Sunday, November 16th, 2008
Herding Dog Breed. Alert, Busy And Determined. Clear The Way! Here Comes The Herding Dog”
by: John E Adams
The herding dog has a long history, tracing as far back as Neolithic times in Europe when early farmers and domesticators in lands that are now Britain needed a more efficient, quicker way to move livestock from one place to another.
These early herding dogs were very large and powerful dogs. They were generally rough with the livestock and could be quite hard to control for their owners, but had an uncanny ability to gather and herd livestock.
By the nineteenth century, it became apparent that a dog that was both more versatile and more gentle with the animals was needed. Farmers could not afford to feed multiple large dogs for their needs.
They required a single dog who could not only nimbly gather and keep an eye on sheep and other livestock, but also hunt game and sniff out sheep that might have been buried in snow.
With a bond so close that required the farmer to trust his dog explicitly, he also needed an animal that was more cooperative and affectionate. It needed to be sensitive to the human voice, a whistle and hand gestures as it would be working alone, far away from the farmer in the field.
For that reason, there were multiple breeds introduced into the early strain of herding dogs.
The Whippet was selected because it was both quiet and quick. Pointers and setters were used to provide a good nose and a keen eye. Eventually, the perfect breed of dog developed –one that had a superior athletic inclination, light and fast movement, unmistakable livestock sense, and a good temperament that easily matched its handler.
The first modern herding dog, the Border Collie was introduced in 1894 in Northumbria, along the English and Scottish Border.
In other countries, the same early ancestors of that first Border Collie began to spread out, taking on work in the growing expanse of the United States West. Cattle herding dogs soon became common and immigrants arrived with other livestock that could live comfortably off of the land, along with their herding dogs.
Today, there are many breeds of herding dogs, all developed in the same manner or from the same breeding as the Border Collie, with the goal of creating a breed that was both quick and quiet, but able to bond well with its owner and seek out livestock easily.
Various types of herding dogs included the German Shepherd, Shetland Sheepdog, Australian Cattle Dog, Bearded Collie, and many more.
Each breed has become well known in the years since those early breeds were developed as a loyal, intelligent and highly trainable breed of dog. Today, most herding dogs are kept as pets by families rather than used in the field to herd sheep.
Because they were bred to connect with their owners so well and be so sociable, herding dogs make ideal pets, both gentle and familiar with children and playful with adults.
Herding dogs have a vast supply of energy and a seemingly human-like intelligence at times, all hallmarks of their careful breeding.
About The Author
Copyright John Adams. Dog Breeds Explained The Herding breed of dog is hard working and devoted. But only for the right owner. Get the facts before you get the dog! http://www.dog-breeds-explained.com
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Posted in Choosing a Dog, Dog Breeds, Herding Group, History, Owning a Dog | No Comments »
Monday, November 10th, 2008
The Spitz Type Dog Is No Fool!
by: John E Adams
Spitz. History of the Spitz-type dog breed
With their thick fluffy coats and sharp intelligent faces, it is easy to see how Spitzes have become an enduring companion to humans. There are many dog breeds that can be categorized as Spitz-type dogs, but most of them share some basic characteristics.
It is not known where Spitzes originally came from, but many of the modern dog breeds which can be classified as Spitz today trace their origins back to the Arctic.
The Spitz-type dog goes back almost 5000 years, and there is some belief that the breed has been regularly bred with wolves to promote a greater degree of intelligence and hardiness.
The Alaskan Malemute, for example, is thought to be descended from the crossing of the Spitz with wolves.
For most of history, the Spitz has been used as a hunting dog, a herding dog or a guard dog, and as such has proven itself quite valuable to human in a number of different ways. Around 1000 BC, Spitz migrated south from their native Arctic climes, and they were soon common in Europe, North America and Asia. They even traveled as far south as northern Africa.
From there, you can see the development of the variety of dog breeds that are considered Spitz-type dogs. One highly recognizable dog breed is the German Spitz and the Finnish Spitz. They have the characteristic thick coat, triangular ears and lupine face of the breed. In Japan, one can see that the Akito Inu is a direct descendant of the Arctic Spitz breed. The Pomeranian
If you enjoy the looks of the Spitz dog breeds, there is probably a breed out there that will suit you and match this phenotype.
For instance, the Pomeranian that was mentioned above is a well-known favorite of apartment dwellers and those who live a lone. While these dogs can be a little high strung and difficult around children, they make excellent pets for single people with a limited amount of space.
If you are interested in a small dog that is good with children, think about Corgi, which can be quite good with small children, provided the children are taught how to handle dogs. For a more energetic family, consider the Siberian Husky, which has a gentle temperament and, due to its strong pack instinct, thrives on both social and physical activity.
Make sure that you will be able to tend to the various needs of the breed that you choose. Corgis, for example, do require a certain amount of grooming, and because they are a little fractious, will benefit from thorough handling as puppies.
Huskies require a certain amount of fish oil in their diets to keep their coat and nails looking their best while.
Chows, another Spitz breed, need an owner who understands their stubborn, independent nature as well as one who will watch them for the breed’s elbow dysplasia.
If you are interested in a Spitz, do some research to find out what breed of Spitz is best for you and your situation.
By getting to know the breeds involved, you can figure out which type of Spitz will be ideal for you and your home.
About The Author
Copyright John Adams. Dog Breeds Explained The Spitz is a true companion and loyal breed of dog. But only for the right owner. Get the facts before you get the dog! http://www.dog-breeds-explained.com
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Friday, September 26th, 2008
by: Sandy Oberrueter
The Toy American Eskimo or “Eskies” dog breed is a companion dog. They are a charming and affectionate little dog with an intelligent expression.
There are two other types of American Eskimo dogs – standard and miniature. The only main difference between them is their size and weight.
Eskies have a snowy white double coat that can have biscuit or cream markings. Both the outer coat and undercoat are thick and soft. They have a very distinctive ruff, compact body; wedge shaped fairly small head with erect triangular shipped ears. Their eyes are oval shaped, dark brown with dark brown or black rims. Their tail is plumed and curled over their back.
The Toy American Eskimo is strong, swift and agile with a flowing gait. These dogs are also very loveable and high-spirited.
The American Eskimo is loving, playful, willing to please, alert, loyal, strong willed but easy to train with a quick wit and obedient.
Weight and Height
TOY
9 – 11 inches
6 – 10 pounds
MINIATURE
12 – 15 inches
10 – 20 pounds
STANDARD
15 – 19 inches
18 – 35 pounds
LIFE SPAN
15 years
These dogs are a good choice for a family. They get along well with children if given sufficient exposure and interaction early. They are also good with other pets. Eskies are considered a good breed for the first time owner if purchased from a good breeder.
They are wary of strangers until they get to know them then they are instant friends. They make excellent watchdogs – they will bark to announce a stranger.
Eskies do need to be socialized and are very trainable but need kindness and consistency. They seem to take longer to mature than other breeds. They can behave like a puppy until two years of age.
They need exercise so they do not gain weight. Toy Eskimo’s just need a few laps around the house or outside but the rest need more and they love long walks.
They are a fairly healthy breed but are prone to :
hip dysplasia
progressive retional atrophy
eye and eye duct problems
They like cold weather better than warm.
Brush these dog daily when shedding, otherwise twice a week will do. They
are an average shedder. Only bath every 2 or 3 months because of dry skin problems. This is a very clean breed and grooms themselves.
The American Eskimo is part of the Spitz family of dogs. The German Spitz was brought to the U.S. and the American Eskimo was created. This breed was recognized by the AKC in 1995.
About The Author
Sandy Oberrueter has a web site on small dog breeds with information on different breeds including pages on dogs good with children and the elderly, choosing a dog and breeder, vet, dog clothes, dog houses and much more. http://www.small-dogbreeds.com
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Sunday, September 21st, 2008
by: Richard Cussons
Dachshunds are loved by everyone. Well, who wouldn’t love these short-legged and elongated dog breed? They are so cute and everybody just loves to have them as pets. But before actually deciding to bring home your new Dachshund, you must carefully understand its characteristics and needs to evaluate if this breed is the right one for you.
Where do they come from? – According to modern history, Dachshund, bred to hunt badgers, originated from Europe with German, French and English hounds and terriers as ancestors. The name Dachshund literally means “badger dog”. They are also called Dackel and Teckel.
Size does matter – Dachshunds come in three sizes, full-grown, miniature and kaninchen. A full-grown dachshund weighs 16 to 28 pounds; a miniature usually weighs less than 11 pounds while the kaninchen weighs 7 to 9 pounds. Because they are low to the ground, they are capable of entering through tunnels.
Temperament – This dog breed is not suited to impatient people because they are known as strong headed dogs. They have loud bark, dislikes unfamiliar people and will usually growl or bark to show their dislike. They enjoy digging holes and chasing other animals such as birds, squirrels and lizards.
Friends for keeps – Despite being strong headed, these dogs are very much devoted and loyal to their owners. They make not only good watchdogs but also excellent companions. Actually, they do not enjoy being alone and will whine until company arrives.
Health Facts – Because of their long spinal column and short rib cage, they are prone to spinal problems especially intervertebral disk disease or IVDD. This disease may result to partial or full paralysis. Obese Dachshunds are more susceptible to this disease. To prevent injury, vets recommend stopping them from jumping and other activities that could add stress on their backs. They should also get regular exercise to prevent obesity and lessen the risk of IVDD. Other health problems include eye abnormalities, urinary tract stones and mammary gland cancers.
Grooming – Dachshunds come in three coat varieties, the smooth coated, long coat and wire-haired. However, this breed is low maintenance and only needs brushing to prevent tangles and mats from forming. Their ears must be kept dry at all times to prevent fungus, bacteria and mites.
It’s time for you to ponder based on these facts. Is this breed really right for me? It’s okay to ask that question. What’s important is you will not make a wrong decision of getting a wrong breed of dog.
About The Author
Richard Cussons is a great lover of dogs and has written articles about Dachshunds. Visit www.dachshundsavvy.com to learn more about Dachshund dogs.
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Posted in Choosing a Dog, Dog Breeds, Hound Group, Owning a Dog | 1 Comment »
Thursday, August 28th, 2008
“Step Aside For The Sight Hound Breed Of Dog!”
by: John E Adams
SightHounds: The History of the Sight Hound
Historically, sight hounds have often been called gaze hounds. In history, they have been working dogs and people were not so much worried about their appearance.
Once the 19th century approached, people began to breed them for appearance making them look like they do now; long, lean canines that almost look royal in appearance. They have even been known to be the favorite pet of many an Egyptian Pharaoh or world king or emperor.
Sight hounds are a breed of dog deeply rooted in history
Not only have they been used for a long time but many dogs could probably trace their roots back to the very first dogs that were domesticated for human use. That is quite a family tree.
Many people have heard of the notorious scent hound dog breed type. They are notorious for their great smellers, and for good reason; they have the ability to smell through thick grass, over a river, and for a very long time at that. A sight hound is the vision-worthy equivalent of a scent hound. While scent hounds are a type of hound with great noses, sight hounds are notorious for their impeccable sight.
SightHound Appearance
While scent hounds are notoriously short and stocky, sight hounds are just the opposite: long, elegant necks and legs, thin bodies, and strong muscles. They have high stamina levels for chasing and hunting and they must be exercised a lot, so they tend to be rather tight and muscular in appearance.
Sight Hounds in Your Community
While sight hounds are great hunting dogs, they make excellent family dogs as well as do other herding dog breeds. They are great for families with kids who can provide them with a great deal of exercise and attention. If you have ever seen a Whippet, a Borzoi, or a Saluki, [or Italian Greyhound] you have laid eyes on a sight hound without even knowing it!
Note how deep a Sighthounds chests is and how long their necks are; these features and traits allow them to see far and over things that other dogs may not be able to. This is what they are famous for, after all!
While sight hounds make awesome family dogs, they are great for sport as well. Outside of regular hunting sport, they are good in dog shows and races as well due to their speed and agility. If you see dog shows on Animal Planet or the Discovery channel or you have ever been able to attend one, chances are that a great majority of the dogs who were the strongest competitors were sighthounds!
These days they can be great guard dogs, family dogs, and even herding dogs as well and are infamous for having good temperaments as well. Whether you are a man or woman of sport, a pet lover, or just looking for a great breed of dog for your family it is hard to argue that sight hound dog breed types are excellent choices for any person.
Sighthound. Lovely, dependable, friendly and protective—what more could you ask for in a dog?
About The Author
Copyright John Adams. Dog Breeds Explained The Sighthound breed of dog is trustworthy and loyal. But only for the right owner. Get the facts before you get the dog! http://www.dog-breeds-explained.com
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Posted in Dog Breeds, History, Hound Group, Owning a Dog | No Comments »
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