20 Most Popular Dog Breeds

Dogs

20 Most Popular Dog Breeds

 from men's health  

Are you a dog lover? Care to know what are the more popular dog breeds according to the American kennel Association? Watch these slides... just click on this link :  20 Most Popular Dog Breeds:

Dogs

A Dog Owner's To-Don't List

menshealth.com

 

Bringing up a well-adjusted pup is about as easy as raising a child. Avoid these mistakes with the help of Tamar Geller, who trains Oprah Winfrey’s and Owen Wilson's dogs

Don't Say "Good Dog"

Sure, he laps it up, but vague praise is not a good dog training tip because it won't reinforce a specific behavior. Instead, tell your dog which action was good—for example, "good sit," "good fetch," "good roll-over-and-play-dead-for-the-pretty-blonde-lady." After some time (and a few reinforcing treats), he'll be eating out of your hand.

Don't Say No

 

It's clear enough to us, but a dog doesn't know what to make of "no," since it's a command to do, well, nothing. If you want to try to modify bad behavior—eating off the table, drinking out of the toilet, jumping up on people—direct your pooch to do something different and more benign. When he obeys, offer a treat and use the praising method described above.

Don't Leave Your Dog Unemployed

A dog needs to stay busy—even if that means shredding the sofa while you're at work. Keep your hound out of trouble by giving him a project he can sink his teeth into. Stock up on a variety of hollow rubber chew toys, and stuff four with dog treats before you leave in the a.m. It'll take him all day to extract every last crumb.

Why Does My Dog... Stare at Me?

 Today's Tips on Pets

  

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Why Does My Dog... Stare at Me?

By Dr. Patty Khuly 

http://www.vetstreet.com/ 

 

It’s not hard to imagine why a loyal dog might stare devotedly at his master. It’s the stuff of Old Yeller, White Fang and Lassie –– starers, all. But some dogs take staring to extremes, following their owners around with baleful eyes as if expecting links of sausage to fly from their human’s fingertips.

Let’s face it: Dogs love their owners, but when they stare expectantly, it’s not usually because they’re trapped in a reverie of devotion. Rather, it’s because they’re thinking they might get something. And usually, that “something” involves a tasty snack.

But dogs can—and do—stare at their owners for plenty of non-food issues, too. Indeed, anything a dog might want that a human can provide could be the source of the staring behavior, from a fun game of fetch to a ride in the car or a long run.

Then there’s the possibility that a dog is simply seeking attention in any form, or perhaps she’s merely waiting for praise or direction. Some dogs may just be trying to read an emotion in our human 

facial expressions.

In any case, staring is typically considered to be a good thing. In fact, most trainers encourage dogs to stare at their owners while awaiting their cues. And if you’ve never done it, gazing deeply into a dog’s eyes can be a highly rewarding pastime.

Before you try it, be aware that staring directly into a dog’s eyes can be considered a direct challenge. That’s why mutual staring is an activity that’s only to be encouraged within the context of a healthy dog-human relationship unsullied by any taint of aggression or behavioral abnormalities.

 

This article was written by a Veterinarian.

What Your Dog Says About You

Today's Tips on Dogs

 

 

 

What Your Dog Says About You

By Nicole Pajer

Many factors go into a person’s decision to get a dog. They might look for certain traits associated with a specific breed or may prefer a certain size. Some purchase purebreds, while others head to the pound to find a mutt in need of a new home.


Whether or not you’ve thought about it, your choice of a canine companion gives people certain insights into your personality traits. What does your dog say about you?




Dog Breeds: Mutts vs. Purebreads


Selecting a purebred dog takes a lot of research, time, and commitment. People that gravitate towards specific breeds tend to take comfort in the fact that they know what they are getting in terms of the dog’s temperament, appearance, size, and behavior. This suggests that purebred dog owners are “planners” by nature. Purebred owners are said to have a more distinctive set of tastes and weigh the pros and cons before deciding their course of action.


You don’t always know what you are getting when you select a mutt. For this reason, people that adopt a mixed breed dog are viewed as more laidback and better adapted to go with the flow. These dog owners tend to be more apt to take chances and make their decisions on a more emotional basis.




Dog Size: Large vs. Small


Large dogs require more space and exercise so it’s suggested that owners of more sizable dogs enjoy outdoor activities and sports. The bigger the dog, the bigger the mess, so people with larger dogs appear more tolerant of scooping up bigger piles of waste, wiping muddy paws, and cleaning up piles of drool.
Some studies show a correlation between large dogs and men who perceive themselves to be macho.


Small breeds are easier to care for and are often associated with people that prefer taking their canine companion for a walk in the park versus scaling up the side of a mountain for exercise. Smaller dogs are often viewed as cleaner, daintier, and require less space.




Dog Coats: Long vs. Short


Dogs with coats that need to be groomed more often are said to owned by people that put more emphasis on visiting the spa and getting frequent haircuts and other beautifying treatments.


Owners of breeds that shed less often prefer the convenience associated with infrequent grooming sessions and tend to place more of an emphasis on keeping a well kept home.




Dog Food: Organic vs. Commercial


More health conscious people typically own dogs that are fed homemade food or natural and organic diets. These owners dedicate an extensive amount of time to reading food labels and educating themselves on the latest food trends for both themselves and their pets.


Owners that purchase commercial food are said to enjoy the convenience of prepackaged options and tend to be more trustworthy consumers.




Dog Treatment: Spoiled vs. Ignored


If your dog has a bed in every room or sleeps on a plush velvet bed softer than your own, it’s likely that you love to spoil those that are close to you. Owners who let their pooches snuggle up in bed with them are said to be affectionate and soft hearted. If your dog spends the majority of its time outside or in a kennel, people may see you as a person that lacks empathy.




Dog Behavior: Well-trained vs. Misbehaved


Dogs that are well trained are often a reflection of a responsible, happy, and organized owner. A dog that has behavioral problems can denote an owner that is anxious, impatient, and unsatisfied.


While the above are merely observations, they do give us something to think about. Whether we like it or not, people who encounter our canine companions make their own assessment of our personality traits based on how our dog looks, acts, and behaves. Looking at your own dog, do you agree or disagree with the observations above?

Common Dog Behaviors Explained

Today's Tips on Pets

 

 

 

Common Dog Behaviors Explained

Communication begins with understanding. If you want to build a better relationship with your dog, you can start by working to understand the meaning and causes behind some of her most common dog behaviors.

 

Common Dog Behaviors and What They Mean

 

Panting

Because dogs sweat through the pads on their feet, most of their body heat is expelled through their mouth when they pant. It's their primary means of regulating body temperature.

 

Dog Barking

In nature, dogs bark to raise an alarm at the first signs of possible danger or to herald a new arrival. Barking is an important means of canine communication. 

See What Your Dog's Bark is Telling You.

 

Dog Chewing

Just as a growing child, your dog will want to chew on toys and other objects to relieve the pain of a new set of teeth coming in. If your dog is full grown, you may also come home to find your couch cushions or favorite pair of shoes ripped to shreds, but it is not because they enjoy the taste. Your dog could be exhibiting signs of separation anxiety or anxiety in general. 

See 5 Steps to Correct Inappropriate Dog Chewing.

 

Digging

Digging is an instinctual activity, written deep in a dog's DNA. It is especially strong in terrier breeds. Dogs in natural packs will dig to hide food or to uncover food such as small rodents. A den dug in the cool earth can also provide shelter from the heat. 

See Cesar's dog training advice on how to get dogs to stop digging.

 

Jumping up

Though it may seem like play behavior, or an enthusiastic greeting, jumping up is a sign that your dog is attempting to assert her dominance over you. By encouraging jumping up with affection, you are reinforcing the behavior. 

See Cesar's training video on how to deal with dogs jumping when excited.

 

Dog Biting

A dog will bite a person as a way of communicating their current state of mind. The dog could be reacting in aggression, fear or nervousness. There are, however, ways to prevent a dog bite from ever happening if you stay in tune to the dog’s body language. 

See Dog Bites 101: Why Bites Happen and How to Prevent Them.

 

Separation anxiety

Dogs live and travel in packs, so it's natural for them to feel anxious when they are separated from their pack-mates. Try taking your dog on a nice, long walk before leaving her alone in the house. Leaving her in resting mode can calm her anxiety.

Once you understand these behaviors, you'll be better equipped to recognize when your pack's needs are not being met! When your dog's needs go unfulfilled, unwanted behaviors begin to emerge. Consider: 

Are you giving exercise, discipline, then Affection?

What Does Your Dog Breed Say About You?

 Today's Tips on Pets

What Does Your Dog Breed Say About You?

By Nicole Pajer

From a Chihuahua to a Great Dane, dogs come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and display an array of temperaments. Studies suggest that the type of dog breed that you choose can tell a lot about your personality. The following are a few generalizations about what owning a certain breed says about your personality. How similar to your dog breed do you think you are?

Bulldogs

Bulldogs are determined, persistent, and do not give up easily. People who own bulldogs are said to be silly and love to laugh but can be viewed as stubborn at times. They are extremely efficient and methodical in completing tasks. While they appear intimidating, bulldogs are gentle and loving members of the family known for being hopeless romantics with sentimental streaks.

Terriers

Terriers are energetic, fun loving, and playful companions. People who own terriers are said to be flexible and able to focus on the task at hand. Just like the dogs, terrier owners are often feisty, brave, and competitive. They are extremely talkative and have good sense of humor.

Labradors and Golden Retrievers

Labs and golden retrievers are friendly, good-natured, and make wonderful family pets. Owners of these breeds put their families first and said to be easy going and carefree. Labs and goldens are known for having an active lifestyle and loving the outdoors. People who own these breeds are social butterflies who are honest and lovable.

Beagles

Beagles are inquisitive, loyal, and willing to learn new things. Owners of Beagles tend to be open to new experiences, curious, and willful. Beagle owners make great friends and bring laughter and joy to everyone’s lives. They can also have a mischievous side.

 

Poodles, Chihuahuas and Toy Breeds

Owners of these breeds are sincere, fun loving, and loyal. Toy breed owners are said to love traveling since the small dogs make excellent travel partners and can be easily put into a carrier. Owners of these dogs take pride in their appearance, are very neat and keep very orderly homes. They are very versatile and can enjoy evenings in with a bottle of wine or a night out partying on the town. See article Where Are Toy Breeds Today?

 

Boxers

Boxers are busy dogs that exude high amounts of energy. People that own boxers are said to live life to the fullest and are known to be extremely playful. Boxer owners are busy, love life, and quickly welcome strangers as new friends. Boxers banish stress with their silly and playful demeanor and their owners are generally happy-go-lucky people.

Cocker Spaniels

Cocker Spaniels are sweet, respectful, and gentle. Owners of this breed are charming, trustworthy, and affectionate. Cocker Spaniel owners are said to lead busy lives but put spending time with their family first. They maintain a group of close lifelong friends, which they much prefer to spending time with strangers.

English Pointers, Weimaraners, Irish Setters

These breeds are naturally alert, likable, and well-rounded companions. Owners of these breeds enjoy being active, outdoor activities, and hunting. They have a great sense of courage, are highly intelligent, easily excited, and motivated. These breeds are very energetic and their owners enjoy intense activities such as all day hiking and extreme sports. They can get bored easily if not subjected to new experiences.

Greyhound, Whippet, Basenji (Sight Hound Group)

Owners of these breeds tend to be more relaxed, calm, and introverted. Sight hounds enjoy the company of close groups of friends and prefer social outings with small groups. They are highly organized, curious, and always alert. People who own sight hounds are fast and agile and often excel at sports, especially track and field. 

German Shepherds

German shepherds are sometimes shy around strangers but warm up once they get to know you. Owners of German shepherds would do anything for their friends and make extremely loyal companions that are protective of those that they love. 

Dachshunds

Dachshunds are stubborn and brave, often acting as if invincible. When owners of dachshunds want something, they don’t give up until they get it. Dachshund owners love gardening and just like the dogs, digging up things. They can sometimes be bossy and often dislike not getting their own way.

Rottweilers

Rottweilers are determined and are often described as intense. This breed commands a certain amount of respect and is considered to be a courageous breed. People that have rottweilers are confident and are loyal and devoted to their friends and loved ones. They are laid back but quick to react if someone rubs them the wrong way.

Pugs

Pugs are often viewed as the “class clowns” of the canine species. People who live with pugs are cheerful and have a zest for living life to the fullest. Just like pugs who will do anything for a good belly rub, their owners enjoy frequent massages and days of pampering at the spa.

Doberman Pinschers

These dogs are very serious, intense, and determined. Owners are leaders versus followers and love to plan and organize a situation. People who live with dobermans are said to be very organized and go about achieving their goals in a polite yet firm fashion. 

Siberian Huskies

Siberian husky owners are huge sports fans. Whether it’s Monday Night Football or college basketball, it’s likely that they are out watching the game somewhere or within the comfort of their own home. Owners of huskies enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor sports. They can be strong willed but are lovable and welcoming to strangers.

Great Danes

Owners of Great danes are good-hearted and responsible. They tend to work hard and put one hundred percent into everything they do. Great dane owners enjoy staying up on news and current events and welcome the chance to debate important issues with others. This breed tends to be serious and enjoys relaxing around the house after the workday is done. 

Bichon Frises

People who own bichons enjoy being pampered and are considerate of their appearance. Bichons are naturally sociable and are the happiest when they are part of a family or among a group of friends. Bichon owners are self-assured and gravitate towards a classy lifestyle. They are often wine connoisseurs and art aficionados who enjoy dining at 4-star restaurants and being seen around the town.

Australian Shepherds

Australian shepherds are active and thoroughly enjoy being outside. Owners of this breed enjoy playing Frisbee at the beach, going to the park, and camping outdoors. This breed has a passion for living life to the fullest and people who live with Australian shepherds are said to have a lot of friends. Aussie owners can be competitive, especially when it comes to a sports match. 

Pit Bulls

Pit bulls have a strong desire to please and will do anything for their family or friends. Pit bull owners are courageous, full of vitality, and are constantly looking out for those they love. They enjoy being around children and make excellent parents and grandparents. There is no better babysitter than a pit bull.

Mixed Breeds

Mutt owners are fun loving, open minded, and carefree. They enjoy coasting along and riding the wave of life over following strict and rigid plans. They don’t sweat the small stuff and keep their eye on the bigger picture. In their spare time, mutt owners are often seen volunteering at or spending time with their diverse group of friends.

Dangers of Dog Waste

Today's Tips on Pet

 

 

 

Dangers of Dog Waste

By Arlo the Hound with help from Honor Tarpennin

 By Arlo the Hound with help from Honor Tarpennin

Pooper scooper duty--nobody wants to do it, but it must be done. Dog waste isn’t just a pain in your shoe treads, an unappealing smell in your yard, and an organic means to prank a nasty neighbor. It is unhealthy for you, your family, your dog, your community, and the ecosystem of which we are all a part. Picking up after your dog isn’t a choice, it is a responsibility.

Dog waste carries parasites, bacteria, and viruses that make their way into our groundwater, our parks, our lakes, rivers, oceans and streams, and even our children’s mouths. You might think it is ok to let your dog go in your yard and not clean it up. After all, it is your yard. But you must remember, rain water washes dog waste out of your yard and into storm drains, most of which carry rainwater, untreated, directly to our local waters. The following detrimental parasites and diseases are transmitted in dog waste.

Whipworms
 

Whipworm eggs are passed in the feces of infected dogs. They then stay in the soil where the dog has done his business and, in about a month, they emerge able to infect passing animals and people. Whipworm infection causes inflammation of the intestinal wall, intestinal hemorrhage, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Hookworms
 

Hookworms are intestinal parasites that can cause severe diarrhea and anemia in your pet. The larvae can enter through human skin and cause a disease called cutaneous larva migrans, which causes lesions in the skin’s surface, pain, and itching. Hookworms can also infect humans internally causing muscle pain, lung disease, and abdominal pain.

Roundworms
 

Roundworms are a parasite of the dog’s digestive tract. In your dog they can cause poor coat quality, swollen bellies, anemia, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, intestinal obstruction, cough and pneumonia (if the larvae migrate through the respiratory system). In humans they can damage the liver, lungs and brain, and in rare cases can even lead to blindness!

Tapeworms
 

Tapeworms, another intestinal parasite, cause weight loss, loss of appetite, nervousness, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and rectal irritation. Humans, especially children, can become infected with tapeworms through contact with infected fleas and contact with the waste of infected animals.

Parvovirus
 

Parvo is a highly contagious virus among dogs. It causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, bloody feces, fever, lowered white blood cell count, and in many cases, death in as little as two days without immediate, advanced veterinary intervention.

Canine Distemper
 

Distemper is a highly contagious virus which affects the intestinal and respiratory tracts, as well as the skin, brain and eyes. Symptoms of Distemper include diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, fever, and nasal and eye discharge. The death rate among dogs who contract Distemper is believed to be in the neighborhood of 75%. Dogs who survive Distemper often suffer permanent nervous system and vision damage.

Coronavirus
 

Corona is another highly contagious virus in dogs which causes diarrhea. It is significantly less severe than Parvo, but can also cause dehydration.

Giardia
 

Giardia is a single-celled organism which causes diarrhea, and abnormal feces, interferes with digestion causing weight loss and damages the intestinal lining. Dogs and humans can be infected with Giardia.

Salmonella
 

This bacterium causes vomiting, diarrhea, fever, refusal to eat, gurgling stomach sounds, lethargy, dehydration, and drooling and panting (in dogs). Salmonella is easily transmitted between infected pets and humans.

Coccidia
 

Coccidia is a single-celled organism that lives in the intestines of dogs. It can cause bloody diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dehydration, and in severe instances, death in dogs.

In addition to these afflictions (and others) which can be transmitted through dog waste, other issues arise as well, including poor water quality. According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) “Pet waste also contains nutrients that promote weed and algae growth (eutrophication). Cloudy and green, Eutrophic water makes swimming and recreation unappealing or even unhealthy.” 

And, “decaying pet waste consumes oxygen and sometimes releases ammonia. Low oxygen levels and ammonia can damage the health of fish and other aquatic life.

There are plenty of products out there that help you do your part without getting your hands dirty. You can use pick-up bags to protect your hands and pooper scoopers so you don’t even have to bend over. There are even biodegradable bags on the market now so you can be even more environmentally friendly. The best way to dispose of dog waste? Either flush it down the toilet, or place it in a dog-waste disposal system, like the Doggie Dooley.

Bottom line? Pick up your pooch’s poo and you’ll help everyone around you (including neighborhood dogs, kids, and fishies) stay healthy.

Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

Today's Tips on Pets

 

http://www.thecartoonpictures.com/r-cartoon-dog-229-cartoon-dog-bone-in-mouth-1534.htm

 

 

Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs and Cats

vetstreet.com

• Some human foods can cause serious illness (and even death) in dogs and cats.
• Pets should not be given human food unless recommended by your veterinarian.
• If you suspect your pet may have eaten a dangerous food, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What Do I Need to Know About Foods that Are Dangerous for My Pet?

 

A number of human foods are dangerous to pets. Many of these foods may seem tasty to our pets but can prove deadly if eaten. It can be very tempting to offer pets food from the table, but pets should not be given human food unless recommended by your veterinarian.

If you suspect your pet may have eaten a dangerous food, contact your veterinarian immediately. In many cases, early recognition and treatment are critical.

 

Xylitol

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in products such as gum, candy, mints, toothpaste, and mouthwash. Xylitol is harmful to dogs because it causes a sudden release of insulin in the body that leads to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Xylitol can also cause liver damage in dogs. Within 30 minutes after eating, the dog may vomit, be lethargic (tired), and/or be uncoordinated.  However, some signs of toxicity can also be delayed for hours or even for a few days. Xylitol toxicity in dogs can be fatal if untreated. It is unknown whether xylitol is toxic to cats.

 

Chocolate, Coffee, and Caffeine

Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that is toxic to dogs in large enough quantities. Chocolate also contains caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, and certain soft drinks. Different types of chocolate contain different amounts of theobromine and caffeine. For example, dark chocolate and baking chocolate contain more of these compounds than milk chocolate does, so a dog would need to eat more milk chocolate in order to become ill. However, even a few ounces of chocolate can be enough to cause illness in a small dog, so no amount or type of chocolate should be considered “safe” for a dog to eat. Chocolate toxicity can cause vomiting, diarrhea, rapid or irregular heart rate, restlessness, muscle tremors, and seizures. Death can occur within 24 hours of ingestion.

 

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins can cause acute (sudden) kidney failure in cats and dogs. It is unknown what the toxic agent is in these fruits. However, clinical signs can occur within 24 hours of eating and include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy (tiredness). Other signs of illness relate to the eventual shutdown of kidney functioning.

 

Avocados

The avocado tree leaves, pits, fruit, and plant bark are likely all toxic. Clinical signs in dogs and cats include vomiting and diarrhea.

 

Garlic and Onions

Garlic and onions contain chemicals that damage red blood cells in cats and dogs. Affected red blood cells can rupture or lose their ability to carry oxygen effectively. Cooking these foods does not reduce their potential toxicity. Fresh, cooked, and/or powdered garlic and/or onions are commonly found in baby food, which is sometimes given to animals when they are sick, so be sure to read food labels carefully.

 

Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are common in candies and chocolates. The mechanism of macadamia nut toxicity is not well understood, but clinical signs in dogs include depression, weakness, vomiting, tremors, joint pain, and pale gums. Clinical signs can occur within 12 hours after eating. In some cases, signs can resolve without treatment in 24 to 48 hours, but patient monitoring is strongly recommended.

Prevention

Many cases of human food toxicity in pets are accidental. A pet may find and chew on a package of gum or candy, or steal food from a countertop or table. The best way to prevent this is to keep all food items in closed cabinets or in areas that are inaccessible to pets. This may be particularly difficult during the holiday season, when more candy, chocolate, fruit baskets, and other food items are around. During these times, increased vigilance can help prevent pets from finding and eating dangerous foods.

Unfortunately, some cases of food toxicity in pets occur when pets are given a human food that contains a dangerous component. In general, human food items should not be given to pets unless recommended by your veterinarian. Children should also be taught to never give candy, gum, or other human food items to pets. 

For more information on human foods that are dangerous for pets, visit the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) Animal Poison Control Center. If you suspect that your pet has eaten a potentially hazardous item, contact your veterinarian immediately.

This article has been reviewed by a Veterinarian.