as part of this vaccine abbreviation, it refers to the same disease as the "H"). This disease, like the hepatitis in humans, attacks the liver and is contracted through a healthy dog's exposure to the feces, urine, blood, saliva, and nasal discharge of a dog who has the disease. Dogs are especially susceptible to this disease simply because they use their nose to sniff and evaluate their surroundings. Although hepatitis will correct itself in healthy individuals, it does come with symptoms that need treatment. These symptoms include diarrhea and poor immune response. Puppies and weak dogs are especially at risk.

One P in DHPPV stands for Parainfluenza. This is a respiratory tract infection (upper respiratory infection) in dogs, much like a cough or cold in humans. Some symptoms of it include nasal or eye discharge, coughing, and labored breathing. This is different than "kennel cough" or Bordetella, which is a separate vaccine.

One P in DHPPV is for Parvovirus. This is an incredibly contagious, often deadly virus that lives in soil for up to seven to ten years (depending on the study). Infected individuals shed the virus for up to three weeks and it can take up to ten days to two weeks for an infected animal to begin showing signs or symptoms. If an owner believes his or her animal has been exposed to parvo, the dog should be tested (at a vet's office) and vaccinated if he or she has not yet received the proper doses of the DHPPV vaccine. Parvo is very, very contagious.

Infected animals, usually young dogs and puppies, usually stop eating and drinking, lay around with little energy, and eventually have severe, dark, bloody diarrhea. Although some of these symptoms are the same as hookworm infestations, immediate action is necessary to ensure the dog's survival. There is no cure for parvo. Dogs will die from the dehydration and intestinal trauma, not the virus. Young dogs and puppies sometimes die within days of the beginning of symptoms.

Overnight care and IV fluids are required to keep dogs hydrated and comfortable while the virus runs it's course. This treatment often takes a few days and is very expensive. Owners should keep their puppies away from strange, potentially contaminated soil (like parks, strange yards, and dog parks) until the puppy is fully vaccinated ("fully vaccinated" means a series of vaccines 2-3 weeks apart from one another while the animal is still young).

The V stands for "Virus". CPV, for example, is simply the term used for Canine Parvovirus and is the abbreviation for a vaccine that only covers Parvo.

The L in DHLPPV stands for Leptospirosis. This disease is spread through urine and dogs contract the disease by licking a contaminated surface. Basically, leptospirosis, or lepto, is common mostly in kennels where strange, unknown, potentially contaminated dogs might urinate. The disease affects the liver and causes yellow eyes, lethargy, and sometimes renal failure. Many veterinarians have ceased giving a leptospirosis vaccine due to low risk under most circumstances.

The C in DHPPV-C stands for Coronavirus. This disease is spread through contaminated feces and causes diarrhea and vomiting in the infected dog. Although this disease is easily treated, it does manifest symptoms within three days of contamination. Because of the high level of exposure, kennel dogs are usually vaccinated for this disease.

DHPPV should be given annually to dogs under five years of age. Puppies should be vaccinated with DHPPV every 2 to 3 weeks until they are four months of age.

Consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your animal's vaccinations.

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How to Name Your New Puppy

By Randy Hemsley

Finally, you've made the important decision to bring a puppy into your home. You've researched different breeds on the Internet, talked to various breeders, consulted with veterinarians and harassed your dog-owning friends for advice, but now the time has come for your dog to finally come home. The question then is, what are you going to name poor, little Fido?

It has been estimated that the average dog will hear his name over 35,000 times during his lifetime, so you should choose it carefully. Resist the temptation to select a name that is too cute or funny. Instead, choose a name that's just right.

Keep reading for some tips on how to pick a great puppy name.

1. Brevity Is Best

Dogs respond well to short and easy-to-remember commands. So, pick a name that's succinct and clear. "Mr. Snugglebottoms the Third" may seem cute now, but by the time you get to the second half of that mouthful, your dog will be out the door.

Try to choose a name that has two syllables or less. If you insist on choosing a longer name, try to pick something that can be shortened into a nickname. For example, Mr. Snugglebottoms could be 'SB' for short.

2. Try Not to Rhyme

It's best not to name your dog something that's similar to a common command. For example, consider the dog owner who named his dog "Steve." Every time he tried to tell his canine friend to "stay," the dog came running up to him. So, choose a name that won't confuse your pup.

3. Think About the Neighbors

You'll be using your dog's name in front of other people, so keep your pet's name appropriate and kid-friendly. A name that may seem humorous now, won't be so funny years later when you and your pet has formed a special bond and in front of others you still have to call him "Precious."

4. Ask the Kids

If you have children, let them participate in the dog-naming process. It will get them involved in the overall dog adoption transition and make them more comfortable with this new addition to the family.

5. Reserve the Honors

Don't name your dog after someone you know. It may seem like an honor to you, but it could be construed as offensive.

6. Don't Teach an Old Dog New Names

If you're adopting an older dog, it's best not to try to change its name. Stick with what the dog already knows.

For information on practical dog necessities, please visit http://www.dog-necessities.com/, a popular site providing great insights concerning issues that help you with dog care, such as dog training products, dog medical supplies, and much more.

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How To Introduce A New Cat To Your Dog

By Joann Henry

Behavior Issues Do Exist

Just because many families have a cat and a dog does not mean that there are no behavioral problems. Some family pets have fights that the owners have to break up and some even take their issues to a behavior consultant for assistance with these issues.

It is very rare that a dog will be scared of a cat because of its size compared to the cat, but many people allow their dog to bully their cat. There are some cases where the dog is smaller than the cat. In these cases the smaller pet may spend most of its time in fear. Often these pets spend the day hiding in the basement or under a bed. This can cause chronic illnesses and anxiety.

You should provide a safe, friendly introduction for the two species to keep their relationship friendly and healthy. If you have existing pets that are in fear of one another you should try to reintroduce them, if you are adding a new pet to your home you should start the relationship out on the right foot.

Things to Consider when Providing an Introduction

You need to decide which of the two pets are considered to be the main pet in your home. You then need to ask your self these kind of questions. What kind of past does this animal have with the other species? Have they ever been with the other species? How did they react when they were around the other species? This will help you to pick the right cat for your dog or the other way around.

The dog or cat you are thinking about bringing home, is it a friendly animal towards different types of animals? It is best to be on the cautious side when it comes to your cat. It's better to think your dog would injure the cat rather than the cat injuring the dog. You should take caution even if the new dog is said to be friendly with other cats. They are going to get a little bit territorial and we don't want anyone to get hurt.

When you introduce the animals to each other you need to have enough man power to keep both pets safe. You should keep your dog on a leash for the first introduction, and keep your cat under your control as well. Allow the pets to sniff each other, allow them to be near each other, but do not allow them to try to take over the situation. You need to make sure BOTH species knows you are the boss and they are guests in this situation. Do not allow either to be hurt. Let them know they are both there by choice but the choice is yours, not theirs. In the end spending some time with the two pets letting them get to know each other should not take long and will save your family a lot of problems.

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Dog Christmas Sweaters - How To Save Money?

By Jakomo Dupont

First, remember if you have a large dog like a German Shepherd dog or Great Dane, you need to buy a X-Large Christmas dog sweater, sometime these dog sweaters are more expensive than small ones, but you do not worry about it because the prices for these dog clothes are very cheap.

Maybe you are thinking, please talk me about prices. Well, you can find out sweaters between $10 and $20, some of these products are handmade with very nice and unique designs.

The dog sweaters come with the traditional Christmas colors, as you will see, there are different colors, but if you think in Christmas, what colors come in your mind? Yes green and red, right? I can say that 100% of these dog sweaters come with these colors. Some of these dog clothes come with a stamp like a Christmas tree, read ball, etc.

How about the shipping and handling cost? Depend where you live, but really is very cheap, if you are living in United State or Canada, the cost is not more than $10 but if you are living outside these countries, sometime the price is $20. As you know the shipping and handling cost is more expensive than the product, but you do not worry about it because your dog will be happy with its new Christmas sweater.

Trick to save money: Some pet stores can give you free shipping and handling cost on orders of $50 or more, if for example, the sweater cost is $20 and the shipping cost $10, is it $30 right? Good, if you buy something more like a Christmas dog collar ($7), or a Christmas dog boots ($10), etc you have other Christmas gift, as you can see, you are saving money because you are not paying shipping cost.

Explore the list of pet stores where you can find out pet stores offering free shipping and handling cost.

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Shih Tzu - Canine Royalty

By Rebecca Simpson

The diminutive Shih Tzu, a blend of the Chinese Lhasa Apso and Pekinese dog breeds, has a history rich with royalty, tragedy, and loyalty. Varied forms of the breed have existed for centuries, but the dog we know today owes its existence to Dowager Empress Tzu Hsi of Tibet.

The Empress, who ascended to power in 1861, pampered her pets and bred them to be perfect companions, alert and eager to please. Unfortunately, the breed fell out of favor when the Empress died in 1908, and many dogs were killed by the new regime.

Information about the breed is scarce until the late 1920s and early 1930s, when Shih Tzus were imported to England and Scandinavia, with later generations reaching the United States and Canada. During World War II, they were popular with American soldiers, many of whom refused to leave their pets in Europe and instead brought them back to the States.

The Shih Tzu can be characterized as a lap dog with a pleasant personality and an eagerness to please the humans in its life. The dogs were bred for centuries to provide companionship, and they enjoy nothing more than lounging about in the company of humans. Their small size-nine to sixteen pounds-makes them a perfect pet for apartment dwellers and people who like to travel with their dogs.

Sometimes called "Tibetan lion dog," Shih Tzus were bred to resemble lions, with a flat face, prominent eyes, bowed front legs, and a fearsome facial expression. The breed is also known as the "chrysanthemum dog," because their wrinkled façade looks a bit like the chrysanthemum flower.

Their coat is long and slightly wavy and requires careful daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles. The results are worth the effort, as the dog's silky coat enhances its elegant appearance.

The Shih Tzu breed has been recognized by the British Kennel Club since 1935 and by the American Kennel Club since 1969, and is a popular favorite at dog shows with its long, flowing coat. Shih Tzus show in the Toy Group, competing against dogs like the Maltese, the Pomeranian, and the it's cousin, the Pekinese.

The breed is a good family dog, but its strong desire for attention from its master makes it a better choice for families with older children than families with infants. Some have been known to develop problems with jealousy when living in a home with young children. However, most Shih Tzus are affectionate, friendly and outgoing, and are only to happy to play the role of valued family pet.

The breed survived a dangerous period in the twentieth century to become the one of the twenty-first century's most popular dog. They are the ninth most popular registered breed in the American Kennel Club's 2006 most popular breed list, and this little dog's popularity continues to grow.

Rebecca Simpson, a native of Hong Kong, wrote a graduate thesis on the influence of dogs on recent Chinese royal culture. The Shih Tzu is as well known for its delightful personality as it is for its long, flowing coat. Shih Tzu information can be found online, at public libraries, and from breeders.

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Choosing The Right Size of Dog

By Ashley Peach

When you are looking to adopt a dog there are many things you must consider. First you must consider if you are a good candidate for a dog. Then you have to look at the type of dog you are interested in. Many of us who are just looking for a loving pet will often go to a pet shop, shelter or other place to find a dog that we love without real regard for the breed. In some cases we are even more interested in the breed as we have been exposed to that type of breed in the past and have found that we love them. When you are looking to introduce a dog into your life you should be conscious of the actual dog breed, the care, and of course the training the dog will need to make them a great pet. In your search for a dog you will find that many dogs are extremely affectionate and need a lot of love and attention. Once you have looked at all aspects of pet care from the type of breed you are interested in you have to look at your home. Dog breeds require a certain amount of space, which means you have to be cognizant of its full grown size. You may see the puppy is a small dog and that it will fit well in your home, but what will it grow up to be?

When selecting size it is important to know some of the breeds. For instance German Shepherds, Old English Sheepdogs, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Mastiff, and several other dogs are very large. They also require a great deal of space. If you live in the city and in an apartment you may find the place is too small to fit their full grown size. While they may live in the apartment with some contentment they need a lot of exercise during the day. If you work eight or more hours as does your family then the dog will not be getting the proper amount of exercise. Therefore for these dogs it is important to have a large backyard where they can run during the day. They will also need to have walks and play time with you.

If you do live in an apartment it is better to stay with some of the smaller dogs. Smaller dogs that make great city pets include Chihuahuas, Terriers, Chow Chow's, Japanese Chin, Cockapoos, and Poodles. These dogs tend to need less space and are active inside as well as out. You will also find that Beagles are great for indoors. While these dogs tend to run around a lot and have high amounts of energy they don't need near the walking time or space. Some of the smaller dogs do require yards to make them extremely happy, but there again if you have time for a dog park or to take them outside to play you will be fine living in an apartment or small home with a small backyard.

Dog care is extremely important not only in providing the proper nutrition and exercise, but in making sure the dog can be happy within your lifestyle. Remember that most dogs require a lot of affection and attention and that while some will do well in apartments they still need the time and attention it takes to get proper exercise. So size does matter when you consider the place that you live in.

Ashley Peach is the owner of dog supplies, dog collars and leads and puppy.

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Training your Yorkshire Terrier can be frustrating if you don't know where to begin

By Connie Ragen Green

Yorkshire terriers are homebodies for the most part, but if you must travel with your Yorkie, here are some important things to think about. With the holidays quickly approaching you may be invited to go somewhere and want or need to take your Yorkshire terrier along.

If you take the time for extra preparation, traveling with your Yorkie or other small breed dog can be an adventure for both of you and also quite a rewarding experience. Many travel agents are now used to assisting people with travel arrangements for their dogs. Be sure to tell them that you will be traveling with a Yorkshire terrier so that they understand that it is a very small dog who will be your travel companion.

Many hotels and motels now accept dogs. If you must leave your Yorkie alone in the room, be sure to place the DO NOT DISTURB sign on the door while you are gone. This will eliminate the possibility of a housekeeper or manager opening the door and frightening your dog or letting them out accidentally. Be sure to bring your pet's bed and a favorite toy so that they can feel more at home while you are on your trip.

Going to see your veterinarian is a must before traveling with your Yorkshire terrier. Tell your vet where you will be going and what your plans are so that they can make some recommendations. Be sure that all your dog's vaccinations are up to date and that you have a printed copy of their shot record. You will need proof of an up to date rabies vaccination and sometimes a health certificate, depending on where you are going. You may also want to have a microchip implanted in your Yorkie so that they can be positively identified if they get separated from you while you are traveling.

Training your Yorkshire Terrier can be frustrating if you don't know where to begin. Visit http://www.YorkshireTerriersAreTheBest.com to get important tips and tricks for training your Yorkie.

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How to Find Out Cool Dog Names - Easy Steps

By Jakomo Dupont

Are you ready to find out cool boy dog names? Great! Would you like to watch TV? Channels like MTV or Animal Planet could be a good resource to find out dog names, I know this could take time, turn on the TV, sit down, watch the TV, etc, etc but as you will see, you can find out great dog names watching TV.

But I know you are looking for unique and cool boy names, right? Would you like The Simpsons? how about Homer? or how about Bart? or Nelson? I would like Nelson, this name could be for a crazy dog, as you know when dogs are puppies you can check out if the puppy could become crazy and funny.

For example I have an Old Shepherd Germany dog, he is 13 years old, the name is Otto, yes! He is the Simpsons's bus driver. My Old Shepherd Germany dog is very nice but sometime is angry.

Would you like Mork and Mindy TV series? I have another dog, he is a Boxer dog breed, the name is Orson! He is funny, happy and affectionate.

Would you like the Music? I would like the old Punk Rock. For example I would like The Ramones, do you know them? You can find out names like Dee Dee Ram one, or Jhonny Ramone, Joy Ramone or Mary Ramone, why not Tommy Ramone, anyway as you can see you can find out Rock music start boy names for your little dog.

Do not worry, I know you are looking for unique and cool boy dog names, but I have added a couple of popular and top boy dog names for your little puppy friend. How about?

Max, Rocky, Buddy, Jack, Sam, Casey, Toby

As you have read, there are many ways to find out boy dog names.

Do you want to get the list of unique dog names? Download the complete free ebook with cool and unique boy dog names - Your little friend will be happy with his cool name.

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The Pug Dog Breed

By Ashley Peach

There are several different dog breeds out there that you can choose from when adding to your family. One of those dog breeds is the Pug. A Pug is a smaller dog that offers intelligence, loyal and a lot of affection for their owners. Below you will learn about their history, care, training, and grooming needs to see if they will fit into your family.

The pug is originally from China. They are thought to be a cross between a Pekingese and a bulldog. You will find that the pug usually grows to ten or eleven inches and they are about fourteen to sixteen pounds. You may recognize the pug from some of the movies or commercials as they have been in quite a few. The pug was actually used in Men in Black, among others. Characteristically you will find the pug has a wide face, but a short snort, a muscular body that actually makes their head look larger, and floppy ears. They usually have a black mask around the eyes and black on the ears and some on the legs. Typically this dog breed is going to be tan, but they can be silver. They have short hair making grooming fairly easy on the owner. Grooming usually needs to be done on a daily basis for the ears, eyes and face. They tend to have eye and ear infections and the slobber can get into the folds on their face and cause skin irritations so it is really important to take a soft wet cloth to their face and ears. Their coats are short haired, which makes it easy to brush or rub down with a towel once a week to remove dead or loose hair.

As for other care they do need to have a little bit of exercise daily. They don't usually take long walks, but fifteen minutes at a time with a little playtime around the house is great. They like to play with toys for the most part. They tend to be susceptible to heatstroke so don't over exert them when they are out of doors. You will find that a healthy diet usually consists of protein, and you may want to speak with a vet about heart problems they can have. They tend to have genetic issues related to heart disease and therefore may need special diets.

The pug can be a jealous dog, which means they don't do well in households with small children who require a lot of care. In fact the pug would rather have all of the attention. So it is important that they go through obedience training as well as socialization training. They can be extremely happy, friendly, and loyal dogs. The pugs are also sensitive to voice changes. This means that they tend to exhibit the emotions around them and can feel despair. The pug should never be aggressive or shy, but constantly happy. If they are not left alone for several hours each day or while you are on vacation they will definitely continue the happy life. When you train these dogs it is important that you use a gentle, but firm hand. Consistency is going to be the key to this dogs training as well. They can be a little lazy so some times you may mistake laziness for intelligence. Just keep in mind that diligence as a part of training will be most successful.

With the many dog breeds that exist it can be a hard decision to make, but you should know that pugs are wonderful in households with older generations as well as a one pet family.

Ashley Peach's websites include dog accessories, luxury pet beds and dog training.

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Top 10 Dog Names

Rank	Male	Female
1	MAX	MOLLY
2	BUDDY	BELLA
3	JAKE	LUCY
4	BAILEY	MAGGIE
5	ROCKY	DAISY
6	CHARLIE	SADIE
7	JACK	CHLOE
8	TOBY	SOPHIE
9	CODY	BAILEY
10	BUSTER	ZOE

Here are the top 10 dog names in the U.S. as compiled by the Veterinary Pet Insurance Company. Names were compiled from pet medical insurance policies purchased mostly within the United States.

Introduction to Dog Diseases

By Ashley Peach

Taking care of your dogs is extremely important. You will find that dogs need to be taken care of to avoid certain diseases and that some of the other diseases are genetic. With genetic diseases you will find that they are difficult to prevent, which means that if your dog is susceptible you will be unable to prevent the disease, but there is much that you can do to help your dog through such diseases. When you are talking about prevention of dog diseases you do need to understand the inner workings of some of the more popular ailments of dogs. We will look at a brief overview of some of the dog diseases that you can prevent.

First it may be a surprise to you, but there are many dogs that have issues with the ears and eyes. Most of the dog breeds that suffer from ear or eye infections tend to have long hair that gets in the way of these two areas. Dogs that have long fur tend to have hair that will grow around the eyes and fall into the eyes. While the hair is part of their body it can cause infections based on the oils as well as the dirt that may be on the hair. You will want to make sure that when you groom your dog you remove any hairs that are near the dog's eyes.

Poodles, some terriers, and English Sheepdogs tend to be a few of the breeds that suffer from eye infections. To prevent these eye infections grooming around the eyes should be done once a month. In other words that means that you should check their eyes daily for infection and remove any hairs that have grown in the way, and once a month you should trim around the area.

For ear infections you will find that ticks and other small insects can get into the ears. This means that you have to keep the ears clean on a daily basis. You should check to make sure there are no insects in the canals and that any dirt is removed. Hair can also cause ear infections in certain breeds like the Mexican Chihuahua that tends to grow hair in the ears and cause infections. When you are worried about eye and ear infections for your dog breed you should make sure to use a soft wet cloth around the areas each day to prevent any such infection from occurring.

Another dog disease that can be a difficult is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is one of the most common ailments you will find in large dogs. Hip dysplasia is caused when the hip bones do not form properly. There really is no reason for the bones not to form, but most believe it has something to do with a calcium deficiency during the puppy stages. Hip dysplasia can be treated in a variety of ways. In English Sheepdogs they tend to cut the tail short to prevent the issues. In some cases they offer nutrition and calcium supplements to help your dog grow the bones as a puppy that they need.

Diabetes is another common ailment in dogs that has been seeing an increase like it has in people. You see with most diabetes cases there is a direct link to an improper diet as well as improper exercise. Diabetes is luckily treated with medication as well as changing the diet of your dog so it can be prevented. In some cases after a dog has suffered diabetes and the nutrition and exercise has been fixed the dog may not need to have medication for life. You will find that most dog breeds can suffer from this disease.

Ashley Peach's websites include dog accessories, pet beds and dog collars.

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Market For Pet Supplies Grows As Consumers Seek Luxury Items For Christmas

By Dominic Lee

The $10 billion market for non-food pet supplies has been increasing rapidly each year, in recent years as much as 20 percent. Much of the rapid rise of dollars spent on pet supplies has been attributed to increasing consumer demand for luxury pet items. Luxury pet supplies are gaining ground in many segments of the market, as pet owners demand higher-end items for their dogs, cats, birds and other household pets. As Christmas approaches, online and brick and mortar retailers are bracing for an onslaught of luxury pet supply orders. Consumers purchase upscale pet supplies for as Christmas gifts for their pets as well as to give to other pet owners.

To find better pet supplies for Christmas, more and more pet owners are turning to on line pet supply stores. "On line pet stores offer a variety of pet supplies that meet the needs of pet owners seeking higher quality items that cannot be met by brick and mortar stores. It is simply impossible to carry as much inventories in a traditional off line stores." according to Dominic Lee, spokesperson of PetPetSupplies.

The trend in many homes with cats is to replace the classic ugly litter box with a furniture-grade cabinet that hides the litter and pan. For dogs owners, more are looking to purchase luxury items such as stylish pet strollers and elaborate wooden dog houses. A few years ago a dog house with a ladder or one with an attached dog couch might have seemed unnecessary, but today's dog supplies are made to fit into any stylish décor.

Consumers joining the luxury pet supply trend are seeking unusual items that give traditional pet accessories a new and modern twist. "At PetPetSupplies.com, we now sell dog crates made of rattan instead of wire, and outdoor cat enclosures as large as a room. Even fish tanks have gone upscale, as fish owners are seeking seamless tanks that won't detract from viewing their fish," Lee said. According to their sales estimation, items like these that offer pet owners a bit of luxury for themselves and their pets are the items driving the pet supply market toward an estimated $15 billion in 2009. Christmas sales are an enormous part of that market, with about 30 percent of sales made during the holiday season.

Luxury item purchases have grown in the human market as well, and this trend may be affecting the pet supply market. Christmas purchases of luxury products for humans have soared in the past two years. Because people consider their pets part of the family, they are willing to treat their pets to the same luxury they seek for themselves. And for pet owners, there's no better reason to splurge on the best for their animal family members.

PetPetSupplies.com is the internet premium location to shop for unique pet supplies, cats & dogs accessories, and other small pet products. Go to http://www.petpetsupplies.com now to check them out!

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