How to Care for a Beagle
By: Collin Walker
There are several reasons why beagles are consistently voted a top breed among dog lovers. Beagles are spirited and affectionate dogs who are make great family pets. They do have some specific needs though, so follow these steps to be sure you are meeting your beagle’s needs.
Step 1: Make sure you don’t leave your beagle home alone too often. Beagles suffer from separation anxiety when left to themselves for long periods of time. Their generally docile nature will be tested and your pup will begin to exhibit negative or destructive behaviors.
Step 2: Plan to play tracking games with your beagle. A beagle has a natural instinct to track and you should encourage that instinct by hiding items for him and allowing him to “hunt” for them.
Step 3: Keep your beagle leashed and/or fenced at all times. Their natural instinct to track also means that beagles like to follow their nose. If you aren’t careful, your beagle might follow his nose to the next town over in no time at all!
Step 4: Enroll your beagle in an obedience class to tackle a behavior that is common in beagles; barking and baying. Although it’s a trait that beagles are known for, that fact will probably not ease the irritation felt by your neighbors. Beagles respond well to obedience training and will have no trouble learning basic commands when rewarded with praise.
Step 5: Exercise your beagle daily. A beagle can be quite content in a small yard; due to their energetic nature they will get plenty of exercise even if given a small space. Play games in the yard or take him on walks to better socialize him to other pets and people.
Step 6: Feed your beagle one nutritious and delicious meal a day. The breed has a tendency to gain weight easily so be sure not to feed him table scraps or too many treats.
Step 7: Keep a close eye on this natural born hunter. Pets other than canines could fall prey to your beagle if you don’t take the time to socialize him to other pets in the home that are not dogs.
If you follow the steps above, you can be sure that you will share your home with a healthy and happy beagle. Your efforts to meet his needs will be rewarded with your beagle’s wagging tail and endless loyalty.
About the Author
This article was provided by Collin Walker. Visit his website for great deals on dog car seat covers, patio pet doors and dog beds.
(ArticlesBase SC #662707)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - How to Care for a Beagle
Keeping Your Adorable Beagle Puppy Healthy
By: Clarence Clark
I would be lying if I said that beagle puppies are ugly. To me, it is probably one of the most adorable breeds of dogs that I've ever seen. Nevertheless, you should think twice before you decide that you want to adopt a beagle puppy. It is not easy to take care of a beagle puppy, especially when it comes to keeping it healthy. There are a lot of things for you to know about a beagle puppy, such as preparing its meal and knowing its habits and preferences. Therefore, you will need to seek advice on keeping your adorable beagle puppy healthy if you truly want to adopt a beagle puppy.
Most importantly, you have to make sure that you have enough time to spend with your beagle puppy. Beagle puppies prefer to have companion around them. If you need to work and can't spend much time with your beagle puppy, it is recommended that you adopt a few more pets to accompany your beagle puppy. Any type of pets such as a Chihuahua or even cats will do the job, since beagle puppies are friendly and sociable in nature. When they are left alone, they will tend to make noises and create nuisances of themselves, just to catch your attention. Also, if you happen to own a garden or a backyard, your beagle puppy might even dig up the garden and make a mess of it. Therefore, it is very important that you spend sufficient time with your beagle puppy.
Next, you have to be cautious with the health of your beagle puppy. Beagle puppies, when compared to other breeds of dog, are more prone to diseases such as cancer, epilepsy, back problems and kidney failure. Therefore, it is vital that you bring your beagle puppy to the vet for regular health checkups. When diagnosed at an early stage, these diseases should not cause too much trouble. Other than health checkups, you should also bring your beagle puppy outdoor to exercise. Exercising allows your beagle puppy to maintain its fitness and prevents obesity. In the long run, obesity will cause skeletal problems and other heart related diseases. For that reason, it is important for your puppy to exercise regularly. Bringing your beagle to the park may be a good form of exercise for your puppy but you have to make sure that your puppy is on a leash, as it will wander off from your sight if something catches its attention.
Lastly, you have to pay attention to the grooming of your beagle puppy. Beagle puppies tend to shed quite a lot of hair. Therefore, you must brush its coat at least once per week to keep the coating of your puppy clean and healthy. It is also a type of emotional bonding when you help to brush the hair of your puppy. Other than brushing its hair, you will have to clean the ears of your puppy. As the hairs of the puppy always trap moisture underneath its ear, infection often occurs around that area. Therefore, you will have to clean the ears of your puppy with dry cotton buds.
It is important to keep in mind the few points mentioned above. Those are tips to keeping your adorable beagle healthy and you will definitely need those tips if you are keen on adopting a beagle puppy.
About the Author
Clarence Clark is an avid Chihuahua dog lover providing valuable advice at http://www.chihuahuatime.com for fellow chihuahua dog lovers. Where he shares chihuahua info and training tips with Chihuahua lovers worldwide. Click Here to gain FREE access to this Chihuahua networking website.
(ArticlesBase SC #610823)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Keeping Your Adorable Beagle Puppy Healthy
The Dog Breeding Heat Cycle
By: Steve Evans
Watch for this and mark your calendar. This will help, but not guarantee, you a good heads up for next time. Mark the first day of swelling as day 1. First day of red blood will work if you don\'t know this date.
You will also find that boy dogs become interested. Simply watch for the blood, and the swelling of the vulva, and you will be able to tell when a female dog is in heat.
While it is not a hard rule to apply in all cases, most female dogs come into their first heat cycle at around six months of age, although I have had them wait as long as one to one and a half years old. As a general rule females will hold to a fairly steady schedule of coming into season about every six months, but as they say rules are made to be broken and it really can vary quite a bit. Some bitches will only come into heat once year, while others may even come in as often as once every four months, but often these "extra" seasons are not always fertile. Breeders usually advise that once a female has her first season, you should track her dates through subsequent seasons to find out what her natural pattern will be.
So, it stands to reason that you female can be bred when she goes into heat. To help you decide when to breed with her let\'s go thorugh the sequence. First she will get a swelled vulva("place") and will bleed out of it blood ranging in color anywhere from milky to red. She may also urinate more often and males will be more attracted to her.
Her heat can be said to have started and on average lasts 3 weeks, and progresses as follows. About one week after going into heat (a stage lasting from 1-17 days), and for one week in heat (this stage lasts from 3-21 days) you should have the male (“Stud”) around. However, as the length of the heat is so variable in dogs the Stud should be available from from the first day, just to be sure not to miss the right time.
If she is an average bitch and does not become pregnant she will go into heat again about 6 months later. If she does get fertilized she will be pregnant for 58-66 days counting from about the time she was mated.
You should not breed with your dog when she is less than about 9 months old, or preferably 1 year.
When you let your bitch mate be sure that your female is both physically and mentally mature enough to be bred. Just the fact of her being in heat is NOT enough to justify a breeding. A general rule of thumb is to breed from a female on her 2nd heat or 15 months old, but many say leave it another heat before starting and this can vary by breed and individual. We recommend that you consult with reputable breeders of your breed and/or your veterinarian on this point.
Male dogs mature sexually at about six months of age. When both testicles are descended, theoretically the dog can mate, but it is best to wait until the dog is nine to twelve months old before using it for breeding. This is to allow the dog to fully mature and a heavy breeding season might stunt his growth.
In today\'s urban society where most male dogs are confined to limited territory and most bitches are desexed, the male dog has fewer opportunities for mating now than they did in the wild. Some believe this causes behavioral changes in many male dogs. Undersexed male dogs, the reasoning goes, are more likely to bite, to fight with other dogs, chase cars, exhibit sexual deviations (such as riding legs!). In fact this is a difficult theory to prove either to be accurate or not.
Breeding a dog can be a very joyful experience. It is very important to remember that dog breeding involves a lot of dedication, patience and responsibility coupled with a great deal of knowledge about dog reproduction and the dog reproduction cycle. You also need to bear in mind that dog breeding is an expensive undertaking. Like skilled dog breeders, a dog breeding beginner should have thorough knowledge about his or her chosen breed. Most breeders are very loyal to their dogs and their dog’s welfare is their primary concern. However too often, people are willing to sacrifice the health and welfare of their bitch for the sake of making a profit. Don\'t forget also that you will need to be able to sell your puppies, and that may not be easy at all in the current economic circumstances.
Professional breeders allow dogs to mate for a specific purpose which may be to create pups for sale and at other times to carry on a purebred line. Such breeders have access to records which show a dog’s lineage and they are also aware of the difficulties involved in the dog reproduction process of the breed that they handle. Our plea here is that if you plan to breed for the first time, you really must obtain expert advice from other breeders about your Dam, and the Stud you plan to use, before proceeding.
About the Author
Steve Evans recommends that for unmissable dog breeds articles and information you visit the web page for Non-Shedding Dog Breeds right now! Another great site to visit is the Puppy and Dog Blog.
(ArticlesBase SC #828818)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - The Dog Breeding Heat Cycle
Dog Mating – Should I Allow It?
By: Rob Borket
Owning a pet is very much like caring for a child. It is up to you to find out the information you need in order to make sure your pet is cared for. For most pet owners the basics about dog care is sufficient to have a pet that is happy and healthy. Those of us who are responsible know we have to provide proper feed, exercise, hygiene and veterinarian care. However, there are areas of a dog's existence that don't come up every day. One of these is the subject of dog mating.
Many dog owners love their pets so much they want their dog to mate in order to get offspring. This is a decision that should never be made lightly. You must be aware if you allow your dog to mate you are responsible for the puppies that may be born. This is a very big responsibility. If your dog is a bitch then you are going to have to see she gets the extra nutrition and attention she needs during the pregnancy. If anything goes wrong during the birth you may have to pay for a vet to intervene. Once the puppies are born the bitch will need more feed as she is suckling her pups. If a pup is not healthy you may have to make the decision whether or not to allow it to live. These are only some of the many consequences of allowing your dog to mate.
Ethically, it would be considered wrong to allow dog mating simply for financial gain. You are responsible for ensuring each and every puppy goes to a responsible and caring home. You may be keeping one puppy for yourself but you must give all the others the same consideration. These are, after all, living creatures with very similar feelings and needs to our own. If you have any doubt as to whether you can place the puppies in suitable environments think about how many puppies are in shelters all over the country. Do you really want to be the one to add to this number?
A very important consideration before allowing dogs to mate is the issue of health. It would not be ethical to allow sickly dogs to mate. A sickly bitch may not have the stamina to get through a pregnancy, labor and birth. The right thing to do before allowing dogs to mate is to be certain they are in the best of health.
About the Author
Rob is the owner and creator of All You Need To Know About Dog Mating. where you can find a ton of information on the art of breeding dogs, Rob also has a Squidoo page where he reveals some of his great insides in The Do's And Don't of Dog Mating, visit it today!
(ArticlesBase SC #867227)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Dog Mating - Should I Allow It?
Springer Spaniel Eye Problems
By: Phil Marks
There are five main Springer Spaniel eye problems - some are hereditary and some occur because of the shape of the eye and lids. Accidents to the eye (perhaps grit getting in - we know how springers love muck and water) can also trigger a problem. Most conditions are treatable (depending on severity), and laser surgery and impants may be recommended.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy ("PRA")
This also affects some other breeds, and is a degenerative condition affecting the eyesight and can lead to partial or total blindness in its various forms. The gene can skip a generation and therefore it is almost impossible to know whether your dog will suffer from it.
Retinal Dysplasia
Again, this is an eye condition which can vary from unnoticeable to total blindness. This is usually tested for and test results may be on the pedigree papers.
Entropion
This is the eyelashes growing inwards and irritating the eyeball. This can be cured by removal of some eyelashes at its simplest, or surgery if it is more severe. It usually presents in a pup by the age of 6 weeks (congenital occurrence). Also, it be caused by eyelid damage healing improperly, for example, and can also occur on the lower eyelashes. Red eyes in an adult dog can be a sign, so check his eyelids. Without treatment, ulceration and serious eye damage may result. This condition is sometimes known as 'redeye'.
Ectropion
Ectropion is less common than entropion, and is the outward rolling of the lower eyelids. Corrective surgery is possible in many cases.
Cataracts
Noticeable by a milky whiteness of the iris, these can lead to total blindness. Besides a hereditary cause, cataracts can occur for other reasons, including as a consequence of other diseases (e.g. diabetes) or treatment for other conditions such as radiation for cancer. Surgery may be possible and some veterinarians might recommend implants depending on the age, general condition of the dog and the severity of the condition. In humans, doctors do not operate on cataracts until they are sufficiently developed.
Avoiding and Treating these Conditions
As with most genetic matters, a good place to start is with the parents. So, when you consider buying a springer spaniel, then seeing the parents first is always a good step, if possible. Check the pup's pedigree papers for the obvious.
If you are unfortunate to have a dog with one of these problems, then treatment is possible, but could be expensive particularly if you are referred to a specialist veterinary eye surgeon who may be in another city. So, pet insurance could be a worthwhile investment, but check the policy terms and conditions carefully to ensure that specific problems or treatments (such as laser surgery or implants) are not excluded.
Of course, whatever dog you buy will be susceptible to health issues - they age seven times as fast as we do and age inevitably brings problems.
Springer spaniel eye problems are part of the range of health issues which your spaniel may face, but on the whole springers are reasonably fortunate. After all, breeders are keen to breed out these issues from their stock.
(c) 2010 Phil Marks
About the Author
The author has owned springer spaniels - English and Welsh for many years, including a rescue dog. Find out more about springer spaniels and consider the Springer Spaniel Companion for a detailed guide on owning, training and having a fun time with a Springer Spaniel.
(ArticlesBase SC #3396282)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Springer Spaniel Eye Problems
Pug Health Problems
By: Andrew Mills
The Pug is a popular dog breed, but if you want to own one, you should definitely become familiar with the Pug dog health standards. This breed has been known to man for over three thousand years, and is a member of the AKC Toy group where it was first recognized in 1885. Pug's are not hard to recognize, as they have a wrinkly and flat face, a curly tail, and a thick little body. Pugs typically weigh from 13 to 20 pounds and are usually 10 to 14 inches in height. It requires extra steps in order to prevent the Pug from developing health problems specific to the breed.
A vet should be consulted immediately if any signs of an infection can be seen between the folds of skin and although quite common, this ailment can also be serious if left unchecked. Because of the propensity towards infection, you should always bathe and clean your pet regularly, especially between the wrinkles of skin.
Another area of Pug dog health that can be a concern is the eyes. The design of the Pug's face means that the eyes are not protected as well as they could be, and are therefore prone to injury, among other problems. Irritation and infection in the Pug eyes should be checked for regularly by the owner, and if any is spotted, a trip to the vet is called for immediately.
If allowed, pugs will invariably eat to excess. A Pug therefore needs to have its food carefully managed so that they do not overeat, as that can be detrimental to them in the same way that it can be for humans. Heat can bother a Pug a lot, so shade is very important to any Pug left outside, and they should never be left in a car during the summer. Because of their facial structure, an overheated Pug can have a particularly hard time breathing, so the breed shouldn't be subjected to any high degree of heat for a prolonged time.
Regular trips to the vet and decent pet care is the way to provide good pug dog health to your pet. Take care of your pet responsibly and you'll have your companion healthy and happy for many years to come.
About the Author
(ArticlesBase SC #665188)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Pug Health Problems
Essential Pug Dog Breed Info And Facts
By: John Williams
Pugs, a toy dog breed, are known for their wrinkly face and for being small yet strong. The pug is the largest of the toy breeds and is loved by many for being quite outgoing.
The origin of Pugs is located in 700 BC China. They were designed to be companions for royalty and some members of the court. They were often spoiled, which is a trait many still have today. The Dutch smuggled some Pugs to Europe when they visited China for trading and they became popular in Europe as well. Coincidentally, they were also popular pets with the nobility in Europe, just like in China. Pugs today are sometimes used as hearing aid dogs and therapy dogs, but are usually just good companions to their owners.
Pugs are characterized by their flat, wrinkled face and curled tail. Their small body comes in four colors: black, gray, apricot, or fawn with black ears and face. The most common pug color is fawn, with apricot being the most rare. Pugs are usually about 10 or 11 inches tall and weigh from 14 to 18 pounds.
Instead of barking a lot, most Pugs stay noisy in various other ways. Pugs make a nasal noise like a grunt which gets louder when they become excited. Almost all snore and snort, especially if the Pug is overweight.
Pugs are sociable but also pretty stubborn. They are still a popular pet for their unique features and since they are easy to groom. Pugs like to act tough though, so families with small children who don't understand a Pug's nature may cause the Pug to become timid. They are alright with most kids and other animals though. Pugs enjoy lounging around, especially next to their owner. They do need and often enjoy exercise and owners must be careful since they can overheat easily due to their short noses.
Separation anxiety is a problem with some Pugs, as they often whine and bark when they are alone. They can be trained out of this, as they are quick learners and are quite intelligent, like most dogs are.
Due to their short noses and wrinkly faces, Pugs can develop breathing problems and get skin infections if their face is not kept clean. Since they have no skeletal brow, Pugs must be careful as their corneas can be punctured. Pugs also are prone to skin allergies, which should be treated immediately. Their wrinkly face may also lead to mouth and tooth issues.
Owners must make sure Pugs' diets are healthy and that they get plenty of exercise as they are prone to overeating. Pugs tend to not be able to swim so owners should be careful when they around pools. 1% of Pugs also suffer from Pug Dog Encephalitis, which is a chronic form of granulomatous meningoencephalitis. It is believed to be hereditary, but unfortunately there is no cure or known cause for it. A Pug's life span is from 10 to 13 years, though if they are taken care of they can live up to 18 or so.
Pugs get along with other pets and love attention. They make great pets as they are good with children and guests, are playful and devoted and make good guard dogs.
About the Author
Get more info and advice on the Pug or a full list of dog breeds at this Dog Behaviour website.
(ArticlesBase SC #472092)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Essential Pug Dog Breed Info And Facts
All About Great Danes
By: Todd Mumford
One of the giant breed of dogs, the Great Danes, is going to be fully discussed in this article. Among the major topics, there are the general descriptions of the great dane. First, we must examine the size of this dog, as well as its attitude towards people.
Great danes are tall dogs even though they are not very heavy. Their popularity and beautiful physique have gained them the title of the "Apollo of Dogs." Danes are loving, friendly, and affectionate when treated accordingly.
According to AKC standards, male danes are not less than 32 inches and are usually 34 inches tall. The average Dane is close to three feet tall in height. Duration of development of your great dane's body largely depends on his or her gender. To illustrate, a male can complete his development in three full years where females can be adults in a year or less. Puppyhood usually lasts for 18 months and over the course of these first 18-28 months, an owner will witness their great dane mature mentally and physically.
Diet and proper exercise are very important to your great dane's health. Your great dane's daily diet should be consistent, and the amount of food should be measured according to their age and weight. It's important for your great dane to maintain a healthy weight. An underweight great dane can be vulnerable to sickness and disease, whereas an overweight dane increases its chance of bloating and heart disease.
Because great danes are such large dogs, they need plenty of room to run and play. Throughout puppy hood, this breed of dog needs exercise and mental stimulation. Taking walks, playing fetch, and rewarding a dane's positive behavior are all essential tasks to developing a strong healthy bond with your pet.
The relationship between great danes and children is one of the most powerful connections that can occur between any type of human and animal. Like children, great danes are very trusting and curious. It's important to teach children how to handle your great dane. Fortunately, these dogs have a wonderful temperament and do not become feisty unless provoked.
With proper care, a healthy great dane's lifespan is approximately eight years of age. Nevertheless, many great danes continue to life a full life of ten to twelve years. These loving companions become additional members of our families and we should cherish every day they share with us.
About the Author
Todd Mumford is team member of Dynamite Great Danes.
(ArticlesBase SC #17204)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - All About Great Danes
Great Dane Training – Good and Bad Side
By: Gilroy Hicks
If you are thinking of the typical gentle giant, mild mannered and easygoing dogs, then you probably have to opt for the Great Dane.
They need simple exercise and they are the sociable breed in the need of companionship. They don't need huge space and shouldn't be restricted in the studio apartments or the stamp yards. They will not do well when they are alone without any company.
There may be difference in the guarding technique and territorial instincts among this breed of dog but they will not fail to announce the visitors with their deep and resounding bark. Even the same breed dog may vary in the character, some of them are friendly with everyone, some are protective and some are aloof or unfriendly.
The proper Great Dane training is crucial for boosting up their confidence and to promote their stable temperament. The young great Danes must be taken out for the walk frequently than any other kind of breed. You can find some of them are very peaceful with other pets while some may be pushy and dominant.
Indiscipline will result for the bossy nature in this dog as they have so large body. So the obedience training is necessary. They are also very much sensitive and must be taught with cheerful and fun way. They will get confused and make them distrustful if harshness is implemented on them.
These dogs used to drool, spill saliva and move heavily or clumsily around in the self important or arrogant manner. They will not be the perfect choice for care giving or fastidious housekeeper, or also for those who have no sense of humor.
You must concern on the following points:
1. Proper exercises should be given because of their huge body and to keep them lean and healthy.
2. Socialization for the better protection and to withstand the fear against the strangers.
3. Strong temperament should be controlled as they try to be more independent and obstinate.
4. Slobbering is the main problem with these breed of dog as they drool a lot especially after eating and drinking.
5. Serious health problems may occur as they aren't a healthy dog breed.
So the proper knowledge about the Great Dane training is necessary, if you wish to have one of them as your pet in the home. They are the dogs with the strong temperament but can suffer from serious health problem as well as have short lifespan.
About the Author
You can learn to train even the most stubborn breed of dogs within some minutes if you find some really good tips and suggestions from somewhere. Currently I am involved in bedogsavvy which is a site that has a lot to offer regarding several effective training tips for your dogs to make the dog training easy and exciting.
(ArticlesBase SC #3554512)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Great Dane Training - Good and Bad Side
Important Steps To Cleaning Your Dog’s Ears
By: Larry Volwiler
With respect to anatomy, dog's ear are different from human ears. Unlike human ear, dog's ears have extra turn and length that makes the visibility and medication rather difficult, making your dog susceptible to infections which is one of the most common problems.
Among the several factors that causes dogs ear problems are; ear design that is some dogs have short ear, some have long pendulous ear, while others have thick hair in their ear. Second is the humid climate that encourages the growth of parasites, bacterial and yeasts. Next factor is the long exposure to other infected pets and lastly the dogs that can swim are prone to ear infections.
To keep your dog free form ear infections you need put your minimum effort that will surely avoid major ear problems.
- Follow the instructions as recommended by your vets. If you get the slightest hint of bad odor then do ear cleaning with warm water, mineral oil, hydrogen peroxide, or a combination of equal parts of vinegar and rubbing alcohol but make sure that your dog does not have open sores that will have a burning sensation.
- You are also recommended to apply pet ear care product that cleans and dry up excess moisture in the ear canal after bathing or swimming. Pet ear care product containing Tea Tree Oil will keep the ear canal of your dog dry and problem free.
- There are also pet ear cares products available for routine ear cleaning that will dissolve wax, remove foreign debris and dry the ear canal. Even home dog care treatments are also available that can kill ear mites and ear ticks.
- Even though your dog's eardrum is better protected than a human beings, but the process of cleaning should be done with precise care especially when you are inserting cotton-tipped swabs into the ear canal. There is the possibility of the dirt and other foreign matter to get pushed deeper and even losing the cotton tip in the ear canal if not handled properly. Use a long cotton-tipped swab since a dog's ear canal is much deeper than ours.
- Using the same cotton ball or unclean tip of ear cleaning solution in another dog's ears or even in a dog's other ear will surely spread disease. Therefore always remember to use a new cotton ball or wipe clean any applicator tips.
- Another method of cleaning involves filling the ear canal with a pet ear cleaning solution followed by gentle massage of the outer ear. After a few minutes the dog is allowed to shake his head to help clear the ear canal.
- Removal of excess hair by trimming the hair.
This is an excellent source for Pet Supplies to help you with your dog grooming needs.
About the Author
Larry Volwiler is CEO and co-founder of RadioFence.com featuring a full line of Pet Doors, Bark Collars and Dog Training Collars.
(ArticlesBase SC #816229)
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Important Steps To Cleaning Your Dog's Ears